Rousay Hotels from €93 - Fully Refundable Options

A rural road with a stone house and a view of the sea.

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Our top choices for Rousay hotels

A hallway with stone walls, wooden door, and a bench.

A neatly made bed with a light-colored bedspread and pillows, a bedside table with a lamp, and a floral-patterned wall.

Two wooden chairs with drawers, a potted plant, and a stone wall.

A restaurant interior with wooden tables and chairs, a visible exit sign, and a view of the street outside.

1. Smithfield guesthouse

Dounby

"My second time staying here, and I will be back. The room was spacious super clean and comfy and the woman on reception couldn't have been more welcoming and helpful. Breakfast was excellent. It's a shame they don't reopen the restaurant for evening meals though, I'm sure they would be busy every night. The Co-op has changed to an Asda - it's right across the road and the hotel offers wine glasses in the lounge if you bring a bottle in to your room. Very nice place."

Jane

€175

includes taxes & fees

1 Sept - 2 Sept

A spacious dining area with high ceilings and large windows, featuring plaid chairs and a central table.

A bedroom with a wooden bed, a chair, a bedside table, a mirror, and a window with curtains.

A sign for Karrawa Guest House, indicating no vacancies, fully ensuited, with WiFi and guest parking, and located at the entrance on Inganness Road.

A house with a covered patio, a garage, and a snow-covered yard.

2. Karrawa Guest House

Kirkwall

Candy

€167

includes taxes & fees

2 Sept - 3 Sept

A row of white buildings with chimneys, reflecting on the water.

A pool table in a bar area with wooden flooring and green walls.

A billiards room with tables, chairs, and a bar area with patrons.

A bedroom with a bed, bedside lamps, a wardrobe, and a window.

3. The Ayre Hotel

Kirkwall

Julie

€147

includes taxes & fees

1 Oct - 2 Oct

A bar area with multiple liquor bottles, a sign reading "Kirkwall Hotel", and several beer taps.

A neatly made bed with white linens and a plaid headboard, a bedside lamp, a wooden nightstand with a phone, and a chair by a window.

A restaurant interior with round tables, chairs, and a large abstract painting on the wall.

A hotel named "The Shore" with a signboard indicating rooms and amenities like free WiFi, local ales, wines & spirits, teas & coffees.

4. The Shore

Kirkwall

"We were very pleasantly surprised to learn our 1 room family suite had 2 separate bedrooms. Beds were very comfortable and the bathroom was nice. Only issues were that we only had 1 key which made it tricky every time we went separate places. Also there was an illuminated exit sign in the king bedroom we had to cover up it was so bright, and when others shut their doors it would thump ours. Loved the skylights, was a bit stuffy but those helped. Loved the breakfast!"

Beth

€266

includes taxes & fees

12 Sept - 13 Sept

A stone fireplace with a fire, a kettle, and a wooden shelf with bottles.

A hotel room with a large bed, a sofa, a chair, a small table, and a desk with a lamp.

A bar area with wooden beams, stone flooring, and stools.

A stone building with a sign for the Albright Hotel.

5. Albert Hotel

Kirkwall

Cynthia

€205

includes taxes & fees

23 Sept - 24 Sept

A bar area with a stone wall, wooden bar counter, and bar stools. There is a leather couch in the foreground.

A four-poster bed with a dark wooden frame, a blue and white bedspread, and two blue pillows. There is a small table with a lamp and a chair in front of a window with curtains.

A dining area with wooden tables and chairs, a fireplace, and a bookshelf in the background.

A restaurant with leather seating, wooden paneling, and a flat-screen TV mounted above a blue-lit fireplace.

6. The Orkney Hotel

Kirkwall

David

€205

includes taxes & fees

12 Sept - 13 Sept

A historic building with a prominent entrance and multiple windows, labeled as "The Stromness Hotel."

A hotel room with a large window, a sofa, a bed, and a small table.

A room with a large window, a green sofa, two green chairs, and a round table.

A hotel room with two beds, a sofa, a chair, a small table, and a view of the sea.

7. The Stromness Hotel

Stromness

"The hotel is a lovely old building, having said that it's in need of investment, carpets showing there age, old miss matched furniture, the beds, well the bedding was clean but I think noah slept on them when they were new, as for staff except for check-in we didn't see any, I suppose i could have gone looking, but should I really need to. Saying that great location, but old and used, because of that I would say overpriced."

Anderw

€173

includes taxes & fees

1 Oct - 2 Oct

A room with a large window overlooking a harbor, featuring a ship docked at a pier.

A hotel room with a large bed, two bedside tables, a chair, a window with curtains, and two framed pictures on the wall.

A modern building with large windows and a visible chimney.

A restaurant with wooden floors, tables set with white tablecloths, and a high ceiling with exposed beams and a hanging light fixture.

8. Ferry Inn Stromness

Stromness

Roger

€283

includes taxes & fees

1 Sept - 2 Sept

A bar with wooden shelves stocked with bottles and glasses, a coffee machine, and a cash register.

A window with a view of a harbor, including buildings and a boat.

A bedroom with a large bed, a window with curtains, a radiator, a bedside table with a lamp, and a painting on the wall.

A bar area with wooden furniture, bar stools, and a variety of bottles and glasses on shelves.

9. The Royal Hotel Stromness

Stromness

Thomas

€283

includes taxes & fees

1 Sept - 2 Sept

10. 2-bed Townhouse, Sleeps 4 With Enclosed Garden

Kirkwall

€271

includes taxes & fees

20 Sept - 21 Sept

A coastal landscape with a clear water body, rocky formations, and a sandy beach.

A hotel entrance with a sign indicating it is a self-service hotel.

A cozy living room with a blue sofa, a small round table, and a chair.

11. Kirkwall Youth Hostel

Kirkwall

Shawn

€93

includes taxes & fees

1 Sept - 2 Sept

A two-story house with a stone facade, a tiled roof, and a front porch with a bench.

A kitchen counter with various food items and kitchenware, including a fruit bowl, a juice container, and a container of Greek yogurt.

A living room with a blue sofa, a blue armchair, a wooden coffee table, and a television.

A neatly made bed with a white quilt and two pillows, a bedside table with a lamp, a dresser with a mirror, and two framed pictures on the wall.

12. Lindisfarne Bed & Breakfast

Stromness

Peter

€151

includes taxes & fees

1 Sept - 2 Sept

A dining area with wooden tables and chairs, large windows with curtains, and a view of the outside.

A room with two single beds, each with a blue bedspread and white pillows, a bedside table with a lamp, and a window with blinds and a curtain.

A living room with a wooden coffee table, a sofa, a bookshelf, and a flat-screen TV mounted on the wall.

A cozy living room with two sofas, a wooden coffee table, and a view of a house through large windows.

13. Royal Oak Guest House

Kirkwall

Jeremy

€180

includes taxes & fees

3 Sept - 4 Sept

A stone building with a large arched doorway and a smaller door, both with glass panels.

A beach with the words "GRANBANK NEWS EST 2021" written in the sand.

A hotel room with a bed, a nightstand, and a door with the number 3.

A dining area with a wooden table, black chairs, and a window with a view of greenery.

14. Grainbank Mews

Kirkwall

Stephen

€180

includes taxes & fees

3 Sept - 4 Sept

A hotel room with a bed, a chair, a small table with a kettle, a picture on the wall, and a window with curtains.

15. West End Guest House

Kirkwall

"A very friendly welcome, they were happy to accommodate our very late (11.30pm) arrival after we travelled there on the ferry. The owners have recently taken it over and in the last few weeks completed an overhaul of the bar/restaurant area which looks lovely. We didn't try the evening meals but the breakfasts were phenomenal, a proper Scottish breakfast that really sets you up for the day. Very friendly hosts helped us to work out what to do during the day and suggested good walks and so...

Tanya

€165

includes taxes & fees

1 Oct - 2 Oct

16. Cottage Sleeps 9 With Sea Views and Parking

Orphir

€385

includes taxes & fees

4 Sept - 5 Sept

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Stay near popular Rousay attractions

Trumland House

You can find out about the history of Rousay with a stop at Trumland House. Wander the waterfront or discover the area's hot springs.

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Midhowe Broch

You can find out about the history of Rousay with a visit to Midhowe Broch. Discover the area's countryside and hot springs.

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Learn more about Rousay

Explore quaint Rousay: its archaeology, ruins, beaches and more!

See all hotels in Rousay

A coastal landscape with a grassy field, a stone wall, and a body of water.

Top Rousay Hotel Reviews

Karrawa Guest House

8/10 Good

"Plenty of parking"

The Shore

8/10 Good

The Orkney Hotel

10/10 Excellent

"We were very lucky because both times we parked at the hotel, we got one of the 2 slots in front of the hotel, so we didn't have to try and find the additional parking lot, but the staff did give us a map to find it. Keep in mind that there is no lift, so depending on your floor you need to carry your bags up. The 23kg bag was not much fun to take up and then down 2 flights of stairs. The food for breakfast was very good whether the cereal/yogurt/fruit or the from the menu. The staff in the breakfast area were really good. The front desk is a little wonky because even the person in the office there isn't as helpful as the front desk clerk who isn't there most of the time, but who is very helpful when you can get them. The WiFi isn't extremely fast, but I was able to work, especially in the library where there was power. It would be nice to have higher chairs with tables other than coffee table height. Even in the room there isn't a desk to work at. We were overall very happy with the stay and the Italian restaurant across the street was perfect for eating early."

West End Guest House

10/10 Excellent

"Had a lovely stay thank you."

Ferry Inn Stromness

10/10 Excellent

"Top notch!"

Smithfield guesthouse

10/10 Excellent

"Easy parking and my room was spotlessly clean, breakfast was cooked to order and was delicious No meals in the evening was the only downside but I was able to get evening meals without having to travel too far"

Kirkwall Youth Hostel

10/10 Excellent

"Perfect 'utilitarian' accommodation for a fan of hostels ... ... The building is not particularly attractive and the rooms are basic and afford no good views ... However, the beds are comfortable, the many bathrooms/shower rooms are newly equipped and excellent, the kitchens are great, the dinning room large & practical, and the lounge very comfortable and equipped with board games & books along with comfy settees. The hostel is a few minutes walk into the centre of town and just a mile from a lovely swimming beach at Scapa where I swam every morning, except for a couple of mornings when I drove a little further to Inganess Beach which is beautiful. For me, so much nicer than a posh hotel because you can cook & eat at any time and fellow visitors always seem relaxed, friendly & chatty ... you just seem to get a much better class of person in a Scottish hostel!"

Comfortable three bedroom bungalow located in Orkney Islands complete with emus.

10/10 Excellent

"Lovely, clean and deceptively spacious for 3 of us to spend a week. E-bikes excellent. Well situated very close to one of the two shops and a 15 minute cycle to either the hotel or the pizzeria for dinner. Would recommend for small families."

Grainbank Mews

10/10 Excellent

"A beautiful place to stay when visiting Orkney. Ideal location to get to all the sights. Accommodation was perfect and Albert and Aileen couldn’t have been more friendly and helpful. Highly recommend!"

More cheap stays in Rousay

Kirkwall Youth Hostel

Old Scapa Road Kirkwall Scotland

€93

1 Sept - 2 Sept

includes taxes & fees

8/10 Very good! (48 reviews)

West End Guest House

14 Main Street Kirkwall Scotland

€165

1 Oct - 2 Oct

includes taxes & fees

8.6/10 Excellent! (83 reviews)

The Stromness Hotel

The Pierhead Stromness Scotland

€173

1 Oct - 2 Oct

includes taxes & fees

7/10 Good! (94 reviews)

Royal Oak Guest House

Holm Road Kirkwall Scotland

€180

3 Sept - 4 Sept

includes taxes & fees

10/10 Exceptional! (57 reviews)

Garden House Rooms

New Scapa Rd Kirkwall Scotland

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Ayre Hotel

Ayre Road Kirkwall SCT

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Find out more about Rousay

Top reasons to visit Rousay

Scenic Ferry Rides: Enjoy picturesque ferry journeys that showcase Rousay's stunning coastal views.
Rich Archaeological Sites: Explore fascinating ruins and historical sites that reveal the island's intriguing past.
Invigorating Cliff Walks: Discover breathtaking cliff walks that highlight Rousay's natural beauty and rugged landscapes.
Charming Accommodations: Stay in delightful hotels and inns that offer warm hospitality and unique experiences.
Local Cultural Experiences: Engage in local tours that immerse you in the island's vibrant culture and heritage.

Find great hotels near Rousay

Rousay offers a delightful selection of accommodations, including charming hotels and inns, perfect for a relaxing getaway. Whether you're looking for comfortable stays that welcome pets or unique heritage rooms, you'll find options to cater to your needs. Ideal for group bookings, the Ayre Hotel and other local lodgings provide a warm atmosphere amidst stunning surroundings, ensuring a memorable experience on this picturesque Scottish island.

The Ayre Hotel: This charming 3-star hotel, located 20.9km from Rousay, boasts a welcoming atmosphere, especially for those travelling with pets. With a commendable guest rating of 8.6 out of 10, The Ayre Hotel offers pet-friendly amenities, including designated areas for dogs and waived fees for service animals. Guests appreciate its comfortable lodging and the friendly service that enhances their stay. This establishment caters well to travellers seeking a homely retreat while enjoying picturesque surroundings.
The Shore: With a solid guest rating of 8.2 out of 10, The Shore is another 3-star option located 20.9km from Rousay. This hotel stands out for its excellent dining facilities, including an onsite restaurant and a bar for guests to unwind. The property offers a variety of breakfast options, ensuring a good start to the day. Entertainment is abundant, with multiple television setups available for guests to enjoy. Its proximity to shopping districts and the city centre adds to its appeal for those looking to explore the local area.
Smithfield Guesthouse: Just 14.5km from Rousay, Smithfield Guesthouse is a highly-rated inn, featuring a guest rating of 9.2 out of 10. Known for its warm hospitality, the guesthouse offers complimentary local breakfasts and a bar for leisurely evenings. The rooms are equipped with flatscreen televisions, catering to guests' entertainment needs. The inviting atmosphere and attention to detail make Smithfield a delightful choice for those wishing to experience a more intimate stay.

Where to stay near Rousay

Rousay, a charming island in the Orkney archipelago, offers a unique blend of historical intrigue and serene landscapes. Visitors can explore its rocky shores and rich archaeological sites, immersing themselves in the local culture. The island's secluded atmosphere is perfect for a romantic getaway or a relaxing retreat, while nearby Orkney offers additional cultural experiences. Rousay's enchanting geography and vibrant history make it an unforgettable destination for any traveller.

Wyre: Nestled approximately 6.4km from Rousay, Wyre offers a serene coastal atmosphere with a rich cultural heritage. The city experiences a moderate influx of visitors, peaking during the vibrant summer months from July to September. With its captivating monuments and historic houses, Wyre invites travellers to explore its historical significance. Stroll through the charming streets, where culture-themed activities abound, providing an enriching experience that connects visitors to the local history and community.
Evie: Located 6.4km from Rousay, Evie is a delightful destination that combines natural beauty with cultural richness. This vibrant city sees a similar seasonal pattern in visitor arrivals, with peak times in the summer months. Evie's attractions, including a well-stocked library, beautiful gardens, and an engaging history museum, offer insights into the area's past and present. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture, making it an ideal spot for those seeking a culturally themed experience amidst picturesque surroundings.
Tingwall House: Just 8.0km from Rousay, Tingwall House is a charming village that provides a romantic escape for couples and history enthusiasts alike. With a steady flow of visitors, especially from July to September, Tingwall House boasts intriguing ruins and a majestic castle that tell tales of yesteryear. The village's quaint atmosphere and cultural offerings create a perfect backdrop for exploring its historical landmarks, making it a memorable addition to any itinerary focused on culture-themed adventures.

Things to do in Rousay

Shopping

In Rousay, enjoy local shops offering unique gifts and souvenirs, perfect for remembering your trip. If you're up for a drive, explore the shops in Orkney, about 16.1km away, where you can find a variety of artisan products and traditional crafts.

Recreation

On Rousay, the Rousay Wellness Retreat offers holistic therapies and yoga sessions with breathtaking views of the Orkney landscape. For outdoor enthusiasts, hiking trails abound, allowing for peaceful walks amidst nature, while offering opportunities for wildlife spotting and a chance to connect with the serene surroundings.

Adventure

Explore the stunning landscapes of Rousay with a hike to the iconic Midhowe Cairn, where ancient history meets breathtaking views. Kayaking around the island offers a thrilling way to experience its rugged coastline and diverse marine life. Don't miss the chance to cycle the scenic routes for a refreshing adventure.

Nightlife

Experience the quaint charm of Rousay's nightlife at the Rousay Community Hall, where local events and gatherings create a lively atmosphere. For a more relaxed evening, visit the Rousay Hotel Lounge, offering a selection of drinks and a cosy setting to unwind after a day of exploration.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions in and around Rousay

Rousay is an ideal destination for culture-themed holidays, offering a rich array of attractions such as castles, historic houses, and intriguing ruins. Visitors can immerse themselves in the island's scenic beauty and outdoor experiences while exploring its cultural heritage. For a memorable visit, consider discovering Rousay through local tours and attractions that highlight the island's unique charm and history.

Trumland House: Nestled within Rousay, Trumland House offers a glimpse into the island's rich history and culture. Visitors can admire its stunning architecture and beautiful gardens, making it a serene spot to explore and relax.
Balfour Castle: Located 16.1km away, Balfour Castle exudes romance and charm. This majestic castle is surrounded by picturesque grounds and provides an enchanting atmosphere, perfect for those looking to soak in the beauty of Scottish heritage.
Midhowe Broch: Situated within Rousay, Midhowe Broch is an impressive archaeological site that showcases the ancient history of the area. Its well-preserved structure offers insights into the lives of early inhabitants, making it a fascinating stop for history enthusiasts.

Best time to go to Rousay

The best time to visit Rousay can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Rousay falls in August, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Rousay falls in February, 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 simple via its nearest airports. Lerwick (LSI-Sumburgh) is situated 127.1km away, with nearby accommodation options such as The Spiggie Hotel, a 3.5-star guesthouse located 6.4km from the airport, and the Orca Country Inn, offering double rooms 12.9km away. Alternatively, Kirkwall Airport (KOI) is only 24.1km from Rousay, with excellent hotels nearby, including the 4-star Hildeval B&B just 4.8km away and the 3-star Ayre Hotel, also 4.8km from the airport. These locations provide convenient transport links to ensure a seamless journey to your destination.

Frequently asked questions

What's the best place to stay in Rousay?

Based on Expedia's traveller preferences, Lower Cottage is a top place to stay in Rousay. Rousay cottage is another good choice for your trip. See all available top hotels, or vacation rentals in Rousay.

What are some of the best holiday rentals that Rousay has to offer?

Cosy House in the heart of Kirkwall: This holiday home rental outside of Rousay has laundry facilities and free WiFi to help you feel perfectly comfortable in your new surroundings. Kitchen amenities include a fridge, a stovetop and kitchenware. See all vacation rentals in Rousay.

If I need to cancel my hotel reservation in Rousay, will I receive a refund?

Yes! Most hotel room reservations are refundable provided that you cancel before the hotel's cancellation deadline, which is usually within 24-48 hours of the scheduled arrival. If you have a non-refundable reservation, you might be able to still cancel and be given a refund within a 24-hour period of booking. Filter your search by fully refundable to find flexible hotel deals in Rousay.

What's it like to stay in Rousay?

Visitors can enjoy all that Rousay has to offer, including the waterfront and monuments. Tourists to the city can also enjoy its small-town vibe. In Rousay, there are 4 hotels and other accommodation options to choose from. Find out more about Rousay.

What should I do while I'm visiting Rousay?

Landmarks like Trumland House, Midhowe Cairn and Midhowe Broch might be worth a visit. You'll also find Maes Howe and Standing Stones of Stenness in the area. Take a look at what more there is to see and do in Expedia's Rousay guide.

What's the weather like in Rousay?

The hottest months are usually August and July, with an average temperature of 13°C, while the coldest months are February and January, with an average of 7°C. Average annual precipitation for Rousay is 1080 mm.

Rousay Hotels

Change your mind

Treat yourself

Be picky

Go beyond your typical stay in Rousay

Check prices for these dates

Filter by

Star rating

Guest rating

Our top choices for Rousay hotels

1. Smithfield guesthouse

2. Karrawa Guest House

3. The Ayre Hotel

4. The Shore

5. Albert Hotel

6. The Orkney Hotel

7. The Stromness Hotel

8. Ferry Inn Stromness

9. The Royal Hotel Stromness

10. 2-bed Townhouse, Sleeps 4 With Enclosed Garden

11. Kirkwall Youth Hostel

12. Lindisfarne Bed & Breakfast

13. Royal Oak Guest House

14. Grainbank Mews

15. West End Guest House

16. Cottage Sleeps 9 With Sea Views and Parking

Stay near popular Rousay attractions

Trumland House

Midhowe Broch

Learn more about Rousay

Top Rousay Hotel Reviews

Karrawa Guest House

The Shore

The Orkney Hotel

West End Guest House

Ferry Inn Stromness

Smithfield guesthouse

Kirkwall Youth Hostel

Comfortable three bedroom bungalow located in Orkney Islands complete with emus.

Grainbank Mews

More cheap stays in Rousay

Kirkwall Youth Hostel

West End Guest House

The Stromness Hotel

Royal Oak Guest House

Garden House Rooms

Ayre Hotel

Find out more about Rousay

Top reasons to visit Rousay

Find great hotels near Rousay

Where to stay near Rousay

Things to do in Rousay

Find the best attractions in and around Rousay

Best time to go to Rousay

The nearest major airports for your trip to Rousay

Frequently asked questions

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