Foyers Lodge feels like a step back in time in the best possible way. Nestled on a cliff overlooking the inky depths of Loch Ness in the Highlands of Scotland, this lovingly restored, adults-only Victorian charmer turned upscale boutique hotel is a very special stay. A welcome beacon of hospitality on the quiet eastern shore of the loch, it recently earned a coveted Michelin Key, one of just 15 in all of Scotland. Settle in to learn why this petite guest house should be on your radar for 2025 travel.
Location
Foyers Lodge sits near the village of Foyers, roughly a half hour’s drive from Inverness, the capital of the Highlands. The original inn dates back to the mid-1600s, but the lodge as we know it today was established in 1863. The Highlands is one of the least densely populated places on Earth, and this pretty little pocket of the region is the perfect backdrop for a Scottish getaway. It’s close to the action, yet still tucked away from it all, so you can easily tailor your trip to see or not be seen.
Design
Part vintage, part contemporary, the inimitable design of Foyers Lodge is a testament to the excellent taste of its owner-operators, Anna and Phil. They’ve created a cozy, chic hideaway indoors, which is artfully elevated by the cliff top views of Loch Ness out of doors. The public spaces at the inn include a restaurant, drawing room/bar and game room as well as a distinctly British snug, a small, comfy, den-like space. In terms of accommodations, seven distinct rooms delight. Touches like poppy floral wallpaper, mustard velvet furniture, antique standalone tubs, sparkling chandeliers and original wood paneling from the 1860s adorn the inn, a master class in old-meets-new charm. It is also distinctly Scottish, with custom tartan, many estate sale and auction finds mixed into the interiors, and bespoke local toiletries crafted with whisky and Highlands pine.
Dining
The dreamy on-site restaurant is simply known as The Dining Room. Plan on enjoying at least one dinner there, where you can sample local fare like sun-blushed tomato risotto topped with creme fraiche and crispy kale or seared Shetland scallops with apple puree and samphire. Set your alarm early to snag the best seat in the house for breakfast, a premier table for two in the grand bay window. Don’t miss the pancakes, a lovely way to start the day. (Please note: breakfast is included in your nightly rate; dinner is extra.)
Activities
There’s no shortage of things to do and see with Foyers Lodge as your base.
Move
Stretch your legs with a walk to the nearby Foyers waterfall (Falls of Foyers). Looking for a bit more intense of a challenge? Hop on the Loch Ness 360° trail, which winds around the famed lake and beyond for 80 miles, connecting the Great Glen Way to the South Loch Ness Trail. Simply follow the blue signs with the squirrel icon. Want a furry friend to join you on your walk? Book a trekking experience at Loch Ness Alpacas, just 15 minutes from Foyers Lodge.
Learn
The Highlands is celebrated for its enchanting scenery, but it’s also well-known for its historical sites. Don’t miss visiting Culloden, part of the National Trust for Scotland, and just a half hour from Foyers by car. Outlander fans will recognize this famous battlefield where the Jacobite Rebellion met its end. Nearby, stop by the Clava Cairns, a serene site on the grounds of an ancient cemetery.
Shop
A bespoke tweed jacket or Fair Isle jumper makes for the perfect Highlands souvenir. There’s no better place to scoop these and other luxurious goodies than Campbell’s of Beauly, roughly one hour from Foyers by car. Pssssst: Campbell’s also has a Royal Warrant, which means they’re a recognized outfitter for the royal family. In Inverness, visit Leaky’s Bookshop for vintage botanical prints and used and new books.
To assist you in planning your visit, please note that for the 2025 season, the lodge will be open from check-in time on Wednesdays until check-out time on Sundays.
Photography by Emily Sandifer