Mara Lodge B&B

Mara Lodge stands out on its own above Dounby, a substantial modern house in pale render with a slate roof and a dry-stone wall running across the front. Set on rising ground with nothing but fields and water beyond, it makes the most of its position, and the picnic bench outside hints at long evenings spent looking out over the Orkney landscape. It is a B&B sleeping four.

Rooms & comfort

The guest sitting rooms are the real draw, with big picture windows framing wide views over green fields towards a loch and distant hills. One lounge has a comfortable sofa, a large TV, a soft purple rug and a footstool by the window; another carries a deep purple feature wall and looks straight out to the hills. The bedroom is calm and spacious, with a double bed dressed in striped and purple linen, two armchairs and a side table by the window, a wooden chest of drawers and fresh flowers. A glass-balustraded landing with a feature wall and a tall window keeps the whole house light.

The location

Dounby sits at the heart of the west Mainland, well placed for the lochs, the Brough of Birsay and the wider sweep of Orkney. The lodge's elevated setting gives you those long views over farmland and water that the area is known for.

Good to know

This is a homestay B&B sleeping four, with a hot tub, garden, parking, wifi and TV. The shared lounges and the views are very much part of the appeal.

Perfect for

Couples or a small group wanting a comfortable, view-led base in the quieter west Mainland, with a host on hand and a hot tub to unwind in.