The Cuillin Hills Hotel was built in 1865 by the Macdonalds clan as a shooting lodge and dower house, but back then, it was called Portree Lodge. As the Castle at Armadale started to deteriorate in the 20th century, the Macdonalds moved into the lodge and stayed there more often. When the lodge was sold, with its surrounding buildings and land, back in 1950, it was clear that this building had potential to be a beautiful hotel. It has been known as the Cuillin Hills Hotel since the mid 1960s, and has been delighting guests from near and far for over half a century.
The hotel's restaurant is called The View, and has beautiful, light decor with long ceiling to floor windows that let in plenty of light and the beauty of the surrounding landscapes. For breakfast, hotel guests and customers are able to enjoy a continental spread with pastries, fresh fruit, hot porridge oats and a selection of meats and cheese. Hot options include a traditional Scottish breakfast with grilled back bacon, pork sausages, Stornoway black pudding, grilled tomatoes, buttered mushrooms, haggis, potato scones, baked beans and free range Scottish eggs your way. Also on the menu are the warm waffles, and all of the toppings sound absolutely delicious.
The dinner menu has been crafted by the hotel's talented head chef, Darryl MacIntosh, who is inspired by the variety and quality of local produce that is available on the Isle of Skye. Start your meal with steamed mussels in a garlicky white wine and cream sauce made with shallots, and homemade bread and butter on the side. For your main, try the slow roasted shin of beef with celeriac mash, beer roasted shallots, braised chicory and caramelised onion puree, with a port and bramble jus on the side.