Destination Scotland
Plan your autumn break with our recommended places to stay and visit
BANCHORY LODGE
Banchory Lodge is a trendy and vibrant 28-bedroom hotel with a quirky interior in the heart of Royal Deeside. With its stunning setting on the River Dee, its award-winning restaurant champions local suppliers. The bar and outside terrace is a place for chilling out with a glass of wine, cocktails or a craft beer on tap. Tel: 01330 822625, www.banchorylodge.com
BRAEMAR LODGE
Braemar Lodge is a peaceful stay that is easily accessible by road from all of Scotland’s cities. With a choice of the hotel, bunk houses and log cabins on offer, Braemar Lodge also benefits from its restaurant, which is headed up by an awardwinning chef and makes use of the best local produce in the area. Tel: 01339 741627, www.braemarlodge.co.uk
BRAEMAR CASTLE
Built in 1628, Braemar Castle showcases a fascinating history as a hunting lodge, military garrison and Victorian holiday home. The castle’s current exhibition is Cairngorm Gems, which displays jewellery and Cairngorm crystals dating from the early 1700s to the present day. Tel: 01339 741219, www.braemarcastle.co.uk
KNOCKOMIE HOTEL
Set in secluded grounds overlooking Forres, close to the Malt Whisky Trail, Knockomie offers the perfect chance to break away into calm and tranquil surroundings. Innkeeping with excellence, Knockomie has 15 bedrooms and The Grill Room, which offers contemporary Scottish dishes. Relax in the lounge or Malt Library, where whiskies from all over Scotland await you. Tel: 01309 673146, www.knockomie.co.uk
GLENMORANGIE HOUSE
In Gaelic, Glenmorangie means ‘glen of tranquillity’ and perfectly describes the House’s peaceful setting, amidst the rolling barley fields of Easter Ross, just to the east of the distillery, where the Men of Tain have been crafting and perfecting their world famous single malt whisky since 1843. More of a country house than an hotel, for over 25 years it has welcomed the world to its door, developing along the way an international reputation for Highland hospitality that completely reflects everything that the word ‘Glenmorangie’ stands for – an oasis of calm and peacefulness worth savouring. Tel: 01862 781671, www.glenmorangie.com
ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL
Argyll and the Isles offer a wealth of things to see and do. Discover the 23 inhabited islands off the magnificent 3,000 kilometre coastline, 27 golf courses, thrilling walking, cycling and kayak trails, medieval castles, abundant wildlife and much more. Kick back and chill out with a dram from one of the 14 distilleries or eat at an award-winning restaurant serving freshly caught seafood. It’s all here for you and closer than you think. www.argyll-bute.gov.uk/discover
DUNVEGAN CASTLE
Any visit to the Isle of Skye is incomplete without savouring the wealth of history offered by Dunvegan Castle and Gardens. Dunvegan Castle has been the ancestral home of the Chiefs of Clan MacLeod for 800 years, and its gardens offer an oasis of colour for visitors to enjoy. Tel: 01470 521206, www.dunvegancastle.com
ANGUS COUNCIL
Explore the fascinating history and heritage of Angus during Scotland’s Year of Innovation, Architecture and Design. Angus Heritage Week runs from 2 - 9 September with a great programme of events, including Doors Open Days on 3 and 4 September, talks, guided tours, exhibitions and much more. There is something for everyone! www.visitangus.com/heritageweek
GORDON CASTLE WALLED GARDEN
In addition to the exclusive use castle, salmon fishing and holiday cottages, there is an award-winning café at its walled garden. Open throughout the year, the garden is one of the largest in Britain. Seasonal local produce is served in the café and the herbs grown give Gordon Castle products their signature flavour. Tel: 01343 612317, www.gordoncastlescotland.com
DORNOCH CASTLE HOTEL
Dornoch Castle Hotel offers an exclusive weekend spa break in partnership with Aspen Spa at Carnegie Courthouse. This romantic two night stay includes a 30 minute spa treatment, dinner and much more. For details on this exclusive offer, check out the special offers page on their website. Tel: 01862 810216, www.dornochcastlehotel.com
THE FOUR SEASONS HOTEL
Enjoy the comfort of this Perthshire hotel whilst taking in the spectacular autumnal colours around Loch Earn. At the end of the day, relax with warming malt beside a roaring log fire, a prelude to enjoying a fine dining experience in the Meal Reamhar Restaurant – awarded two AA Red Rosettes for the consistent fine dining experience. The hotel is currently offering three nights for the price of two. Tel: 01764 685333, www.thefourseasonshotel.co.uk
GLASCHOILLE HOUSE
Situated amongst spectacular scenery on the shore of Loch Nevis, Glaschoille House provides a unique, secluded and tranquil setting. It is the ideal location for a relaxing, fun, unforgettable getaway and is the perfect destination for a family break. This six bedroom self-catering house sleeps 11 people comfortably, with a warm and homely ambience throughout. A four-wheel drive, Land Rover and bicycles are normally available for use subject to prior arrangement. Tel: 01333 360251, www.glaschoille.co.uk
GLENFINNAN HOUSE HOTEL
Located on the shores of Loch Shiel with scenic views over Ben Nevis and the Glenfinnan Monument, Glenfinnan House is a popular choice for weddings, honeymooners and those looking for a romantic getaway. Here you can enjoy true Highland hospitality and a ‘home from home’ atmosphere. The hotel recently won the Good Hotel Guide’s Scottish Top 5, while dining at the hotel has been recommended by The Good Food of Scotland Guide. Tel: 01397 722235, www.glenfinnanhouse.com
INSTABILLIE SELF CATERING
With stunning views and great location, these two traditional Orkney cottages have been totally renovated, all with modern comforts. The 12 acre croft of Instabillie is situated one mile from the Bay of Skaill and the world famous Neolithic village of Skara Brae, with fantastic sea views over the Bay and across the west mainland of Orkney. Tel: 01856 841733, www.orkney-accommodation.co.uk
ANGUS ROSS
There is a magic that happens in the studio-workshop of designer Angus Ross. Sourcing material from a breathtakingly beautiful woodland in Highland Perthshire, he bends, moulds, sculpts and folds wood to create exquisite handmade furniture. Recent bespoke commissions include this beautiful oval dining table. Visit by appointment. Tel: 01887 829857, www.angusross.co.uk
GROGARRY LODGE
Grogarry Lodge is offered on a weekly, fully staffed, exclusive use basis, providing accommodation for up to 16 guests. With sporting packages tailored to your needs, there is something for everybody. This is a rare opportunity to fish some of the finest Machair lochs, experience the exceptional sporting or simply enjoy the stunning scenery and wildlife of South Uist. Tel: 01878 700101, www.grogarrylodge.com
KINKELL HOUSE HOTEL
Kinkell House Hotel is a small country house peacefully situated in its own grounds surrounded by trees and pasture land. This charming converted farm house is located on the Black Isle in Ross-shire, with spectacular views across the Cromarty Firth to Ben Wyvis. The hotel is ideally situated, with Loch Ness only a 30 minute drive away. Tel: 01349 861240, www.kinkellhousehotel.com
GLEN TANAR
Glen Tanar is the perfect place to relax and unwind. Stay in one of the luxury self-catering holiday cottages and sample the delights of this special place in the heart of Royal Deeside. There are many activities to suit everyone, including Land Rover safaris, fishing for trout on the privately stocked loch or salmon fishing on the River Dee, hill walking and mountain biking on way marked paths including Scotland’s most easterly Munro, Mount Keen. Tel: 013398 86451, www.glentanar.co.uk
MELDRUM HOUSE COUNTRY HOTEL
Meldrum House Country Hotel & Golf Course has just completed a £4.5million development. Steeped in history, the 13th century baronial country house guarantees unrivalled luxury. With 28 new bedrooms, most have stunning views of the golf course and countryside beyond. Holders of two Red Rosettes in their Dining Room and a challenging parkland 18hole golf course, it is the perfect weekend retreat. Tel: 01651 872294, www.meldrumhouse.com
PLUSCARDEN CROFTS
These luxury boutique-style two bedroom cottages are finished to a five-star standard. With underfloor heating, log fires, expresso machines and much more, the cottages offer a calming and peaceful place to unwind. For an added luxury, each has its own wood fired hot tub to soak and relax under the stars. Tel: 01343 890394, www.pluscardencrofts.co.uk
LOCH MELFORT
Enjoy a relaxing three night autumn break at Loch Melfort Hotel with two nights dinner and bed and breakfast from £114 per person per night, with the third night only £30 per person for bed and breakfast. With so many lovely autumnal colours out in the neighbouring National Trust of Scotland Aruduaine Garden and early evening sunsets across the sea, this is the perfect time to get away and treat yourself to some lovely fine Argyll dining and great service. Tel: 01852 200233, www.lochmelfort.co.uk
OBAN & LORN TOURISM ALLIANCE
Sea breezes and clean fresh air – a perfect time to visit the ‘Seafood Capital of Scotland.’ Varied attractions, stunning scenery, wildlife and food – Argyll offers so much to see and do. With transport links to the Hebridean islands and the central belt, Oban is also closer than you think. Tel: 01631 563122, www.oban.org.uk
RUFFLETS COUNTRY HOUSE
Fall into autumn at Rufflets St Andrews. Relax and unwind in the tranquil setting just outside St Andrews. Enjoy dinner and bed and breakfast from only £112.50 per person per night with complimentary room upgrade (subject to availability). Tel: 01334 472594, www.rufflets.co.uk
THE BALVAIRD APARTMENT AT SCONE PALACE
Located in the west aspect of the palace and overlooking the River Tay, the magnificent Balvaird apartment at Scone Palace provides five-star, luxury accommodation for up to six guests. With three beautifully decorated en-suite bedrooms, a spacious sitting room and fully-equipped dining kitchen, the Balvaird is ideally placed for golfing angling, sporting or simply relaxing with friends and family. Tel: 01738 554932, www.scone-palace.co.uk
ACHNACARRY ESTATE
Achnacarry self-catering holiday apartments are located on the ancestral home of the Clan Cameron and historic Highland estate. Whether you want to relax in the solitude of the most breath-taking scenery in Scotland or take part in the multitude of outdoor activities that Lochaber can offer, you are invited to stay at Achnacarry. Tel: 01397 712313, www.achnacarry.com
GLAMIS CASTLE
Many things have been said and written about this ancient Scottish castle over the centuries. From romantic tales of ghosts and secret chambers, to the reminiscences of the First World War soldiers who were nursed back to health within the walls, Glamis has a fascinating history. To find out more, why not visit this autumn? Tel: 01307 840393, www.glamis-castle.co.uk
SPRINGWELL HOLIDAYS
Five cosy two and four bedroom cottages feature on this 17 acre former croft, with spectacular elevated views of Loch Linnhe and the mountains of Glencoe. Enjoy the private shingle beach and barbecue site, children’s play area and hillside nature trail. Tel: 07977 981370, www.springwellholidays.co.uk
GEARRANNAN VILLAGE
Situated on the west coast of the Isle of Lewis, Gearrannan offers a truly unique experience. Four of the village’s thatched cottages are available for let, sleeping between two and 14 people, whilst the recently refurshished hostel sleeps a further 13 people. The on-site working blackhouse museum, open from March to October, is not to be missed. Tel: 01851 643416, www.gearrannan.com
CRANNOG CONCEPT
Situated in the heart of Fort William, Crannog is a seafood restaurant like no other – in a quiet loch-side location on the Town Pier, the distinctive red roofs have been synonymous with fantastic West Highland seafood and relaxed fine dining for 26 years. Using the freshest fish and seafood from the local area, a meal at Crannog is a must on any visit to the area. Tel: 01397 705589, www.crannog.net