Business Details
Your Stay at Culag Hotel in Lochinver
Established in 1890, Culag Hotel has been a cornerstone of Highland hospitality for over a century. Our family-run establishment, nestled in the picturesque village of Lochinver, combines historical charm with modern comforts. We pride ourselves on offering guests a unique blend of traditional service, locally sourced cuisine, and unparalleled access to the North West Highlands' natural beauty. Our 12 en-suite rooms reflect the building's rich heritage while providing contemporary amenities such as Freeview TVs and tea/coffee facilities. The hotel's Wayfarers Bar boasts an impressive collection of over 100 single-malt Scotch whiskies, complemented by a menu of hearty home-cooked meals featuring regional specialties like beef and Guinness pie. As custodians of this historic property since 2005, Ken and Sheila Whalen continue the legacy of welcoming visitors to Assynt's breathtaking landscapes.Our team understands the importance of creating memorable stays through attention to detail, whether guests are here for outdoor adventures or cultural exploration. We maintain rigorous standards of cleanliness and comfort, evidenced by decades of returning visitors and glowing testimonials. The hotel's strategic location provides easy access to Munros, coastal walks, and geological wonders within the North-West Highland Geopark. We offer practical amenities including luggage storage, bicycle parking, and laundry services to enhance guests' experiences. Our commitment to excellence has been recognized through consistent positive feedback highlighting our warm hospitality, exceptional service, and dedication to preserving the region's traditions.
Services
Accommodation
Restaurant
Bar
Complimentary Wi-Fi
Packed Lunches
Highlights and features
- We offer family-run hospitality with over 130 years' experience in the hotel industry
- Our historic building combines period charm with modern comforts
- We serve locally sourced home-cooked meals and Scotland's finest whiskies
- We provide practical amenities for outdoor enthusiasts including equipment storage
- Our staff has extensive local knowledge of Assynt's landscapes and activities
What people say
Sparkling clean house
Lovely food
Excellent service
Best selection of whiskies
Wonderful hospitality
Services
Accommodation
Our 12 comfortable en-suite rooms offer historic charm with modern comforts. Each room features tea/coffee making facilities, Freeview TVs, and sleeps 1-4 guests. Rooms are spread across three floors of this 19th-century building, combining traditional Highland hospitality with contemporary amenities for a restful stay.
Restaurant
Our restaurant serves hearty evening meals featuring locally sourced ingredients. Signature dishes include beef and Guinness pie and fresh fish and chips. Vegetarian options and special dietary requirements are accommodated. The menu showcases traditional Scottish cuisine with a modern twist in a welcoming Highland setting.
Bar
The Wayfarers Bar offers over 100 single-malt Scotch whiskies, plus beers, wines, and liqueurs. Guests can enjoy teas, coffees, and light lunches in this atmospheric space. The bar features a pool table and dart board, creating a convivial atmosphere for sampling Scotland's national drink.
Complimentary Wi-Fi
Free high-speed internet access is available in our lounge area for guest convenience. This modern amenity complements our traditional hospitality, allowing visitors to stay connected while exploring the remote beauty of the North West Highlands and sharing their experiences with friends and family.
Packed Lunches
We provide freshly prepared packed lunches for guests embarking on outdoor adventures. This service supports visitors exploring the nearby Munros, coastal walks, and geological wonders. Our staff can also fill flasks for day trips, ensuring guests have nourishment while discovering the spectacular Assynt landscape and North-West Highland Geopark.
People
Ken Whalen
Owner
Ken Whalen co-owns Culag Hotel with his wife Sheila. With over 13 years' experience running this historic establishment, he ensures guests receive authentic Highland hospitality while maintaining the property's heritage. Ken's knowledge of local history and outdoor activities enhances visitors' experiences.
Sheila Whalen
Owner
Sheila Whalen brings warmth and professionalism to Culag Hotel's operations. Alongside Ken, she creates a welcoming atmosphere that has earned numerous positive testimonials. Her attention to detail in room preparation and guest service contributes significantly to the hotel's reputation for excellence.
Questions
How do I book a room at Culag Hotel?
You can book directly through our website or by calling 01571 844 270. We recommend contacting us in advance, especially during peak seasons, to ensure availability for your preferred dates.
What amenities are included in the rooms?
All en-suite rooms include tea/coffee making facilities, Freeview flat-screen TVs, and comfortable bedding. Additional items like irons, hairdryers, and travel essentials are available from reception upon request.
Does the hotel serve food to non-residents?
Yes, our restaurant and bar are open to non-residents. The Wayfarers Bar serves light lunches, and our evening menu features home-cooked meals using local ingredients, including vegetarian options.
What outdoor activities are available nearby?
The hotel's location provides access to Munros like Ben More and Conival, coastal walks, and fishing opportunities. The North-West Highland Geopark's geological wonders and scenic drives are also easily accessible from our Lochinver location.
Is there parking available at the hotel?
Yes, we offer parking for guests' vehicles. For cyclists, we provide secure bicycle storage. We also have facilities for drying outdoor clothing and storing fishing equipment or hiking gear.
What is the hotel's history?
Originally built in 1795 as a herring smokehouse, the building became a summer residence for the Duke of Sutherland in 1870. It first operated as a hotel in 1890 and has been family-run since 2005 by Ken and Sheila Whalen.
