Fearann Eilean Iarmain
Fearann Eilean Iarmain (FEI) is an estate on the Isle of Skye with an extensive portfolio including 23,000 acres of land, two hotels (Hotel Eilean Iarmain and The Inn at Ardvasar, a self-catering cottage, a distillery, and retail units, all operated under the stewardship of Lady Noble.
The estate extends through Sleat and Strath, a particularly striking region in the south of the Isle of Skye. Historically forming part of the fiefdom of the Lords of the Isles, Fearann Eilean Iarmain — meaning “the lands of Diarmaid’s Isle” — was acquired by Sir Iain Noble more than 45 years ago.
Providing Professional Hotel Management Services to Fearann Eilean Iarmain (FEI)
During the summer of 2021, Lady Noble, owner of FEI, appointed Glenmorven Associates Ltd. as the professional hotel management company responsible for all hospitality operations across the estate. Glenmorven assumed full senior management control of Hotel Eilean Iarmain and the Inn at Ardvasar, working to deliver objectives agreed with Lady Noble. It was important to Lady Noble to appoint a management company that demonstrated:
A deep understanding of the independent hotel sector
Like-minded values and flexibility
Robust support resources
A clear understanding of the estate’s unique circumstances
A structured management approach and sound reporting protocols
Lady Noble commented:
“The challenges of operating in the independent hotel sector are hugely different from running a branded hospitality business under a franchise agreement. Independent hotels require a very individual and personal approach
— and Glenmorven Associates Ltd. offers exactly that to Fearann Eilean Iarmain (FEI).”
Scope of Glenmorven’s Management Services
Glenmorven were initially engaged to undertake an operations and systems review of all hospitality businesses on the estate. This was followed by the implementation of Glenmorven’s professional daily hotel management services for the two hotels. The objective was to employ and train key staff in order for Glenmorven to withdraw from day-to-day management by the end of 2022/early 2023.
More specifically, a team of four highly experienced consultants from Glenmorven Associates Ltd. provided the following professional senior hotel management services to FEI:
Financial management and reporting
Sales, marketing, public relations and revenue management
Digital marketing
Rooms operations
Food, beverage, and events operations
Cost Management
Procurement
Development of a clear vision and core purpose
Training of management to ensure the team is fit for purpose and capable of delivering optimum results
Financial restructuring
Human Resources
Hotel Eilean Iarmain
Hotel Eilean Iarmain occupies an idyllic position at the water’s edge, with magnificent views over the picturesque bay. The establishment is renowned for its unique charm and character, capturing the spirit of enchantment that belongs to the Hebrides.
The 16 hotel bedrooms are each unique in character and décor, with several featuring original wood panelling, charming turrets, and even an antique canopy bed from nearby Armadale Castle.
Panoramic views across the Sound of Sleat to the Isle Ornsay lighthouse and the rugged hills of Knoydart provide a spectacular backdrop for every stay.
Guests can enjoy log fires and candlelit dinners in the Birlinn Restaurant, or savour a fine malt whisky by the fireside in the relaxed and cosy Praban Bar. Regular evenings of live traditional music and song create a warm ceilidh atmosphere, offering a true taste of Highland hospitality.
The Inn at Ardvasar
The Inn at Ardvasar became part of Fearann Eilean Iarmain in 2017. The Inn offers a relaxed, friendly, and comfortable atmosphere, and remains open year-round, providing the ideal place to experience the changing seasons of the Isle of Skye.
Barabhaig Cottage
Barabhaig is a beautifully appointed detached stone cottage set in a peaceful position on the shores of Camas Croise Bay, on the Sleat Peninsula in the south-eastern corner of the Isle of Skye.
Just a 20-minute drive south of the Skye Bridge and 15 minutes north of Armadale, where the car ferry arrives from Mallaig and The Road to the Isles, this tranquil setting is a perfect place to watch otters and enjoy the calm of the bay.
The cottage itself is spacious and comfortable, featuring a charming sitting room with an open fire, a well-equipped dining kitchen, and a twin bedroom on the ground floor. Upstairs there is a double bedroom, a twin bedroom, and a family bathroom.
Large windows fill the cottage with natural light, making it a bright and welcoming retreat — a joy to return to after a day spent on the shore, out on the water, or exploring this most romantic and beautiful island.
