The Caledonian Claymore Hotel

The hotel is most notably characterized by its stunning location directly on the shores of Loch Long, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and the Arrochar Alps. This picturesque setting makes it an ideal choice for sightseers and nature lovers seeking a scenic escape. While the hotel is undergoing ongoing refurbishment, which leads to varied room conditions, guests consistently praise the hard-working staff and the lively evening entertainment. The hotel primarily caters to coach tour participants and budget-conscious travelers, providing a good value experience. To enhance your stay, it is advisable to manage expectations regarding the hotel's age and consider requesting a recently refurbished room if available, as the updates significantly improve the guest experience.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel offers a range of facilities, though their condition can vary due to ongoing renovations. Guests frequently commend the well-stocked bar as a comfortable place to relax and enjoy drinks, often highlighting the efficiency of the bar staff. Evening entertainment is a prominent feature, with many guests enjoying the live music, singers, and bingo sessions provided nightly. Free parking is available, which is a convenient amenity for those traveling by car. However, it is important to note that the hotel does not have a lift, which can pose a challenge for guests with mobility issues or heavy luggage, as many rooms are accessed via stairs. While some communal areas have been updated and are described as inviting, others are still awaiting refurbishment and may appear dated or scruffy.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guest feedback on cleanliness and room comfort is notably mixed, largely influenced by the hotel's ongoing refurbishment. Many guests reported significant issues with room cleanliness, noting stained carpets, visible mould, and general dirtiness, particularly in older rooms and bathrooms which some described as needing a complete overhaul. However, some guests were assigned recently refurbished rooms which they found to be bright, clean, and comfortable. Despite these concerns, many found the beds comfortable and appreciated the consistent supply of hot water. In-room amenities like tea and coffee facilities and televisions were generally present. Noise from thin walls or creaking floors was occasionally mentioned, impacting the overall tranquility for some guests.

Dining & Food Quality
The dining experience at the hotel receives varied feedback from guests. While some found the food quality to be good with plenty of choice, many others expressed significant disappointment, describing meals as poor, mediocre, or often served cold. The breakfast buffet frequently received mixed reviews, with some guests noting long queues and a lack of replenishment for popular items like bacon and eggs, though the option to request fried eggs was appreciated. Dinner typically offered a three-course meal with limited choices, and portions were sometimes perceived as small, with vegetables often appearing frozen. The restaurant atmosphere could be chaotic, especially during peak times, though staff worked diligently to manage the flow of guests. Many guests valued the complimentary drinks provided as part of their package.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location on the shores of Loch Long is consistently highlighted as its strongest asset, offering stunning views of the loch and surrounding mountains. This picturesque setting provides ample opportunities for scenic walks and serves as an excellent base for exploring the wider region. Guests appreciate its proximity to local amenities, including pubs and a chip shop, which are within easy walking distance. The hotel offers free parking, adding to the convenience for those traveling by car. While the area is described as quiet and peaceful, its somewhat remote nature means that public transport options might be limited, making it particularly suitable for those on organized coach tours or with their own vehicles.

Staff & Service
The staff at the hotel consistently receive high praise from guests, with many describing them as friendly, helpful, hard-working, and attentive. Reviewers frequently commend their willingness to go above and beyond to assist guests, contributing significantly to a positive experience despite other hotel shortcomings. The restaurant staff and bar staff are particularly noted for their efficiency and pleasant demeanor, managing busy periods with professionalism. While the check-in process is generally smooth, some guests reported initial issues with room readiness. Housekeeping staff are often described as friendly, though the consistency of room cleaning is a recurring point of mixed feedback. Overall, the dedication and positive attitude of the staff are a standout feature.

Additional Information
A significant aspect of the hotel experience is the ongoing refurbishment, with many areas and rooms currently being updated. This has led to inconsistent room quality, with some guests receiving modern, comfortable accommodations while others are in older, less maintained sections. The hotel primarily caters to coach tour participants, influencing the dining schedules and the lively evening entertainment program, which often includes bingo and live music. Many guests value the complimentary drinks provided as part of their package, adding to the overall value. The hotel also has a pet-friendly policy, though guests with pets should be aware of limited nearby facilities for their animals.