Nestled along the stunning North Coast of Scotland, the Northern Sands Hotel consistently garners praise for its remarkable location and hospitality. Ideally situated for travelers on the North Coast 500 route, the hotel offers easy access to breathtaking landscapes like Dunnet Bay and nearby beaches. Convenient parking and proximity to ferry facilities to Orkney further make this an excellent stop for those exploring or venturing further afield.
Guests are warmly welcomed by the attentive and friendly staff who go above and beyond to ensure a pleasant stay, contributing greatly to the hotel's inviting atmosphere. The accommodations reflect recent refurbishments, offering tastefully decorated rooms equipped with modern amenities. Despite the occasional smaller size, the rooms are celebrated for their cleanliness, comfort, and quiet surroundings that ensure restful nights.
The hotel's dining options are often highlighted, with a particular emphasis on its fantastic breakfast and equally impressive dinner offerings. Guests appreciate the wide variety and quality of both meals, featuring local specialties and classic favorites, all at reasonable prices. The efficient service—helpfully accentuated by pre-ordering breakfast the night before—adds to the dining experience, leaving guests satisfied and ready to seize the day.
Beyond its exceptional dining and friendly service, Northern Sands Hotel provides ample and convenient parking. This feature, coupled with the hotel’s close proximity to scenic trails and serene beaches, makes it a perfect base for exploration and relaxation.
Overall, the Northern Sands Hotel excels as a welcoming gateway to the natural wonders of the North Coast, offering a restful retreat with top-notch food, comfortable accommodations, and exceptional service. It is highly recommended for travelers seeking a blend of adventure and tranquility.
Bank House, situated along the scenic North Coast 500 route, provides an ideal and peaceful location for travelers, making it a convenient base for exploring nearby attractions like Dunnet Head and the Castle of Mey. Its proximity to Thurso and the Orkney ferry terminal further enhances its appeal. Guests appreciate the property's central location and nearby dining options, facilitating an enjoyable stay.
Breakfast at Bank House is a standout feature, with guests consistently praising the wide range of choices, from full Scottish breakfasts to made-to-order dishes. The quality and quantity of food receive high praise, enhanced by the hospitable and attentive service from the hosts, ensuring a delightful start to the day.
The rooms at Bank House offer a blend of historic charm and modern comfort, with spacious layouts, beautiful decor, and high ceilings. Guests frequently comment on the exceptional cleanliness of rooms and bathrooms, which are well-equipped with amenities such as fridges and kettles. Plush beds and luxurious bathrooms contribute to a warm and welcoming experience.
Staff at Bank House, particularly hosts Mark and Trish, are recognized for their warmth and hospitality. Guests describe them as friendly, caring, and consistently helpful, often likening their experience to visiting old friends. Their dedication to meeting guests' individual needs helps foster a home-like environment.
Parking arrangements are praised, with the availability of off-street parking and a private car park offering convenience and safety for travelers. The dog-friendly nature of Bank House enhances its appeal, as guests appreciate the warm welcome extended to both human and canine visitors.
Overall, Bank House impresses with its comfort, cleanliness, and charming atmosphere, leaving guests with an enduring sense of satisfaction and delight.
The Mey Hotel offers a delightful experience with numerous positive reviews highlighting its various features. Nestled along the serene north coast, it provides an ideal base for exploring northern Scotland, including destinations like Orkney, John o' Groats and Castle Mey. The hotel's location is particularly commended for its tranquil and peaceful ambiance, making it a favored spot for travelers, including those on the NC500 route and dog owners who appreciate the nearby easy walks and dog-friendly policy.
Guests consistently praise the breakfast experience, noting the excellent quality, variety and the chef’s skills in preparing a delicious and well-cooked full Scottish breakfast. The personalized touch of pre-ordering breakfast ensures it suits individual preferences, enhancing the overall dining satisfaction.
Dinner at The Mey Hotel also receives glowing remarks with guests enjoying home-cooked meals prepared meticulously to order. The variety and authenticity of the dishes, including local Scottish specialties, are highly appreciated with the added bonus of a tasting menu. Euan's beef stew cooked in stout is notably highlighted as a must-try dish. The dining experience is elevated by the homely touch provided by the owners, making it a memorable part of the stay.
The rooms are described as comfortable, cozy and modern with tasteful decorations and high cleanliness standards. Despite occasional mentions of smaller room sizes and damp smells, most guests appreciate the warm, pleasant and well-maintained accommodations. The bathrooms are particularly praised for their high quality, contributing to the comfort of the stay. Moreover, the beds are commonly noted as being wonderfully comfortable, ensuring a restful night's sleep.
The staff at The Mey Hotel stand out for their exceptional hospitality. Guests frequently commend the owners and staff for their friendly, accommodating and engaging nature, contributing to a welcoming and homely atmosphere. Their proactive approach in assisting guests and providing helpful tips adds to the positive experience, making guests feel valued and well-cared for.
In summary, The Mey Hotel offers a serene and strategically placed retreat with exceptional food, comfortable and clean accommodations and outstanding hospitality, making it a highly recommended choice for travelers exploring northern Scotland.
The Hawthorns B & B consistently receives glowing reviews, distinguished by its exceptional location, high-quality breakfast, immaculate rooms, and outstanding hospitality. Situated in a picturesque area between John O'Groats and Scrabster, this B&B offers breathtaking views and convenient access to renowned landmarks and the Orkney Islands, making it perfect for travelers on the NC500 tour. Guests are treated to serene surroundings and easy parking, enhancing their sightseeing experience.
The breakfast at The Hawthorns B & B is a highlight, celebrated for its delicious variety and customization options. Guests appreciate the plentiful homemade offerings, which cater to both traditional and continental tastes, with service accommodating early risers eager to explore. The attentive and friendly hosts further enrich the experience, going above and beyond by assisting with local dining reservations and providing personal touches.
Rooms at the B&B come equipped with comfort and cleanliness as paramount features. Spacious and beautifully furnished, they accommodate families and pets, offering restful nights on super comfortable beds. Guests consistently comment on the spotless environment and thoughtful amenities, which include pod coffee makers, slippers, and fresh milk. The dog-friendly aspect is particularly praised, with a dedicated welcome pack ensuring pets feel at home.
The hosts, Eileen and Graham, are commended for their warm hospitality, contributing significantly to the character and appeal of The Hawthorns B & B. Their genuine care, helpfulness, and local knowledge leave a lasting impression, making stays truly memorable. The B&B is ideal for rest and relaxation, with the comfortable beds being consistently noted among the positive feedback.
While a few guests mention minor issues such as an untidy entrance, these are overshadowed by the overwhelmingly positive experience provided. Ultimately, The Hawthorns B & B stands out as a top choice for travelers seeking comfort, convenience, and exceptional service, offering a welcoming environment both for humans and their dogs.