On the picturesque shores of Loch Linnhe, Fort William is a gateway to the western Scotland highlands and a magical place to visit at any time of year. Whether you’re drawn by the watersports and green landscapes of summer or the awesome ski resorts in winter, there’s always something fun and exciting to do in Fort William!
Finding unique accommodation in Fort William is the number one priority for your trip; in such an amazing place, you definitely don’t want to be stuck in a basic hotel. Never fear though, there are tons of amazing cabins and lodges in Fort William, which are the perfect place to stay.
To help you out in your search for accommodation, we’ve put together this list of the best cabins and lodges in Fort William. Depending on your personal budget, travel style, and reasons for visiting Fort William, there’s something on this diverse list to fit your needs!
In a Hurry? Here’s Where to Stay in Fort William for One Night
Cedar Cottage
With two bedrooms as well as a spacious living and dining area, this stunning cabin is the best place to stay. There’s free Wi-Fi, a fully equipped kitchen and even an indoor fireplace – perfect for your weekend getaway!
- Nevis Range Mountain
- Spean Bridge Golf Course
- Commando Memorial
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Unique Accommodation in Fort William
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Amidst the forested trails, ski hills, and beautiful lakes, a big hotel would just be out of place. For a more authentic experience, it’s easy to find a cabin or lodge in Fort William which keeps with the rustic, wilderness energy of the area while still providing comfort and convenience.
Cabins and lodges are very similar, although lodges tend to be a bit bigger and can accommodate more guests. Pod cabins are popular in Fort William, where you can rent a small one-room dwelling for your own space and privacy yet still have hotel-style conveniences such as cleaning service and tourist information.
One of the great things about the best cabins and lodges in Fort William is that their prices are varied, so even if you’re on a tight budget, it’s still possible to make a trip to the Scottish Highlands!
Many cabins and lodges are located close to lakes, ski areas, or hiking trails, but they aren’t too far from restaurants and convenience stores in town. It’s the perfect opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors without having to give up your home comforts.
Staying at a Cabin in Fort William
Cabins are usually small, rustic style dwellings better suited for solo travelers or couples. Lots of cabins have a glamping (glamorous camping) feel, so you can enjoy being surrounded by nature but not be forced to give up modern comforts.
At these luxury cabins, and even at the best budget cabins near Fort William, you can expect to have heating, running water, and often Wi-Fi as well as a TV. Who said camping can’t be comfortable? Plus, great views of the lakes and highlands is practically guaranteed.
Depending on just how outdoorsy you want to get, there are cabins closer to the highland towns, or properties farther removed for an even more secluded and peaceful experience. If you have your own vehicle, parking is usually available, especially for the more distant cabins.
A number of cabin properties will have small kitchenettes for you to prepare food; if you’re travelling as a family, you can check to see if the property has a fully equipped kitchen to make sure you can satisfy the needs of picky eaters and those with big appetites!
Some cabins will even provide breakfast, which may be included in the room price and sometimes for an additional fee. To add to the camping atmosphere, you’ll be lucky to find a spot that has either an outdoor or indoor fireplace, adding to the comfort and charm of Fort William.
Staying at a Lodge in Fort William
If you’re travelling in a larger group or you prefer a bit more of a homey feel than what cabins offer, you might want to consider a lodge when traveling to Fort William. These properties often have a resort-style feel with great modern amenities while still preserving a close-to-nature sort of feel.
Lodges are great for families and groups of friends since the properties are often larger and have spacious living areas and fully equipped kitchens to cater for group meals.
Depending on what you’re looking for during your vacation, it’s possible to find lodges close to the town centre and others that are completely removed with an off-the-beaten-path sort of feel. Either way, most properties are within easy driving distance of nearby towns to get groceries or other necessities.
The Scottish Highlands are best known for the famous lochs and hiking trails, and many of the best lodges in Fort William are close to these places. At the end of the day, you can come back and relax at your private lodge, many of which are equipped with Wi-Fi and TV’s, and sometimes even offer games or puzzles for fun family nights.
Although summer tends to be the peak season for tourism, often lodges are open year-round, in which case you can count on indoor heating and perhaps even a fireplace to keep you comfy and cozy. Since driving in the Highlands can be more difficult during certain times of the year, you can check with the property hosts about security tips to arrange a safe arrival.
Free parking is usually available at the best lodges in Fort William, and often the properties are close enough to the main roads making it easy to catch buses to the nearby towns or attractions in the region such as the famous Isle of Skye.
Cedar Cottage
- > $$
- > 2-4 Guests
- > Log burning stove with wood
- > Private garden
Blackwater Pod Cabins
- > $
- > 2 Guests
- > Unique accommodation
- > Fridge and microwave
Harava Lodge
- > $$
- > 2 Guests
- > Secluded location in the forest
- > Spacious living areas
Tigh Breagha Pod
- > $
- > 2 Guests
- > Breakfast included
- > Outdoor fireplace
Great Glen Lodges
- > $$
- > 6 Guests
- > Picturesque lake views
- > Rustic, charming lodge
RiverBeds Lodges
- > $$$$
- > 2 Guests
- > Tranquil and serene location
- > Private hot tub
Acorn Lodge
- > $$
- > 4 Guests
- > Equipped kitchen
- > Large deck with panoramic views
Looking for other types of accommodation? Check out our guide to Where to Stay in Fort William!
The Top 10 Cabins and Lodges in Fort William
Ready to experience the magic of the Scottish Highlands? Well, after picking one of the best cabins and lodges in Fort William off this list, you’ll be ready and set for a memorable vacation full of hiking the highlands, visiting lochs, and enjoying the fantastic scenery the region is famous for.
Overall Best Value Cabin in Fort William – Cedar Cottage
The area around the cottage is a postcard-worthy setting of the Scottish Highlands, with great places to go hiking and enjoy nature. If you’d rather just sit back and relax at the cabin, there is a secure garden area with a picnic bench as well as a cozy log burning stove.
Couples, families, or friends can all enjoy this charming cabin close to Fort William. It comes with great home-style amenities like a fully equipped kitchen, spacious lounge, Wi-Fi, books and even games. Its perfect location overlooking the mountains and lochs will ensure you have a memorable experience of the Scottish Highlands.
Want to save money on accommodation?
We got you. For reals.
Best Budget Cabin in Fort William – Blackwater Pod Cabins
Arguably one of the best budget cabins in Fort William, the Blackwater Pod Cabins offers private and comfortable accommodation at a great price! Each pod is well insulated for all weather conditions and comes with a heater, fridge, outlets, and microwave.
Bedding isn’t included but can be rented for a cheap price if needed. The pods have a perfect location overlooking the River Leven and can be found right by the village of Kinlochleven which has many local shops and restaurants for all your needs!
Budget Tip: Dorms in Fort William start from £18 per bed. They’re the cheapest accommodation in the city. Search for hostels in the area!
Best Lodge for Couples in Fort William – Harava Lodge
If you’re looking for a romantic escape with your partner without breaking your budget, this charming lodge is the perfect spot! You’ll have all the comforts of home like a fully equipped kitchen, a television, Wi-Fi access, and heating for the colder months.
Located at the base of Cow Hill, you can enjoy the scenery of the Scottish Highlands while also being just a five-minute walk to the train station of Fort William. There are plenty of hiking trails nearby and the lodge is right next to a peaceful river, for a perfect setting in the Highlands!
Best Cabin for Couples in Fort William – Tigh Breagha Pod
If you’re traveling on a budget but still want an authentic experience in the Scottish Highlands, these luxury pods are a great choice. The pods come equipped with a small refrigerator, hot water kettle, and microwave, plus breakfast is included in the room price.
Situated just 2 miles outside of Fort William, the pods have a view of Ben Nevis and are surrounded by great hiking trails as well as restaurants and pubs closer to the city centre. If you’re traveling during the winter, don’t worry, the pods are well insulated and heated.
Best Lodge for a Group of Friends – Great Glen Lodges
If you’re planning your trip to Scotland, Fort William is a must-visit destination to be included in your itinerary. An adventurous group of friends looking for a place to experience the magic of the Scottish Highlands will love the Great Glen Lodges! About 45 minutes outside of Fort William, you can enjoy a more remote setting, while still being close enough to towns, restaurants, and shops.
The two-story pine lodges can accommodate up to 6 guests and also has a fully equipped kitchen and large living area. Nearby attractions include the famous Loch Ness as well as great hiking trails to appreciate the rivers and mountains of the area!
Over-the-Top Luxury Lodge in Fort William – RiverBeds Lodges
If money isn’t an issue, treat yourself to an over-the-top luxury experience at one of the best lodges in Fort William. These private lodges each have a terrace overlooking the river as well as a private hot tub right on your front porch! It’s ideally situated in a beautiful forest, close to a golf course in the Glencoe Valley.
You can prepare your own food in the private kitchenette, or order meals from the on-site cafe and restaurant which is open every day. River walks and other fun activities can be arranged at the property and you can relax in the hot tub after a day of adventure!
Best Lodge for Families visiting Fort William – Acorn Lodge
Take the stress out of travelling with your family to the Scottish Highlands by renting a comfortable and cozy lodge. Acorn Lodge is perfect for this! The two bedrooms have a queen bed and a bunk bed, plus there is an electric sauna in the bathroom.
Your kids can take a break from social media and the internet since there is no Wi-Fi available at the lodge, allowing you to disconnect and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Don’t worry though, the property is still just a 10-minute walk from the town centre where you can find shops, restaurants, and cafes.
Best Cabin for Backpackers – The Kelpie Cabin
Just 7 miles outside of Fort William, this cozy cabin has a rustic charm and is surrounded by local farms and plenty of wildlife. The cabin is right on the banks of the River Loy, and there are plenty of walking and hiking paths in the area to get outside and experience the Highlands!
Backpackers can enjoy home-style amenities like an equipped kitchen, heating in the winter, and free Wi-Fi, all for a reasonable price. It’s a great retreat for guests who want to be surrounded by nature, yet close enough to local shops and conveniences.
If you’re looking for other backpacking accommodation options, check out our list of best hostels in Fort William!
Best Cabin for Honeymooners – Ben View Studio Pod
A truly picture-perfect retreat for your honeymoon vacation, these cozy pods come at a great price and have homey comforts such as a kitchenette, heating, a dining space, and an outdoor area where you can appreciate the spectacular views!
It’s easy to reach the centre of Fort William and attractions like the West Highland Museum, and there are also plenty of places to go hiking and skiing nearby. Parking is available for free on-site to help make your transportation easier.
Best Lodge for Views – Grianain-Riverside Eco Lodge
Overlooking Grianain Hill which means “sunny spot,” this charming lodge is close to numerous attractions of the Scottish Highlands. Ben Nevis and Glen Coe are just a short drive away, and it’s less than an hour to Loch Ness.
The three bedrooms can accommodate up to six guests, making it perfect for couples who want their space or a group of friends. You’ll also have an open plan kitchen, dining area, and an outdoor seating spot to enjoy the spectacular view. If any questions come up during your stay, the property owners live just 200m away.
FAQ about Cabins and Lodges in Fort William
Here’s what people usually ask us when they look for vacation homes in Fort William
Don’t Forget Your Fort William Travel Insurance
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Final Thoughts on Cabins and Lodges in Fort William
A magical trip to the Scottish Highlands is something every traveller should check off their bucket list! And when you find unique accommodation in Fort William, not only can you count on picturesque mountain scenery, but also exceptional service and comfort during your stay.
The best cabins and lodges in Fort William have both the comforts of home and the rustic charm of countryside life. Whether you’re a solo adventurer interested in hiking and outdoor adventures or a family searching for the perfect place for a summer vacation, Fort William is the place for you!
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