The Grey Gull Hotel

Three stars for a three-star hotel. The clean, spacious rooms have a large TV, though the smart TV has limited channels and no Netflix. There are decent WiFi, onsite parking, friendly staff, a modern bathroom with a hot shower, complimentary hot drinks and biscuits, a hot tub, and nice views from the front. The onsite restaurant serves food and breakfast that were okay and came quickly. Some things could be improved: the hangers were a random assortment, there were no fixed hangers behind the bathroom door, and there was no glass for rinsing your mouth. No complimentary hot chocolate or bottled water either. The corridors were a bit dark, and there was no lift or USB charging points. The building could use some TLC inside and out. The bed covers didn't match, and the towel warmer wasn't working.

The accommodation was basic but clean, and the staff were friendly and helpful, giving 100%. Having access to the hot tub was a bonus, and they provide a dressing gown for it. We had an excellent midweek break and got excellent value through the 5pm deals.

We stayed overnight on a Saturday in an old building in a beautiful location, and there is onsite parking. Our basic room had a sauna. The staff were welcoming, smiling and very helpful, and the manager was particularly friendly and went above and beyond for guests. On Sunday morning I saw him greet each staff member with a smile and a “good morning”, which was lovely to see. Breakfast was fantastic. Dinner could have been better, and I felt bigger plates would help rather than stacking the food. Still, it was a lovely night away and we'll definitely go back.

Everything was mostly shut on Sunday, so I was lucky to find this restaurant. I heard two pubs were open here, unlike nearby lochgilphead. I came by bus from kennacraig to lochgilphead and walked around the bay, with four hours to relax over a nice wine and meal before the next bus. This was the best place for miles. It's a lovely, relaxed setting, with a great menu and bar, friendly laid-back staff, good value, nice background music and a cracking view. The carvery is only £14, and I didn't feel rushed. The full menu is available too. I'd recommend it for dinner with friends, a few pints in the lounge or eating on your own like I did. The reliable City Link bus service covers the whole coast, so it's convenient for a Sunday drink and leaves enough time to get out for the day.