Shieldaig Lodge

The bright orange, delicious yolks at breakfast reminded me of eggs from friends who raise their own chickens and feed them lots of corn. The rooms were spacious, the beds comfortable, and the view was spectacular. We stayed during the week of March 16th for my son's wedding, and the lodge made it feel special from the start. We had beers and tried several whiskies in the bar the evening before. A bus took us about 20 minutes to the wedding site, a beautiful lake where the vows were exchanged right at the water's edge. Afterward, the planner had champagne, beer, wine, and snacks for us, then we returned to the lodge for a lovely dinner. I changed out of my suit and met my son and several of his friends back at the bar. The bartender stayed with us until almost 1 the next morning while we enjoyed plenty of beer and whiskey. It's a beautiful, characterful old hunting lodge, and a wonderful place to stay for my son's wedding.

The gardens and building are beautiful, and you can see this was once a special, prestigious place. But at around £400 a night, I left feeling it was poor value. The hotel seems tired and short on care, as if savings have been made wherever possible. It lacks the little details and sense of occasion you'd hope for from a luxury stay, and the atmosphere feels hollow, as though the character has been stripped away. Our room didn't impress, especially the worn bathroom, where the heavy sealant around the bath and taps looked like a temporary repair. The bar furniture was uncomfortable and not fit for purpose, so we took our drinks elsewhere, yet a service charge was still added at checkout. On arrival, we were simply given a room number and sent upstairs, with no warm greeting or drink. At this price, a small welcome, homemade treat, or help with our bags would have felt appropriate. Service also felt stretched, with one staff member apparently covering reception, the bar, and the restaurant. Dinner was another letdown: overpriced, too salty, and not tasting fresh. We had to pour our own wine, and the service felt rushed. The setting is lovely, but the hotel falls far short of its luxury image and needs investment and attention before the price feels justified.

This was our third visit, and we loved being able to have breakfast and dinner in the bar by the blazing fire each day, so our dog didn't have to stay in the room. He was welcomed with a dog bed and a bag of treats and toys, and the hotel is genuinely dog-friendly. David and Victor took great care of us, as did the rest of the staff. We were lucky enough to see the Aurora while we were there, and it was stunning. The location is gorgeous, and the food and cocktails were outstanding as always. Another fantastic stay. We just love coming here.

A relaxed pace and attentive staff make Shieldaig Lodge feel like a proper Highland retreat, somewhere to slow down and enjoy the balance of tradition and comfort. The Victorian hunting lodge, set on the shores of Gairloch, has been beautifully restored, with wood-paneled rooms and a warm welcome. Its setting is breathtaking, with lochs, mountains, and woodland all around. The restaurant makes good use of local produce, including fresh seafood and game. Rustic Highland charm with a touch of quiet luxury.