20 hours ago
Remote Scottish island with beachside B&B that's the 'friendliest' in the country
A picturesque Scottish guest house with breathtaking ocean views has been awarded the 'AA Friendliest B&B of the Year' award, and it's easy to see why the holiday hotspot is so beloved by visitors
Scotland's numerous islands remain a favoured option for a staycation. Hundreds of islands are scattered along the Scottish coastline, and many have earned recognition as premier holiday spots.
Those looking to enjoy the tranquillity and stunning views that such locations have to offer will, of course, be hoping for a warm, friendly welcome from their hotel or B&B of choice.
And although there are a number of charming establishments to choose from, there's one that stands out from the crowd, having been hailed the "friendliest" B&B in Scotland. It comes after one expert claimed 'I'm a pilot with 10,000 flight hours but I won't go near this place'.
So what is it that makes Broad Bay House so very special? Scotland's finest bed and breakfasts received recognition in July during the annual AA B&B Awards, reports the Daily Record. Amongst the accolades presented was the 'AA Friendliest B&B of the Year' award, which was claimed by Broad Bay House on the Isle of Lewis.
Broad Bay House is a guest house located on the island's eastern shoreline, approximately 7.5 miles from Stornoway.
The establishment sits within a small active crofting community, beside a sandy beach offering direct access from the property. The AA highlighted the establishment's "service, simplicity and style", alongside its "special" hospitality.
Meanwhile, inspectors declared that guests were "guaranteed to have an extraordinary experience". Following the announcement, Broad Bay House co-owner Sue Reid spoke of the team's delight, remarking: "We're absolutely delighted to receive this award this year for the friendliest bed and breakfast."
Broad Bay House boasts four luxury en-suite guest rooms, all fitted with a flatscreen TV, a Bose Bluetooth speaker, and a DVD player. Every room also includes a Nespresso machine, complimentary snacks, and luxury toiletries. Furthermore, each bedroom boasts its own private decking space complete with seating arrangements.
According to Broad Bay House, the accommodations feature "soft colours, natural woods and sympathetic furnishings" that "provide a relaxing environment". Additional facilities at Broad Bay House encompass complimentary Wi-Fi, guest laundry services, and a dedicated guest study area. There's also an electric vehicle charging point reserved exclusively for visitors.
Regarding dining options, the establishment offers both morning and evening cuisine. The breakfast selection features a complete Hebridean-cooked breakfast, while dinner choices encompass Scottish salmon fillet and locally sourced scallops.
The property holds a full licence and stocks an extensive range of wines, gins and single malt whiskies. Patrons can also savour a variety of gin-based cocktails.
Broad Bay House has garnered exceptionally favourable feedback from former visitors. On TripAdvisor, the establishment maintains a flawless five-star rating across 478 reviews.
One guest commented: "We had the spacious room with sea view, lounge seats, plenty of tea, coffee and fresh milk in the fridge. The room and place is decorated in good taste, with cozy throws, wood furnishings and leather seating.
"Tom, our host, is very accommodating, has a good sense of humour and gave us great tips throughout our visit. His wife is an excellent cook-we had the seafood platter at night and fresh made porridge in the morning. Nothing was lacking, and we can highly recommend Broad House to anyone visiting Lewis Island."
Another guest gushed: "Had a fantastic stay here for four nights with our dog, you can see why this B and B is five stars. Great host amazing room and fantastic breakfast, they do offer evening meals we didn't experience this but if the breakfast anything to go off you wouldn't be disappointed, lovely view from the guest lounge looking at the sea."
