The Onich Hotel

Did you know that Nessie isn’t Scotland’s only loch monster? Loch Linnhe is said to have one too, although their creature is a tad shyer and has been in hiding since 1944.

Today’s Big Deal gives you the chance to spot the mystery beast for yourself on a one or two night stay for two at the Onich Hotel on Loch Linnhe. A full Scottish breakfast is included as well as a lovely late check-out at noon.

The trip is available until March 2020, meaning you can experience the loch in twinkling winter or vivid spring. Take your pick.

Just keep your camera ready in case a fabled loch monster pops out of the water.

Lovely Loch Linnhe

The three-star Onich Hotel is a short drive away from Fort William. You’ll be totally spoilt for scenery, as Loch Linnhe is known for being one of Scotland’s most stunning stretches of water.

The hotel offers panoramic views across the loch to the Glencoe mountains in the east and the Isle of Mull in the west.

The hotel has waterside views, plus the Onich is the only hotel in the area that offers garden access to its own lochside bay.

Facilities include a children’s playground, spa tub and free WiFi.

This deal has two options, depending on how long you want your highland escape to be.

Option one is for an overnight stay including full Scottish breakfast. Option two is the same, for two nights with breakfast each morning.

Both options include a late check-out at noon.

The deal is based on two people sharing a twin or double room.

Cosy rooms

All 26 bedrooms at the Onich Hotel have ensuite bathrooms, TVs, tea and coffee making facilities, free WiFi and room service. The decor is cosy and cheerful.

There are also loch view rooms, depending on availability.

See & do

Loch Linnhe is known for being a photographer’s dream due to its amazing scenery and sunsets. But the 31-mile long loch is also a hit with anyone who enjoys kayaking, fishing, sailing and walking.

Wildlife enthusiasts will love spotting golden eagles, sea birds, seals, porpoises and dolphins. There are also various pretty pebble beaches to visit.

You can make the most of the scenery by taking a loch cruise from Fort William, which will give you a chance to spot highlights like Seal Island and Ben Nevis. You also shouldn’t miss Scotland’s most romantic valley, Glencoe, just a ten minute drive from the hotel.

Fort William is a 19 minute drive away, and highlights of the town and surrounding area include the West Highland Museum, the Commando Memorial and the Steall Waterfall.

For a jaw-dropping cable car journey over the mountains, head for the Nevis Range Mountain Experience. Or enjoy one of the greatest railway journeys in the world on the Jacobite Steam Train, an 84-mile round trip from Ben Nevis to Loch Nevis (this attraction is seasonal).

Happy guests

The Onich has a 3.5 out of 5 rating on Trip Advisor. Here are some recent reviews, edited for length:

‘The view of the lake from our first-floor room was simply breathtaking. A wonderful place for some quiet time away from the madness. We took walks around the property. There’s a nature reserve with a stream flowing through it nearby, which we discovered simply by accident. A lovely stay!’ 5/5 rating

‘Had such a lovely overnight stay – the hotel is warm and welcoming – location is absolutely stunning with outstanding scenery – the staff are lovely, even the hotel’s beautiful little dog came to say hello to us – highly recommend a visit.’ 5/5 rating

Escape to the loch

Whether you’re visiting for a new year treat, January pick-me-up or spring break, Loch Linnhe will charm you in any season.

This Big Deal would make for a great romantic getaway for two in one of Scotland’s most scenic spots.