We got to the inn before we could check in and the innkeeper (Peter) happened to be in the lobby. He took our luggage for us and stored it. Our taxi had already left and the inn isn't near anything so Peter said he'd drive us to Culloden with a first stop at Balnuaran of Clava. He waited for us while we explored the stones at Clava and then he dropped us off at Culloden before heading out to run errands. We took the bus into town and when we got back to our room, we found our luggage was inside. We only stayed one night and we were supposed to have breakfast in the morning, but because we had to leave at 4:30 am, Peter and his staff were nice enough to make us sandwiches to take with us! We did not eat at the restaurant at the Inn, but we did go to the on-site pub for a couple of drinks. Everyone was very friendly.

The rooms were nothing to speak of. Very basic, clean and comfortable.

Good location about a 10 min drive from the City Centre and close to the airport. Although on arrival the hotel looks a bit dated and not very modern it’s clean and comfortable inside. The owners and staff are some of the best I’ve come across in the hospitality industry. Super friendly and chatty, they couldn’t do enough for the guests. I was up for the Etape Loch Ness so was leaving super early on the day of the ride, Peter offered to have a bit of breakfast left by the door which was great, no big chain hotels would do that for you. The food from the restaurant for breakfast and evening meals were simple and tasty, all homemade, big portions and well cooked. Having USB sockets in the rooms was a great and negated the need for plugs.

It was a little noisy in the evenings but more than tolerable, and generally quiet after 11 at weekends. Most of the noise came from creaky floor boards and the walls being quite thin so you could hear everything in adjoining rooms.

We were made to feel very welcome from walking through the front door. The staff are all very friendly and efficient. We had an exceptionally large room with a comfortable bed, plenty of seating and a lovely view (albeit in the distance) of the Firth. The evening meal was delicious as was the breakfast and the service was very good. The hotel's location was perfect for our needs, including a large private car park, and it was very easy to access from the main road system. It is the ideal hotel for the start/finish of the NC500. We would love to come back and stay longer.

Nothing - everything was perfect.

The stay at Smithton Hotel was truly exceptional. The staff were incredibly warm and welcoming, creating a comforting, home-like atmosphere from the moment of arrival. Every interaction — whether at the front desk, during breakfast, or in passing, was marked by genuine friendliness and thoughtful care. What stood out most was the team’s hospitality and attention to detail. They went above and beyond to ensure a smooth and enjoyable stay, even offering helpful tips for getting around Inverness and discovering local sights. Their recommendations led to some lovely off-the-beaten-path experiences that made the trip even more memorable. The room itself was clean, cozy, and well-equipped perfect for a restful night. The peaceful location of the hotel also added to the overall comfort, offering a quiet retreat while still being conveniently close to the city center. All in all, a wonderful experience that far exceeded expectations, a place that truly feels like a home away from home.

Nothing to mention here.

We arrived at Inverness Airport, and it only took us 15 minutes to get to the hotel, where there were plenty of parking spaces. The hotel’s location was convenient for us, and the travel time to Loch Ness was also acceptable. Additionally, the hotel reception staff were friendly and welcoming, the rooms were clean and warm, and the breakfast was freshly cooked and tasted delicious.

However, the water pressure in the rooms still needs to be improved; apart from that, everything was excellent.

Good “value for money” hotel. It has also bar with darts and pool. In case of bad weather it can be a good place to spend time in. Be aware if you plan to leave your car at the hotel and get to Inverness by transport: bus could be a good option, but they run till 17.30 and later only “night bus” go in that direction ( like once an hour). Uber will show you in the app that it works in Inverness- but it doesn’t. Make sure you have phone number of local taxis to get back to the hotel.

Nothing

We had 2 twin rooms which were both a nice size and we didn't feel cramped at all. Lots of hot water but, note that the switch to turn on the shower is on the wall outside of the bathroom, and I don't mean the light. There is a switch for the water in the shower to come on. Ample and easy parking if you're driving in. It's close to Culloden. Nice breakfast and they had an actual pot of coffee, which is more familiar for us from the US.

The rooms are situated above the pub so there is bar noise which goes late but, not into the wee hours. If you're a light sleeper, it might be a problem for you. We were keeping such a busy vacation schedule that we were tired enough that it didn't bother us.

Staff friendly and helpful. Parking was good. Chef had gone home as I was I was late getting in. They offered to make something for me but I was too tired to eat anyway. Had a pleasant hour or two in the bar talking football etc with other customers. Breakfast service was friendly. Over all I felt welcome during my stay. The hotel was good value for the price I paid. This is not a 5-star hotel but for the price it was clean and welcoming, I would happily stay there again.

Staff was fantastic, arranging for me to arrive well after hours. Their friendliness continued at breakfast the next morning. Also great: the outlets in the room were outfitted with USB ports, so that I could charge my devices without needing an adapter! Fabulous! Bed was very comfortable.

The hotel itself is well-loved since the 1980s and has not been recently updated. Some hooks in the bathroom or a place to put down supplies is always helpful but was not to be found in my particular room. The price is high but probably justified due to demand in this part of the world in the high season.

The room was very clean, it has everything required. The internet connection is stable and good. The parking area allows for all the guests to park nearby. The waiter in the breakfast area is super nice and friendly.

The breakfast was not delicious. The reception lady was not very friendly and seemed to be lost, which has admitted. The room is very very tiny and hard to access with the luggage - you need to pass six doors to get on the second floor.