Scarista House

In possibly one of the remotest and inhospitable parts of Britain, it's a joy to discover one of the most comfortable and hospitable places to stay. Scarista House is the embodiment of the Hotel Guru's ethos. Owned and run by Tim and Patricia Martin, this gem a hotel is an absolute labour of love. Drive south from Lewis to Harris across the barren Hebridean moorland in a force 8 (with a bootful of Harris tweed) and this pretty Georgian manse is an irresistable port of call - but be sure to book; there are only six rooms. Cosy and old fashioned but with plentiful hot water and fluffy towels. Then of course there is dinner, served in the original dining room overlooking the magnificent and truly unspoilt Scottish coastline. The menu of the day is perfectly pitched with the freshest seafood and exotic flavour combinations. To blow away the cobwebs just walk out the front door and you're at the beach, with only sheep to interrupt your thoughts along the way.

 

Written by Caroline Townsend

• Bar
• Views
• Child friendly

• Pet friendly
• Garden
• Restaurant

• Great walks

Why do people love staying in your hotel? We think that people like staying here because it's comfortable with good food, friendly, welcoming local staff, great views and it's an interesting house to stay in. The house was formerly the manse for the Church of Scotland and it has a lovely welcoming atmosphere. What is there to do in the area? The brave will swim in the sea opposite, there is a golf course just up the hill from us, but most people come here to walk, potter about, catch up on books they've been meaning to read for ages and generally do nothing. What kind of breakfast do you offer? A buffet of fresh fruits, fruit compote, our own organic museli, homemade yoghurt, freshly sqeezed orange juice and hot food to order which includes bacon from Ramsay of Carluke, Stornoway black pudding, local sausages, tomatoes, mushrooms, local eggs, kippers and Loch Duart hot-smoked salmon. Do you offer other meals? And can you recommend good places to eat out locally? We serve dinner only and recommend local cafes for lunch and snacks.