Isle of Eriska Hotel

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. A Relais & Chateaux accreditation and now a Michelin star awarded to head chef Paul Leonard is further testament to its world-class standard. 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.

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.

Facilities include a Gym, Indoor Pool, Croquet Lawn, Golf Course, Tennis Courts, Squash Court & Spa.

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.