The owner doesn't know the difference between historic and rotten. The Auld Lang Syne, being its…read moreonly selling point for this shaky hotel, has been over advertised by the owner. The breakfast was edible, but the dinner was like living hell. The owner dragged customers onto the stage and force them to sing Auld Lang Syne, while they just wanted to eat their mediocre food cooked by an elementary school teacher without interruption. There's no WiFi above 2nd floor, hot water supply was limited, water leaks everywhere, and sofas smelled like cats had died in the cushion. Plural cats. Here's a medal shelf in the bathroom.

This is a great example of Victorian slightly faded glory at the moment…read more The public areas are looking a little tired at present. The newly refurbished bedrooms, however, are fabulous. Good food at night served in the bar by very friendly staff who couldn't do enough to help. Full Scottish breakfast lacking the haggis and black pudding you may hope for. Strathpeffer is very relaxing, and the Strathpeffer hotel is perfectly adequate for a short stay. I'll stay here again.

If you want a base of operations for exploring the central Highlands, Strathpeffer is a good…read morelocation. There, the Ben Wyvis offers lots of rooms, a quick food service operation and photogenic main rooms and grounds. That's why it's a favorite of motorcoach tours. Behind the classic exterior it's less satisfying. The rooms need investment. Fixtures are old, windows have no screens and TVs are tiny. There's no concierge and services in general are lacking. If you want breakfast, dinner and a room, it's okay. A grand hotel it's not.

I was looking for a hotel in the Highlands not far from Inverness and on way to Ullapool and I…read morefound it. Prices vary, such best to call the hotel and get quotations. You will always pay more when asking for a double room for single occupancy, but sometimes there can be good deals. The driveway to the hotel and the entrance itself are amazing to look at. You feel like you are entering the world of the privileged during the time of Queen Victoria. Strathpepper is an old Victorian Spa town and has been a gathering point for many noble families and the rich. Nowadays its only a shell of its former selve. But still, its worth the visit and I assume that Ben Wyvis Hotel was once one of its kind. Nowadays it needs a complete make over. Having said this, people return to this place, because of its Victorian charm. I felt the carpet in the public area needs replacing, the rooms some decorating (especially the bathrooms) and the ceilings a lot of paint to cover up the cracks. As you are in the middle of nowhere its a good idea to eat in the hotel. I was informed at the reception that their restaurant is fully booked in the evening, but when I turned up at my given time, the dining hall was half empty. I found out that they were understaffed and people off sick. I ordered a three course dinner and must confess that the quality was quite good and I would definitely go back just to dine there. Afterwards you could retreat to the lounge and enjoy a tea or coffee. I met some people in the hotel, such it was a very pleasant evening to remember. When I had ordered a gin tonic the staff could not find certain ingredients and it took them a long time to make me the drink, especially because I was their only customer in the lounge. Having said this, I got it for free. How kind :-) My room and bathroom were old fashioned and the fire doors closing and opening during the night totally interrupted my sleep. The TV was ancient. At least it was quiet in my room on occasion and I needed not to worry about ghosts, or did I ? :-) Would I go back? Yes maybe, but then I would try to get a room in the front building with awesome views towards Ben Wyvis.

Friendly staff. Had to make a reservation to have dinner…read more Food was tasty. Two had bangers and mash, one had a vegetable tart, and I had the bolonaise pasta. Because we hadn't had a meal since breakfast, we decided to eat early at 5:30. Absolutely no one else in the massive dining room. Reservation required...? Apparently a bus load of people we're delayed. It was built in 1911 and had charm but could use a wee bit of TLC.

We stayed at the Richmond (now also known as the Crystal House) last weekend and found it to be a…read morewonderful gem in this beautiful little village. Our hosts Phil and Sarina welcomed us with tea and a great meal tailored to our tastes. The rooms were very comfy and substantial. Great beds, plenty of hot water and a teapot with coffee and tea in the room made for a really pleasant stay. We plan to seek out the Richmond/Crystal House next year when we visit the UK again!