Located at the foot of Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the British Isles, Fort William is a picturesque town in the Scottish Highlands known for its breathtaking views, outdoor adventures, and serene atmosphere. It’s a place where nature is at the center of everything, and the tranquil surroundings are perfect for relaxation. During my recent trip to this stunning area, I stayed at one of the best lakeview hotels in Fort William, and I truly couldn’t get enough of the views. If you’re considering a stay in this magical town, I highly recommend this spot for its perfect blend of natural beauty, comfort, and hospitality.
1. Why Fort William?
Before diving into the details of my stay, it’s worth taking a moment to understand why Fort William is such a special destination. Nestled on the shores of Loch Linnhe, the town offers an enchanting combination of mountain landscapes and serene waters. Fort William is an outdoor lover’s paradise, with endless hiking trails, scenic drives, and wildlife to observe. However, it’s not just about the adventure—it’s also about finding moments of peace, and nothing complements this experience better than staying at a hotel with panoramic lake views.
2. A Hidden Gem: The Garrison Hotel
When I was planning my trip to Fort William, I knew I wanted a place that would allow me to fully soak in the surrounding natural beauty. I stumbled upon The Garrison Hotel through an online search, and after reading glowing reviews about its lakefront location and impeccable service, I was sold. The hotel is located on the edge of Loch Linnhe, and its position allows for uninterrupted views of the tranquil waters, which stretch out in front of the towering mountains of the Scottish Highlands.
The Garrison Hotel is not only perfectly situated but also offers a range of amenities that would make any traveler feel like royalty. The combination of its historical charm, modern comforts, and unparalleled views made it the perfect base for my Highland getaway.
3. Booking the Stay
Booking the hotel was surprisingly easy. I used Booking.com, as it provides detailed descriptions of each property, guest reviews, and competitive pricing. The booking process was seamless, and I was able to secure a room at The Garrison Hotel for £160 per night. This included a beautifully appointed room with a king-sized bed, modern en-suite bathroom, and, of course, a view of the loch. The hotel also offers breakfast as part of the stay, which was a great perk to start each day of my adventure.
4. Arrival and First Impressions
When I arrived at the hotel, I was immediately taken aback by the stunning views. The Garrison Hotel is housed in a beautifully restored historic building, and its exterior blends traditional Scottish architecture with modern touches. As I checked in, I was welcomed by friendly staff who provided me with a map of the area and made sure I knew all about the hotel’s amenities.
My room was on the second floor, and when I opened the door, I was greeted by an overwhelming sense of calm. The spacious room was decorated in a cozy yet elegant style, with soft neutral colors and plush furnishings that made it feel like a home away from home. However, the real highlight was the floor-to-ceiling windows that opened up to a stunning view of Loch Linnhe. I couldn’t help but stand there for a moment, just gazing at the water, the surrounding hills, and the distant mountains.
5. The Perfect Room with a View
One of the best parts of staying at The Garrison Hotel is the view from the rooms. My room had a king-sized bed placed perfectly to face the lake, so I could wake up every morning and enjoy the view right from bed. The gentle ripples of the loch, framed by the mountains, made every moment feel like a scene from a movie. Even during the night, when the moonlight reflected on the water, it was magical.
The room itself was impeccably clean, with all the amenities you would expect from a high-quality hotel. The bathroom was stocked with luxurious toiletries, and the bed was incredibly comfortable, providing me with restful sleep after long days of hiking and exploring. There was also a small seating area by the window, where I spent a few peaceful hours reading a book and watching the world go by.
6. The Dining Experience
The Garrison Hotel’s dining experience was also remarkable. Breakfast each morning was a feast—ranging from classic Scottish options like a full Scottish breakfast (including haggis, black pudding, and freshly baked scones) to lighter options like fruit, yogurt, and pastries. The dining area itself was bright and airy, offering panoramic views of the loch, making it the perfect setting for a relaxed start to the day.
One evening, I had dinner at the hotel’s restaurant, and I was not disappointed. The menu features locally sourced ingredients, and the meals are crafted with care and attention to detail. I ordered the pan-seared salmon with a side of creamy mashed potatoes and seasonal vegetables. The fish was fresh and cooked to perfection, while the potatoes were rich and velvety. For dessert, I had a traditional Scottish sticky toffee pudding, which was an absolute treat.
7. Exploring the Area
Fort William is not only about the comfort of your hotel; it’s about immersing yourself in the beauty of the Highlands. The Garrison Hotel serves as a perfect launching pad for exploring the surrounding area, and I took full advantage of this by visiting some local attractions.
One of the highlights of my trip was a visit to Ben Nevis, which is just a short drive from the hotel. I took a half-day hike up part of the mountain and was rewarded with incredible views of the surrounding valleys and forests. If you’re more into gentle walks, the Lochaber Geopark offers several trails suitable for all levels of hikers.
If you prefer something a bit more laid back, the Steall Waterfall was another incredible place to visit. This stunning waterfall is located near Glen Nevis and can be accessed by a short but scenic hike. The sound of the rushing water and the sight of the waterfall cascading down into the valley is truly a sight to behold.
Additionally, if you love history, Fort William is home to several historical sites such as The Old Inverlochy Castle, a short drive from the hotel. The ruins are nestled along the banks of the River Lochy and provide insight into the area’s rich history.
8. A Peaceful Retreat
In between exploring the Highlands, I spent several afternoons simply relaxing at The Garrison Hotel. The quiet location, combined with the stunning views of Loch Linnhe, made it feel like a retreat from the world. There was something so calming about sitting by the window and watching the changing colors of the lake throughout the day. Whether it was the mist rolling off the water in the early morning or the golden light of sunset reflecting on the mountains, I could have stayed there for weeks.
One afternoon, I took advantage of the hotel’s outdoor terrace. With a cup of tea in hand, I watched as the boats gently bobbed on the water, and I could hear the calls of seagulls in the distance. It was the kind of peaceful moment that made me reluctant to leave.
9. Additional Information
For those planning their own stay, here’s some additional information about The Garrison Hotel:
- Location: The Garrison Hotel is located at 9 Argyll Road, Fort William, PH33 6NA, Scotland. It is situated on the shore of Loch Linnhe, providing fantastic views of the loch and surrounding mountains.
- Price: The room I booked was £160 per night, which included breakfast. Prices may vary depending on the season, so it’s a good idea to check availability and pricing on Booking.com.
- Booking Platform: I booked my stay through Booking.com, where the hotel has an excellent rating and reviews from other guests.
Staying at The Garrison Hotel in Fort William was a truly unforgettable experience. From the comfortable rooms and outstanding views to the friendly staff and incredible food, everything about this hotel made my stay in the Scottish Highlands extra special. If you’re looking for a place to relax, rejuvenate, and explore one of the most beautiful parts of the UK, I highly recommend this gem of a hotel. It’s a perfect blend of natural beauty, comfort, and hospitality, and I know I’ll be back again someday.
