Scotland on Sunday Travel Wishlist - Whitebridge Hotel, Stratherrick, Inverness

A tranquil bolthole on the shores of Loch Ness to explore the Falls of Foyers, Culloden, Inverness, Loch Lomond, Glencoe and Fort Augustus

Whitebridge Hotel, Stratherrick, Inverness, on the south west of Loch Ness. The hotel's name comes from the General Wade bridge over the River Fechlin.

Whitebridge Hotel, Stratherrick, Inverness

A first visit to the Scottish Highlands should never be forgotten – and this Yorkshireman’s inaugural trip to a small village on the south west coast of Loch Ness certainly won’t be in a hurry. Whitebridge’s name comes from the bridge over the River Fechlin which was constructed by General Wade as part of a military road in an attempt to suppress further Jacobite risings in 1732.

Whitebridge Hotel provided a picturesque base to truly get out and about in the Highlands. A scenic, tranquil walk to the Falls of Foyers was a great first day activity, while further trips to Culloden, Inverness, Loch Lomond, Glencoe and Fort Augustus provided memories of a breathtaking first visit.

Tartan carpets and throws make this family room homely and comfortable. Even rooms facing the main road through the village enjoy sheer silence during the night.

In this post-Covid world, supporting local businesses and the Scottish tourism industry is going to be vital to ensure family-run, independent businesses can thrive in the future. If you’re after a break from the constant intensity of city living and to feel at one with all aspects of nature, then there surely can’t be many better locations on the planet.

Covid precautions

Whitebridge Hotel made the stay extra comforting with their safety precautions. Staff wore masks in all communal areas of the hotel and several hand sanitiser stations were set up. Tables were well spaced and deep cleans of the rooms are undertaken after every visit. Top marks.

Budget or boutique?

Affordable, with double rooms starting from £90 with breakfast included.

Room service

We enjoyed a very quirky king size room. A table made out of stacked-up vintage suitcases, a very extravagant king-size bed and a plush tartan carpet made the room feel homely and comfortable. The stand out positive was the tranquillity of the location. Even though we were in a room facing the main road through the village, the sheer silence during the night was a much needed change from the hustle and bustle of city living, allowing the perfect night’s rest before the next day’s exploring.

Wining and dining

The hotel’s restaurant provided a wide range of good grub, from pub classics such as hearty fish and chips and a delicious steak and ale pie, to specials like the Angry Stag burger. The Sunday roast was a particular highlight and it was good to see locals packing out the dining room on the day of rest. A mention too for the excellent whisky and gin selections – they certainly helped us unwind as the evenings drew in.

Worth getting out of bed for

The walk to the Falls of Foyers, which is around three miles, gave a handy peephole into everything the Highlands are about on our first day. Towering peaks, fast-running rivers (with stepping stones in some spots), farmers’ fields with cattle and forest walks were the perfect introduction on our first day. With so many awe-inspiring (that really doesn’t do the locations justice) places just a short drive away, the Whitebridge Hotel was the perfect bolthole for our first exploration.

Little extras

It can be hard finding hotels that are dog friendly and given that all of our potential dog-sitters live in Yorkshire, it can be quite restrictive with where we can travel. However, the Whitebridge was completely welcoming for our little man Bruce. The quirky features around the hotel, such as the artwork and the trinkets, really gave it a distinct style. We’ll be sure to head back when we’re up that way again.

Guestbook comments

In Lesley and Bella, Whitebridge Hotel has owners who not only know the area like the back of their hands, but who are willing to offer their suggestions and ideas to make your trip as wonderful as possible. The roaring fire in the residents' lounge was the perfect tonic with a wee dram at the end of a hard day walking.

Double or twin rooms start from £90 per night per room with breakfast included.

Whitebridge Hotel offers - Stay for more than four nights before 14 December and get the fifth free or stay for at least two nights in November and get 30 per cent off by quoting Autumn30.

Whitebridge Hotel

Stratherrick, Inverness

IV2 6UN, Tel: [phone]

www.whitebridgehotel.co.uk

[email protected]

@whitebridgehotel

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