Evas Howe Lodge, Dounby, Orkney
The lodge itself, recently completed and situated on a croft, enjoys uninterrupted panoramic views over the Loch of Harray and the hills of Hoy. This tranquil countryside setting offers not only visual splendour but also a chance to immerse oneself in the natural world, with local wildlife such as hares and a wide variety of bird species frequently spotted in the surrounding open landscapes.
Inside, Evas Howe Lodge is both comfortable and thoughtfully appointed. The property features a separate bedroom with a double bed, a modern shower room with underfloor heating and a heated towel rail, and a fully equipped kitchen, including a dishwasher. The open-plan living area includes patio doors that lead to a decked terrace, making it an ideal spot for enjoying summer evenings or watching the sun set over the distant hills. The area is known for its dark skies, providing excellent conditions for stargazing and the occasional display of the northern lights.
To ensure guests are comfortable throughout the year, the lodge is fitted with electric panel heaters and a small wood-burning stove, adding warmth and character during the cooler months. Evas Howe is also partially powered by renewable energy and is progressing towards becoming a fully off-grid accommodation.
The lodge is situated just eight miles from Stromness and fourteen miles from Kirkwall, making it well connected yet still remote enough to provide a sense of seclusion. The Brough of Birsay is easily accessible, offering rugged coastal walks, as do the nearby areas of Marwick Bay and Marwick Head. A particularly scenic walking route is the Old Swartland Road, a footpath following the edge of the Loch of Harray, leading to The Merkister Hotel—a popular destination for a summer meal or evening drink.
In addition to its natural appeal, the West Mainland is rich in culture and craftsmanship. Guests can enjoy local art galleries, small museums and traditional tearooms dotted across the region. Orkney is home to thirteen bird reserves, six of which lie within ten miles of the lodge, making Evas Howe a prime destination for birdwatchers. The sun-lounge’s large patio window offers a perfect viewing point for the marshland just beyond the lodge, which hosts an ever-changing display of birdlife throughout the seasons.
Evas Howe Lodge offers visitors a relaxing, comfortable, and environmentally conscious base from which to discover the landscapes, wildlife, and heritage of Orkney’s West Mainland. Whether guests seek quiet reflection, active exploration or a mix of both, this rural escape provides the perfect setting.
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