Accommodation
A PLACE TO STAY, BETWEEN THE RIVERS AND THE SEA
Fort William and it’s surrounding area has a wide range of fantastic accommodation options, however they often book up quickly. We would strongly advise booking early to avoid disappoint. Below are some of our recommended places to stay:
Invergloy Riverside Lodges provides flexible accommodation in unique architecturally designed lodges, ideal for week long family holidays or short breaks. It’s a perfect space for couples, families or groups of friends in all seasons. Three beautiful lodges sit in an elevated position on the 14 acre woodland garden overlooking Loch Lochy and the mountains beyond.
Why stay here: Not only is the site stunning with incredibly friendly owners, these lodges sit on the shores of Loch Lochy, which is the venue of one of our canoe trips. Let us know you are staying here and we can start the experience from your doorstep.. how easy is that for you! We can also offer you canoe and kayak hire from this location, bringing the kit to you.
Winners of Channel 4’s ‘Four in a Bed’ programme, Distant Hills Guest House offers stylish en-suite accommodation with a fabulous garden and outdoor hot-tub, perfect to soothe any aching muscles. You can also treat yourself to local craft beers, gins and whiskies from Dani and Cameron’s honesty bar. A purpose-built drying room is also available at this property and the breakfasts are truly scrumptious, especially Cameron’s granny’s pancakes!
Why stay here: Spean Bridge is the perfect spot for both water and land based activities. It is the most central location to our operating area, so no matter whatever trip you choose, you will always be under an hours drive from the venue, with most being half that time. For those into their hill walking, Distant Hills offers fantastic walking holidays during the months of April and October. Why not combine your walking adventures with a day out on the water with us..
Inspired by explorers’ cabins, our hand-built wooden tiny houses in the heart of Glenfinnan. Our sustainable eco Bothies are built and furnished on ‘reduce, recycle, reuse’ principles with upcycled, reclaimed and reused items. ‘Bought’ items have been chosen for their quality and longevity – the ‘buy once’ ethos. Each of the 3 Bothies has a different layout (one sleeps 1-3; the others sleep 1-4) but all have that ‘cabin in the woods’ feel with their locally-sourced and cut timbers, sheep wool insulation, turf roofs, indoor (yes, indoor!) composting loos, Grohe shower and amazingly comfy beds with eco mattresses.
Why stay here: We are open all year, whatever the weather, as each Bothy has a top eco-rated Charnwood wood-burning stove which is so easy to use it soon has cold and weary weary adventurers nice and toasty. Perfect base camp for paddling the lochs of the Great Glen or the bright blue waters of the Road to the Isles beaches nearby. We even have Loch Shiel (the Black Lake from the Harry Potter films) just a few minutes’ walk away for kayaking, canoeing or swimming.
Over the past 15 years, this 4* eco hotel has welcomed guests in search of premium Highland hospitality. The team display an attention to detail and level of care that delivers a magical experience for their discerning guests who are looking to recharge their batteries, reconnect with nature and reawaken their tastebuds.
Why stay here: The Lovat Loch Ness is minutes away from 2 of our most popular canoeing venues – Loch Oich and the River Oich. Loch Oich is perfect for those looking for a calm, scenic paddle, exploring castles and shipwrecks (whether that’s through our guided trips or hire service). The River Oich is for those wanting a bit more excitement and fancy experiencing some local Scottish white water action.
A natural haven of peace and tranquility providing the perfect stay in the heart of the Highlands. Self-catering, one-bedroom, wooden holiday lodges set in natural woodland on the banks of the River Spean, just 10 miles from Fort William.
Why stay here: Spean Bridge is the perfect base for exploring what the Outdoor Capital of the UK has to offer. That’s why we live in this village too! Burnbank Lodges, located in Spean Bridge, is central to the majority of our venues and only a 20 minute drive from our most popular hire spot, Loch Oich. The River Spean is also the perfect venue for our Ultimate White Water Experience. If during your stay it has been very wet, take full advantage of the high river water levels and tackle the rapids in our inflatable white water kayaks. The trip finishes at your doorstep! How convenient is that…
This cosy, self-contained cabin with Ben Nevis views is the perfect base for anyone wanting to explore this beautiful area. Relax to fabulous views & take full advantage of the drying room, kayak & bike storage/cleaning, Wifi and good transport links. An electric car charge point is also available. The cabin can sleep 1 – 6 guests.
Why stay here: As it is right on the doorstep to the Caledonian canal, why not try a splash of canoeing whilst visiting and explore the surrounding area in the safety net of a calm, narrow waterway. Hire canoes from us and we will arrange all the logistic of canoe transportation for you – so you can make the most of your time on the water.
True North Lodge is a Scandinavian Style A-framed wooden self-catering property nestled in the trees on the banks of Loch Oich, in the middle of the Scottish Highlands. They are located just off the A82 – a half hour drive north of Fort William, and only 20 minutes south of Loch Ness. The Lodge is all on one level with three bedrooms and a central bathroom. The kitchen / dining / living room is open plan, making it a great space for socialising.
Why stay here: We have a range of day trips only minutes away from True North Lodge. These range from calm scenic paddles, to family friendly adventures, to adrenaline fueled white-water fun. We also offer canoe and kayak hire on Loch Oich itself (the body of water your lodge overlooks).
The Old Library is a 200 year old stone built stable that has been converted into a cheerful and welcoming restaurant with rooms. The bed and breakfast accommodation comprises of six tastefully decorated bedrooms which are all well appointed and en suite, and four of the rooms have patios overlooking our garden.
Why stay here: Arisaig is the destination of our finest of sea kayaking venues. Be prepared to be ‘wowed’
Invergloy West Lodge is a gatehouse to the former 6,000-acre Invergloy estate which was established in the 19th century on the shores of Loch Lochy. Conveniently located by the A82 between Fort William and Inverness, Invergloy West Lodge is a great self-catering option for hikers, paddlers and all round adventure enthusiasts to get out and explore the beautiful Highlands.
The cottage is under new management as of 2022, and has been lovingly upgraded to include wifi throughout the house, a restored antique front door and a renovated outdoor space.
Why stay here: West Lodge is one of our most central recommended accommodation providers for our most popular hire venues, Loch Lochy and Loch Oich. Why not experience the Scottish landscape from a new view on the water whilst staying in this beautifully renovated gatehouse.
Two gorgeous, comfortable and spacious rooms with ensuite or private bathroom and king-size beds. A mile from the village of Arisaig, with exceptional views across the sea to islands of Eigg, Rum and Skye and the beaches of Back of Keppoch. Your Arisaig adventure starts here!
Why stay here: Arisaig is the destination of our finest of sea kayaking venues. Be prepared to be ‘wowed’
Sheraton Apartments offer a collection of modern, well-appointed holiday apartments in the Fort William area, providing a comfortable and stylish base for exploring the Scottish Highlands. Available in a range of sizes to suit couples, families and small groups, each apartment is thoughtfully designed to offer space, privacy and flexibility. Guests can enjoy the comfort of their own private living space after long days in the mountains, whether climbing Ben Nevis, exploring local Munros or taking part in guided outdoor activities. Combining contemporary interiors with practical comfort, Sheraton Apartments provide quality accommodation for those who value both adventure and a place to properly unwind at the end of the day.
Why stay here: Ideal location for joining us on our guided day trips, Fort William is the adventure capital!
When travelling anywhere throughout Scotland, you need to have the confidence to know that your accommodation will be part of the whole experience of your holiday. Staying with Scotland’s Best B&Bs in their own homes can give you that assurance.
Why stay here: Scotland’s Best B&Bs is the only 4 and 5 Star Bed and Breakfast organisation across Scotland. Because they are all small establishments, with no more than 5 guest rooms, you will receive a very personal warm Scottish welcome. Living locally means that your host will know the special places to visit, the best places to eat and everything to make your stay memorable. Your host will also be pleased to help you choose and book your next destination.
What’s near by:
- Nevis Range Resort: The place to go for mountain bike hire and trail riding. The Gondola is also an easy way to get onto the tops of the mountains for breathtaking views from above. The resort also has a tree top adventure course and facilities such as a cafe, toilets, etc.
- Fort William Town Centre: Variety of restaurants, pubs, supermarkets and shops.
- Steall Falls (Glen Nevis): Popular day walk taking you to Steall Falls, famous for its impressive height and use in filming. To access the base of the falls, you will need to cross a wire suspension bridge over a river.
- Glenfinnan Viaduct: The famous Harry Potter Bridge. Catch the impressive Jacobite Steam Train cross the Glenfinnan Viaduct just before 11 am and 3pm daily at on its route to and from ‘Hogwarts’. Be sure to arrive early to secure parking as it’s a very popular attraction.
- Camusdarach Beach: A gorgeous, large, white sandy beach with crystal clear waters, and view of surrounding mountains and off shore islands.
- Glencoe Valley: One of the most impressive mountainous valleys’ you will drive through in Scotland, with a huge choice of walks and mountain routes leading from it. Allow plenty of time to stop at all the view-points to really appreciate the spectacular rocky environment.
These are just some examples. The whole area is rich in wildlife, history and so much more… No wonder the place is often described as ‘easy to arrive, yet hard to leave’!
