Hotel in Scotland
3-Star Hotel
Reasons to book
Guests love it hereGuests give this property a top rating
High-end valueWell priced for this area
Book with confidenceWe partner with the top travel sites so you know you're getting a great deal on the perfect rental
About this hotel
Located on the shore of Harray Loch and family-run for over 30 years, the Merkister Hotel is a 15-minute drive from the main towns of Kirkwall and Stromness. It features impressive views over the famous loch and its surroundings.
Amenities at Merkister Hotel
Free WiFi/internet
Free Parking
Non-smoking
Heating
Bar
WiFi/Internet
Laundry services
Map of Scotland
Available Rooms
Ratings and reviews
100% verified reviews10.0 / 10.0Outstanding·Feb 2026
The staff were really friendly and accommodating without being overbearing. Everyone was very kind, they provided us a free upgrade, and, when we couldn't make breakfast on our check-out day, asked us what we would like for a packed lunch, which they provided and then some.
The room was clean and homey with a backdoor leading out to the nearby loch. The views from everywhere were beautiful. The shower had excellent pressure. We were only there two nights and had four showers each just to savour it.
The room was also very well kitted out, including the standard kettle, tea, coffee etc, and also a sewing kit, vanity kit, body cream, and local magazine.
The location was also ideal, being almost centre of the main island.
We also loved playing darts in the games room in the evening. They had a whole setup!
The hotel was somewhat difficult to find to begin with, but that's just part of the island charm, and the drinks were a bit pricey. These are really small concerns, though, and largely out of the hotels control. Overall, we really enjoyed our stay and would recommend this hotel to anyone visiting Orkney.
8.0 / 10.0Excellent·Jan 2026
Lovely setting. Breakfast very good. Dining room comfortable and with excellent views across the Loch. Staff very friendly and efficient.
8.0 / 10.0Excellent·Jan 2026
Good room very clean
A leaky window causing drafts
5.0 / 10.0·Apr 2025
Spacious suite
We were the only residential guests
$$$$
Top rated by guests
8.9Excellent
(213 Ratings)
"The staff were really friendly and accommodating without being overbearing. Everyone was very kind, they provided us a free upgrade, and, when we couldn't make breakfast on our check-out day, asked us..."
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