Frequently Asked Questions

EVERYTHING GUESTS ASK US MOST

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Frequently Asked Questions

The questions we are asked most often about staying at Glen Dessary. If yours is not answered here, please get in touch. We are always happy to help.

Where exactly is Glen Dessary?

Glen Dessary Lodge sits at the head of Loch Arkaig in Lochaber, about an hour's drive from Spean Bridge near Fort William, on the edge of Knoydart. The postcode is PH34 4EL. Our travel guide covers the journey in detail, including the single-track road along the loch.

How many guests can you accommodate?

The Lodge sleeps up to 15 guests in seven bedrooms: one double en-suite, three twin en-suite, one triple en-suite and two twin bedrooms sharing a bathroom. The nearby Bothy sleeps a further 6 guests in two twin and two single rooms, giving 21 in total.

Do we get exclusive use of the estate?

Yes. Lodge bookings are exclusive use, set in a private location amongst the Estate's 15,000 acres of mountains, rivers and lochs. You will not be sharing with another party.

Is catering included?

Lodge bookings are fully catered. Our team cooks using the finest local produce, including the Estate's own venison and lamb and locally sourced fish and shellfish, with menus built around your preferences and any dietary requirements. The Bothy is self-catered. See our catering page for more.

What does it cost?

Fully catered Lodge stays are £275 per guest per night, subject to a minimum of 10 guests. The Bothy starts from £250. Lodge bookings of fewer than three nights carry a £495 service charge. Full detail is on our pricing page, or you can build your own stay for an indicative quote.

What deposit do you take?

A 20% deposit confirms your reservation, with the balance due one month before check-in. The deposit is non-refundable if you cancel within one month of arrival. For certain events such as stag and hen parties we may also ask for a damage deposit, refundable less the cost of any damage or excessive cleaning.

When are the stalking seasons?

The stag season runs from mid August to 20 October, and the hind season from 21 October to 15 February. Full detail and prices are on our deer stalking page.

Can I stalk if I have never done it before?

Yes. Guests are always accompanied by an experienced, qualified stalker who will guide you through the day. If you would rather not carry a rifle at all, photo stalking uses exactly the same fieldcraft with a camera instead.

What is there to do besides sporting?

Plenty. Guided hikes, Argocat adventures, clay pigeon shooting, fly fishing lessons, whisky tastings and evenings of piping are all available. Unaccompanied fishing on the River Dessary is free of charge for Lodge guests. See activities for the full list.

Can I fish on the Estate if I am not staying?

No. All the water on the Estate is private, including the rivers Dessary and Pean, the hill lochans and the stocked loch by the Lodge. Fishing is for guests of the Estate only and we do not issue permits or day tickets to the public. If you would like to fish here, you would be very welcome to book a stay.

Can we hold a wedding at Glen Dessary?

Yes, we host intimate weddings of up to 21 guests. In Scotland you may marry at any location agreed with your celebrant or registrar, so you can exchange vows outdoors in the glen or inside the Lodge. See our weddings page.

Is there mobile signal and internet?

Glen Dessary is genuinely remote and mobile coverage is limited. That is a large part of the appeal for most guests, but if you need to stay contactable please let us know before you travel and we will explain what is available.

What should we bring?

Highland weather changes quickly, so good waterproofs and sturdy boots are essential if you plan to be on the hill. Because the Lodge is an hour from the nearest town, it is worth arriving with everything you need. Our travel guide has a fuller list.

How do we check availability and book?

You can check live availability and send an enquiry from our Create Your Stay page, or simply contact us directly and we will come back to you.