Liked for its 'faded grandeur', 'Gothic' air and 'absence of hotel-type notices', this characterful guest house stands in large wooded grounds in Skye's capital. It is run by the 'affable' Hugh Macdonald, whose great-grandfather turned a modest Georgian house into this baronial pile, complete with castellated tower, in the 1880s. Its 'interesting and comfortable' public rooms contain family pictures, stags' antlers, Indian brass, and other relics of the family's colonial service; Persian rugs sit on polished wooden floors. There are new soft furnishings and upholstery in the drawing room and some bedrooms this year, and the heating has been upgraded. 'Our huge bedroom had four windows overlooking the gardens and bay. The vast bathroom had a walk-in power shower, claw-footed bath and two washstands.' There is no Reception or bar, but drinks are served more or less on request. No formal evening meal, but simple hot dishes and salads are available (home-made soups, chilli con carne, cheese platter, etc). 'Breakfast has plenty of fresh and dried fruit, Mallaig kippers, fresh juices.' There is Wi-Fi Internet access throughout, and a small office for guests' use. Children are welcomed. More reports, please.