The Coll Hotel has been at the heart of island life for generations, welcoming visitors to the Isle of Coll while helping establish the island as one of Scotland’s most distinctive hospitality destinations.
Now, after more than six decades in family ownership, the award winning waterfront hotel has been placed on the market as its owners prepare for retirement.
Standing in Arinagour, overlooking the sheltered waters of Arinagour Bay and Loch Eatharna, the hotel occupies one of the finest positions on the island, combining coastal views with easy access to the village’s amenities while retaining the peace and character that have long made Coll a favourite destination for visitors seeking a slower pace of life.
The hotel offers ten ensuite guest bedrooms that successfully blend traditional Highland character with modern comfort.
Guests are welcomed into a relaxed lounge bar before moving through to the bright garden room, while the restaurant, which accommodates around sixty diners, enjoys panoramic views across the water that have become a memorable part of the visitor experience.
Outside, landscaped gardens provide space for outdoor dining and relaxation, complemented by private parking and the unusual addition of a private helipad.
The property has earned widespread recognition over the years.
Among its achievements are VisitScotland Gold Status, together with both Best Hotel Experience Under 20 Rooms and Best Eatery Experience at the 2022 Highlands & Islands Tourism Awards, reflecting a reputation built on consistently high standards of hospitality and dining.
The hotel has remained in the same family since 1963, with Kevin and Julie Oliphant now preparing to retire after decades of building the business alongside Laura.
Reflecting on their time on the island, they said:
“After arriving on Coll in 1984, the community has embraced us and supported our efforts to turn the business around and put Coll on the map.
“Through our passion and the help of numerous people, we have made The Coll Hotel a destination hotel and a place for great hospitality, excellent dining and plenty of entertaining craic.
“We are truly grateful to our hotel team who have embraced our vision for excellence as well as the Coll community.
“We are so proud of the business we have built and look forward to passing it on to people who see the future potential to make the hotel better than ever.”
Tony Spence, Associate Director for Hospitality at Christie & Co, believes the sale presents a unique opportunity for the right buyer.
He said:
“The Coll Hotel represents a rare opportunity to acquire one of Scotland’s most renowned destination hotels in an exceptional island setting.
“Having been in the same family ownership for over 60 years, the business has built an outstanding reputation for hospitality, dining, and guest experience, reflected in its industry accolades and loyal customer base.
“With its stunning waterfront location, established trading history, and scope for further growth, we expect strong interest from a range of buyers seeking a unique hospitality asset in the Highlands and Islands.”
For the Highlands and Islands hospitality sector, opportunities of this scale rarely become available.
Beyond the hotel itself, the sale represents the passing of a business that has helped shape Coll’s reputation as a destination where visitors experience genuine Highland hospitality alongside one of Scotland’s most beautiful island landscapes.
The hotel is being marketed by Christie & Co
The asking price, full property details, photographs and viewing information can all be found on the official listing.
