Isle of Eriska Hotel, Spa & Island

I wasn’t sure what to expect from Eriska and I hesitate to say how good it is in case there isn’t room for me next time I want to go! From the moment you arrive there is a sense that nothing is too much trouble. Luggage appears and disappears by magic, there is a concern to provide anything you might require. The hotel is an island with wonderful wild areas to explore at leisure, there is a spa with a superb indoor pool and there are plenty of outdoor facilities for warmer weather. The grounds are teeming with birds and wildlife and if the weather is damp or cold you can sit in the conservatory with a drink and watch it all. The public rooms are very spacious and comfortable, though a little warm when we were there. The guest rooms are beautifully equipped and really cosy. Meals are superb. Breakfast was a true feast with wonderful ingredients well cooked. Dinner in the main restaurant has a short menu but the food is very good. Perhaps my only complaint would be that they could do with changing the menu daily when it is so short. In all, this is definitely the best hotel I’ve been to in the Uk and we will definitely return next year. Thank you to all the staff.

I did not stay at Eriska but I did visit to use the spa. Unfortunately it did not live up to my expectations and I wouldn’t return. At least one of the women’s showers was out of order and my partner said one of the men’s was too, the accessible bathroom/changing area was out of order as was the sauna. There were no plug sockets in the women’s changing room for me to use my hair straighteners. The taps in the women’s loo were loose. Several members of staff walked around the edge of the pool with seemingly outdoor shoes on, which seemed wildly unhygienic and is not allowed at my local community pool.

Staying at this castle felt like stepping into a storybook—only this one was set on a secluded private island, far from the noise of everyday life. From the moment we arrived over the one lane bridge, the experience felt intimate and almost surreal. The castle itself is beautifully preserved, blending historic charm with just enough modern comfort to make the stay relaxing rather than rustic. The setting is what truly sets it apart. Surrounded by water on a beautiful piece of land, the island offers complete privacy and breathtaking views in every direction. The rooms are full of character with beautiful appointments that make you want to linger. We would highly recommend afternoon tea in the sunroom and clay pigeon shooting with Liam. Our teenage boys (and actually my husband & I) really enjoyed learning to shoot and Liam kept things lively with a little competition built in! If you’re looking for something unique and deeply peaceful, this private island castle delivers in every way.

Our first visit to Eriska - negatives first - we were in the room named Rhum which is a dog friendly room. The decoration and furniture are a bit ‘tired’ - water mark on ceiling, chips on furniture etc. however the biggest negative is that this room is immediately above the kitchens. The industrial extractor is below one of the bedroom windows and wasn’t switched off until approx 11pm and seemed to come alive again between 5am and 6am. There was equally noise from the kitchen itself with voices and doors banging etc - we didn’t have a great sleep. The positives - thought the evening meal was very good likewise the breakfast. We also saw the Otters at Otter Point …. Would we return - perhaps but to the Hilltop Reserves as the location looked stunning.

We’ve just returned from a two day couples break at this hotel. We had a fabulous time - the food and service is exceptional and the house itself is lovely, with a very interesting history. Staff incredibly attentive and housekeeping etc is what you expect from a five star hotel. The hotel is located on a private island, around 15 mins drive from Oban so although very easy to get to, it feels as though you’re miles away from anywhere (which is a big plus!) The pool and relaxation rooms are located a few yards from the main house. The pool area is a very high standard with excellent changing facilities, including luxury ESPA products and the complimentary use of robes and pool shoes. Although we didn’t get the chance to use the spa therapies (it was fully booked) there is a wide choice of treatments at reasonable prices. Great hot tub at the poolside! The only reason I haven’t give our stay 5 stars is the room was a bit tired and could do with some new furniture. For example the handle on the wardrobe door was broken and the furniture was chipped and scored. Having said that the bed was extremely comfortable and the turn down service with handmade chocolates was a lovely touch! We will definitely come back.