The Torridon

Some aspects were disappointing given the apparent quality, cost and historic awards. The grounds are stunning, the room we had (No. 2) fantastic, the hotel ground walks were excellent and well marked. We had to walk to the Bo & Muc Brasserie which is a hundred yards or so down the lane. It was of no more than a below average pub quality - some of the food served was cold - why they cant open the hotel restaurant is a mystery - I have never stayed at a four star+ hotel where I have to take a walk down the road for dinner in a pub. Breakfast was a surprise - we asked for but could not get any white, brown or granary toast, all that was on offer was sourdough (a first for me).

Our expections were naturally high when staying at this kind of quality hotel . Unfortunately most were poorly met. How could a hotel of this quality run out of draught lager, prosecco, Sauvignon blanc, burger baps, broccoli, fruit for Pimm’s? How is this possible? Supply chain management has to be very poor, we advise those staying to take their own supplies . The weather was appalling, (not their fault obv) incessant rain and there was little to do apart from brave the wet narrow roads or read ones own books as there were none to borrow . There were wellies and a few macs available to borrow and we guess the scenery was lovely if it hadn’t been raining. We were a group of eight and left disappointed. On departure comments on our thoughts were made privately to the receptionist who dutifully wrote a few sentences down and that was that.

When my wife and I arrived at the hotel the greeting was warm and sincere, we actually had our room upgraded at no extra cost which was a nice touch. We were then shown around the hotel and told about its history which set the scene for what turned out to be a brilliant stay here. The whisky bar is a great experience and I spent a fair bit of time there, the barman Andrew was a great guy with incredible whisky knowledge whilst displaying exemplary customer service and professionalism. We ate at Bo and Muc on both evenings and the food there is really good, it’s homely traditional classics and I would highly recommend the steak and the pollock curry! We decided to do some hiking whilst we were staying at the hotel and the staff provided us with maps, a rucksack, snacks and drinks and sent us on our merry way. Some of the hotel designated walks are excellent and would recommend. Generally if we asked for something from the front desk it was delivered to our room very shortly afterwards. The service is of a high standard across the board and in my opinion deserving of a 5 star hotel status. My only criticism would be the service at breakfast. The food is very good but there was no real organisation from staff and I had to ask multiple times for simple requests such as water, orange juice and coffee. It’s not that difficult to get right and I think bottles of water should just be on the table. This is a fairly minor thing in the grand scheme but feel the feedback is important. To conclude a great hotel and would recommend!

We had a lovely stay for a couple of nights in the Stables Rooms as they are "dog friendly" After a great time on the NC500 where our dog was welcomed nearly everywhere, here it felt like she was tolerated despite the dog welcome pack. Our room felt bare on arrival and we later discovered the bed runner and cushions had been left in the wardrobe - presumably because of our dog. You can't take dogs into the main hotel building at all - so we were really disappointed that we couldn't spend time in the lovely lounges or bar. We ate both in the main restaurant and had the tasting menu which was delicious, and Bo & Muc the following night which was much more informal but also very good in it's own way. Overall it was a good but not great stay, also we went when the Celtman race was on and there were some rather arrogant exercise obsessed guests staying too. We were really looking forward to being spoiled for a couple of nights, and despite the considerable cost they did not deliver this

The Torridon is an amazing place, we were lucky to stay a week in The Boathouse and cannot fault it as just fabulous. The views, walking trails Munro walks were easily accessible and are a must. Views of the Loch were just mesmerising!! The restaurant looked after by Oliver and his new assistant Ankit was great and food by the chefs was outstanding!! Shane looked after us pre and post dinner with a recommended drinks selection and the bar atmosphere cannot be faulted.