Skip to main content
  1. Hotel reviews homepage
  2. UK hotel reviews
  3. Highlands vacation rental reviews
  4. Kyle of Lochalsh vacation rental reviews
  5. Reviews of Hidden Gem in a great location very near Isle of Skye

Reviews of Hidden Gem in a great location very near Isle of Skye

Flat 4 The Studio, Balmacara, Kyle of Lochalsh, IV40 8DH, United Kingdom

#5 of 11 vacation rentals in Kyle of Lochalsh

Guests' Choice

Review Score

Based on 49 apartment reviews

8.9

Score breakdown

  • Cleanliness

    9.5

  • Comfort

    9.6

  • Location

    9.2

  • Facilities

    9.1

  • Staff

    9.4

  • Value for money

    9.2

  • Free Wifi

    9.2

Verified guest reviews from real Bookers

Real Bookers. Real stays. Real opinions.

Read more– opens a dialog box
Write a Review

Showing 1 - 25

  • Reviewed: July 21, 2025

    10
    Exceptional
    • Leisure trip
    • Travelers with friends
    • Two-Bedroom Apartment
    • Stayed 4 nights
    • Submitted from a mobile device

    All good , no complaints

    Carley was on hand if anything went wrong, great location across the road from loch which was lovely at night just to look over . Flat was immaculate when I arrived , everything on hand if needed, ironing board , iron, hairdryer , linen basket, pegs etc ,books and some games there too , beds were so comfy , small garden where you could sit . Spar and Balmacara Hotel at either side, can see why its called the hidden gem , it sits sideways in middle of them both , missed it on arrival 🤭 .I gave 10/10 on everything as I could not fault one thing about it. It's not far from the Skye bridge , 2 or so miles , if you've kids Manuelas wee bakery is a must , felt like a big kid there, bakery 🍪, pizza 🍕 & distillery 🥃 small crooked houses , was like something out of a fairytale , in Armadale , Milan Donan Castle near Armadale too , overall 👌 and if back to Skye would definately return here . Photos i took were on day of leaving as forgot to take when I arrived so beds were stripped .

    Stayed in July 2025

  • Reviewed: July 16, 2025

    10
    Exceptional
    • Leisure trip
    • Couple
    • Two-Bedroom Apartment
    • Stayed 3 nights
    • Submitted from a mobile device

    Very close to amenities, comfortable bed, well equipped suite and full sized kitchen. Wonderful private garden.

    Stayed in July 2025

  • Reviewed: July 2, 2025

    8.0
    Very Good
    • Leisure trip
    • Family with young children
    • Two-Bedroom Apartment
    • Stayed 3 nights
    • Submitted from a mobile device

    It’s size and facilities

    It is in a very convenient to access the Isle of Skye bridge as only 4 miles away. The flat was very clean, homely, very well equipped and a great size. A Spar shop next door and a larger Co-op store a couple of miles away. Sunday and Monday not good days in Kyle of Lochalsh if you want to eat out. All in all we had a great stay and would recommend. Well done Carley & co.

    Stayed in July 2025

  • Reviewed: June 22, 2025

    10
    Exceptional
    • Leisure trip
    • Family with young children
    • Two-Bedroom Apartment
    • Stayed 3 nights
    • Submitted from a mobile device

    A true hidden gem in a wonderful location, just a short drive from the Isle of Skye. We stayed as a family of four and felt instantly at home. Upon arrival, we were warmly welcomed with a small treat – some chocolate and crackers – a simple but thoughtful gesture that set the tone for our stay. The check-in process was completely contactless and effortless, with clear instructions and keys waiting securely in a lockbox. Inside, the apartment was spotless, beautifully arranged, and thoughtfully equipped with everything you might need – from coffee and tea to all the little touches that make a place feel truly cared for. We were especially touched to find games for the children – such a lovely detail! It’s a peaceful and cosy base for exploring Skye or simply enjoying the quiet beauty of the Highlands. We wholeheartedly recommend it – a place with warmth, charm, and a feeling you’ll want to return to.

    Stayed in June 2025

  • Reviewed: May 19, 2025

    10
    Exceptional
    • Leisure trip
    • Family with young children
    • Two-Bedroom Apartment
    • Stayed 3 nights

    Very well equipped, comfortable apartment. Nearby well stocked SPAR shop. Very good location for trips to the Isle of Skye.

    Stayed in May 2025

  • Reviewed: May 12, 2025

    8.0
    Very Good
    • Leisure trip
    • Couple
    • Two-Bedroom Apartment
    • Stayed 3 nights
    • Submitted from a mobile device

    The communal entrance stinks, which is the first thing you’re greeted with after a long journey. There is a feel that it hasn’t had a penny spent on refurbishment - quite common in Scotland unfortunately - which I find embarrassing when international guests are staying. For example the garden - which could potentially be lovely - has rusty old unused bird feeder and a broken old chair needing binned. And many of the door handles inside are knackered. I don’t understand why low standards are acceptable here compared to when I visit other countries, hence why can’t honestly dish out a 10. Perhaps reflected in price- but that’s an excuse in my opinion.

    Super location for a base to explore Skye. There is a supermarket next door which is very handy. Skye requires a lot of driving between destinations and so being on the mainland really didn’t make much of a difference so don’t let that put anyone off. The accommodation was very clean and spacious, a good functional place, probably not suitable for staying in on a rainy day but it’s absolutely fine to rest up in the evening. Shower was decent and there is a little path for walks straight out the door and the water at the front which is beautiful. Good communication.

    Stayed in May 2025

  • Reviewed: April 27, 2025

    8.0
    Great unit for day trips to Skye.
    • Leisure trip
    • Family with young children
    • Two-Bedroom Apartment
    • Stayed 4 nights
    • Submitted from a mobile device

    Main double bed very soft.

    Spacious, clean unit with garden.

    Stayed in April 2025

  • Reviewed: April 20, 2025

    8.0
    Clean, cosy, easy travel to Skye and mainland destinations.
    • Leisure trip
    • Family with young children
    • Two-Bedroom Apartment
    • Stayed 3 nights

    Impeccably clean, cosy flat. Equipped with every possible appliance and utensil. Incredible attention to detail and great hospitality including treats and a card. A few steps from the sea - perfect for a morning stroll.

    Stayed in April 2025

  • Reviewed: April 13, 2025

    9.0
    Wonderful
    • Leisure trip
    • Family with young children
    • Two-Bedroom Apartment
    • Stayed 3 nights
    • Submitted from a mobile device

    Hidden Gem was in a good location with a hotel and shop nearby, and just a short drive to Skye. It was well equipped and comfortable. There were good recommendations for restaurants and things to do.

    Stayed in April 2025

  • Reviewed: February 19, 2025

    8.0
    Very Good
    • Leisure trip
    • Group
    • Two-Bedroom Apartment
    • Stayed 4 nights

    The electric (Halogen ?) hob had a missing ring on the front left. Took us a while to realise why the veg were not sweating. Heating came on relatively late in the afternoon - 17:30 for a February night. So we went to bed for a nap till it came on !

    N / A. As hillwalkers this was perfect location to accessing the hills around Iron Lodge.

    Stayed in February 2025

  • Reviewed: December 1, 2024

    9.0
    Wonderful
    • Leisure trip
    • Travelers with friends
    • Two-Bedroom Apartment
    • Stayed 7 nights
    • Submitted from a mobile device

    Everything was fine

    Good location, very well equipped kitchen, good heating, private parking, very clean, shop next door, comfy beds. Highly recommend

    Stayed in September 2024

  • Reviewed: October 31, 2024

    10
    A real gem for a great stay.
    • Leisure trip
    • Travelers with friends
    • Two-Bedroom Apartment
    • Stayed 3 nights
    • Submitted from a mobile device

    Nothing

    The property was welcoming with a lovely note and goodies. Place was comfortable and spotless. Loved the note book with all information you would need. A great SPAR supermarket close by for your needs and a hotel where you could walk for dinner or drink. Best thing, easy to find close to Skye and other attractions. Carly was a fantastic hostess. A fantastic place to stay.

    Stayed in October 2024

  • Reviewed: October 3, 2024

    9.0
    Enjoyable and host was able to answer questions if need be.
    • Leisure trip
    • Family with young children
    • Two-Bedroom Apartment
    • Stayed 3 nights
    • Submitted from a mobile device

    It was the size of a small house. Had everything you’d need and want. We needed a central location for 3 night stay in Skye and this was ideal. Easy access and own car park. Small Asia next door.

    Stayed in October 2024

  • Reviewed: September 11, 2024

    9.0
    Would recommend this for a stay near the Isle of Skye.
    • Leisure trip
    • Family with young children
    • Two-Bedroom Apartment
    • Stayed 3 nights
    • Submitted from a mobile device

    A bit chilly during the day when the heating is on timer

    Very close to our final destination. Easy to find. Had everything we needed.

    Stayed in September 2024

  • Reviewed: September 5, 2024

    9.0
    Wonderful
    • Leisure trip
    • Family with young children
    • Two-Bedroom Apartment
    • Stayed 3 nights
    • Submitted from a mobile device

    The flat was very spacious and clean and the location was ideal for our trip to Skye and surrounding areas.

    Stayed in September 2024

  • Reviewed: May 25, 2024

    10
    It was a brilliant home away from home. We all enjoyed our stay here.
    • Leisure trip
    • Group
    • Two-Bedroom Apartment
    • Stayed 5 nights

    If your only destination is Skye, then you might find the daily drive to and from this location a bit of a pain. Also be aware it doesn't have a view, you have to step outside to get that!

    The location was perfect for venturing to Skye and beyond. The Ruaraig/Balmacara bay was lovely, with walking available from the doorstep. For those keen on self-catering, the Spar (shop) was incredibly convenient right next door, with the hotel bar on the other side for drinks or food in the evening. The property was lovely and warm too, and the living room decor was modern and spacious.

    Stayed in May 2024

  • Reviewed: May 16, 2024

    10
    A Hidden Gem!
    • Leisure trip
    • Group
    • Two-Bedroom Apartment
    • Stayed 3 nights

    A few rainy days but certainly not the host's responsibility!

    The flat was immaculate and the host had gone to great lengths to ensure that it had everything that you would need for a very comfortable and enjoyable stay. The kitchen had fabulous facilities. We only stayed for a few nights but had it been longer, the washing machine and dishwasher would have made life easier. The living room very comfortable and we enjoyed a bit of bird spotting from the lovely patio window leading out into the garden. There was a great supply of books and games which we enjoyed in the evenings. The bathroom was spotless and spacious. The radiators were individually controlled which added to our comfort. The flat was located only a few minutes drive from both Eilean Donan Castle and the Skye bridge and a five mile drive from Plockton. There were excellent views of the Isle of Skye and the bridge from the picnic benches just across the street. Watched a few glorious sunsets here! We had a lovely break exploring these areas of the highlands and the Hidden Gem provided us with an ideal base. I would highly recommend!

    Stayed in May 2024

  • Reviewed: May 8, 2024

    10
    Comfortable, clean and very pleasant
    • Leisure trip
    • Group
    • Two-Bedroom Apartment
    • Stayed 3 nights

    A little clearer details on location. Picture advertised shown from rear of building.

    Roomy, clean and well equipped. Easy to communicate with host. The beds were very comfortable. The linen was crisp and clean. Kitchen well equipped. Very comfortable. Could have stayed longer. Great to have all on ground floor.

    Stayed in May 2024

  • Reviewed: April 28, 2024

    10
    Exceptional
    • Leisure trip
    • Solo traveler
    • Two-Bedroom Apartment
    • Stayed 4 nights
    • Submitted from a mobile device

    Very clean and spacious. You walk across the street and have an amazing view to enjoy

    Stayed in April 2024

  • Reviewed: November 13, 2023

    10
    Must visit if it's available.
    • Leisure trip
    • Family with young children
    • Two-Bedroom Apartment
    • Stayed 2 nights
    • Submitted from a mobile device

    Splendid place to stay , the host really thought about everything very informative and detailed instructions on how to use everything. Enjoyed my stay there.

    Stayed in November 2023

  • Reviewed: October 8, 2023

    9.0
    Wonderful
    • Leisure trip
    • Couple
    • Two-Bedroom Apartment
    • Stayed 3 nights
    • Submitted from a mobile device

    Fabulous flat in an excellent location. Very cosy and comfortable and the host was beyond helpful. Very highly recommended.

    Stayed in October 2023

  • Reviewed: September 13, 2023

    10
    Exceptional
    • Leisure trip
    • Family with young children
    • Two-Bedroom Apartment
    • Stayed 3 nights

    During our Scotland trip we had a total of eight accommodations. In none of them did we feel as incredibly relaxed and comfortable as we did here. Carley was an absolutely attentive and caring host at all times. We will definitely be back!

    Stayed in September 2023

  • Reviewed: July 25, 2023

    10
    Balmacara me back.
    • Leisure trip
    • Family with young children
    • Two-Bedroom Apartment
    • Stayed 4 nights
    • Submitted from a mobile device

    That we had to leave..Should have booked longer.Much more to see in area.

    Right next to Loch..Spar shop great and friendly. Next to hotel pub.

    Stayed in July 2023

  • Reviewed: June 25, 2023

    9.0
    The flat is very comfortable and in a very good location for exploring Skye, Plockton, Lochcarron
    • Leisure trip
    • Couple
    • Two-Bedroom Apartment
    • Stayed 7 nights

    Being very picky, no windows in the kitchen but it really didn't bother us, A slightly depressing entrance around the side of the hotel but the comfort of the apartment and the great location made up for it.

    Excellent location. Loved the French doors out to the garden, they brought in lots of light. The picnic benches just across the road give a fabulous place to sit, enjoy the views &lookout for dolphins. The mobile fish &chip van on Friday was well worth visit.

    Stayed in June 2023

Showing 1 - 25

We Price Match
We Price Match
Low rates • No booking fees • Find something cheaper? We'll refund the difference!