This place was quite an experience. Although it is a little out of the way, it is well worth the trip. The castle itself has many rooms to explore (including a secret door!) and our room was decorated in a true Victorian style. The bed was very comfortable. Our bathroom was a turret with an excellent view of the water and grounds. The castle also has several acres of beautiful gardens and pastures to explore.

Dinner was a multiple course meal with a huge variety of flavours and great presentation. Both before, during, and after dinner there was a wonderful ambiance as all of the guests spent this together and shared their experiences.

Although Balfour Castle is expensive, it is a wonderful experience for a special occasion!

When we booked this holiday, we did not know what to expect. The Castle was visible from the ferry as it dominates the southwest end of the Island. The peace and tranquillity offered would not suit everybody. No noisy bars or disco, no sound of passing traffic. In fact it was very hard to hear any noise from our room only the clucking of a pheasant, the cows in the field between the castle and the beach and the sound of the waves on the beach. We had glorious weather, sun most days. Yes, it was cold, but look on a map where you are! All the staff in the Castle were wonderful, helpful and appeared happy to be there, unlike some hotels you visit. I am loathed to recommend Balfour Castle, in case it becomes so popular we become unable to return again, which we will.

We were greeted at the door of the castle when we drove up. There's no reception desk or other earmarks of a hotel, just a fabulous 52-room castle. There's just a few guest rooms on the third floor, but you can spend a week looking at all the fabulous common rooms and grounds. Huge comfortable library with self service honor bar and fire. Pat, the owner was very friendly and welcoming. Came up to the library to tell us about the dinner gong to be rung at 6:30. Then after the gong rang out in the castle, she came up again to make sure we heard it. Of course our room was huge with amazing views. Old fashioned plumbing, but everything worked! Had the castle all to ourselves, the first night, but had to share the castle with honeymooning Brits the second night.

Just returned from a wonderful stay at Balfour Castle. This is a magical place and the service and meals were outstanding. Our room and bath were very large with a fantastic view of the grounds. Both the breakfast and dinner meals that are included were delicious and expertly served in the nicely appointed dining room. It was such a treat to have
drinks in the library each evening. Be sure to enjoy touring the walled gardens and beautiful grounds of this estate.
The island of Shapinsay is very picturesque and our bike tour of the island was such fun!
After the hustle and bustle of Edinburgh, this was the perfect place to unwind and see another side of Scotland. The town of Kirkwall is another part of this trip that is
not to be missed.
The owners and staff at Balfour Castle make your visit so special. They are eager to make sure that you feel at home and share the history of Balfour Castle with you.
AKNIC