What to See & Do

Lochaber is the “Outdoor Capital of the UK”, and as such has an abundance of activities available for our visitors.

With nearby Aonoch Mor offering the highest slopes in Scotland, ski-ing, snowboarding and sledging are on your doorstep at Nevis Range. Alternatively you can take a trip to the top on the gondola and enjoy the wonderful view.

The area is also one of the premier sites for activities such as climbing, hill walking, fishing and mountain biking; with the mountain bike world cup held here in the summer. For bike hire visit Off Beat Bikes or Nevis Cycles and test your own abilities on the trails.

For the less energetic, a visit to the West Highland Museum is an enjoyable option. You can pop into the Ben Nevis Distillery and sample our local brew, or visit Treasures of the Earth, and learn about the largest gold nugget ever discovered, the history of the Scottish gold rush, and watch crystals magically change colour and glow in their uv cave.

In the summer months the area comes alive with the sound of the Jacobite Steam Train on it’s journey on the West Highland Line to Mallaig – a must for everyone.

Local Attractions.

Nevis Range (Approx. 15 min drive). – Britain’s only Mountain Gondola, High Wire Adventure, Bike and Walking Tracks & Snowsports Resort.

Ben Nevis Distillery (Approx. 5 min drive) – One of Scotland’s oldest distilleries and the creator of the local well known whisky – Ben Nevis. Daily Tours Available.

Treasures of the Earth (Approx. 2 minute drive) – Europe’s finest private collection of Crystals, Gemstones and Fossils. Open Daily.

We also have discounts available for certain local attractions for our guests. Please ask at reception.

Things to see & do in the surrounding area.

Glenfinnan Monument (Approx. 20 minute drive) – At the head of Loch Shiel, the monument was erected in 1815 to mark the place where Bonnie Prince Charlie raised his standard at the start of the 1745 Jacobite Rising. Open year round.

Glenfinnan Station Museum (Approx. 22 minute drive) – Both indoor and outdoor exhibitions set in a working station, it is a great opportunity to find out more about the West Highland railway heritage. Open May-October.

Mallaig Heritage Centre (Approx. 1 hour drive) – An insight into the history and culture of the West Highlands can be found here, with a range of displays and exhibitions telling the stories of Knoydart, Morar and Arisaig. Check directly for opening times: 01687 462085

Scottish Sea Life Sanctuary (Approx. 1 hour drive) – Here you can see a variety of Scottish sea life from Seals and Otters to Sharks and much more. They also undertake projects to help to conserve and protect our Scottish sea life.

War and Peace Museum, Oban (Approx. 1 hour 20mins drive) – Contains a collection of artefacts and photographs showing the rich history of the port and its people. Information on fishing, railways and road transport and the strategic role Oban played during the war can all be found. Open March- November.

Caledonian Clansman Centre, Fort Augustus (Approx. 50 minute drive) – The interior is decorated as a Highland turf house, with an authentically dressed clansman taking you through the clan history and local culture of 17th century Highland people. Open April- October.

Urquhart Castle, Loch Ness (Approx. 1 hour 10mins drive) – Situated on the banks of Loch Ness, once one of Scotland’s largest Castles and the remains of which include a tower house with spectacular views up the Great Glen. Open year round-Opening times vary seasonally.

Eilean Donan Castle (Approx. 1 hour 30 mins drive) – Located on a small tidal island in Loch Duich, Eilean Donan Castle is connected to the mainland by a footbridge. It was once a stronghold of the Clan Mackenzie and their allies Clan Macrae. Open year round-Opening times vary seasonally.

We also have discounts available for certain local attractions for our guests. Please ask at reception.