Find hotels in Rousay from Rp2.039.345

Top reasons to visit Rousay

• Rich Cultural Heritage: Rousay boasts a fascinating history with castles, historic houses, and ancient ruins to explore.
• Scenic Walking Routes: The island offers breathtaking cliff walks and picturesque trails, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
• Stunning Ferry Rides: Enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding waters during ferry trips to and from the island.
• Secluded Atmosphere: Rousay's tranquil environment is ideal for romantic strolls and relaxation.
• Charming Accommodations: Stay in delightful inns or pet-friendly hotels, such as the Ayre Hotel, reflecting the island's heritage.

Find great hotels near Rousay

Rousay offers a delightful selection of hotel accommodations, perfect for a memorable stay. Whether you prefer a charming inn or the comfort of a hotel, you can find pet-friendly options to suit your needs. Group bookings are available, and you can enjoy unique heritage rooms that reflect the island's rich history. Experience the warm hospitality and comfortable lodgings at the Ayre Hotel, a perfect base for exploring the beauty of Rousay.

• The Shore: The Shore is a welcoming 3-star hotel located 21km from Rousay, boasting a guest rating of 8.2 out of 10. This hotel features an inviting atmosphere with a variety of dining options, including an onsite restaurant and bar, as well as a continental breakfast available at a fee. Guests can unwind with entertainment options such as LCD televisions and digital TV channels. The hotel’s proximity to the city centre and shopping district makes it an appealing choice for those looking to explore local attractions while enjoying comfortable accommodations.
• Smithfield guesthouse: With an impressive guest rating of 9.2 out of 10, Smithfield Guesthouse is a charming 3-star inn situated 14km from Rousay. Renowned for its warm hospitality, this guesthouse offers complimentary breakfast options, including a delicious local breakfast. Guests can relax in rooms equipped with flatscreen TVs, ensuring entertainment at their fingertips. The welcoming atmosphere and emphasis on comfort make it an excellent choice for tourists seeking a homely retreat during their stay.
• St Ola Hotel: St Ola Hotel is a delightful 3-star guesthouse located 21km from Rousay, offering a distinctive blend of comfort and convenience. Guests can relish a variety of dining options, including a full breakfast available at a fee and a bar and lounge for evening relaxation. The hotel features entertainment amenities like a flatscreen TV and an iPod docking station. Its proximity to the ocean and the historical district provides guests with an opportunity to explore the rich heritage and stunning scenery in the area.

Where to stay near Rousay

Rousay, a captivating island in the Orkney archipelago, offers a unique blend of historical charm and serene landscapes. Visitors can explore its rocky shores and immerse themselves in the rich culture, making it perfect for a relaxing getaway. The island's secluded atmosphere provides an ideal backdrop for romantic strolls and enriching cultural experiences, while nearby Orkney islands offer additional adventures for travellers seeking to discover Scotland's stunning natural beauty and heritage.

• Wyre: Located a mere 6km from Rousay, Wyre boasts a rich cultural tapestry that attracts visitors year-round, with peak arrivals from July to September. This charming city offers a delightful blend of history and natural beauty, featuring notable landmarks such as historic houses and impressive monuments. The tranquil atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for those interested in exploring local culture and heritage, all while enjoying the stunning coastal views.
• Evie: Also situated 6km from Rousay, Evie is a quaint city with a welcoming community vibe. Like Wyre, Evie experiences a seasonal influx of tourists, particularly from July to September. Here, you can immerse yourself in local culture at the history museum or wander through beautifully maintained gardens. The local library serves as a great resource for discovering the area’s rich history, making Evie a perfect destination for those seeking a mix of relaxation and cultural enrichment.
• Tingwall House: Just 8km from Rousay, Tingwall House is a picturesque village that offers a romantic atmosphere perfect for couples and those looking to escape the hustle and bustle. With its intriguing ruins and historic castle nearby, visitors can indulge in a cultural experience while exploring the enchanting landscapes. The village sees a moderate flow of tourists throughout the year, peaking from July to September, making it a lovely and serene getaway.

Things to do in Rousay

Shopping

In Rousay, you can explore quaint local shops for unique gifts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, head to Kirkwall, around 19km away, where you’ll find the Orkney Shopping Centre and various boutiques offering local crafts and produce.

Recreation

Experience the tranquillity of Rousay at the Rousay Wellness Centre, where you can indulge in rejuvenating treatments and holistic therapies. Explore the island’s scenic trails for leisurely walks, offering stunning views of the surrounding waters and wildlife, perfect for unwinding in nature.

Adventure

Explore the stunning landscapes of Rousay with a hike to the iconic Midhowe Chambered Cairn, where you can delve into ancient history. For a thrilling experience, try kayaking around the island's coastline, offering a unique perspective of the rugged cliffs and abundant wildlife.

Nightlife

Explore the Rousay Lounge for a relaxed atmosphere and enjoy local ales. For a lively evening, visit the Rousay Bar, where you can mingle with locals while sampling traditional Scottish dishes and drinks. Don't miss the occasional folk music session that adds a vibrant touch to your night out.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Rousay

Rousay is a budget-friendly destination with free attractions like Trumland House and Cubbie Roo's Castle. To save on accommodation, consider visiting in February or November to December, when prices drop. Book your hotel about a month in advance or look for last-minute deals on Expedia. Tuesdays are typically the cheapest days to stay, while Fridays are the most expensive. Use Expedia’s tools to compare hotel rates and filter for eco-friendly options. Combining your hotel, flights, and activities in a package can also yield additional savings.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Rousay are February and November to December, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May to July, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel in Rousay about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Rousay is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Rousay is Friday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to find the most affordable hotels at the outset. Furthermore, you can refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your hotel booking in Rousay with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in and around Rousay

Rousay is perfect for a culture-themed holiday, offering attractions such as castles, historic houses, and ancient ruins. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local heritage while enjoying romantic and outdoor experiences. Exploring Rousay through guided tours or self-discovery will reveal its rich history and stunning landscapes, making it an ideal destination for those seeking both adventure and cultural enrichment.

• Balfour Castle: Nestled 16km from Rousay, Balfour Castle exudes a romantic charm with its stunning architecture and lush surroundings. This magnificent castle offers a glimpse into Scotland's heritage, making it a captivating spot for those seeking culture and history.
• Trumland House: Located within Rousay, Trumland House is a historic gem that reflects the rich cultural tapestry of the island. Visitors can explore its elegant rooms and beautiful gardens, immersing themselves in the island's unique past and architectural elegance.
• Midhowe Broch: This archaeological site in Rousay showcases the impressive remnants of an Iron Age broch. With its towering walls and fascinating history, Midhowe Broch offers a deep insight into the ancient life and culture of Scotland’s early inhabitants.

Best time to go to Rousay

The best time to visit Rousay is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. February is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	43.7°F (6.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
February	43.2°F (6.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
March	43.7°F (6.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
April	45.1°F (7.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Average
May	48.0°F (8.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
June	52.0°F (11.1°C)	No Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Slightly High
July	55.2°F (12.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	56.1°F (13.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
September	54.7°F (12.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
October	51.6°F (10.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
November	48.4°F (9.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
December	45.1°F (7.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low

The nearest major airports for your trip to Rousay

Accessing Rousay is convenient via two major airports. Lerwick (LSI-Sumburgh) is situated 127km away, with notable hotels such as The Spiggie Hotel, a 3.5-star guesthouse located 6km from the airport, and the Orca Country Inn, an 13km drive offering comfortable double and family rooms. Kirkwall (KOI) is considerably closer, at just 24km from Rousay. Recommended accommodations include Hildeval B&B, a 4-star establishment 5km from the airport, and Graemeshall House, also 4-star, located 6km away. The Albert Hotel, a 3-star option, is merely 5km from Kirkwall, providing a variety of choices for your stay.