Kylesku Hotel

‘Absolutely charming’ owners, ‘wonderful’ food and an atmosphere of ‘informal warmth’ draw fans to this well-loved hotel in ‘one of the wildest and most beautiful locations’. The loch-side, white-painted 17th-century inn is ‘run with enthusiasm’ by Sonia Virechauveix and Tanja Lister. Frazzled minds find calm in this ‘peaceful spot’: sit by the ‘roaring’ fire in the lounge, which has ‘plenty of reading material to occupy quieter moments’. Among the ‘very stylish’ bedrooms, loch-facing rooms, with their ‘ever-changing seascapes’, are the first to go – ‘book well in advance’. A ‘fantastic’ extension finished in 2015 ‘blends well with the superb setting’, and ‘enables every diner to see the spectacular view across the loch’. The daily catch, brought from boats on the slipway in front of the hotel, informs Sonia Virechauveix’s French-inflected menu. ‘It’s not glamorous, but very tasty – seafood heaven.’ Vegetarians rejoice: plenty of interesting options, perhaps a spinach and ricotta strudel. ‘The attention to detail in the restaurant is exceptional.’ Tanja Lister is on hand at breakfast to help guests plan their day. (BW, CA, and others)