Gairloch Hotel 'A Bespoke Hotel', Gairloch
About the Hotel
Gairloch Sands is one of the oldest youth hostels within the Hostelling Scotland network, situated in a region renowned for its natural beauty and outdoor activities. This hostel serves as a popular budget accommodation option for families, groups, and solo travelers seeking a comfortable base to explore the Scottish Highlands. Its proximity to local attractions and a range of outdoor experiences enhances its appeal.
Location
Situated along the beautiful shores of Loch Ewe in Poolewe, Gairloch Sands is conveniently located near multiple natural attractions including Fionn Loch and Gair Loch. The hostel is within walking distance of the Gairloch Museum and various hiking trails. Public transportation options and parking facilities support easy access for travelers exploring the surrounding Highlands.
Rooms
Each room at Gairloch Sands features a digital TV and en-suite bathroom, catering to modern needs. Guests can prepare refreshment with tea/coffee making facilities available in every room. Some rooms provide additional living space along with stunning sea views, creating a relaxed atmosphere. Rooms are equipped with essential amenities including free toiletries and heating for a comfortable stay.
Eat & Drink
The first-floor café offers a variety of menu options, including seasonal offerings and homemade local treats. Available for private hire, the café can accommodate groups of up to 80 persons for special events or gatherings. Donated payment options during Winter Warmer sessions promote community engagement while guests enjoy soup, coffee, and teas. Local artwork adorns the café interior, highlighting the region's culture.
Leisure & Business
The hostel supports leisure activities with easy access to outdoor adventures such as kayaking and canoeing at the nearby award-winning Gairloch Canoe and Kayak Centre. Creative workshops and writing groups are organized to enhance guests' experiences and encourage social engagement. The presence of local artists and exhibitions enriches the environment, offering opportunities for visitors to appreciate regional talent.
Select your room type
Price and Room Availability Calendar
Getting around
A list of all available modes of transport
Facilities
General
- No smoking on site
- Wi-Fi
- Free parking
- 24-hour reception
- Pets allowed
- Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
- 24-hour security
- Lift
- Smoke detectors
- Fire extinguishers
- Key access
Guest Parking
- Electric kettle
- Dryer
Services
- Room service
- Welcome drink
Dining
- Restaurant
- Bar/ Lounge area
- Packed lunches
- Special diet menus
Business
- Meeting/ Banquet facilities
- Fax/Photocopying
Spa & Leisure
- Beach access
- Entertainment
- Leisure/ TV room
Room features
- Heating
- Sitting area
- Ironing facilities
Bathroom
- Free toiletries
Self-catering
- Electric kettle
- Dryer
Media
- Flat-screen TV
- AM/FM alarm clock
Room decor
- Carpeted floor
Location
Reviews and Ratings
The hotel is located close to the village of Gairloch, offering a great view of the beach and sea from the top floor. The service was friendly and attentive under current circumstances. However, the room in which we stayed was uncomfortably hot and basic, lacking proper amenities. The dining options were limited, not meeting the expectations set by the evening meal from the previous night.
I had a mixed experience at the hotel. The rooms were decent but lacked privacy as they faced other bedrooms. The single prices for double rooms were a bit off. On the bright side, the service was exceptional with lovely rooms offering great views over Loch Gair and fantastic breakfasts. However, filling up the breakfast buffet promptly was a letdown. The location couldn't have been better in Gairloch with stunning views, although relaxing options outside were limited. The dining was subpar with limited options and an additional charge for certain breakfast items.
Our stay at the hotel was mixed. The rooms, although clean and comfortable, had a less-than-ideal view of the staff car park and bins. The service was exceptional with happy and obliging staff, but there were some hiccups in dealing with requests. The location, perfect for exploring the NC500 route and nearby attractions, had a mix of charming views but also some dated decor. The dining experience was adequate, with a lovely alternative offered, and the facilities were satisfactory.
My stay at the hotel was a mixed experience. The location, right on the seafront of Gairloch Bay, was beautiful, but the lack of character was a downside. The service was polite and friendly but somewhat distant at times. The dining options were a bit of a letdown with substandard food, although the pouched eggs on toast were a good choice. The rooms, while having a nostalgic charm, had some issues with outdated fixtures, like the oversized shower head, requiring me to hold it during use.
My stay at the hotel was lovely, with the rooms being clean and comfortable, and the staff offering excellent service. The location was amazing, providing stunning views across the loch. However, the dining experience left something to be desired with limited breakfast options.
The hotel's rooms are modern and comfortable, with an additional study/dressing room. Unfortunately, our room was located by the main staircase, leading to constant foot traffic and noise. The ambience resembled an elderly care home, and the room was uncomfortably hot despite the heating being off.
The hotel offers clean and well-appointed rooms with great views, though some unused kitchen items were present. The service was excellent with very helpful and friendly staff, but there was a minor issue with a flaky kitchen reservation offer. The location was amazing, providing stunning views across the loch, and there were convenient dining options nearby. The dining experience was good overall, but with some room for improvement in presentation and service. The facilities were well-maintained with good amenities available.
I loved the hotel's prime location between the charming small hamlet of Gairloch and the picturesque Pier at Charleston. The rooms were spacious and decorated in a single shade of pink, offering great value for money. The friendly hotel manager and staff were incredibly nice and went above and beyond to ensure our comfort. The dining experience had a good selection, but breakfast options were a bit limited. Overall, a wonderful stay with breathtaking views and easy access to surrounding areas.
The hotel offers a mix of beautiful rooms with a slight damp smell but great views of the sea, cheerful and well-organized service, an excellent location near the beach and convenient facilities. The breakfast experience was good with a minor preference for improvements. Good value for the price.
The hotel is in a stunning location with picturesque views over the loch and is perfect for bikers exploring the NC500 route. The staff are welcoming and go above and beyond to assist guests, although the rooms could benefit from some redecoration. The dining experience may need improvement, but the overall value for money is excellent considering the amenities offered.
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