Merkister Hotel

The Merkister Hotel stands right on the shore of Loch Harray, a white-walled country hotel surrounded by some of the finest fishing water in Orkney. It's a long-loved spot, as happy welcoming anglers and walkers as it is guests here for a quiet break, and on the right night you might catch the Northern Lights flaring green over the loch behind it. The setting alone is worth the trip.

Rooms & comfort

The accommodation has an easy, traditional comfort to it. Rooms are reached along carpeted corridors with handsome timber-and-glazed panelling and an arched alcove with a mirror, giving the place real character. The hotel offers en-suite rooms, with a comfortable single available for solo travellers as well as space for guests staying to fish or explore.

The location

The hotel sits beside Loch Harray in the heart of the West Mainland of Orkney, within striking distance of the Ring of Brodgar, the Standing Stones of Stenness and Skara Brae. For anglers, the brown trout fishing on Harray and neighbouring Loch of Stenness is right on the doorstep.

Good to know

The dining room is a proper occasion, with cream high-back chairs, chandeliers and curtained windows looking out to the loch, and the kitchen makes good use of local seafood and produce. There's parking, WiFi, a garden and a family-friendly welcome, plus laundry facilities for longer stays.

Perfect for

Anglers, walkers and couples wanting a characterful lochside hotel at the centre of Neolithic Orkney, with sunsets and stargazing thrown in.