Ben Lui
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→Overview
2 bedrooms
1 bathroom
5 guests
3 nights minimum
Ben Lui is a renovated and lovingly cared for log cabin on the former Forestry Commision land at Dalavich on the shores of the beautiful and tranquil Loch Awe. It is set centrally in approx 1/4 acre of mixed grassland and copse,which is viewed from the new balcony and offers a peaceful and relaxing retreat in idyllic surroundings.
Loch Awe is one of Scotland’s largest and most picturesque freshwater lochs with its wooded shores and scattered small islands and is a popular destination for hill walkers and anglers (boat hire available). Dalavich is host to a well stocked General Store which includes a Post Office and a café and there is also a community run Restaurant and Bar. Further afield, tourist attractions include Inverary Castle and Jail, Innis Channel Castle, the Oakwood Trail a...
House Rules
Pet-friendlyKid friendlyNo smoking
Bedrooms
1 Full3 Twins1 Crib
Bathrooms
1 Full bath
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Reviews (86)
Brian M
1 contribution
If going check club is open on site or take food and cook in well equipped cabin
Lovely wee cabin everything you could want good breakfast from the post office/cafe, only disappointed thing was the on site club was closed so had to travel for a meal min 8 miles
Visited July 2024
Written July 6, 2024. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
jim c
Lockerbie, United Kingdom1 contribution
Fantastic
Great log cabin really enjoyed our stay cabin was very comfortable and a great log burner really cosy 😀 will certainly be returning absolutely fantastic weekend canny wait for the next time
Visited October 2023
Written October 15, 2023. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Tour46838248389
1 contribution
Perfect wee retreat
This was my 2nd stay (I have also booked my 3rd). Such a wonderful, beautiful, quiet place to retreat to. The cabin is brilliantly equipped with all those little things you might forget like salt and pepper, oil, sandwich bags and torches. So much information is provided on the local area, along with maps you can take on your walks with you. Truly the best equipped self-catering place I’ve stayed. Clean, cosy and comfortable.
Welcomed with chocolates and flowers, it’s like a home from home and we can’t wait to go again.
I also have to mention the obvious, the location is absolutely stunning. The loch and local area are just beautiful and going further a joy with quiet roads and magnificent views.
Visited October 2023
Written October 8, 2023. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
lam808
4 contributions
Perfect retreat in a fantastic little place
This was our second visit to Ben Lui, after a trip in 2019. The improvements that had been done over the last 4 years made a MASSIVE difference to my boys enjoyment, especially as they are a bit older now (6,8,15). The wifi and new tv are a great addition. For me the addition of a washing machine was a god send, not having to take everything to the laundrette and back really made a difference.
The cabin was the same cosy, welcoming place I had remembered. We loved watching the birds and red squirrels on the feeders, i think the boys were more excited than me by the end of our stay! The double bed was very comfortable and there were no complaints from the boys in their room.
I didn't notice any mentioned issues with the water or any signs of unwanted wildlife in the cabin (apart from two tiny birds who flew in through the open door!)
The cabin is not the most modern or luxurious but you aren't paying for that, it clearly reflects the photos on the website.
The location is stunning and the local amenities are limited but very good quality.
Nearest supermarket is Lochgilphead about 40 mins away or Oban which is about an hour so make sure you are prepared!
We have already booked for next summer and for an extra 2 nights. We can't wait to return!
Visited July 2023
Written September 12, 2023. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Nomad64643410680
1 contribution
Beautiful as always
This will have been our 3rd or 4th time at ben lui. We come here every year and it's the most peaceful place ever. Our two dogs love it. It's rustic, cosy and just want you want in the middle of the forest.
I love stocking up on bird feed and watching the greedy beggars scoff it all!
Kevin and sika are very accommodating and go above and beyond
The cabin is always clean and tidy, fresh throws, bedding etc and we make sure we treat the place with respect, bring our own throws to protect their furniture etc and always clean up before we go.
We went a bit earlier this year so the midges got us!
I hope Kev and sika have this cabin for many years to come as we class this as our Yearly holiday place. We do not want a flash place with loads of tech, we want that cosy homely feel and Ben lui gives us that every time.
Lots of Love Becky, Claire, Mackie and Dexter x
Visited August 2023
Written September 12, 2023. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
benluilogcabin
Hi Becky, Clair and the pups.
Thanks so much for your review and for choosing to stay at the cabin.
We hope you keep returning and thanks for always leaving it spotlessly clean and tidy.
Best wishes.
Kev & Sikha 🙏🏼
Written September 18, 2023. This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
vickilovesgin
Doncaster, United Kingdom7 contributions
Amazing location and village
LOCATION/SURROUNDINGS/AMENITIES/LOCALS a 5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ REVIEW.
ACCOMODATION 1
Lovely wooded location and beautiful loch. We had a great time exploring the place,cycling, fishing and swimming.
Go to the cafe/Post office on a Sunday afternoon, you will not be disappointed with everyone coming together with guitars for a sing along. Fully enjoyable and tipsy afternoon. Plus the food is gorgeous. You can also get basic bits of groceries, home made scones and cakes too.
The bar/ restuarant is also a great place for end of night, chill out, play pool, table tennis etc and have a pint and meal. Do try the wings AMAZING 👏
Like I said at the beginning location is perfect and amenities are spot on.
Before you get to your location ensure you do your food shop. This is not a negative comment, the local groceries are 1 hour away on a scenic route but be aware there is nothing close by.
There's plenty of forestry walks, castles and churches to go to.
PLEASE BE AWARE WHAT COMES NEXT DOES NOT COVER ALL CABINS ON THIS BEAUTIFUL LOCATION. WHEN WE READ THE CABIN GUEST BOOK WE KNEW WHAT WE HAD LET OURSELVES IN FOR.
Unfortunately the cabin we stayed in (BL 11) was not the best. I guess you get what you pay for. Discoloured water, was told cold was OK to drink but I did boil and cool it, eventually spent money on bottled water. Hot water was always a golden yellow colour but told it was OK to use?
Clean bedding, but always felt itchy.????
Living/ kitchen area small, wouldn't like to have full capacity of 5 people in the cabin.
The 2 seater settee again made me feel itchy when seated on it ????
The kitchen rodents, yep they came out regular. We were told it was to be expected for location and surroundings we were staying in and we were surrounded by wildlife. A deterrent plug was used but they get taken? How we laughed 😅 🤣 😂.🤬What pleasure we had checking the dog daily for fleas as with rodents we definitely had little bites from the even tinier visitors. Which is probably why the bed and furniture made us scratch and why we have come home looking like we have chicken pox. It's not as if the mice stuck to the kitchen. Don't get me wrong, some of the bites are from being outdoors but I'm covered in red spots in areas I can't discuss.
And lastly, as much as I understand cctv is required it was interesting to see it moved from the door(great position) to following us down the side of the cabin too? Not sure why we needed to be followed around by a camera, don't forget I
had a child with me too. Very intrusive.
Visited August 2023
Written August 27, 2023. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
benluilogcabin
Hi Victoria Wilson Smith.
Thanks so much for taking the time to leave a review, Really glad you enjoyed the area, it is certainly a beautiful and welcoming place.
Sorry to hear your were not happy with the cabin so I will try and address your issues point by point as best I can,
I've taken the time this morning to add some photos to our social media page of comments left guest over the last months, unfortunately there is no option on this review but I will add some to our listing advert as I'm baffled as to your first reference, One guest quite some time back didn't have the best time, Weather was atrocious, it is Scotland
We couldn't see your entry ?.Possibly forgot to put it.
The cabin has two water feeds and sometimes the feed to the hot inlet can be discolored but is indeed perfectly fine, The park has its own water treatment facility and one which we have no control over.
Had you informed us that you had issues with tap water we would have gladly arrange for a delivery of bottled water for you.
Also if you are allergic to bedsheets washed with standard detergent using tap water it may be best to bring your own as we are not aware there is another way to do it.
Living and kitchen area are clearly photographed in the cabin information on which ever site you booked through and if your party had been the 3 adults it was booked down under why would you possibly "imagine" it to be small for 5 ?.
When a booking is made it is for the entire cabin and the same price for 3 people or 5.
During spring and autumn field mice can and do make their way into the cabin, you were kind enough the inform us and I did indeed tell you about the sonic deterrent we use as we have no wish to kill, harm or trap them if no issues arise and so far none have,
They may have been encourage by the amount of food waste found after your stay..
The sonic deterrent is often unplugged by guests with dogs, the reason may be obvious. not sure how this is amusing as apparently you had dogs also ..
Possibly you brought the fleas with you as not a single guest before your visit or since, and the cabin has been in use daily, has had issues.
We were present at the cabin this past weekend and yep, nothing.
Scotland and midges go hand in hand, Western Scotland especially so it may be best to use some form of repellant or possibly choose a less remote location .,
Finally, The CCTV covering the parking area, Some guests have had trouble using the key safe, completely understandable, we installed after the pandemic so guest feel more in control of the check in process, the CCTV intercom allows us to speak to guests directly if needed as not all mobile network are available and it is only possible to log into the WIFI once inside the cabin, So what ever followed you around only you can answer that.
We always do our upmost to ensure anyone visiting the cabin has the best experience we can provide and almost 50% of our guests return time after time, as the comments in the guest book testify to.
We are not perfect and are always looking to improve our little cabin and welcome feedback but looking through your other reviews there is a pattern and we are relived you managed to endure your 8 night stay for the entire duration.
We truly hope that you find accommodation more suited to your needs, you may have to stretch that budget a little further and hope you find peace in whatever you choose,
Happy trails.
Ben Lui Forest Cabin
Written September 12, 2023. This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Quantum B
Bristol, United Kingdom1 contribution
Well equipped, warm and comfortable
Arrived on a wet afternoon in December. The wood-burner had the cabin toasty by the time I was unpacked.
The facilities were excellent and matched by the easily read and comprehensive guide for guests.
Will book again
Norry
Visited December 2021
Written April 4, 2023. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
benluilogcabin
Thanks so much for your review really glad you enjoyed your stay and you're welcome back anytime.
Written April 7, 2023. This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Scott M
1 contribution
Ben Lui
We had a lovely stay at Ben Lui. Kev and Sikha have thought of everything for a very cosy and comfortable stay. The cabin is well equipped and the guest information provided is excellent. The on-site community centre/bar/restaurant is also excellent and provides lovely food as well as plenty to occupy children. We hope to return someday and we can highly recommend a stay here.
Visited August 2022
Written August 19, 2022. This review is the subjective opinion of an individual traveler and not of Tripadvisor LLC nor of its partners. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
benluilogcabin
Great to hear your stay went well and thanks so much for your lovely review.
Please come and visit again. 👍.
Kev & Sikhs
Written September 2, 2022. This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Donna Britton
1 contribution
Amazing!!
We had an amazing time at Ben Lui cabin. It was just what we needed and we wished we were staying for another week. We will definitely be back Donna & Simon
Visited June 2022
Written June 19, 2022. This review is the subjective opinion of an individual traveler and not of Tripadvisor LLC nor of its partners. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
benluilogcabin
Hi Donna and Simon.
Thanks so much for taking the time to leave a review.
We are so glad you enjoyed your stay and hope you can visit again.
Happy trails.
Best wishes.
Kev & Sikha
Written June 22, 2022. This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
juragirl
36 contributions
Cosy cabin in a lovely location
We really enjoyed our few days here! The forest site is lovely - peaceful with beautiful walks to the Lochside. We visited Oban, 2 castles and St Conan's Kirk. The cabin is compact and cosy with a lovely woodburner for chilly nights. With an amazing take away curry shop (Black Rock Curries) close by (frozen to cook at home and simply delicious), a very friendly village shop and beautiful countryside all around Ben Lui is perfect for a stress free relaxing break. The owner is excellent to deal with and extremely helpful. We would certainly return.
Visited October 2021
Written October 13, 2021. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
benluilogcabin
Thank you so much for staying,
Best wishes,
Written April 9, 2022. This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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What this rental offers
Things to do
- Fishing spots available
- Cycling areas
- Watersports
Entertainment
- DVD player
- Television
Nearby
- Golf course (within 30 mins drive)
- Hiking areas
- Countryside area
Living spaces
- Highchair
Location info
- Kid friendly
- Beachfront/Lakeside
Parking
- Parking available
Bathroom and laundry
- Washer
- Dryer
- Linens provided
Wi-fi and internet
- Wi-fi
Indoor amenities
- Cable television
- Internet access
- Fireplace
Outdoor amenities
- Private yard
- Balcony
- Terrace
Kitchen and dining
- Stove
- Grill
- Refrigerator
- Freezer
- Microwave
- Kettle
- Toaster
Map
Getting there
Glasgow Intl Airport
42.6 mi
Oban Airfield
14.5 mi
Restaurants
Black Rock
3.3 mi
Dalavich Shop & Wild Rowan Cafe'
4 min
Loch View Restaurant
3 min
Attractions
Kintail Birds of Prey Argyll
2.4 mi • Nature & Wildlife Areas
About the neighborhood
Ben Lui Log Cabin is located on the shores of the stunning and tranquil Loch Awe. It is one of the largest freshwater lochs in Scotland with an approximate length of twenty five miles. It is a mecca for fishermen from far and near... and to date holds the British Isles record for the largest brown trout weighing in at just under 32lbs/14.5Kg! Salmon, sea trout, pike, perch and char are also caught on a regular basis, depending on the season. <BR><BR>Loch Awe is beautiful, far away from the hustle and bustle of modern life and as of now, still under-developed with no noisy watersports to shatter the peace. It has many islands worth visiting, including Innis Chonnel Castle, the first stronghold of the Campbells. The remains of Crannogs; pre historic island hut settlements, can still be seen when the loch is low, at different points along the lochside.<BR><BR>There are many beautiful forest walks in the area, including The Oakwood Trail, The Avich Falls Trail and Duncan's Walk, all of which meander through ancient oak and pine forests. Pine marten, fox, wild cats red deer, roe deer, otter and red squirrels can often be seen. There are also regular sightings of eagles and ospreys. Apart from the signed trails, there is up to 100 miles of forest tracks and roads in the area, suitable for the serious walker or mountain biker. <BR><BR>The cabins are approximately five minutes walk from the village of Dalavich which has a shop, cafe and post office where you can enjoy a morning coffee, light lunch and stock up with groceries. Take-away meals are also available from the cafe. Mountain bikes are available for hire, by the day or week. <BR><BR>A social club is situated at the end of the cabin site which is owned by the village but guests from the cabins are warmly welcomed. The restaurant, bar and kitchens have had a complete refurbishment. The bar is open 7 nights a week (April to October) and 4 nights a week (November to March). The restaurant is now open for evening meals on Thurday to Sunday and is called The Lochview Grill. A coin-operated laundrette is also available on site.
Access
Car required
How to get there
Ben Lui log cabin is located on the shores of beautiful Loch Awe in the small village of Dalavich. Car - It is accessible from the north via the A85 Oban - Crianlarch road. From the west via the A816 coast road. From the South West via the A83. Train - The nearest station is at Taynuilt. This would require onward transportation by taxi or bus.Bus - The 415 runs as a fairly regular service between Oban, Taynuilt and Dalavich
Activities nearby
Fishing spots availableGolf course (within 30 mins drive)Watersports
About this property
- First, check the Availability tab on this page to see if your dates are available. If they are, contact the owner via the Tripadvisor Rental Inbox to confirm availability.
- If the owner has provided contact information, you may contact him or her directly. If not, you can contact the owner via the Tripadvisor Rental Inbox. This inbox is created after you send your first message or booking request to the owner
- You can send another message via the Tripadvisor Rental Inbox to check if the property is still available. If the owner has listed a phone number, you can also call to follow up. send inquiries to other properties. If you still don't hear from the owner, Tripadvisor recommends that you send inquiries to other properties.
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This property is affiliated with All bookings are direct with the owner
Property #HL222243058
Frequently Asked Questions about Ben Lui
- Ben Lui is able to accommodate up to 5 guests. See all property details.
- Ben Lui has one bathroom available. See all property details.
- Ben Lui has 2 bedrooms available. See all property details.
- Stays at Ben Lui must last at least 3 nights. See all property details.