By Rupert Shanks, Chief Storyteller
Published: Jan 26, 2018More by Rupert
By Rupert Shanks, Chief Storyteller
Published: Jan 26, 2018More by Rupert
A warm shower and cosy bed can feel incredible after a day in the wild. So imagine what a real luxurious experience can offer. These hotels are located within some of the Highlands most beautiful wild places. They provide world-class luxury, service and mouthwatering gastronomy for the weary adventurer.
We visit some of these accommodations on our guided activity trips and many of our trips pass nearby, meaning you could combine an adventure trip with a luxury break. We also often send our tailor-made clients to stay here as part of a customised adventure itinerary.
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This 19th Century castle sits in the shadow of Ben Nevis, the tallest mountain in Britain and overlooks the banks of River Lochy by the entrance to the Great Glen in the West Highlands. Queen Victoria, having spent a week there, once remarked “I never saw a lovelier or more romantic spot”. Winner of the Luxury Hotel of the Year 2017, Inverlochy not only offers luxury accommodation in a beautiful setting, but the food here is also hard to beat. World-famous father and son chefs Albert and Michel Roux Jr are in charge of the kitchen using the best in local highland produce.
Beautifully located at the foot of Kinloch Hill and overlooking Loch na Dal, Kinloch Lodge offers classical luxury amidst the rugged beauty of the Isle of Skye. Kinloch has been run by the local Macdonald family for generations. This feeling of familial hospitality runs through the Kinloch experience. The fine dining here is world-renowned thanks mainly to Michelin-starred chef, Marcelo Tully. He hails Skye as a “chef’s paradise” and a real taste of the island shines through each meal, with an emphasis on local seafood. Kinloch Lodge was named as one of the top twenty-five small hotels in the world and one of the Top 7 restaurants in Scotland by Conde Nast magazine.
This cosy boutique hotel in the heart of Argyll is a shining example of Scottish hospitality at its best. Country-house charm gives a relaxed, homely feel to Airds, but the food and service is world class. The views from the hotel are mesmeric. Loch Linnhe stretching out ahead with the craggy mountains of Ardnamurchan and Skye towering beyond. A range of comfy lounges, log fires and expansive windows make the most of this idyllic location. The best in local shellfish are often the highlight of a varied wonderfully Scottish menu. The Airds restaurant is now a firm feature in the Michelin Guide.
Recently restored Fonab Castle is nestled in the heart of Highland Perthshire. Built in the 19th Century in Scots Baronial style, the castle was completely refurbished in 2013. Overlooking the picturesque small Loch Faskally, Fonab is within walking distance of the quaint highland village of Pitlochry. Accommodation options vary from the sprawling Penthouse suite to more cosy rooms, each unique. The award-winning restaurant offers fine dining while the Brasserie and Lounge Bar are an informal oasis for light lunches, afternoon tea and lip-smacking cocktails!
Located on a private island on the west coast, the Isle of Eriska Hotel is a haven of luxury. The island sits between Loch Creran and Loch Linnhe. Wild and beautiful views stretch out over the Morvern hills. Otter and seals lounge along the shoreline while golden eagles can be spotted overhead. Within the hotel, huge fireplaces, ornate wooden styling and classic design make for an elegant and spoiling experience. Fresh ingredients are sourced from the gardens, greenhouse and foraged from the island. The beehives and smokehouse also complement the abundant local larder. Award-winning chef, Connor Toomey, describes the island as ‘an outstanding resource’. Local ingredients and nutrients of the sea are also incorporated in the extensive Spa, to nourish the mind, body and soul.
The towering craggy peaks of the North West Highland make for an invigorating place to visit for anyone who appreciates the great outdoors. The Torridon Hotel overlooks Loch Torridon itself as Beinn Alligin and Liathach (perhaps Scotland’s most admired mountain) dominate the skyline. This must be one of the most spectacular hotel locations in Scotland. Built in 1887 originally as a hunting lodge, the hotel’s castle-like turrets and fortified appearance give a regal and exclusive feel.
You can expect that feeling to carry through to the food on offer here at the Torridon. Award-winning fine dining is taken care of by chef Ross Stovold. The farm-to-fork philosophy is backed up here by their own Highland beef, fish caught almost on the doorstep and fruit, veg and herbs grown within the kitchen garden. Enjoy a glass of something before or after dinner in their well-stocked, cosy whisky and gin bar.
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