Isle of Eriska Hotel
Oban, West coast Scotland, United Kingdom
At a Glance
Private island in Western Scotland
Two-bedroom cottages ideal for families
Fantastic range of activities from walking, mountain biking, archery and sailing
Excellent locally sourced cuisine
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Best time to Visit
Good time to visit
Average time to visit
It is very difficult to predict the weather in the United Kingdom - in the summer from May to late September is generally seen as the most pleasant time to visit. Rainfall is difficult to predict - but the UK does not receive as much as many are led to believe! In the winters, temperatures do fall, but there is nothing better than finding a remote pub with a roaring fire to sit beside after a long walk in the country.
Insider's View
Save room for the Farmhouse Cheese Trolley for a selection of Scottish cheese that is epic.
There is a covered clay shooting area so that you can still have fun even in variable Scottish weather.
Call us on 020 3993 4933 to start planning your vacation to Isle of Eriska Hotel or take a look at our itineraries to Highlands Islands of Scotland
Description
The Isle of Eriska Hotel is located on a private island at the mouth of Loch Linnhe in Western Scotland. Small and intimate, the hotel has opened two luxury lodges, 'The Hilltop Reserves', all surrounded by the splendour of Scotland's magical landscapes.
The Isle of Eriska Hotel and Spa is tucked away on a private island easily accessed from Oban or Fort William. It was turned into a hotel 40 years ago by a retired army officer who wanted to give guests a baronial mansion hotel experience, blending exceptional hospitality with Scotland's stunning beauty. It's charm is in its understated, comfortable ambience which is the perfect mix of old and new.
Recently, the hotel opened two new luxury lodges named 'The Hilltop Reserves'. Set away from the main property, these one bedroom apartments come with outdoor private hot tubs and unbeatable views over the loch towards the Isle of Lismore. Two bedrooms suites are ideal for families.
The Isle of Eriska Hotel is renowned for its incredible food. Don't be surprised if you're playing on the hotel's 9-hole golf course and spot kitchen staff picking fresh watercress and wild herbs that grow on the island and in the hotel's kitchen garden. Locally sourced produce is the star of every meal, which are an event in themselves. Love cheese? Be sure to leave room for the huge range of delicious cheeses that appear as a finale to each evening meal. The wine list is also extensive at around 40 pages.
The hotel has a lovely new restaurant, located above the spa, called The Deck. With a spacious outdoor deck with views stretching across the loch and highlands, it's signature dishes include homemade smoked salmon served with lemon and capers.
In 2015, Eriska re-launched The Stables Spa with a brand new state of the art luxury thermal suite with sauna, steam room and Rasul room. In addition, there are two luxurious new treatment rooms with statement baths, showers and stunning sea views over Loch Linnhe. There’s also a brand new Life Fitness gym. The spa rooms are designed to reflect different parts of the island. Some are darker, representing woodland areas, making them ideal for a relaxing massage.
The island itself is perfect for short or long walks (the hotel has a collection of boots you can borrow as the ground can get quite soggy). With 300 acres to explore, the Isle of Eriska is the perfect place to cycle, try your hand at archery, sail, fish or clay pigeon shoot. It's all about getting out into the fresh air before returning to the comforting crackle of a roaring log fire and a well deserved cup of afternoon tea at the hotel. If you've been particularly active why not tuck into a tray of sandwiches, scones and cakes, even a glass of Champagne!
This hotel is all about exceptional hospitality and service, which is apparent the moment you step foot on the island. Surrounded by peace and quiet you can just let your shoulders drop and soak up the beauty of the place. Understated and easygoing, it's definitely a hidden gem that celebrates comfort an incredible scenery that beckons you outdoors.
Accommodation
There are 25 rooms, including five suites. The rooms in the main house are slightly more traditional split into Deluxe Rooms which are slightly larger and are at the front of the hotel, whilst the Standard Rooms face to the East. Many of the rooms have sofas and armchairs. The bathrooms contain Molton Brown toiletries.
| Two Bedroom Garden Cottage | Beyond the main house in the surrounding gardens lie the Two Bedroom Cottage Suites. These offer more privacy and seclusion but not at the expense of service or style as they also offer 24 hour room service and all other facilities. |
| Deluxe Room | There are 17 guest rooms in the main house at the Isle of Eriska Hotel. These are classified as Deluxe Rooms, which are spacious and inviting and located towards the front of the house. All rooms are highly appointed and equipped and are all named after Scottish islands. The large bathrooms are also equipped with both a shower and a spacious bathtub. |
Facilities
Facilities include a Gym, Indoor Pool, Croquet Lawn, Golf Course, Tennis Courts, Squash Court & Spa.
Reviews
Haile Brant (Staff)
On the west coast of Scotland lies a 300 acre island featuring incredible views of Loch Linnhe and the Morvern mountain range. Take some time to walk around the island and spot the wildlife that inhibits the area, from highland cattle, otters playing in the surrounding sea and countless species of birds. With just 34 bedrooms, this hotel is still intimate while offering plenty of amenities the entire family can enjoy. Activities range from golf to clay pigeon shooting or head out for a tour of a local whiskey distillery. Should you be interested in a more relaxing activity, head to the spa facilities here. Book a treatment with Ishga seaweed, a local natural gem that does wonders for circulation (I can say from personal experience). At the end of each day, head over to the hotel restaurant to enjoy some incredibly crafted food ranging from a celebration of the local seafood to farm fresh produce! During summer, head out to the deck, a fabulous place to soak up the sun while enjoying some casual Scottish fare.
(Press)
Who goes?
Devotees including Dame Judi Dench; grandparents, parents and children for vacations together; couples celebrating anniversaries; American tourists; anyone
wanting to get away from it all.
Location
An entire private island connected to the mainland by a wonderfully rumbly old bridge. Theres a nine-hole golf course and a leisure center for rainy days. But above all, theres the Isle of Eriska with its seals and otters and its dreamlike views.
Style/Character
If the Big House is a reminder of a more expansive and confident era, the experience of staying here is very much like being in a grand old- fashioned private home, with its panelled great hall and roaring log fires. You can browse through the books with a malt whisky in hand; or you can play the piano: this is one hotel where you may just dare do such a thing, so relaxed and at home will you feel.
Service
The sweet Asian waitress who described the farmhouse cheeses on the trolley (and knew her stuff) was busy bed- making the next morning all hands to the pump here. The service is always professional, but never forced.
Rooms
The bedrooms have been redecorated in a successful and smart, if slightly formulaic, mix of contemporary and traditional. Main house rooms are preferable to spa rooms.
Food and drink
Dinner (the menu changes daily) is served in the recently redecorated dining room and adjoining conservatory. Afterwards guests gather for an Eriska exclusive: badgers feeding from brown bread and skimmed milk right in front of them on the terrace.
Value for money
Its a lot, but how could they do it for less?
Family-friendly?
Yes.
Experiences
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Eilean Donan Castle
Eilean Donan is recognised around the world as one of the most iconic images of Scotland, situated amid a striking landscape on an island where three great lochs meet. The entirety of the castle and a visitor center can be explored at your leisure.
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Falconry at Gleneagles
Guests of Gleneagles have the unique opportunity to learn the Sport of Kings at one of the world's most acclaimed falconry schools. Whether you are a complete beginner or would like to perfect your technique, you will find falconry utterly absorbing.
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Glencoe
Glencoe is Scotland’s most famous glen and its dramatic scenery has been the backdrop to an equally dramatic history. Glencoe today remains irresistible to climbers and walkers keen to explore this magical and mysterious place.
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Highland Games
The fun and spectacle of the Highland Games, one of Scotland's most quintessential experiences, makes a wonderful day out and offers a great chance to meet the locals. Events like tossing the caber, tug of war and highland dancing are bound to enthral.
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Hogwarts Express
The Jacobite Steam Train runs between Fort William and Mallaig on the wonderfully scenic West Highland railway line, famed for its iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct which may seem familiar as it is on the way to Hogwarts in three of the Harry Potter films.
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Isle of Skye
The Isle of Skye is derived from the old Norse sky-a which translates to "cloud island", so called because of its often mist-cloaked hills.
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Marine Wildlife & Corryvreckan Whirlpool Safari
This exceptional boat adventure in the Firth of Lorn offers a thrilling marine wildlife experience. Watch for minke whales, orcas, dolphins, basking shark and seabirds before taking on Corryvreckan, the world's third largest whirlpool.
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Private Tour of a Whisky Distillery with a Master Distiller
Join a master distiller and learn the secrets of the finest whiskies in the world before sampling the golden nectar afterwards.
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Sacred Iona, Puffins & Fingal's Cave
This wonderful cruise takes you from Oban to explore the stunning holy island of Iona with its famous abbey, before continuing to see the spectacular basalt columns of Staffa, famous Fingal's Cave and, in season, a delightful puffin colony.
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Sea Kayaking Adventure
The West Coast of Scotland is Europe's sea kayaking capital, and its fabulous wildlife and inspiring scenery make sea kayaking here a fabulous adventure activity for the whole family.
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Stirling Castle & the Trossachs
Stirling Castle is one of the most important castles in Scotland’s history. It has witnessed the
crowning of many Scottish Kings and Queens, and the earliest parts of the building date back as far as the 15th and 16th centuries.
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Urquhart Castle
Magnificently positioned above Loch Ness, the ruins of Urquhart Castle has stood for well over a thousand years. Visiting Urquhart Castle offers superlative views and a fascinating history from St Columba to the seventeenth century when it was blown up.
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Visit Castle Stalker
Castle Stalker, with its bewitching island setting against a dramatic mountain backdrop, has made it an icon of the Scottish Highlands. It is one of the best-preserved medieval tower-houses in western Scotland and a wonderful subject for photographers.
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Wildlife Hub at Appin
The Wildlife Hub at Appin on the coast of Loch Linnhe features interactive displays and live webcams so you can learn all about the animals and birds that call the Scottish coast their home.
Vacation Ideas
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Highlights of Scotland and Ireland
Dublin, Co. Galway, Edinburgh, Loch Creran
from $7800 pp 11 nights
- Combine the highlights of Scotland and Ireland
- Enjoy private guided walking tours of Dublin and Edinburgh
- Stay in a magnificent castle hotel on Ireland’s emerald West Coast
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Scotland for Families
Gleneagles, Isle of Eriska & Edinburgh
from $3800 pp 7 nights
- Ideal for families with children aged 6 and up
- Visit the rolling glens of Perthshire and a stay at Gleneagles with lots of activities to choose from
- Learn to sea kayak
Location & directions
Oban, West coast Scotland, United Kingdom
The Isle of Eriska is located in the west of Scotland and within easy access of Oban. It has views over Loch Linnhe and the Morvern Mountains, is situated at the mouth of Loch Creran in the heart of West Argyll. It is also just 40 miles south of Fort William
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