Shieldaig Lodge

Shieldaig Lodge started back in 1891 as a classic Victorian shooting lodge, designed by Andrew Maitland & Son. It was part of the Gairloch Estate, sitting within a big Highland sporting estate and looking out over Loch Gairloch. Even today, it’s one of the few traditional shooting lodges you can still actually visit, and it’s managed to keep a lot of its original 19th-century charm, which makes you really feel the history as soon as you arrive.

The area around the lodge has its own stories, too. During World War Two, nearby Loch Ewe played a key role in the Russian Arctic Convoys, and the Fairy Lochs plane crash nearby is now a small memorial, giving the place a quieter, poignant side to its otherwise adventurous Highland past.

Shieldaig Lodge sits on the south side of Loch Gairloch and is reached by a simple cattle grid, giving a sense of how rural and quiet the area is. It was built in 1891 as a Victorian-era hunting lodge and later housed Second World War officers recovering from injuries, so the building itself reflects different periods of use. Inside, you’ll notice staghorn mounts on the walls, fire-lit lounges, and a library with old wooden shelves, which give a sense of its original purpose and Highland heritage.

The rooms follow the same style, with tartan fabrics, wooden furniture, and simple layouts, but they’ve been updated for comfort, including modern bathrooms. Some rooms have views of Loch Gairloch or bay windows that let in plenty of light and connect the indoors with the surrounding landscape. It’s a lodge that reflects both history and daily life in the Highlands.

The restaurant at Shieldaig Lodge combines locally sourced food with views across Loch Gairloch, letting you enjoy the scenery while you eat. Ingredients come from the lodge’s walled garden, the surrounding Highlands, and nearby waters, with menus changing daily to reflect the freshest seasonal produce. Dishes include Pan Seared Orkney Diver Scallops, Game & Cranberry Terrine, Highland Venison with juniper jus, North Atlantic Sea-Trout with aubergine caviar, Sticky Toffee Pudding, and White Chocolate Cheesecake with blueberry compote.

Dining here is relaxed yet refined, whether it’s breakfast, lunch, or dinner. The restaurant can get busy, so it’s a good idea to book ahead. Packed lunches and picnics are also available for those planning an outing. Three-course meals are priced at GBP 69 (USD 93.94) per person, with tasting menus and wine pairings also available.

Opening hours:
Breakfast: 8:00 am – 9:30 am
Lunch: 12:00 pm – 2:00 pm
Dinner: 6:30 pm – 8:00 pm

Shieldaig Lodge can accommodate a range of wedding styles, from small elopements for two to larger celebrations with exclusive use of the property for up to 65 guests. Couples can exchange vows in the gardens overlooking the bay or in one of the lodge’s reception rooms, and it’s also possible to marry in nearby churches.

Wedding meals often feature locally sourced Scottish ingredients, and there are spaces suitable for both intimate and larger gatherings. The lodge sits on a massive estate with views of the bay, offering several Highland-inspired settings for ceremonies and photography. The lodge is licensed for weddings and civil partnerships, and private tours are available for travelers who want to explore the grounds and facilities before planning their day.

Cultural and Outdoor Experiences

Making the most of their time in the Highlands, guests will find a wide range of activities both on the property and in the surrounding area. Guests can unwind in the wood-fired sauna by the water, which can be booked for private or public sessions, and there’s even a mobile option for small groups. For an extra-refreshing experience, it can be paired with a cold plunge in the loch, offering a truly invigorating Highland ritual.

The sauna can be booked for private or public sessions, and there’s even a mobile option for small groups. For an extra-refreshing experience, it can be paired with a cold plunge in the loch, offering a truly invigorating Highland ritual.

On-site, travelers can take part in an unforgettable falconry experience, flying majestic birds of prey across the lodge grounds under expert guidance. Guided kayaking along the loch is another highlight, letting visitors explore the coastline, spot wildlife, and enjoy the water from a unique perspective. For those seeking land-based adventures, hiking routes in the surrounding hills range from moderate to more challenging, and cycling routes suit both road and mountain biking.

Wildlife is abundant in Wester Ross, with red deer, seals, and other local animals often seen during excursions. History enthusiasts can visit the Russian Arctic Convoy Museum or join guided walks to the Fairy Lochs crash site. Gairloch Bike Hire also offers bikes and e-bikes for exploring the local roads and countryside.

During winter, Shieldaig Lodge comes alive with festive cheer around Christmas and Hogmanay. Over Christmas, they usually run a three‑night escape from Christmas Eve to the 27th, with hearty festive meals, traditional holiday treats, and plenty of time to wander the estate or just take in the Highland scenery with family or friends.

For Hogmanay, there’s another three‑night stay where you can enjoy celebratory dinners, toast the New Year with Champagne, and spend relaxed mornings by the loch. Both packages are multi‑night and tend to open for bookings well ahead of the season, giving travelers a chance to plan a proper Highland winter break.

Shieldaig Lodge can host a variety of celebrations, from private gatherings to corporate events. There are multiple spaces available across the property, suitable for different group sizes and types of events. The team is on hand to help with setup and any special requests, ensuring the event runs smoothly. For more details on planning your celebration or to discuss your specific needs, the team will be happy to assist. You can get in touch with them directly to explore options and make arrangements.