FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions

Booking & Stays

How do I book?
Head to www.bradanlodges.com and book your lodge on the relevant page.  You can see availability of all lodges and choose one, or you can head to the page of your favourite lodge and book there.  The website has information on all of the lodges including amenities.  You will be asked for card details, but payment will not be taken from your card.  Instead, you will be asked to place a deposit to secure the booking by bank transfer after you receive your booking confirmation.  You will then be asked for the balance two weeks before the date of check-in. 

What time is check-in and check-out?
Check-in is from 3pm, giving you time to settle in and unwind. Check-out is by 10am, so we can prepare the lodge beautifully for our next guests.  In certain circumstances, late check-out is allowed, so do enquire if this is something you would prefer.

Is there a minimum stay?
We usually have a 3 night minimum stay. The maximum stay is unlimited, so come for as long as you like!

Can we book for a special occasion?
Absolutely. Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary or surprise proposal, we’re happy to help arrange thoughtful extras — just let us know in advance.

Do you offer gift vouchers?
Yes, we offer gift vouchers for stays — a perfect present for couples who deserve an escape.  Please ask us for details.

The Lodges

Are the lodges private?
Yes. Each lodge is positioned to offer privacy and uninterrupted views, so you can truly switch off and enjoy your own space.

Do the lodges have private hot tubs?
Yes — each lodge has a private outdoor hot tub, exclusively for your use throughout your stay.

Are there outdoor cooking facilities?
Yes, there is a separate fully equipped barbeque hut with enough charcoal for your first night of cooking under the stars.  There is also a fire pit for cooking marshmallows.  The barbeque hut has comfortable seating as well as plates, cutlery and cooking implements.

Is there Wi-Fi?
Yes, complimentary Wi-Fi is available, though many guests choose to take the opportunity to fully unplug.

Is there parking?
Yes, there is private parking next to or very close to each lodge.

Is there a smart TV?
Yes, there is a flat screen smart TV in every lodge.  You can log into your own Netflix account or bring your Amazon Firestick and watch all the entertainment you want to catch up on! We ask that your remember to log out of your Netflix account at the end of your stay, and don't forget to take your Firestick home with you.

I see there are donkeys on site, can I pet them?
Yes, of course!  Our donkeys, Sam and Rodney, are well known to our guests, and a couple of real characters.  You are welcome to feed them appropriately,. for example, with apples and carrots.  It might be best not to go into the paddock with them since they are strong and could behave unpredictably.  But there is plenty of fenceline to get up close and give their ears a scratch, which they love!  Please keep control of your dog around the donkeys since they could react adversely to dogs they don't know.

Dogs

Are dogs allowed?
Yes — we welcome well-behaved dogs in all lodges.

Is there an extra charge for dogs?
No, dogs are welcome for free.

Is it safe for my dog to roam around the lodge?
Yes of course!  It's your dog's holiday too!  There are no restrictions on where your dog can go.  We have resident donkeys on site, so we kindly ask that dogs are kept under close control when nearby, as donkeys can react unpredictably around unfamiliar dogs. 

Are there any restrictions?
No, we would like your dog to be as much a guest at the lodge as you are.  We only ask that you keep muddy paws off the bed and soft furnishings, and clean up any dog mess from around the lodge before you leave.

Are there good walks nearby?
Yes — from coastal paths to woodland trails, Argyll offers endless scenic walks straight from your lodge door.  See the Dog Walks section in our Lodge Guest Information. Please keep control of your dog around sheep, which are very plentiful in the area, and other livestock.  Many dogs are not used to seeing sheep and might be tempted to chase or worry them.

Hot tub

Are there any special rules for the hot tub?
Hot tub rules and recommendations are displayed near each private hot tub and we ask that you observe them closely.  Please shower before you go into the hot tub, particularly if you use fake tan, since failing to do so might meant that your hot tub becomes stained and needs to be emptied and refilled during your stay.

Will I be able to get into the hot tub straight away?
We take hot tub hygiene very seriously, and there might be occasions when you can't get into the hot tub as soon as you arrive since a few hours need to elapse after adding chemicals.  If this applies we will leave a clear sign inside your lodge advising that you wait until the evening after your arrival to give the hot tub time to settle. 

Does anything need to be done to my hot tub during my stay?
It might be necessary for us to come and test your hot tub during your stay, sometimes every day, in order to keep it sparkling clean and hygienic.  We will try not to disturb you when we attend your hot tub.  If you stay for several days, we might need to empty and refill your hot tub to keep the water quality in tip top condition.

Barbeque hut

Are there any special rules for the barbeque hut?
Safety rules for the barbeque hut are displayed on the wall inside.  Please do not leave the barbeque unattended, and ensure it has died down before you leave the hut.

Location & Surroundings

Where in Argyll are you located?
We are located in Kilmichael Glen, surrounded by natural beauty yet within easy reach of local villages, restaurants and attractions.  Lochgilphead is the nearest main town with everything you wuld need.

What wildlife can I expect to see around the lodge?
The surrounding wildlife is one of the many charms of the lodges, and you will feel immersed in it.  You can expect to see deer wandering around, especially at dawn and dusk. There are three species common in the area - red deer, roe deer and Sika deer.  Red squirrels can sometimes be observed, particularly from Pine Marten lodge which is nestled in woodland.  You will see and hear countless birds, and might even spot frogs and bats as well.  Occasionally, particularly in winter, bats might find their way into the warmth fo the lodge where they will huddle up in the roof.  Please don't worry, and leave them alone.  They are a protected species and will probably go out the way they came in.

Are there restaurants nearby?
Yes, we’re happy to recommend some of our favourite local spots — from cosy pubs to seafood restaurants. Many are detailed in the Lodge Guest Information.

What local produce is available?
The seafood in Argyll must be sampled.  One of the best places is Prentice Seafoods in Tarbert. Local venison is available from the next door Kirnan Estate.  They operate an honesty fridge and their venison is amazing for cooking in the BBQ hut.  Honesty boxes operate around the area, including Knapdale Artisan Bread in Tayvallich, and various boxes outside private homes selling eggs, cakes and jams. See the Lodge Guest Information for more details.

Is the lodge suitable for children?
Our lodges are designed as a peaceful couples’ retreat and are not suitable for children.

Practical Details

What is provided in the lodge?
Each lodge includes a fully equipped kitchen, sitting room, bathroom and bedroom with luxury linens, towels, bathrobes and toiletries.  There is also a BBQ hut outdoors, a fire pit, private hot tub and patio with seating area.  Wildcat and Woodcock lodges have wood burning stoves.  There are flat screen smart TVs in all lodges, as well as WiFi.

Is there a coffee maching?
Yes.  The coffee machine in each lodge takes L'Or or standard Nespresso coffee pods (not Vertuo).

Do you provide robes and towels for the hot tub?
Yes, both are provided.  The robes are warm, fleecy and luxurious.

Is there a hairdryer?
Yes, each lodge has a hairdryer

What toiletries do you provide?
Shampoo, conditioner, bath/shower gel, body lotion and hand soap are provided.

Do you provide breakfast or refreshments?
No, breakfast is not provided.  The lodges are purely self-catering. We provide coffee capsules, teabags and biscuits for your arrival.

Where can I buy provisions?
There are many shops nearby selling local treats as well as staples.  The closest are the Spa at the Riverside on the way to Lochgilphead.  Turn left out of the lodge, then right at the end of the Glen, then left on the main road.  The Riverside is around 4 miles down the road on the left.  There is also a large Coop and a Tesco in Lochgilphead.

Do you provide charcoal and wood for the BBQ hut and wood burning stove?
We provide enough charcoal, wood, firelighters and matches for your first evening at the lodge.  You can pick up extra supplies at the Riverside, Coop and Tesco in Lochgilphead, just 10 to 15 minutes down the road.

Is there anything we need to bring?
Not really!  You can rest in the knowledge that as soon as you arrive, you can wind down in a lodge which is fully equipped to the highest standard. However, you might find it useful to pick up extra wood, charcoal, kindling and firelighters since those things are only provided for your first evening.  A pint of milk might also be good if you take it in your tea or coffee. If you want to walk, wellies or walking boots would be helpful, as well as a waterproof.  A swimming costume or trunks are essential if you want to enjoy the hot tub!

What is your cancellation policy?
Our full cancellation policy is outlined at the time of booking. We recommend travel insurance for peace of mind.