Ben Nevis Hotel & Leisure Club

I booked two nights but left after just two hours. The hotel is in a very tired state, to put it kindly. The gym ceiling had fallen in, there was no hot water in the leisure centre or the rooms, and the stair carpets were worn out and dangerous to use. Staff knew about the facilities' condition but couldn't do anything. Reception told me it would take at least an hour for the boiler to get the hot water working. Even the first impression was poor, with letters missing from the hotel sign, and things went downhill from there. Three days later, I'm still waiting for a refund. This was a nightmare of a hotel. It needs a lot of investment and work before it's fit for another season.

The staff were friendly, and the room was comfortable with a great view, but there was damp on the wall and the bathroom was in poor condition. The hotel clearly needs updating and repairs. The spa has a good-sized pool, and the sauna and steam room worked, though all were in very poor shape. Changing rooms were also in poor condition, and none of the lockers worked. With a fair bit of investment this could be a very good place, though I sadly can't see that happening. It might suit a one-night stop while travelling for construction work, but I wouldn't bring my family.

We booked through booking.com on the Black Friday deal and had a quiet off-season stay. The room was spotless, not even dust on top of the doors or mirror, though I wouldn't really have minded. The leisure facilities and breakfast were great, the bar food was pretty good, and all the staff were lovely. We'll definitely be back since we're in the area regularly.

The spa was a lovely way to spend a cold January afternoon, and the shower was warm too. I stayed with my two adult children, and we each had a bed, which was a bonus. Our room was spotless on arrival, warm, and had a spare electric heater, plus tea, coffee and shortbread by the kettle. The views of the hills were fabulous. Staff were really friendly and helpful, the pub food portions were generous, and my daughter liked having a separate vegan menu. It's not the Ritz, and some parts are being updated, but the price reflects that. We'll definitely return.