Planning a Winter Group Trip to Scotland? How to Rent an Entire Hostel on Loch Ness
Finding budget-friendly accommodation in the Scottish Highlands can be challenging for university clubs, family reunions, and outdoor societies looking for a cozy, vibrant retreat spot. Between November and March, Scotland’s Top Hostels makes it simple by opening Lochside Hostel in Alltsigh for exclusive winter hire. Located directly on the A82, with convenient public transit links to Inverness, Fort William, the Isle of Skye and Oban, this private loch-facing property allows groups to rent the entire facility while the hostel is otherwise closed to the general public.
Whether booking the Main House (sleeps up to 29), the Beach House (sleeps up to 36), or both buildings for full sole-use, your group gets private use of bedrooms, self-catering kitchens, communal lounges, and free on-site parking. Sitting just 30 metres from the water, the property features a private pebble beach, direct access to the Great Glen Way, and 24/7 on-site kayak hire via Kayakomat & Yak Shack - offering an unmatched private spot for exploring Loch Ness in the quiet, relaxed winter season.
Want to make a reservation or an enquiry? It's simple, book your stay through Scotland's Top Hostels by clicking the link below:
What is there to do around Loch Ness during the Winter?
Stepping onto the Great Glen Way, just seconds away from the hostel doorstep, during the winter offers a peaceful way to explore the dramatic scenery surrounding Loch Ness. Running right behind Lochside Hostel in Alltsigh, this trail provides crisp winter views across the loch toward the surrounding hills. Hiking popular sections - such as the elevated stretch between Invermoriston and Drumnadrochit - gives groups a chance to take in frosty woodland trails, quiet forests, and sweeping viewpoints.
Exploring the iconic ruins of Urquhart Castle in off-peak months is a unique historical experience. Located just a short drive or direct bus ride up the A82 from Alltsigh, the 13th-century fortress sits on a rock overlooking the deepest part of Loch Ness. Visitors can wander through the Grant Tower, check out the medieval siege engine replicas, and appreciate the beauty of the ancient stone ruins.
Taking a boat cruise with Jacobite Cruises or Ness Bus from nearby travel hubs allows guests to get directly out onto the dark, deep waters of Loch Ness. Operating throughout the winter season, these guided boat tours feature underfloor heating, heated viewing lounges, and sonar equipment to scan the depths. Floating past dramatic Highland shorelines while learning about local folklore, geology, and history offers an invigorating way to experience the scale of the loch from the water itself.
Discovering local Highland history and traditional hospitality makes for ideal lower-tempo winter afternoon excursions. Groups can head into Drumnadrochit to visit the Loch Ness Centre, an immersive multi-room exhibition that explores the scientific research, natural history, and myths surrounding the area. Afterward, warming up by a roaring log fire in a traditional local pub like the Fiddlers in Drumnadrochit or The Glenmoriston Arms in Invermoriston lets guests sample local single malt whiskies, warm up after outdoor adventures, and enjoy authentic Highland hosopitality.
What facilities are included in exclusive hire of Lochside Hostel in Loch Ness?
Exclusive hire of Lochside Hostel gives your group complete, private access to essential self-catering amenities, spacious common areas, and dedicated outdoor spaces right on the shores of Loch Ness. When booking the Main House (sleeps up to 29), your group enjoys exclusive use of a fully equipped self-catering kitchen complete with commercial/large-capacity refrigeration, double stoves, ovens, microwaves, cookware, and dining sets. Connected to the kitchen is a large communal lounge furnished with ample seating for all 29 guests to dine, relax, and socialise together. Additional private facilities include multiple ground-floor and first-floor shower and WC rooms, free on-site parking for cars and mini-buses, and free Wi-Fi throughout the common areas.
For larger groups renting both the Main House and the Beach House (sleeps up to 36), sole-use access expands across 15 total bedrooms and 9 dedicated shower/WC rooms, accommodating up to 65 guests total. Beyond the interior facilities, exclusive hire includes direct, private access to the hostel’s pebble beach located just 30 metres from the buildings, immediate entry to the Great Glen Way walking trail, and 24/7 on-site self-service kayak hire via Kayakomat & Yak Shack. A dedicated member of staff remains on-site throughout your stay to assist with check-in, check-out, and local coordination while leaving your group to enjoy total privacy.
How can I kayak on Loch Ness during my stay at Lochside Hostel this Winter?
Kayaking on Loch Ness is effortless during a winter stay at Lochside Hostel thanks to on-site, 24/7 self-service rental via Kayakomat & Yak Shack. Located just 30 metres from the hostel buildings, the equipment is available right on the hostel’s private pebble beach. Guests can easily rent kayaks and gear directly using their smartphone, gear up on shore, and launch straight into the water without needing transport or off-site transfers.
Because winter conditions on Loch Ness require extra care, cold-weather safety is essential. High-grade buoyancy aids are included with every rental, and guests should wear thermal layers and waterproof outer shells. Paddling conditions on the loch can change quickly, so groups are advised to monitor local weather forecasts, stick close to the shoreline, and make the most of calm, crisp winter mornings on the water.
Check out our full and easy guide to kayaking on Loch Ness right here:
FAQs about Exclusive Hire of Lochside Hostel
Q: How many people can sleep at Lochside Hostel for exclusive winter hire?
A: Lochside Hostel can accommodate groups from 29 up to 65 people across two separate buildings between November and March. The Main House sleeps up to 29 guests across 8 bedrooms and includes the central communal lounge and fully equipped self-catering kitchen. The Beach House sleeps up to 36 guests across 7 dormitories. Groups can rent either building individually or book both together for total sole-use of the entire site.
Q: Is Lochside Hostel open to individual travelers during the winter?
A: No, Lochside Hostel is closed to the general public and individual solo travelers from November through March. During these months, the property operates exclusively for pre-booked group private hire (exclusive use). Solo travelers and couples looking for winter stays in Scotland can book beds at Scotland’s Top Hostels' year-round Edinburgh properties: Castle Rock Hostel, High Street Hostel, and Royal Mile Backpackers.
Q: How do we get to Lochside Hostel by public transport in the winter?
A: Lochside Hostel is situated directly on the main A82 road in Alltsigh, making it easily accessible without a car. Regular Scottish Citylink & Ember bus services run along the route, connecting the hostel directly to Inverness, Fort William, Skye, and Oban. There is a bus stop located right outside the hostel grounds, and free on-site parking is available for groups traveling by private cars, vans, or mini-buses.
Q: Are pets allowed during exclusive winter hire of Lochside Hostel?
A: No, pets are strictly not permitted at Lochside Hostel at any time, including during sole-use exclusive group rentals.
Comments