Inverlochy Castle Hotel

About Inverlochy Castle Hotel

Inverlochy Castle stands at Torlundy, about three miles north of Fort William, with Ben Nevis rising directly behind it. The house was built in 1863 for Lord Abinger and Queen Victoria stayed for a week in 1873, writing approvingly of the setting. It has been run as a hotel since 1969. The grounds cover around 500 acres of parkland and woodland with a private loch in front of the castle, and the drive up to the entrance is one of the better arrivals in Scotland.

There are 17 bedrooms and suites in the main castle, all different, most of them large and traditionally furnished with antiques, heavy fabrics and marble bathrooms. Several look out over the loch or towards the Nevis range. Beds are generous and bathrooms have proper tubs as well as showers. A separate Gate Lodge in the grounds works well for families or a group wanting more privacy. There is no attempt at minimalism anywhere.

Dining is central to a stay. The restaurant occupies three interconnected rooms furnished with pieces presented by the King of Norway, which sets the tone. Cooking is classical with Scottish produce at its heart: west coast shellfish, Highland beef and venison, and local game in season. Breakfast is generous and unhurried. The Great Hall, with its frescoed ceiling and sweeping staircase, is where guests take drinks and afternoon tea, and there is a billiard room and a well-stocked bar.

The hotel suits an occasion rather than a hard walking holiday, though the location makes both possible. Guests can fish the loch, shoot, ride or take on Ben Nevis and the Glen Nevis paths from the door. Glencoe, the Road to the Isles and the Jacobite steam train at Fort William are all within easy reach. It is formal by Highland standards and best suited to couples, anniversaries and anyone who values old-fashioned service over contemporary design.