Benderloch, United Kingdom
Isle of Eriska Hotel & Spa
Baronial island estate
Benderloch, United Kingdom
Renovated
2017
Price
$$$$
Rated for
Heritage Resort LocalOutside the door
Baronial island estate
The estate occupies a 300-acre private island, where days revolve around shoreline trails, nine holes of golf, and fireside whiskies.
What it’s good at
What they say
Michelin Selected
Michelin
the lounge is classic enough, with its roaring fireplace, but the rooms are surprisingly up to date — they’ve clearly had a recent luxury-hotel makeover, and they mix a bit of antique style with contemporary clean lines and all the luxury you could need.
Tucked away
A place apart: the property is the destination.
On a private 300-acre island on the Scottish west coast, reached by a wooden bridge.
The rooms
Main house bedrooms mix period antiques with contemporary clean lines. Detached hilltop lodges sit farther out, each with a private hot tub.
The indoor pool
Bring a swimsuit.
The heated 17-meter indoor pool sits under exposed timber beams, looking out to the gardens beside a living green wall.
The spa
The Stables Spa uses ESPA and ishga products for facials and bodywork. A dedicated relaxation room sits just beyond.
Gym and sports hall
Life Fitness machines look across the lawns through wide windows. An indoor sports hall hosts squash and badminton.
The Main House Restaurant
Four dining rooms include a glass conservatory facing the water. Scottish tasting menus finish with a notable cheese trolley.
How it began
The Stewarts of Appin built the Big House in 1884, keeping the island private until its 1974 conversion into a hotel.
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Our shorthand
How we rate hotels.
The medals
Gold
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Silver
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
Bronze
They did this well. You’ll notice.
Listed
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Design
Built around a vision. Even the door handles have a designer.
Luxe
Cared for at every turn. The bath is drawn before you ask.
Local
It could only be here. You wake up knowing where you are.
Social
Where the city goes out. The bar is full and the night is young.
Heritage
A building with a story. Once a palace, a monastery, a station.
Wellness
You leave feeling new. Rest, sweat, soak and sleep like a stone.
Classic
The city grew up with it. Same rituals, same regulars, same bar.
Resort
A world of its own. Something to do from breakfast to nightcap.
The scene
Lively
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Central
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Secluded
A place apart: the property is the destination.