In the north of the Isle of Skye, on the edge of the southernmost tip of Loch Snizort, you'll find Skeabost. It was built as a hunting lodge by the MacDonald's in 1871 and is steeped in history, as is its home of Skye. Skye has a stunning Atlantic coastline jutting out in all directions from the Cuillin ridge in the island's centre, which offers rugged, beautiful terrain, the setting for countless novels.

Skeabost is in the midst of this beauty, with views of the Old Man of Storr, the famed high craggy cliffs with a pinnacle of rocks, a part the Trotternish ridge that stands high above Skeabost. Hosting an abundance of wildlife and soft sandy beaches, Skye has an abundance of parts, where you can break away from the everyday whiles of life.

Angling & Golfing

The Hotels 9-hole golf course meanders from the hotel down to the shores of the loch, and the Hotel owns the fishing rights to the first eight miles of the River Snizort, a typical Highland spate river on Skye, teeming with salmon and trout. The river challenges every angler and the hotels Gillie Mr.Dowsett is on hand to help guests angle the perfect catch.

The Great Outdoors

Whether a seasoned mountaineer, or preferring a ramble, ascend The Storr or descend from the cliffs of Elgol and admire the rock formations that create the unforgettable vistas across Skye. Rushing waters and fervent winds can help power your kayak or canoe and for the avid kite, paddle boarder and windsurfers there is plenty of coastline and lochs to spend your hours.

Billiards & the Distillery 

The Billiard Room, formerly the chapel of the original country house, is another place to unwind, possibly with a dram, if the fireplace in the main room hasn't enveloped you on your way. The selection of Whiskies at Skeabost is sourced from far and wide, in the highlands and islands. If you find you want to visit the local Talisker Distillery, you can spend time learning about how this incredible industry came to the fore and how the distiller's craft perfect single malt. 

Warmth & Fodder 

After hours in the wilds of the island, return to the Hotel, welcomed by the friendly staff. Retire to the wood-paneled restaurant, with a varied menu that features the finest of locally sourced, seasonal ingredients and is complemented by an extensive wine list. You can also enjoy local fare in the additional nooks and crannies of Skeabost too. Spend time watching the world go, playing board games or with afternoon tea or a hot toddy after a day of outdoor accomplishments. Then you can retire to one of Skeabost 14 bedrooms for a rest.

Going Green

The hotel's green credentials are in keeping with its natural surroundings the grounds have in residence a hydro-turbine providing 166,000-kilowatt hours of renewable energy to the property. Skeabost is also committed to the sustainable sourcing of fish from the surrounding waters.

Christmas and Hogmanay at Skeabost

Explore the Skeabost gardens on Christmas morning and open your presents in front of the roaring log fire. Christmas with everything taken care of starting with a full Scottish Breakfast, a celebratory glass of Buck's Fizz with canapés at 12noon, a four course Christmas day lunch with all of the trimmings. The afternoon can then be spent wondering the surrounding hills, with afternoon tea served by the fire upon your return. The evening brings with it a light Christmas buffet, if it will fit. The traditional Hogmanay ceilidh will help you see in the New Year too (from £300pp for 3 nights)

Christmas 3 night break from £210 per person based on two sharing a twin or double room. *

Classic Double from £99 per couple for a 2-night stay and £139 per couple for a 3-night stay. Including arrival Whisky, Full Scottish Breakfast on all mornings, Late Check Out 12noon and Unlimited Free Golf** 

To Book or enquire please call 01470 532202, e-mail reservations.skeabost@bespokehotels.com or visit www.bespokehotels.com/skeabostcountryhouse 

**Upgrades to Superior Double Rooms also available subject to availability. Pets welcome at a charge of £10 per night. Available from the 5th of October until the 31st of March. Excluding 24th of December to the 25th of January inclusive. 

Editors Notes 

A member of the Bespoke Hotel Group since 2012, the Skeabost Country House Hotel stands amidst private grounds, just five minutes from Portree on the Isle of Skye. In line with its commitment environmental and social responsibility, the hotel offers guests both a Recycling Explanation and a Responsible Visitor Charter viewable here: http://www.bespokehotels.com/skeabostcountryhouse