A Coastal Hideaway on Sanday's Spectacular Shoreline
Backaskaill Cottage at a glance
Backaskaill Cottage is a charming heritage retreat nestled beside the mile-long silver sands of Backaskaill Bay on the beautiful island of Sanday. Combining traditional Orcadian character with contemporary comfort, this lovingly restored cottage offers an idyllic escape for couples, solo travellers and anyone seeking peace, space and authentic island living.
Set within the historic Backaskaill landscape, the cottage enjoys a unique position just moments from one of Orkney's most beautiful beaches.
Here, the rhythm of the tides, the call of seabirds and the endless sea views create the perfect setting to relax, recharge and reconnect with nature.
A Space for Living
Guests can enjoy a spacious kitchen and dining room with a traditional range, a comfortable sitting room with cosy furnishings, and a bright conservatory overlooking the surrounding countryside. Complimentary Wi-Fi and private parking are also included. Perfectly suited to two guests, the cottage offers a peaceful island escape with plenty of space to relax and unwind, both indoors and out.
A Space for Dreaming
The cottage features one beautifully appointed double bedroom, thoughtfully designed to provide a restful night's sleep after a day exploring Orkney. Combining comfort with character, the room offers a calm and welcoming retreat, complemented by a modern ensuite shower room. Perfectly suited to two guests, the cottage provides a peaceful island escape with everything you need to relax, recharge and feel at home.
A Space for Breathing
One of Backaskaill Cottage's greatest attractions is its exceptional setting, just moments from the beautiful Backaskaill Bay. Stretching for almost a mile, this unspoilt beach offers pristine sands, crystal-clear waters and breathtaking views throughout the seasons. Step outside and wander straight onto the shoreline, where you can watch seals basking on the rocks, spot seabirds and migrating wildlife, or simply enjoy the peace and quiet of the wide-open coast. Whether you're exploring the coastline on foot or by bicycle, discovering secluded picnic spots and hidden coves, or spending an evening beneath Orkney's spectacular dark skies, the bay offers endless opportunities to reconnect with nature. It’s a place where tranquillity, space and the beauty of the island landscape can truly be appreciated.
Your Stay at Backaskaill Cottage
Rates
1-2 guests - £150p/nt
Minimum stay 3 nights
No restrictions on check-in/check-out days
Check-in from 3pm
Check-out by 10am
Discounts
Returning Orkney Retreats guest 10% discount on any property.*
Recommendation from a previous guest 10% discount for you 10% for them on their next booking. *
*The above discounts cannot be aggregated
Corporate rates available on enquiry.
Special Offers
Includes complementary 5* hospitality supplies and treats
Watch out for periodic discounts on island tours, workshops, eateries and experiences.
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The 4* cottage is a cosy one-bedroom traditional farm cottage nestled in a farm steading, adjacent to a beach that feels like it’s yours and yours alone.
It enjoys views across farmland and exclusive use of the back garden.
A small, walled front garden provides a sheltered bistro style outdoor dining area.
The cottage features a cozy double bedroom with ensuite shower room, a very well equipped kitchen diner with range and an electric hob, a spacious and cozy living room and a comfortable, sunny conservatory. Very dog-friendly.
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Backaskaill Cottage is equipped with everything you need for a self-catered stay:
Free Wi-Fi
Private parking
Sea and countryside views
One double bedroom with Egyptian cotton bed linen
En-suite shower room with complimentary toiletries
Bathrobes and hairdryer
Towels and linen provided
Fully equipped kitchen
Ceramic hob and cooker
Fridge and freezer
Crockery, utensils and dining area
Kettle with tea and coffee facilities
Comfortable living room
Flat-screen TV with satellite/digital channels
Radio and iPod docking station
Patio with outdoor seating
Central heating throughout
Heated towel rails
Iron and ironing board (available on request)
Cot available on request
Work desk and chair
Alarm clock
Non-smoking throughout
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Up to two dogs are warmly welcomed, with towels, bowls and treats provided.
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One of Backaskaill Cottage's greatest attractions is its proximity to the stunning Backaskaill Bay. Stretching for almost a mile, the beach offers pristine sands, crystal-clear waters and breathtaking views in every season.
From your doorstep you can:
Walk directly onto the beach
Watch seals, seabirds and migrating wildlife
Enjoy spectacular sunrises and sunsets
Explore the coastline on foot or by bicycle
Discover quiet picnic spots and hidden coves
Experience some of Orkney's darkest skies for stargazing
The bay is rarely crowded, offering a sense of tranquillity and freedom that is increasingly hard to find.
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Reaching Sanday is part of the adventure. Guests can arrive by ferry or by air:
Ferry: Regular services from Kirkwall — pre-booking is essential.
Air: Daily 20-minute flights from Kirkwall to Sanday Airfield.
Arriving without a car is easy. We can arrange:
Pick-ups from the ferry or airfield
Car hire
Grocery deliveries
Bicycle or e-bike hire waiting at the cottage
Fuel: Available at Sinclair Stores and Sanday Community shop
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Just a short drive away, Sinclair General Stores provides everything you need — fresh produce, local goods and daily essentials. The friendly team can pre-stock the cottage with your grocery order so it’s ready for your arrival.
When eating out, Sanday offers several excellent options:
59 Degrees North – artisan bakery, café & pizzas
Kettletoft Hotel – restaurant, bar meals & takeaway fish & chips
Belsair Hotel – lunches, dinners & carvery
Craft Hub & Community Café – light lunches, cakes and local crafts
Fresh local seafood is available for delivery when in season.
Optional Catering
You can also pre-order delicious homemade meals.
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Sanday is rich in history, wildlife and culture. Enjoy:
White sandy beaches and miles of coastal walking
Sanday Heritage Centre & Croft Museum
Quoyness Chambered Cairn and local archaeological sites
Craft studios and artisan workshops
Cycling, wild swimming, water sports, fishing and sea angling
Wildlife tours and birdwatching
Swimming pool & fitness centre
Throughout the summer, Sanday hosts a programme of lively community events and festivals including Sanday Soulka weekends, with guided walks, concerts, craft workshops, food events and family activities.
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Medical: Sanday Surgery is located in Lady Village; out-of-hours medical services are accessed via Kirkwall.
Fuel: Available at Sinclair Stores.
Post Office: Located in Kettletoft and Lady Village.
Public Toilets: Several across the island including Kettletoft Pier and Loth Ferry Terminal.
Recycling: Glass and general recycling points available in Kettletoft and Lady Village.
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Sanday’s weather is changeable and part of its charm. Winter storms can be dramatic, and ferry schedules sometimes alter with the conditions. If travel disruptions affect your departure, we will look after you and ensure you’re comfortable until the next available sailing.
The island is a welcoming, safe and close-knit community where visitors are warmly received.
Experiences to suit Backaskaill Cottage
The Collection
Living History
Step back in time to a truly immersive experience at Boloquoy Victorian Farm & Watermill.
Sleeps up to 6
Scandi-Romance
Soak in the view at our scandi deluxe Kilnbarn Cottage, which sits with its toes in the ocean.
Sleeps up to 4
Heritage Deluxe
Two beautiful properties ready to whisk you away for quiet moments by the sea and cosy nights in.
Sleeping between 2 and 8