Business Details
Family-Run Hotel on North Coast 500
The Portland Hotel, established in 1851, is a family-run establishment nestled in the picturesque harbour village of Lybster, Caithness. Our hotel forms part of the renowned North Coast 500 route, offering guests a strategic base for exploring the Scottish Highlands, Orkney, and Shetland. With a rich history and a reputation for award-winning, locally sourced cuisine, we combine traditional Highland hospitality with modern comforts. Our 24 individually styled en-suite rooms cater to diverse needs, from standard doubles to luxurious four-poster suites, ensuring a memorable stay for every visitor. The hotels reopening in 2018 marked a revival of its historic character, blending sympathetic renovations with contemporary amenities.Our team prides itself on attentive service, evidenced by glowing guest testimonials highlighting clean, comfortable rooms, exceptional dining, and thoughtful touches like breakfast boxes for early departures. As a key venue for weddings and events, we offer personalized coordination to create unforgettable experiences. For motorcyclists, secure bike storage and partnerships with local suppliers ensure convenience. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in accolades such as 2021 Best Family-Run Hotel and our role as a trusted NC500 stopover. We invite guests to experience the warmth of Caithness hospitality in a location steeped in history and natural beauty.
Services
Accommodation
Dining
Weddings & Events
Gin & Whisky Bar
Biker Friendly Facilities
Highlights and features
- Family-run heritage with attentive, personalized service since 1851.
- Strategic location on North Coast 500 for easy access to Scottish Highlands and islands.
- Award-winning cuisine featuring locally sourced ingredients and Scottish classics.
- Secure, covered bike storage and motorcycle-friendly amenities for riders.
- Historic venue with modern comforts, hosting weddings and events since 1851.
What people say
Friendly staff
Excellent food
Comfortable rooms
Memorable experience
Great location
Services
Accommodation
The Portland Hotel offers 24 uniquely styled en-suite rooms, ranging from standard doubles to luxury four-poster suites. Each room includes amenities like free WiFi, Smart TVs, and complimentary refreshments. Located on the North Coast 500, guests enjoy easy access to Caithnesss natural and historic attractions. The hotels family-run ethos ensures personalized attention to comfort and detail.
Dining
Our award-winning restaurant serves locally sourced Scottish cuisine, including fresh fish smoked on-site and herbs from our garden. The menu features traditional dishes with modern twists, available daily from 5pm. Ideal for both residents and travelers, the dining experience combines Highland hospitality with exceptional service and a rotating selection of seasonal specials.
Weddings & Events
The hotels main hall hosts weddings and events for up to 250 guests, complemented by smaller spaces for intimate gatherings. Services include red carpet arrivals, complimentary four-poster stays for couples, and full event coordination. With over 30 years of experience, our team ensures seamless execution of ceremonies, meals, and evening entertainment.
Gin & Whisky Bar
The bar boasts over 150 gins and a curated selection of single malts, including local distillery exclusives from Wolfburn and Old Pulteney. Guests can enjoy tastings in the residents lounge or opt for guided tours of Scotlands spirit heritage. The collection highlights regional distilleries, making it a must-visit for connoisseurs.
Biker Friendly Facilities
Motorcyclists benefit from secure, covered bike pens with 24/7 camera monitoring and smartphone access. The hotel provides bike-washing tools and partnerships with local suppliers for spare parts. A dehumidified drying room ensures gear stays dry, catering to riders exploring the North Coast 500 route.
Questions
How do I book a room at The Portland Hotel?
Book directly via our website or contact us at 01593 721348 for best rates and availability.
What amenities are available for motorcyclists?
Secure, covered bike storage, security cameras, and partnerships with local motorcycle suppliers for spare parts.
Does the hotel offer breakfast options?
Yes, including a cold buffet and full Scottish cooked breakfast served until late morning.
Can I host a wedding or event at the hotel?
Yes, our main function hall accommodates up to 250 guests and offers tailored wedding services.
Is the hotel accessible for guests with mobility needs?
Some ground-floor rooms are available; contact us in advance to discuss specific requirements.
What nearby attractions are accessible from the hotel?
Nearby sites include Camster Cairns, Whaligoe Steps, and distilleries like Wolfburn and Old Pulteney.
Videos
Reviews (5)
Shane Maclean
Nov 02, 2021
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Great warm friendly welcome . We stayed in a lovely large room with four poster bed and large flat screen tv. Large bathroom with great shower pressure and large soft bath sheets.Very good breakfast in the morning.
Andrew Sutherland
Sep 18, 2021
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Haven't stayed myself for long time but by all accounts still a very good place to stay and has been popular this year if amount of vehicles r to go by
Ben Keilty
Sep 17, 2021
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We stayed here as it was well placed for a 5 day NC500 itinerary. Sadly that's the only positive thing I can say because the hotel is extremely tired. Our room was very small and clearly hadn't been decorated in the last 20 years. Breakfast was good but restaurant had no atmosphere.
George
Aug 07, 2021
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Everything was perfect. This was the perfect second stop on our NC500 journey. The food is absolutely gorgeous. We had dinner and then Breckfast the following morning. If you're after a special treat I'd recommend the steak! Thanks again to all the staff and please pass on my compliments to your chef/s, deffinetly a memorable stop.
Adrian Bialasek
May 14, 2021
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Hidden gem. 100 percent will be back for some more food. Had a lovely wedding event today and food + staff was brilliant. The only thing I'd say is please please please warn weird people like myself there's coriander in some dishes
