Spean Bridge Cottages with Hot Tubs

Get More From Your Spean Bridge Hot Tub Cottage Break

Sightseeing

Spean Bridge punches well above its weight for sightseeing opportunities. I always tell friends to start at the Commando Memorial (PH34 4EY, open 24/7), which offers stunning views across to Ben Nevis and the Nevis Range. It's TripAdvisor's top-rated attraction with 4.5/5 from 1,987 reviews.

The village sits at the junction of the A82 and A86, making it perfect for exploring. Nearby Fort William (15 minutes drive) offers the West Highland Museum (PH33 6BA, open 10am-5pm Mon-Sat) where you'll find fascinating Jacobite relics.

We recommend taking the Jacobite Steam Train from Fort William to Mallaig - yes, it's the actual Hogwarts Express from Harry Potter! Book well ahead as tickets sell out months in advance. The train runs May-October, with departures at 10:15am and 2:30pm.

Don't miss Nevis Range (PH33 6SQ), just 15 minutes away, where the mountain gondola takes you 2,150ft up Aonach Mor. The views are spectacular and there's a restaurant at the top. It's open 9:30am-5pm daily (weather permitting) and scores 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor.

Pet Friendly

Many cottages in Spean Bridge welcome dogs, which is brilliant news as this area is a paradise for four-legged visitors. The Great Glen Way passes right through, offering miles of walking routes where dogs can roam freely.

We've found The Old Station Restaurant (PH34 4EP) in Spean Bridge allows dogs in their outdoor seating area. They're open 9am-9pm and do good hearty food - perfect after a long walk.

For rainy days, the Treasures of the Earth exhibition in Fort William (PH33 6PY) allows well-behaved dogs on leads. It's a fascinating collection of crystals and gemstones that scores 4/5 on TripAdvisor.

My top tip: bring towels specifically for your dog - the Highland weather means muddy paws are guaranteed! Most cottages with hot tubs have enclosed gardens, but always check the specific property details as fence heights vary.

Top 3 attractions you have to see in Spean Bridge

1. Commando Memorial - This iconic bronze monument stands 17 feet tall and commemorates the elite Commando forces trained in the area during WWII. The setting is what makes it special - the views across to Ben Nevis and the Nevis Range are breathtaking. One recent visitor wrote: "Even if you're not interested in military history, the views alone make this worth a stop." There's a small car park and information boards explaining the history.

2. High Bridge - This historic spot marks where the first shots of the 1745 Jacobite Rising were fired. The original bridge is now in ruins, but a walking path takes you there from Spean Bridge (about 2 miles). It's a peaceful walk along the River Spean with information panels telling the story. A TripAdvisor reviewer noted: "A lovely walk with real historical significance - we saw red squirrels too!"

3. Spean Bridge Woollen Mill (PH34 4DZ) - This working mill has been producing traditional Scottish textiles since 1946. The shop sells high-quality knitwear, tartans and tweeds. There's also a good café serving homemade cakes and light meals. Open 9am-5:30pm daily. One visitor commented: "We bought beautiful lambswool scarves at much better prices than in Edinburgh." After shopping, you can head back to your cottage and enjoy the hot tub!

When is the best time to visit Spean Bridge?

May to September offers the most reliable weather and longest daylight hours. August can be busier with the Highland Games season. Winter visits (November-February) mean shorter days but the possibility of snow on the mountains and cosy evenings in your hot tub under starry skies.

Do I need a car in Spean Bridge?

While there is a train station and limited bus service, a car gives you much more freedom. Many of the best attractions and walking routes are not accessible by public transport. Most cottages have parking, but check in advance.

What's the nearest airport to Spean Bridge?

Inverness Airport is the closest at 66 miles (about 1 hour 45 minutes drive). Glasgow Airport is further at 108 miles but has more flight options (about 2 hours 30 minutes drive).

Are there shops in Spean Bridge?

The village has a small Spar shop for essentials. For larger supermarkets, Fort William (10 miles away) has Morrisons, Lidl and Aldi. I recommend stocking up on arrival as cottage kitchens are well-equipped for self-catering.

Can I see the Northern Lights from Spean Bridge?

Yes, it's possible! The Highland location with minimal light pollution makes it a good spot for aurora watching between September and March. The hot tub is the perfect viewing platform - just turn off outside lights for the best experience.

What should I pack for a Spean Bridge holiday?

Layers and waterproofs are essential regardless of season. Walking boots for exploring, swimwear for your hot tub and midge repellent between May and September (the Highland midge is notorious!).

Some helpful links:

1. Walkhighlands - Spean Bridge Walking Routes
2. VisitScotland - Fort William & Lochaber Attractions
3. The Jacobite Steam Train Official Site
4. Nevis Range Mountain Experience
5. West Highland Museum