The first impression you will have of the Cruachan is of an establishment a little tired and in need of tlc.
Don't be misled by the overflowing bin and untidy exterior it really is a pleasant place to stay. The management need to do more to advertise that ; and to give credit the hotel is undergoing a program of refurbishment to improve matters.
What's positive -- it really is a few minutes walk from all that the centre of Fort William has to offer, I have always found the rooms clean and the breakfasts good, the staff are helpful and unless you arrive really late on a busy day there's plenty parking.
What's not so good -- this is not a place for anyone unable to walk to their room -- There's a steep climb from the car park and rooms generally up several flights of stairs with no lift, I could gripe about the self service toast and coffee from a machine at breakfast but this is becoming the norm in similar hotels. The most notable downside would be as mentioned by several others is the apparent lack of soundproofing in the bedrooms -- what can be heard is best left unsaid. And whoever fitted the new toilet roll holders never tried to use the loo afterwards !.
Overall this IS a decent hotel and refurbishment should improve it. It is however a budget hotel so best book on laterooms or similar at a reduced price and keep your expectations realistic.
I've stayed several times and will be back.

We stayed at this hotel in October 2011 for two nights, and found it reasonably priced and good value for money, staff were efficient and friendly, breakfasts were very good and we enjoyed our visit to Fort William and our stay at the Cruachan Hotel very much.

Stayed this hotel whilst on business.the hotel is basic,with basic amenities, had problem with the TV in my room and this was not resolved and could not get good reception I was told it was due to bad weather however the next day it was a fine clear day and still same problems.
I also had a problem at breakfast I found mouldy bread in the bread bin for breakfast which is quite unacceptable.To be fair the waitress was great and she sorted the problem immediately.
Needless to say I didnt eat in the reataurant so I cannot comment on that.
My overview of the hotel is that I dont want to stay here again unfortunately.

I have been using this hotel since the early 90's mostly on business trips. Decided to keep it going on the recent change of management last year. Just stayed again a few weeks ago and was astonished at the poor attitude so wont be back. Was given a front room which was between two staff rooms. Staff banged doors all night. Was awakened by staff at 2am continuing noise until 3am. Staff alarm off at 6am and not switched off for a WHOLE HOUR!!!!!!
Get a grip Cruachan and sort out your partying staff.....