Loch Rannoch Hotel and Spa

We came in winter to visit family who live nearby, when not much else in the area was open. That didn’t matter, as the staff were welcoming and lovely. It was clear that locals use the hotel facilities to socialise with the community, and we got chatting with some lovely guests from around the country. Our room was cosy, comfortable and immaculate, with a view over the loch. We ate in the more casual bar each evening, and its menu kept us interested for three nights. The food was delicious, with good breakfast choices. I especially enjoyed the smoked salmon with a choice of eggs. Draught drinks were more reasonably priced than bottled ones. We also used the pool a couple of times, and the facilities were lovely. There are plenty of beautiful walks, and loch swimming too if you’re crazy enough. The main downside was the internet and TV connections, so bear that in mind if travelling with children or teenagers.

We ate in the bar, the more casual of the two restaurants, and the food was prompt and delicious. The service was friendly, polite, accurate and exceptional. Later we relaxed by the fire in a lounge with board games, which we loved. The pool is beautifully situated and well maintained, and the steam room and sauna were lovely. Our room had a stunning loch view despite the weather, a very comfortable bed, and an immaculately equipped en-suite that was a bit tight for space. The room itself was otherwise very good, though a little dated. That may be unfair given the age of the property. We had a lovely overnight stay last weekend and will be back.

The food throughout the hotel was perfect, and the restaurant staff were pleasant and helpful. I’m vegetarian, though, and found there weren’t many options. If choosing between the lodges and hotel, I’d personally go for a lodge. For a good meal away from the hotel, the cornerstone is amazing and community-based. My husband and I have visited the area a couple of times. Our first lodge stay was extremely pleasant, with beautiful scenery, but our hotel stay for our anniversary was a letdown. The room was quite dated, and some staff, especially at reception, were obnoxiously rude. My friend was staying in a lodge and tried to reserve a table for our group. I saw the receptionist give her a completely different and unacceptable attitude just because she wasn’t staying in the hotel, even though half our table would have been hotel guests. I decided not to eat there that evening. Whether hotel guests or not, customers are paying and deserve basic respect. My own dealings with reception weren’t good either. The woman at the front desk was abrupt and rude, which isn’t the attitude I’d expect from a hotel.

What made the biggest impression over our four days was how welcoming and friendly every staff member we met was. The hotel and its surroundings are stunning, with an unbeatable loch view. We had excellent food and service at The Wild Brownie, attentive without being pushy, and good craic too. The spa was clean and well kept, and my Swedish massage was excellent. Highly recommend it for a Highland stay. I’d definitely return.