Reviewed by Ross and Morag Bootland from Roslin

The drive to Skye is a joy. Although the low winter sun is troublesome for the driver, it makes for fantastic viewing for passengers. Mountains and lochs are illuminated in an ethereal glow and splashes of colour that are barely conceivable in a season of so much darkness dot hillsides and glens.

On arrival at Kinloch Lodge the views can be shared. We were warmly welcomed in the main house before being escorted to our room across the way with stunning and ever-changing views over Loch na Dal. Studying the menu for our much-anticipated dinner was a pleasure made all the more enjoyable by a glass of champagne and a comfy sofa in our spacious room. Kinloch’s renowned chef, Marcello Tully offers a five-course dinner or a seven-course tasting menu, but be warned, choosing which one you go for will be tricky. Whichever way you go you are assured of a real treat, filled with local produce, beautifully presented and perfectly executed.

Service at Kinloch Lodge is a cut above and staff are friendly, helpful and attentive in a gloriously oldfashioned way.

The morning brought another treat, a day out with Skye Ghillie Mitch, who taught us everything we would ever need to know about foraging for ingredients. From seaweed to leaves and fungi, we poked, prodded and tasted them all. Mitch is a fount of knowledge and also takes visitors out stalking and fishing in season. He took us on a tour allowing us great views of the stunning Cuillin Ridge. The afternoon saw another scenic drive to visit the Old Man of Storr and the Quiraing before heading back to Kinloch to enjoy a post-dinner drink by one of the public rooms’ open fires.

Kinloch Lodge is Scottish hospitality at its very best. It’s a warm welcome and a roaring fire with a dram of something you like and the guarantee of incredible food and the opportunity to explore this magical island. It is all of these things, and to experience it with someone you love is a privilege indeed. Prices from £140 per person DB&B.