Mackays Rooms And Restaurant - Durness, United Kingdom     

Mackays Rooms & Restaurant, Durness, Sutherland, North Scotland We spent one night at this hotel on 27th sept 2007 as part of our 4-night stay in Scotland. Arriving at Durness, on the northenmost tip of West Scotland, we were already in a good mood, following the breathtaking scenic drive across the north coast and highland lochs to get here. After arriving, we spent the rest of the day viewing some of the local attractions and in particular, took the small ferry and white-knuckle minibus ride across the wilderness to Cape Wrath. Spectacular is not too strong a word. On our return, a bite to eat in Cocoa Mountain and a quick trip to Smoo Cave and then on to Mackay’s. The hotel itself, is not especially pretty, sitting on the street corner opposite a grey public car park in the centre of this small village, but don’t be put off - the welcoming log fire in the lounge and the friendly reception from the large lady chef (?) and 2 minutes later from Fiona Mackay herself, made us feel very welcome indeed. After checking in, Fiona offered to carry our suitcase (the first Hotelier in 4 days to do that) and showed us up the stairs to our room. Room 7 was beautifully fitted out, with oak fittings and flooring and ceramic tiles in the bathroom. There was even an ipod with speakers on the dressing table. The tv reception wasn’t brilliant though, but good enough to watch the news on. Going down for dinner (pre-booked, and in fact this day was the only free day they had available that week) we sat in the adjacent conservatory/lounge and enjoyed a drink in front of the fire. Dinner was excellent, and it was clear from adjoining dinner guests that this was a popular spot to stay and to eat. We were tired after our day’s exertions and retired early. The bed was particularly comfortable and we had a good night’s sleep, although there was some noise from the adjacent bathroom – perhaps not helped by the acoustics of oak. Breakfast the following morning was traditional Scottish and excellent. We paid our bill and left, feeling that here was one hotel we’d love to come back to one day. B&B was £98 and dinner & drinks came to £67. Not cheap, but worth every penny.

This is a real gem of a small private hotel. The facilities are in excellent order, the staff warm, friendly and efficient and the food just stunning. It is a long way to go but well worth the journey and the beach on its doorstep is magnificent.