Kinloch Lodge on the Isle of Skye is a historic family-run retreat, offering 18 individually designed rooms, acclaimed dining, and authentic Highland hospitality.
Easily reached via the Skye Bridge or ferry, it remains one of Scotland’s most atmospheric destinations.
Kinloch Lodge sits on the Sleat Peninsula, at the foot of Kinloch Hill and on the tranquil shores of Loch na Dal. Originally a 17th-century farmhouse, it later became a shooting lodge and public house before being transformed in the 1970s by Godfrey Macdonald, 8th Lord Macdonald, and his wife, cookery writer Claire Macdonald, into a luxury hotel. Today, their daughter Isabella Macdonald continues the tradition of welcoming guests as though into her family home.
The lodge’s chalk-white buildings stand out against the rugged Skye landscape, offering a sense of seclusion and intimacy. Inside, the atmosphere is warm and homely, with roaring fires, antique furnishings, and a décor that blends heritage with comfort.
Kinloch Lodge has 18 rooms, spread across two main buildings:
- North Lodge: home to the restaurant, bar, and one lounge.
- South Lodge: closer to the loch, with suites and its own drawing room..
Each room is individually decorated by Isabella Macdonald, with help from her designer brother-in-law. Expect ornate wallpaper, vintage furniture, hand-selected art, and cosy touches that reflect the family’s personality. Bathrooms feature walk-in showers, freestanding tubs, and L’Occitane toiletries, while rooms include plush robes, tea and coffee facilities, and views of either the loch or surrounding hills.
The lodge is renowned for its award-winning restaurant, which elevates locally sourced, seasonal cuisine. Guests can enjoy inventive dishes showcasing Skye’s produce, paired with fine wines and whiskies. After dinner, lounges with open fires provide a relaxed space to unwind.
Beyond dining, Kinloch offers:
- Wellness treatments and massages
- Outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching
- Easy access to Skye’s dramatic landscapes, from moorland walks to coastal explorations
How to Get There
Reaching Kinloch Lodge is part of the adventure:
- By Car: Drive from Inverness (approx. 2.5 – 3 hours) via the Skye Bridge, which connects the mainland at Kyle of Lochalsh to Skye. From the bridge, it’s about 30 minutes to Sleat.
- By Ferry: Alternatively, take the Mallaig–Armadale ferry, which lands on Skye’s Sleat Peninsula, just a short drive from the lodge.
- By Air: The nearest airport is Inverness Airport, around 70 miles away
A family home turned luxury retreat, with its rich history, intimate atmosphere, and spectacular location, it remains one of the Isle of Skye’s most sought-after stays, easily accessible yet worlds away from the bustle of modern life.