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Summary of reviewsOak Tree Inn, located in the picturesque village of Balmaha on the edge of Loch Lomond, is highly praised for its stunning location and breathtaking views. It serves as an excellent base for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts, being right on the West Highland Way and close to scenic trails like Conic Hill and Ben Lomond. The nearby amenities, such as a charming coffee shop, cozy pub and convenience store, along with its serene lakeside setting, enhance the overall guest experience.
Guests consistently highlight the inn’s cleanliness, noting that both rooms and shared spaces are well-maintained and spotless. The accommodations, which range from spacious rooms with lake views to charming lodges and pods, are praised for their contemporary decor, comfort and functionality. Despite occasional noise issues and minor temperature concerns, the overall sentiment leans heavily towards satisfaction with the rooms.
The Oak Tree Inn's breakfast is frequently commended for its variety and quality, featuring a range of choices from traditional Scottish dishes to hearty options. Though a few guests pointed out areas for improvement, such as coffee quality and the occasional cold dish, the general consensus is that breakfast is a delightful start to the day, enhanced by efficient and friendly service.
Dinner at the inn is similarly well-received with guests praising the tasty, high-quality meals and the cozy, atmospheric restaurant setting. While some found the menu to be limited or in need of healthier options, the majority enjoyed their dining experiences, particularly noting standout dishes like the Jimmy Krankie pizza and Korean chicken starters.
The staff at Oak Tree Inn are consistently highlighted as a major positive, earning accolades for their friendly, helpful and accommodating nature. Despite occasional periods of feeling overwhelmed, the staff’s dedication and efficiency contribute significantly to a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Wi-Fi at the inn is mostly reliable, though some guests experienced connectivity issues in certain areas. However, the majority found the internet access to be solid, especially in communal dining spaces.
Parking facilities are generally satisfactory with free on-site parking appreciated for its convenience. Although some noted that the parking area is small and not well-marked, the availability of additional parking options nearby mitigates these concerns.
Lastly, the beds at the Oak Tree Inn receive favorable reviews for their comfort with most guests reporting restful sleeps, despite minor complaints about bed size and condition.
Overall, the Oak Tree Inn offers a charming and comfortable retreat with spectacular views, excellent service and a clean, inviting atmosphere, making it a delightful choice for travelers seeking to explore the natural beauty of Loch Lomond. Show more
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Inn with Free Wi-Fi
Located in Balmaha, Loch Lomond, this inn provides free Wi-Fi. It is a great option for those exploring the area.
Inn with Parking
3-Star Inn
Room Types
Double RoomA flat-screen TV and an en suite shower room are featured in this room. Some of these rooms are in nearby cottages and you may be allocated one of those.
Deluxe Double RoomAll deluxe double rooms are situated in the cottages, within 100 metres of the inn. All rooms have a scenic view of Loch Lomond.
A king-size bed, flat-screen TV and en suite shower room are provided in each room.
Twin RoomA flat-screen TV and an en suite shower room are featured in this room. Some of these rooms are in nearby cottages and you may be allocated one of those.
Superior Double RoomLarge bedrooms with king-size bed, flat-screen TV, tea/coffee making facilities and en suite shower rooms. This room is in a nearby cottage.
Deluxe Double Room with BalconyThe double room features a tea and coffee maker, a seating area, a balcony with lake views as well as a private bathroom boasting a walk-in shower. The unit has 1 bed.
PodFeaturing free toiletries, this double room includes a private bathroom with a walk-in shower and a hairdryer. A seating area with a flat-screen TV, a tea and coffee maker and a terrace are available in this double room. The unit has 1 bed.
Family RoomProviding free toiletries, this family room includes a private bathroom with a shower and a hairdryer. This family room features a tea and coffee maker, heating and a flat-screen TV. The unit offers 3 beds.
Superior StudioFeaturing free toiletries, this studio includes a private bathroom with a shower, a hairdryer and slippers. This studio has a tea and coffee maker, heating, a flat-screen TV and lake views. The unit has 1 bed.
Guest Reviews
8.7
Very Good
Location
Nestled in the picturesque village of Balmaha, at the edge of Loch Lomond, the Oak Tree Inn boasts a stunning location that offers breathtaking views and close proximity to numerous outdoor activities. Reviewers consistently praise its prime spot, situated right on the West Highland Way, making it an ideal base for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. The scenic trails, including those leading up Conic Hill and Ben Lomond, are just steps away.
The beautiful setting is complemented by nearby amenities such as a charming coffee shop, a cozy pub and a convenience store. Guests also appreciate the lovely patio area and the serene environment provided by the surrounding hills and loch. The hotel’s lakeside position ensures guests enjoy spectacular views from many rooms, enhancing the overall experience.
In addition to the remarkable location, the Inn seems to excel in comfort and cleanliness. The warm and inviting atmosphere, combined with the friendly staff, makes for a welcoming stay. Accommodations range from spacious rooms with stunning views to cozy lodges and cottages, all designed to offer a comfortable retreat after a day of exploration.
This charming inn on the banks of Loch Lomond is perfectly situated for exploring the natural beauty of the area. Whether you’re there for hiking, taking the ferry to nearby islands or simply relaxing and soaking in the views, the Oak Tree Inn is highlighted as a perfect spot for all.
Breakfast
The breakfast experience at Oak Tree Inn generally receives high praise from guests with many highlighting the variety and quality of the offerings. Guests frequently mention the abundance and freshness of the breakfast buffet, which includes a wide array of choices suitable for different tastes, from traditional Scottish dishes to hearty and filling options. The buffet breakfast, often described as delicious, rich and ample, features a good selection of cereals, hot dishes like sausages, bacon, eggs, beans and even porridge with many noting its perfect execution in terms of taste and presentation.
The atmosphere of the breakfast setting is also appreciated with some guests enjoying meals with scenic views, adding to the overall positive dining experience. The staff's efficiency and helpfulness also contribute to making breakfast enjoyable with praise for their accommodation and service.
However, a few guests mentioned specific areas for improvement, such as the lack of fresh fruit, coffee quality and the breakfast sometimes being slightly cold. For some, the breakfast was not included in the room price, leading to additional costs which some found to be on the expensive side. Despite these minor critiques, the consensus leans towards a highly satisfactory and pleasant breakfast experience at Oak Tree Inn, setting up guests well for their day.
Dinner
The reviews for dinner at the Oak Tree Inn are predominantly positive, highlighting excellent and delicious food with a good selection on the menu. Many guests enjoyed their evening meals, describing them as tasty, filling and of high quality. The restaurant itself is described as cozy and atmospheric with some reviewers noting particularly enjoyable experiences in the bar and on the outdoor terrace. Specific dishes like the Jimmy Krankie pizza and Korean chicken starters received standout praise.
Service at the restaurant is generally praised for being helpful and friendly. Despite a limited menu, most guests found the food consistently good and the overall dining experience pleasant. However, there are occasional mentions of the food being expensive, greasy or average and a few guests noted issues with the temperature and noise level in the dining room. Some felt the menu could benefit from an update and healthier options. Nonetheless, the majority of reviewers were satisfied with their meals and recommend trying the restaurant during a stay at the hotel.
Rooms
The rooms at Oak Tree Inn offer a delightful mix of modern comforts, cozy atmospheres and breathtaking views. Guests frequently commend the stunning lake views, spacious interiors and exceptional cleanliness across both rooms and pods. The accommodations are well-equipped, featuring contemporary decor and functional amenities such as complimentary refreshments, bathrobes and fresh coffee with a cafetiere. Many rooms boast additional comforts like fireplaces, modern bathrooms and private terraces.
The pods are a notable highlight, described as cozy, romantic and spacious despite their size. Reviews indicate that rooms in cottages and lodges are equally charming, often praised for their beautiful decoration and complete facilities.
While a few guests encountered issues with room temperatures and noise, particularly those situated near bar areas or over the kitchen, these appear to be the exceptions rather than the norm. Rooms above the bar or facing the road might experience some noise disruption.
Nevertheless, the vast majority of reviewers highlight their room's cleanliness, comfort and the picturesque setting of Oak Tree Inn, providing an inviting retreat with spectacular views of Loch Lomond. With spacious family rooms, deluxe cottages and tastefully furnished pods, the accommodation ensures a memorable stay for all visitors.
Beds
Guest reviews of the Oak Tree Inn frequently mention the comfort of the beds. Many guests describe the beds as comfortable, cozy and clean with terms like "very comfortable," "comfy," and "super comfy" appearing repeatedly. A significant number of visitors reported that the mattresses were soft and contributed to a restful sleep and some guests even found them to be "heavenly comfortable" or "fantastic."
However, there were occasional mentions of the beds being a bit small, particularly the single and pod beds and a few guests noted the beds were too hard or in need of refurbishment. Some reviews mentioned that the beds were worn out or not of the best quality and there were comments about thin and well-used bed linen. There were also isolated complaints about noisy beds, unforgiving pillows and uncomfortable sofa beds.
Despite these minor drawbacks, the overall sentiment about the beds at Oak Tree Inn is positive, indicating that most guests experienced a good night's sleep and found the beds to be a strong point of their stay.
Cleanliness
The Oak Tree Inn has received consistent praise for its remarkable cleanliness, making it a standout choice for travelers seeking immaculate accommodations. Guests frequently noted that the property was extremely clean with every aspect of their stay—from rooms to shared spaces—being well-maintained and spotless. The rooms were often described as lovely, modern and exceptionally clean, reflecting a strong attention to detail in their upkeep. The bathroom cleanliness also scored high with guests, underscoring their satisfaction with the hygienic and spacious facilities.
Visitors particularly appreciated the cleanliness of unique accommodations like pods and cabins, describing them as spotless and spacious. The staff's attentiveness and the overall organization contributed significantly to the hotel's welcoming atmosphere. Common areas, including the bar and breakfast area, upheld the same high standards of cleanliness, enhancing the overall guest experience.
While a few minor issues were mentioned, such as occasional dust and warm room temperatures, the overwhelming consensus highlighted the hotel's exceptional cleanliness. Guests left feeling comfortable and reassured, often expressing their intention to rebook for future visits due to the consistently clean environment. The Oak Tree Inn is often dubbed the jewel in the crown for its pristine condition, making it a reliable choice for a clean and pleasant stay.
Staff
At the Oak Tree Inn, the staff consistently leave a remarkable impression on guests, becoming a highlight of their stay. Reviews commend the staff's dedication, describing them as extremely hard-working, attentive and exceptionally friendly. Across the board, guests encountered a warm and welcoming atmosphere with staff being helpful, charming and courteous. The reception team, along with the restaurant and bar staff, are particularly noted for their friendly demeanor and readiness to assist at all times.
The hospitality skills at Oak Tree Inn are evidently excellent, as reflected in the numerous mentions of pleasant interactions and efficient service. Guests appreciated the staff's promptness, professionalism and local knowledge. Words like 'amazing,' 'awesome,' and 'fantastic' regularly appear in reviews, showcasing the high regard in which the team is held.
Notable instances include the welcoming nature of the waitstaff and the efficient service provided by the receptionists. The staff appear to go above and beyond, often described as accommodating organized and prepared to offer advice. This family-run hotel certainly prides itself on maintaining a friendly and approachable environment, ensuring each visitor feels valued and comfortable.
However, on occasion, guests noted that some staff might appear overwhelmed during busy periods, yet this did not significantly detract from their overall positive experience. The Oak Tree Inn boasts not only a welcoming and helpful team but also an inviting and sociable atmosphere, making it a delightful choice for travelers seeking heartfelt hospitality.
Wi-Fi
The Wi-Fi at Oak Tree Inn receives generally favorable feedback from guests with many highlighting the strength and quality of the connection. Descriptions such as great Wi-Fi, very strong Wi-Fi and surprisingly good Wi-Fi are commonly mentioned. The hotel seems well-equipped with reliable Wi-Fi and guests appreciate the inclusion of Wi-Fi in the package. Several reviews also highlight the good quality connection alongside meals, noting that breakfast and dinner were enjoyable with the added benefit of solid internet access.
However, not all guests had a seamless experience. Some reported issues such as unstable connections or no Wi-Fi access in certain areas, particularly in the lodge rooms. The 4G signal being acceptable in these areas seemed to mitigate this issue for some. Others pointed out that Wi-Fi was non-existent or poor in specific rooms, leading to a less satisfying experience for those individuals.
Overall, while there are occasional issues, many guests found the Wi-Fi at Oak Tree Inn to be good and reliable, making it a positive aspect of their stay.
Parking
Oak Tree Inn offers a range of parking options that generally receive positive feedback from guests. The hotel provides free, on-site parking which many guests appreciate for its convenience with several reviews highlighting the availability of private parking and the ease of parking right outside their rooms. There's also a mention of organized and safe parking, creating a hassle-free experience for visitors.
Despite the overall positive feedback, some guests noted that the parking area is relatively small and that the parking spaces aren't always well-marked, which can be problematic. However with plenty of free parking available and facilities often described as good, most guests find the parking satisfactory. The location also benefits from additional parking options, such as free parking across the road and parking spaces behind the inn.
Overall, while some minor issues are mentioned, Oak Tree Inn generally provides adequate and convenient parking facilities, making it easy for guests to park their vehicles during their stay.
3 Star
Oak Tree Inn presents a welcoming ambiance with a bar ideal for pre-dinner drinks and good pub grub, although guests noted difficulties in ordering and paying for drinks directly at the bar. The property boasts a lovely atmosphere and reservations for dinner and drinks are recommended. The food served in the restaurant is generally good, though some found it overly salty. Despite the varied opinions about the food, the breakfast consistently earned high praise for being outstanding.
The staff receive commendations for their friendliness and accommodating nature, contributing to pleasant stays. The location also adds to the appeal, making it a convenient spot for touring Scotland and exploring tourist attractions. Despite the Scottish weather, guests found their stay enjoyable.
Accommodations are rated as three-star and priced accordingly. While some guests felt the rooms were comfortable and met their needs, others pointed out that the rooms could use updates and were sometimes smaller and noisier than expected. Several reviews mention issues with the water pressure and temperature in the showers, which were often described as inadequate.
Overall, guests found their stays at Oak Tree Inn to be decent with many expressing a willingness to return. The inn appears to strike a balance between good service, decent accommodations and great food and drink, earning solid ratings of 8.00/10 and 9.00/10 from several visitors.
No, Oak Tree Inn doesn't have any pool.
No, a spa isn't available at Oak Tree Inn.
No, Oak Tree Inn doesn't allow dogs.
Yes, parking facilities are available at Oak Tree Inn.