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 minimalistic line drawing of a dog with the words "Dog Friendly" below it.
A gold line drawing of a flower with the word 'Garden' beneath it on a black background.
A gold-colored tree with many leaves and roots, with the text 'Heritage-Deluxe' beneath it, all on a black background.
Outline of a sun setting over the water with rays extending outward, above the text "Beach Access".

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.

Experiences to suit Backaskaill Cottage

  • " Amazing place, beautiful home and lovely thoughtful hosts. Highly recommend Orkney retreats."

  • "Highly recommend traveling to the Orkney Islands and staying in this beautiful place!"

  • "Gorgeous accomodation so homely and comfortable the attention to detail by the owners is fantastic....”

  • "Wonderful location - we could have stayed for ever. Thank you so much."

  • "To other travellers - just go this place is amazing!"

  • "What a lovely place, a location to die for!"

  • "Absolutely stunning property and location…it is perfect."

  • "Gorgeous accommodation so homely and comfortable the attention to detail by the owners is fantastic so kind and considerate."

  • "A real highlight was being able to enjoy the wildlife right from the cottage. A unique experience. Highly recommended."

  • " Fantastic hosts, very warm welcome, accommodation is excellent with everything you need and more."

  • "Country coastal luxury wrapped in excellence."

  • "What an absolutely amazing place to stay. Lovely welcome from the host and every detail had been covered. "

  • "The welcome was so nice - we really felt we had arrived somewhere special from the moment we got there. We would love to come again but for longer."

  • "Fantastic hosts, very efficient booking and contact system. Cottage is gorgeous and has everything you could possibly need!"

The Collection

A cozy vintage living room with a round table covered with a floral tablecloth, holding a teapot, a cup and saucer, an open book, and snacks. The room has antique furniture, lamps, a fireplace with a lit fire, and various decorative items and pictures on the walls.

Living History

Step back in time to a truly immersive experience at Boloquoy Victorian Farm & Watermill.

Sleeps up to 6

Coastal living room with large windows showing ocean view, cream-colored furniture with cozy throws and pillows, a rocking chair with faux fur, decorative dried plants, and soft ambient lighting.

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

Book your stay with Orkney Retreats