Isle of Tiree Accommodation | Everything You Need to Know About Places to Stay on Tiree
Mannal House
Part of the charm of visiting a new place is where you stay. It could be a quaint B&B in the Cotswolds, a fancy hotel in the heart of Vienna, or a mountain chalet in a skiers' paradise. Your accommodation frames your holiday. Finding a place to stay with fantastic service and lovely hosts can make or break your trip. We know; we've been there! A terrible breakfast or lumpy bed can be a recipe for disaster. You're grumpy before you've even set foot outside. Conversely, when you find a hidden gem, a hotel or guesthouse that's utterly unique, you feel like you've struck gold.
What's true in the world is true on Tiree. We might be a tiny island at the westernmost point of the Inner Hebrides, but we still know good hospitality. We're a little famous for it, to be honest. It's ingrained in the island's spirit, from the roaring fires to our cosy restaurants and bars. Hospitality is in our blood.
Still, whenever you venture off somewhere for the first time, you go in blind. Sure, it's all part of the fun of the adventure. It's how you find hidden gems and unique experiences. But it's also how you end up in a dank, dingy room at the back of a mildew-infested pub (totally not speaking from experience…).
We want every visitor, holidaymaker, and intrepid explorer to Tiree to have a phenomenal time. And we want every day to start and end in comfort, in accommodation you just can't stop talking about. It's not just good for you; it's good for the island. It'll spread the word about our verdant little paradise. It's why to help you all out, we've put together a truly epic guide. We're covering everything you need to know about places to stay on Tiree. And we mean everything.
We'll be covering all the hotels & guesthouses, the self-catering apartments and cottages, and even the best camping spots – whether you're camping-in-style or going a little wild. Whatever you're planning to do on your Tiree adventure, read on – you'll want to know everything below.
Hotels
Tiree isn't a big island. In fact, we cover just 30 ¼ square miles of rugged hillsides, sandy beaches, and beautiful fertile machair grasslands. It's little surprise then that we're not swamped with hotels. After all, there are only around 650 of us!
If you want to stay in a hotel, you've got a grand total of three choices. But they're all pretty incredible!!!
Reef Inn
The Reef Inn is a new addition to the Tiree family, opening in 2021. What this friendly, welcoming hotel loses in size, it makes up for in sheer luxury. It has a 4.5 rating on Trip Advisor – meaning it's considered excellent. It's not hard to see why. Just look at the impeccably decorated rooms, with deep bathtubs, comfy sofas, and a bed that looks like a Tiree cloud.
Located right next to the little Tiree airport, it's not hard to get to. And it's not too far from the big Tiree attractions, including Balevullin Beach – where you can go surfing with Blackhouse Watersports. Tiree is known as the 'Hawaii of the North', after all.
You can also eat and drink in the hotel restaurant and bar. Using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, you're treated to a spectacular and delectable array of dishes – most of which are inspired by Tiree's rich seafood tradition. Oh, and they do a mean mojito – just saying.
Scarinish Beach Hotel
Scarinish is the main settlement on the island. Don't expect a small town – Scarinish is a quaint village just a stone's throw from the ferry. Here, you'll find the Scarinish Hotel: the island's preeminent accommodation.
Overlooking Gott Bay and the tumultuous seas between Tiree and Mull, the Scarinish Hotel is the perfect place to stay after a busy day surfing, hiking, or chilling by the beach. Indeed, unlike your typical cold and corporate hotel room, Scarinish is all about your home comforts. The rooms are warm and fresh – with exceptionally comfy beds and plenty of tea and coffee available.
You'll find a flatscreen TV, free high-speed Wi-Fi, and you can even bring your dog along – this is a pet-friendly hotel. There's also a great breakfast every morning in the fantastic hotel restaurant. The food is to die for – and the beer is pretty amazing too! Oh, and the Tiree Lobster and Crab is just around the corner (and definitely worth a visit!)
Tiree Lodge Hotel
Situated in the island's longest beach, the Tiree Lodge Hotel is the perfect base from which to explore the island. It also overlooks Gott Bay, with stunning panoramic views of the white sands and blue seas beyond. With 18 rooms, you're always likely to find somewhere to stay. And if you're an avid windsurfer or runner, there's no better place to stay than in the Tiree Lodge Hotel. It's always toasty and warm – and you've even got a flatscreen TV and free high-speed Wi-Fi when you've got a few moments to spare.
The team here really does go above and beyond. And their cooking is absolutely delicious (they'll always provide a vegan or gluten-free option). Plus, the hotel underwent a refurbishment not that long ago, so the rooms are still in tip-top condition. Oh, and they also allow pets – so feel free to bring along your dog.
Expect warm, friendly service and mouth-wateringly good food. The Tiree Lodge Hotel puts the island on the map!
Guesthouses & Hostels
Fancy somewhere a little cosier? Check out these fabulous guesthouses and hostels dotted around our wild island paradise. They're utterly unique.
Rockvale Guest House
To say the Rockvale Guest House gets good reviews would be an understatement; it's perfect… literally. After 194 reviews on TripAdvisor, they still boast a 5/5 rating. Why? Because this is one place to stay dedicated to your absolute comfort and contentment.
Here, the beds are made with Egyptian linen cotton, the tea and coffee are fairtrade, and you've even got homemade baking to enjoy. (I promise, I'm not making it up.) All the guest rooms are en suite with a flatscreen TV, free high-speed Wi-Fi, and a plentiful selection of DVDs. It's the ideal set-up if you fancy hunkering down and trying a bit of Cosagach (Scottish hygge) one night. That's if you even use the room – being on the doorstep of Tiree's surfer heaven: Balephetrish Beach.
With family, double, twin, and single rooms, you'll always find something just right for you.
Millhouse Hostel
Millhouse Hostel isn't the fanciest place on the island. But, as hostels go, it's absolutely top tier. You won't find any of the austere prison-like rooms you find in some hostels. Instead, the rooms are bright, clean, and perfect for a wild camper looking for a warm bed or any adventurers in need of a basecamp.
You'll also have access to the lounge where you can chill and relax, as well as a kitchen and dining room. There's even space for disposable BBQs around the back – so you can get cooking something delicious.
It's also right near Balevullin Beach – and the hostel includes a wetsuit rack and clothes drying line. (They know who they're catering to!) And there are still some 21st-century comforts; the whole hostel has free Wi-Fi throughout.
Mannal House B&B
You've really got to see Mannal House's spectacular view to appreciate it. I'd wager it's one of the best views of any B&B in the UK (maybe even Europe). From your cosy rooms, you'll look out across the open Scottish waters and the mountains of Mull beyond. Spend your mornings watching the sunrise – there's no better way to start your day.
All the rooms are en suite, with flatscreen TVs, a DVD player, and free Wi-Fi (you even get a hairdryer). And in the lounge, you can snuggle up for a cosy evening by the log fire.
The breakfasts are also delightful. Whether you prefer a hearty breakfast with all the trimming or a light bite to eat, you'll always be well-fed and ready to start your day.
(Check out their garden too! At low tide, there's a winding path that leads to a sheltered beach.)
Self-Catering Accommodation
You're a little spoilt for choice if you're looking for self-catering apartments and cottages. The island is brimming with plenty of historic buildings where you can rest your head (literally dozens). Rather than go through every single one, we've picked out a few special locations.
However, if you want a complete listing of places to stay, check out Visit Scotland site for further information. Plus, you'll also find some businesses that own multiple properties, like Tiree Cottages at Kilmoluaig.
This is just a taste of what Tiree has to offer…
Kirkapol House – Beach Apartment
Converted from a former Victorian church, this spectacular beachfront property is a popular spot for windsurfers. Located in Gott Bay – not far from Tiree Lodge Hotel – the rooms boast a mesmerising view towards the Inner Hebrides and Highlands beyond.
The apartment can hold up to four guests, with one bedroom and one en suite shower room. Decorated in Harris tweed, wool throws, and a simple yet elegant aesthetic, it's a comfortable and cosy place to stay.
There's also a living room (with TV, electric fire, and sofa bed), a fully-functional kitchen, and an outside area with direct access to the beach. Oh, and you're also within walking distance of the pub.
The Thatch
Battered as we are by the Atlantic winds, the old cottages on Tiree have walls as thick as castles. They are pretty unique places to stay. Nowhere is that truer than The Thatch – a beautifully renovated and luxurious cottage owned by Tiree Cottages.
Despite its homely appearance, it boasts all the essential amenities, including a large modern walk-in shower, a stunning tiled kitchen, and a cosy living space (which is surprisingly spacious). Although there's a cot for very young children, the cottage is designed for two people.
If you love these old-style cottages, Tiree Cottages has several other properties. One of which, the Corncrake Cottage, is built in the classic 'spotted house' style. Also known as 'pudding houses', the dark stone contrasts against the white mortar.
Crofter's Thatch
Crofter's Thatch is another old-style cottage with a sleek modern interior. It lets you experience all the old comforts without sacrificing any modern necessities. It's the ultimate snug retreat.
The cottage is fully-equipped with a queen-size bedroom, walk-in shower, complete kitchen, wood-burning stove, and even a washing machine and tumble dryer. It's your home away from home.
Located on Tiree's western shore, your only view is the majestic Atlantic Ocean stretching endlessly beyond the horizon.
Soa Cabins - Oystercatcher
Soa Cabins are the next level in beachfront property. These crisp wooden cabins are like the ultimate glamping experience. Each cabin sleeps up to four people in two double beds, and despite their small size, they pack a lot in. You'll also have access to a well-equipped kitchenette (fridge, microwave, toaster, kettle, twin hob, and sink) as well as a small seating area and deck.
What you’re really after, however, is the break-taking view of Mull and Iona across the water. And with the beach literally a few steps away, you're never far from wandering out and seeing it for yourself. Plus, with the sea at your window, you can often spot seals and basking sharks patrolling the waters.
This is glamping like you've never done it before!
An Taigh Muir
Sometimes you need a little more room. If you're planning a family holiday on Tiree, look no further than An Taigh Muir. This historic, traditional stone-built, black-roofed cottage has recently been refurbished.
It's also pretty sizeable. With room for six across three bedrooms and two bathrooms, you'll never feel under each other's feet. And the house contains everything you could need for a successful holiday. It's a full house containing a modern open-plan kitchen, a living room with a stove (you're provided with a bag of coal and kindling), and a dining room for a fun family meal.
Plus, it's just 300 metres from Balevullin Beach. So, if you want to take your kids out surfing, this cottage should be top of your list.
Middle House
Are you after the ultimate Hebridean hideaway with all the trimmings? The Middle House is the answer. Overlooking Gunna Sound – and with direct access to the beach – it's one of the most stunning properties on the island. The house sleeps 6, with three bedrooms and three bathrooms.
Whatever you're after, this house has it. One pretty fantastic feature is the beautiful oak dining table next to the patio doors. Eat your breakfast with your friends or family as you stare across the open water to the islands across the way. It's more than a little mesmerising.
Located in Caolas, at the northeastern tip of the island, you can always see Tiree's sister islands of Coll and Gunna.
And yes, there's a wood-burning stove ready for a wild and windy evening.
The Cow Shed
Don't be fooled by the name – they're just being humble. The Cow Shed is more of a palace. This large luxury holiday home sleeps eight, across four bedrooms and four bathrooms – and it does so in style.
It may be at the pricier end of Tiree accommodation, but you certainly get your money's worth. With superking beds, ensuite shower rooms, a large, spacious and very modern kitchen where you can cook up a feast. And you'll want to, too – especially considering the panoramic view of Balevullin Beach and beyond.
Plus, when the weather's stunning, you can always eat outside on the large expanse of decking.
Being so close to Balevullin Beach, the house is also kitted out for watersports. There's a large heated drying room where you can hang your wetsuits, as well as a drying rack.
This place is pretty special.
Struthan Cottage
Nestled in the hamlet of Kilmoluaig, Struthan Cottage is a touch of luxury. The business owns two cottages, one being Struthan Cottage, a 100-year-old traditional stone house that features two bedrooms and sleeps between 4 to 6 people. The other is Struthan Byre – currently under development; it's expected to be finished in Winter 2022.
Perhaps one of the highlights of the cottage is the incredible garden bursting with life. It's perfect for your lunch or a BBQ in the summer sun. And the views across the Tiree landscape and waters are like nothing you've ever seen. In fact, there's no better holiday moment than enjoying a glass of wine as the sun dips below the horizon.
Inside, the cottage is warm and cosy – with lots of period features. It's a fantastic family getaway, where you can't help but unwind.
Camping
Scotland is the camping capital of Europe – or at least we think so. And there are few places as lovely to camp as Tiree. We've got on a proper campsite and lots of crofts that welcome campers. Plus, you can always wild camp (we'll explain the rules below).
Balinoe Campsite
Established in 2007, Balinoe campsite is a sheltered and friendly place to pitch your tent. They cater to everyone, from individuals, families, and small groups. There are around 20 awesome pitches across the sites, as well as space for campervans and towed caravans.
You can expect all the necessary camping utilities, including toilets and showers (unmetered), cooking facilities, fire pits, free Wi-FI, freshwater, and electric hook-up.
If you fancy something a little more solid for the night, they've also got several pods – either two single beds or a double bed. And there's a bothy which has three single beds – don't expect much – but it is watertight.
You'll also find an indoor facilities area, where you can cook and wash your clothes.
Croft Camping
There are nine crofting camping sites on Tiree:
- Crossapol
- Balephetrish West
- Balephetrish East
- Balephetrish House
- Gott Bay East
- West Hynish
- Balemartine
- Lodge Farm
- Sunset Croft
You'll need to email ahead to book before you start camping. Drop the very friendly team an email at camping@tireetrust.org.uk. The locals on Tiree would much prefer you to camp on these lovely croft sites than wild camp – as the machair grassland dunes are delicate systems and do not accommodate vehicles.
You can even bring along a motorhome or campervan!
Wild Camping
According to the Scottish Outdoor Access Code, everyone has the right to wild camp. In fact, it's one of the best ways to see the island and truly get into the Tiree spirit.
We do have some rules to follow:
No motor vehicles. All wild campers should be on foot, as vehicles can easily damage the landscape.
For two to three nights. Using the same spot will cause wear and tear. Wild campers should move on after a couple of nights.
Leave it as you find it. That means removing all your litter, removing all traces of your pitch (and any open fires), and not causing any pollution.
Try to avoid enclosed fields or historic sites. We're a farming island, meaning animals are common throughout the land. If you camp in their field, they will disturb you (and you'll have to explain yourself to a disgruntled farmer). Also, please stay away from any historic sites, buildings, or roads. If you wish to camp near a building, always get the owner's permission.
We know this sounds a little strict. And you're still more than welcome to wild camp on Tiree – just remember, it's for everyone.
