The Brander Lodge Hotel And Bistro, Taynuilt | Pet-Friendly & Local Cuisine

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The Brander Lodge Hotel And Bistro Taynuilt Exterior photo

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Key details

About the Hotel

The Brander Lodge Hotel And Bistro, Bridge Of Awe, Taynuilt, Argyll & Bute, Taynuilt, United Kingdom, PA35 1HT

Near Ben Cruachan

Very good

7.7

/10

4.0

4.3

Loved by The Brander Lodge Hotel And Bistro guests

Spacious room
Delicious food
Excellent location
Helpful staff
Dog-friendly hotel
Wonderful stay

"Wonderful views. Our ground floor room had a garden door taking you straight to a patio with chairs and a table, 20 steps away from the creek. Magical."

Małgorzata from Poland

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"The food was delicious 4 out of 6 of us opted for the steak pie which I can say is one of the best steak pies I have ever tasted in my life."

Ruairidh D from United Kingdom

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"The lodge is at the far side of Loch Awe and 11 miles from Oban."

Michelle from United Kingdom

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3-star country lodge in Taynuilt

Accommodations

The Brander Lodge Hotel offers 21 bedrooms, all with en-suite facilities, including Mira power showers. Each room has central heating, double glazing, and 43' wall-mounted TVs for an enhanced guest experience. Options include standard double rooms for single occupancy and super king-sized rooms for double occupancy.

Dining Experience

Dining at The Brander Lodge is centered around fresh local produce, with a menu that includes offerings from Grants of Taynuilt and Inverawe Smokery. The Bistro, located in a bright, air-conditioned space, provides full-height windows that open in warmer months for an outdoor dining experience. Breakfast is made to order and features a variety of options from full Scottish breakfasts to smoked trout.

Event and Wedding Venue

Brander Lodge provides a unique setting for weddings and events, accommodating up to 160 guests in a self-contained area. The picturesque surroundings consist of 7.5 acres of private land adjacent to the River Awe, ideal for outdoor ceremonies. The dedicated events team offers support to ensure a seamless experience for hosts and attendees.

Activities and Local Exploration

The hotel is situated near stunning natural landscapes, with walking and climbing trails surrounding the property. Guests can explore iconic mountains like Ben Cruachan, known for its breathtaking views. Additional activities include cycling, mountain biking, and fishing on the renowned River Awe.

Family-Friendly Options

The Brander Lodge welcomes families and provides baby high chairs upon request, making dining with children convenient. Families can explore the nearby Corachie Clematis Garden Center, which features a play area and attractive walking trails. Unique experiences are available for children, such as fishing and trail excursions.

Highlights

Location: 7.5 acres of private land

Rooms: 21 bedrooms with en-suite facilities

Dining: Fresh local produce menu

Event Venue: Accommodates up to 160 guests

Activities: Iconic mountain trails nearby

“The Brander Lodge Hotel And Bistro positions itself as a restful base for exploring Argyll's wilder side, although some rooms require modernisation. I found its commitment to local sourcing admirable, especially within the Bistro, and the whisky bar creates a genuine sense of place. For family events, particularly weddings, the venue's flexible spaces and garden setting hold considerable appeal.”

Anna BlackEditor-in-Chief at Tohotel

Location: Great

8.6/10Review score

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Highlights from guests

DiningPlentiful Food

The breakfast was made fresh and catered to all tastes. The potato scone salsa and main courses were lovely.

Alice Brown from United Kingdom

Review on

Guest ParkingConvenient stop

The location was perfect. It was convenient for my trip. And the price was right.

Janine Smith from United States

Review on

Room FeaturesComfy beds

The room was a great size and very comfortable. It also had french doors out to a patio.

Raj Patel from India

Review on

Media & EntertainmentLarge Screen

The room was modern and clean, and featured a large screen TV for entertainment.

Derek Millar from Scotland

Review on

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Select your room type

The Brander Lodge Hotel And Bistro offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals

Standard Super King or Twin Room

2 persons

140 sq. feet

2 Single beds or 1 Queen-size bed

Shower

Heating

room details

Superior Super King Room

2 persons

165 sq. feet

1 King-size bed

Shower

Heating

room details

Small Double Room

2 persons

1 Double bed

room details

Price and Room Availability Calendar

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Facilities

The Brander Lodge Hotel And Bistro offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences

Facilities: Very good

7.8/10Review score

General

No smoking on site
Wi-Fi
Free parking
Pets allowed
Rooms/ Facilities for disabled

Guest Parking

Electric kettle

Services

Room service
Housekeeping
Welcome drink

Dining

Restaurant
Bar/ Lounge area
Picnic area/ Tables
Packed lunches
Special diet menus

Business

Meeting/ Banquet facilities
Fax/Photocopying

Children

Cots
Children's menu
Game room

Spa & Leisure

Garden area
Leisure/ TV room

Room features

Heating
Patio
Terrace
Garden furniture
Tea and coffee facilities

Bathroom

Free toiletries

Self-catering

Electric kettle

Media

Flat-screen TV
AM/FM alarm clock

Room decor

Carpeted floor

Location

The Brander Lodge Hotel And Bistro, Bridge Of Awe, Taynuilt, Argyll & Bute, Taynuilt, United Kingdom, PA35 1HT

Map view

The Brander Lodge Hotel And Bistro, Bridge Of Awe, Taynuilt, Argyll & Bute, Taynuilt, United Kingdom, PA35 1HT

City landmarks

Landmark

The Old Bridge

2400 ft

Landmark

Finn Falconry

1.8 mi

Landmark

River Awe

1.5 mi

Landmark

Glen Nant

1.6 mi

Landmark

Glen Nant National Nature Reserve

1.6 mi

Landmark

Inverawe

1.6 mi

Landmark

Inverawe Smokehouse & Fishery

1.8 mi

Landmark

Bonawe Historic Iron Furnace

2.3 mi

Church

Muckairn Parish Church

2.1 mi

Landmark

Loch Visions

2.3 mi

Landmark

Taynuilt Golf Club

2.3 mi

Landmark

Dun Leigh,dun 200m ENE of Balure

2.2 mi

Landmark

Pass of Brander

2.2 mi

Landmark

Loch Etive Cruises

2.3 mi

Landmark

Bonawe Iron Furnace

2.3 mi

Landmark

The Drammery

2.3 mi

Landmark

Church of the Visitation

2.3 mi

Landmark

Ben Cruachan

2.4 mi

Landmark

Cruachan Visitor Centre

3.0 mi

Landmark

Obelisk

2.5 mi

Landmark

Cruachan Reservoir

2.8 mi

Landmark

Falls of Cruachan

3.1 mi

Landmark

Battle of Pass of Brander

116.8 mi

Nearby

The Old Bridge

2400 ft

Restaurants

The Brander Lodge Hotel & Bistro

100 ft

Bridge of Awe A85

Explore Taynuilt

Local Highlights

The Old Bridge

10 minutes' walk

An iconic landmark featuring stunning architecture and scenic views of the River Awe, perfect for photography.

Finn Falconry

3 minutes' drive

Enjoy bird of prey experiences and educational shows about falconry in a beautiful rural setting.

River Awe

25 minutes walking

A picturesque river surrounded by lush landscapes, ideal for peaceful walks and spotting wildlife.

Bonawe Historic Iron Furnace

10 minutes' drive

An important historical site showcasing the early industrial history of Scotland with informative exhibits.

Hiking at Glen Nant National Nature Reserve

10 minutes' drive

Experience scenic trails in diverse habitats, perfect for families and nature lovers. Parking available nearby.

Golf at Taynuilt Golf Club

10 minutes' drive

Play a round on a stunning course with panoramic views, ideal for both beginners and seasoned golfers.

Yoga Retreats

10 minutes' drive

Relax with local yoga sessions focusing on wellness and mindfulness, often held in beautiful outdoor settings.

The Brander Lodge Hotel & Bistro

5 minutes' walk

Featuring local Scottish cuisine with a cozy atmosphere and signature dishes like haggis, vegetarian options available.

Inverawe Smokehouse & Fishery

10 minutes' drive

Specializes in smoked fish and local produce in a casual setting. Great for seafood lovers; reservations recommended.

Live Music at The Brander Lodge Hotel

5 minutes' walk

Enjoy vibrant live music events during weekends in a relaxed atmosphere, great for a fun evening out.

Local Pub at Taynuilt

10 minutes' drive

A lively spot offering traditional drinks and quizzes, perfect for a casual night with friends or family.

Getting around

City Centre

Taynuilt6 min · 2.3 mi

Airports

Oban (OBN)27 min · 11.1 mi

Colonsay (CSA)134 min · 55.4 mi

Bus

Bus stop12 min · 4.8 mi

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Property information and rules

Check-in

from 15:00-20:00

Check-out

from 08:00-11:00

Guest Parking

Public parking is possible on site for free.

Internet

Wireless internet is available in for free.

Children & extra beds

There are no extra beds provided in a room. There are no cots provided in a room.

Pets

Pets are allowed on request.

Number of rooms:

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about The Brander Lodge Hotel And Bistro from previous guests about their experience.

Review summary

Based on recent reviews

The Brander Lodge Hotel And Bistro commonly impresses with its convenient location, a good base for visiting Oban and other locations. Guests often appreciate the relaxing garden area, some enjoying quiet strolls to a stream at the garden's end, and the private patios equipped with tables and chairs, offering a pleasant outdoor space. Some guests have noted that the hotel exterior appears somewhat dated. The hotel also features a large parking area, making it easily accessible by car.

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Review score

Based on 111 verified reviews

7.3/10

Very good

70%

Recommend

Staff

8.9/10

Location

8.6/10

Free Wi-Fi

6.0/10

Facilities

7.8/10

Pros

Comfy bed

Good location

Nice restaurant

Peaceful location

Cons

Small bedroom

Wet bathroom floor

Disappointing food

Rowan from Ireland

Couple

Standard Super King or Twin Room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: February 17, 2026

8.7/10

Comfortable Stay With Cute Details

tasty optionsground floor roomexcellent servicepeaceful location

Breakfast included tasty options made fresh. I appreciated the ground floor room. It offered direct access to a patio which was quite convenient. Staff members provided excellent service from arrival. They assisted with every request I had. The general location provided peace. It.

I noticed a slight musty smell in the hallway leading to my room.

Rooms

9/10

The room included comfortable bedding and a television for entertainment. It also featured a small seating area. An en suite was available with essential toiletries and clean towels. Fresh linens were provided daily. Views from the window overlooked the garden.

Facilities

8/10

The hotel provides complimentary parking and offers free WiFi throughout the building. A garden area invites guests to relax outdoors and a cozy fireplace provides a warm touch. Luggage storage is available.

Dining

9/10

Breakfast options contained cooked dishes and lighter choices. Beverages included tea and coffee. The bistro provides a menu with Scottish cuisine and varied desserts are available. The bar offers a selection of drinks.

0 Helpful

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Aiden from Ireland

Couple

Standard Super King or Twin Room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: January 07, 2026

8.7/10

Impressed stay and cozy environment

private areagarden accessgood breakfastrelaxing strolls

The patio doors open to a private area equipped with a table and chairs. I found the location good, a brief stroll took me to a stream at the garden's end. Breakfast has offered a very good start to my days here. The garden area has been relaxing, I took quiet strolls.

The hotel exterior appears somewhat dated upon arrival. this should not deter from the pleasant interior.

Location

9/10

The hotel provides convenient access to nearby attractions and activities. The hotel is situated such that guests can readily explore the natural landscape. Parking on-site has been very accessible and easy.

Rooms

8/10

My standard super king room includes adequate space and necessary amenities. The en-suite bathroom has standard fixtures, including a shower and sink. The room contained tea and coffee making facilities, very useful .

Dining

9/10

The dining area presents a variety of meal choices throughout the day. I noted breakfast featured both continental options and freshly cooked dishes. The food preparation shows attention, with ingredients sourced very carefully.

0 Helpful

Nathaniel from United Kingdom

Couple

Superior Super King Room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: December 08, 2025

9/10

a romantic highland escape

lovely staffcozy spotdelicious dishhelpful advice

The staff were so lovely, always ready with a smile and helpful advice. i spent hours by the fireplace, a cozy spot. the food was AMAZING!!! i had a wonderful meal in the bistro. Every dish was delicious.

the wifi signal was a little weak in some areas of the hotel.

Rooms

9/10

the superior super king room had a big comfortable bed and a nice view. i especially liked the patio doors. the bedroom and en suite were super clean and tidy. there were fresh towels every day.

0 Helpful

Rowan from United Kingdom

Single

Standard Super King or Twin Room

3 nights in October 2025

Reviewed: October 31, 2025

6/10

friendly staffabsent receptionlack of greeting

the staff were friendly (that's a plus).

Upon arrival, i had to search for someone at reception. Nobody was there to greet me. that's frustrating when you're tired from traveling. after waiting, someone finally showed up, but the initial lack of service was a poor start.

0 Helpful