Skeabost House Hotel

Skeabost House Hotel gets its name from the Scottish word sgiathbost, which means a sheltered house or farm. It was originally constructed in 1871 as a hunting lodge for Lachlan Macdonald of Ord, sitting lazily next to the shores of Loch Snizort. The Macdonald Clan already had an older lodge on the property, but he had the architect Alexander Ross remodel and expand the home.

It was acquired by enterprising locals Ken Gunn and Anne Gracie Gunn in 2015, but their foray into the hospitality industry began years long before. In 2003, they opened Toravaig House Hotel, and later in 2007, the Duisdale House Hotel. Skeabost House Hotel is actually their third purchase, which was followed in 2023 with the Knipoch House Hotel. Known together as the Sonas Collection, the brand aim to provide authentic Scottish stays that embody the Gaelic spirits of happiness and hospitality.

Currently, Skeabost House Hotel is managed by Anne's daughter, Jennifer Gunn and her husband Matthew, alongside Group General Manager Andreas Maszczyk.

Skeabost House Hotel dates all the way back to 1871, when the property was acquired and expanded by Lachlan Macdonald of Ord. Architect Alexander Ross remodeled the manor, redesigning it in a Scottish Baronial style popular during that time period. His additions included the battlemented parapets, the Tudor hood molds on the portals, and the entrance tower with an ogee roof.

When it was acquired by the Gunns in 2015 for their Sonas Collection, they opted to maintain its original 1871 facade, choosing instead to restore its whitewashed classic exterior. The interior spaces, though updated with contemporary designs and decor, maintained their large proportions. For the most part, aesthetics are very much modern, with a sleek and stylish flair. Some aspects have been adapted as decorative elements, particularly the old fireplaces that are now floral displays.

The parts of the hotel that have retained their old-world atmosphere are mainly the lobby, lounge, and the indoor dining hall of the restaurant. These are decorated with magnificent period pieces and embellished with wood finishes. The lounge fireplace, unlike that of the accommodations, is also still used for burning wood for warmth.

Treat yourself to delightful Scottish, Gaelic, and European cuisine at Skeabost House Hotel's signature West Pier Restaurant. Savor freshly picked and prepared seasonal ingredients, prepared into tantalizing gourmet dishes, such as their special 32-day-aged prime Scotch ribeye steak, then paired with recommended wines from the hotel's cellar. As you enjoy your meal, you can also admire the serene scenery of Loch Snizort and the surrounding woodlands.

During the warmer months, guests may enjoy their meal alfresco on the Sea-view Terrace. Feel the cool, refreshing breeze blowing across Loch Snizort while indulging in sandwiches, relaxing with afternoon tea and desserts, or reveling in a romantic dinner.

Breakfast: 7:30 am - 10 am
Light Bites: 12:30 pm - 4 pm
Dinner: 6 pm - 9 pm

Reservations are required at West Pier Restaurant and can be made through the Skeabost House Hotel website.

The Bar

Warm up by the crackling fireplace while unwinding with a tasty glass of Scotch whisky, or whatever preferred drink you'd like. Although a bit snug, the hotel's bar is well-stocked with beloved brands of Scottish whiskies, English gins, and all sorts of alcoholic drinks and mixes from around the world. They also offer a special Whisky Flights menu, taking you on a journey through Scotland's rich whisky heritage.
Opening hours: 11 am - 11 pm

Afternoon Tea

Whether it's for a small celebration or just a craving for some delectable desserts and teas, be sure to join the afternoon tea service at the hotel. Try the various sandwiches, cakes, and breads served, as each is freshly prepared for the afternoon.
Availability: 2 pm - 5 pm
Reservations must be made 24 hours in advance.

Sunday Roast

The Sunday roast is a beloved weekly tradition around the UK, so be sure to try it once on your trip. At Skeabost's roasts, you can look forward to an afternoon meal of flavorful dishes, including hearty soups, sweet and tart desserts, and flavorful cuts of meat, fish, and vegetables.
Availability: 12 pm - 3 pm

Let the enchanting beauty and the spirits of the Isle of Skye take part in your wedding by celebrating it at Skeabost House Hotel. Choose from a variety of ceremony and reception venues available, and craft the Happily Ever After event of your dreams as you are assisted by the hotel's dedicated team.

Billiard Room

An intimate function room bedecked in fine Victorian beauty. This cozy indoor space is perfect for small gatherings and discreet yet refined celebrations.
Capacity: 20 attendees

Conservatory

A spacious covered banquet hall with its very own dance floor. Celebrants can admire views of the loch from the large windows. There's also access to a patio area for outdoor ceremonies and photography.
Capacity: 120 attendees

The Dining Room

Perfect for large and sophisticated celebrations, the Dining Room's Victorian aesthetics lend a regal air to your event.
Capacity: 80 attendees

The Pier at Skeabost

Though not a reception venue, the hotel's pier makes for a fantastic outdoor location for your wedding ceremony, especially with Loch Snizort as your backdrop.

Cultural and Outdoor Experiences

Since Skeabost House Hotel is situated next to Loch Snizort, it's the perfect place to go fly fishing when visiting the Isle of Skye. The hotel provides access to fishing locations, equipment rentals, as well as acquisition of fishing permits for the season.

If fishing isn't your thing, you'll still have plenty of options at the various Sonas hotels in Skye. Tipplers and those with a taste and nose for whisky should visit Torabhaig Distillery. Thrill-seekers, on the other hand, can sign up for all sorts of outdoor adventures, such as mountain climbing, gorge walking, and wild swimming. The region is also famed for its wildlife diversity, and local organizations set up Skyefari outdoor trips for wildlife encounters.

For Christmas, Skeabost offers special festive packages to help guests celebrate the holidays. Learn how Scots celebrate Christmas and the winter holiday and in the revelry, dining on traditional feast foods and trying all sorts of wintertime activities.

Skeabost House Hotel knows that crafting the perfect atmosphere can mean a world of difference in making that special moment truly successful and memorable. To help create those memories, they offer special elopement and proposal packages for you and your beloved. These would include romantic dinners, special bottles of wine and boxes of chocolates to fashion the mood, and even the services of a dedicated Event Manager to handle the ceremonies.

If instead you're looking for a venue for your corporate function or private celebration, the hotel will gladly coordinate with you and provide customizable packages and locations for your event. They will also have dedicated teams to assist with preparations, catering, and decor.

Billiard Room

A small function and dining room embellished in Victorian aesthetics.
Capacity: 20 attendees

Conservatory

This spacious banquet hall features a large floor area that can be configured for large presentations.
Capacity: 120 attendees

The Dining Room

Should you need a spacious yet sophisticated venue for your event, the Dining Room can be customized to match your vision.
Capacity: 80 attendees