Loch Maree Hotel

The Loch Maree Hotel was built in 1872 and has long been a welcoming spot for anglers, walkers, and anyone wanting to enjoy the wild beauty of the area. Loch Maree itself is often called one of the most beautiful in Scotland, with a history stretching back to the 7th century. The loch has stories of early missionaries like St Maelrubha and Viking legends. Queen Victoria visited in 1877 and stayed for six days, giving the hotel her royal approval. The very room she slept in is now one of the 16 comfortable en-suite rooms available to guests today.

In the late 1800s, visitors could take scenic trips around the loch on the small passenger steamer SS Mabel, which helped make the area a popular tourist destination. The small steamship remained in service until 1911. Over the years, the hotel had been a quiet retreat for those looking to relax or explore. After being closed for some time, the Loch Maree Hotel reopened in March 2013 following major renovations, ready to welcome visitors back to this stunning part of Scotland.

Loch Maree Hotel is a proper Victorian-era building, built back in 1872, and it still shows off that old-school Highland character. The stone exterior gives it a solid, stately feel, making it stand out against the rugged landscape around it. Even though it’s been updated over the years, it hasn’t lost that historic personality that makes it feel like a real piece of Scottish history. Inside, the ceilings are high, and there’s a kind of quirky, lived-in feel that you don’t get in modern hotels. Whether you’re looking out the windows at the hills or just walking through the public rooms, you get a real sense of the hotel’s long history and character. It’s the kind of place where the building itself feels like part of the experience.

The hotel’s on-site restaurant serves delicious Scottish and locally inspired dishes made with the finest seasonal ingredients. From traditional Scottish meals to international favorites, there’s something to satisfy every taste. Guests can enjoy their food while taking in views of the surrounding countryside. For added convenience, room service is available, so meals can be delivered straight to your room, perfect for a relaxed breakfast in bed or a late-night snack. A hearty breakfast is served in the restaurant, while the bar is ideal for evening drinks and even features a pool table for some extra fun.

Cultural and Outdoor Experiences

Loch Maree Hotel sits on the edge of one of the most beautiful lochs in the Highlands, a place with a rich fishing heritage. Anglers have long been drawn here for wild brown trout, sea trout, and salmon, with the best spots found around the shallow islands. The hotel continues to hold most of the loch’s fishing rights, so whether you’re a seasoned angler or trying it for the first time, the experience is special.

Beyond fishing, the area around Loch Maree is full of experiences waiting to be discovered. You could start with a walk through the Beinn Eighe and Loch Maree Islands National Nature Reserve, following quiet trails through the woods and hills, and you might spot golden eagles, otters, or black-throated divers. For those who enjoy a challenge, the peak of Slioch offers breathtaking views, while the trails around Kinlochewe reveal the rugged beauty of the Highlands at every turn. If you prefer something slower, a stroll to Victoria Falls or a gentle kayak across the loch lets you soak in the scenery in peace. Inverewe Gardens is another treat, with colourful plants and winding paths perfect for a calm wander. Every visit here gives a taste of the wild, natural beauty that makes the Highlands so special.

You can also think about marking a small personal moment here, like a birthday, an anniversary, or a simple get-together with close family or friends. The place has a warm and easygoing feel, which suits intimate celebrations that do not need much planning. They might be able to arrange something simple based on what you are looking for. It is best to reach out to the team to check what is possible and how they can support your plans.