The Royal An Lochan

Our room was spacious and comfortable, but the shower was disappointing. It was listed as being over the bath, though it turned out to be a hand-held spray, albeit an old-world stylish one. If I’d known, I would have paid extra for a walk-in shower. That option was available when I booked but wasn’t anymore by the time we arrived. Eleanor and Greg welcomed us warmly and looked after us throughout. Breakfasts were generous and well cooked, and the couple of dinners we had were delicious, especially the venison on our first night. We’d dropped in for coffee a few times before, so we knew the views across the Kyle were superb, but this was our first stay. We booked at the last minute for four nights a couple of weeks ago. We were also lucky to get almost a week of perfect, sunny, hot weather in Argyll in September!

We stayed for a week and ate at the hotel restaurant every night but one, when we went to The Oystercatcher. Honestly, the food at the hotel was better, and very good value. The staff work hard to make the place welcoming, warm and attentive. Our room, bedroom 3, had a beautiful view and bathroom, a comfy bed, and no noise from other rooms, so we slept well. It’s a really lovely hotel. If you’re after a relaxing break with great food and beautiful views, don’t hesitate.

Nothing was too much trouble for Zack and the team. We stayed at the Royal last summer for a friend’s wedding, and the room was brilliantly appointed. It honestly had the most comfortable hotel bed I’ve ever slept in. The restaurant was excellent too. We had dinner there twice, and breakfast was great.

We had dinner with the family in a lovely location, though it was very quiet, probably because of the weather. The fish in the five fish and chips orders tasted fresh and was lovely. The so-called chunky chips were basically baked potatoes cut into huge wedges, and they were pretty dry. We also got a child’s macaroni cheese. Portions were good, but it was almost inedible, with more cheese than pasta, and made with penne. The bill came to just under £100, and we wouldn’t go back. The waitress forgot the water I ordered, which wasn’t a big deal. I did say the child’s meal wasn’t good, but there was no explanation or apology.