Glenapp Castle
There is no better start to a luxurious retreat than winding up a dappled driveway and being greeted at the gates. Our bags were whisked to our room as operations manager Nelio Pita explained the new procedures in place to make for a safe, comfortable stay (these were far from overbearing – aside from servers wearing masks and cleaners operating continuously, we felt blissfully removed from any pandemic chatter).
After showing us the spectacular sitting rooms, dining rooms and library – which is fit for any bibliophile with its snug furnishings, floor to ceiling bookshelves and striking portrait of Churchill – Nelio escorted us to the Bryce Suite which had been made up as a twin upon request. It was immaculate. Johnstons of Elgin throws adorned chairs, fresh flowers sat on the dressing table and Penhaligon toiletries were provided.
For dinner, we savoured every mouthful of their six-course tasting menu. The fillet of aged Scotch beef – farmed just 17 miles from the castle – was undoubtedly the highlight. It was so tender it felt more like slow cooked cheek. No detail was left to chance – even the bread was served on granite quarried from Ailsa Craig, which can be seen from the restaurant window. We later took a peek into the Victorian Glasshouse which has been magnificently restored to serve as a dining experience for small gatherings, set within the walled garden.
Tearing ourselves away from Glenapp's romantic grounds, trips to Kirkcudbright and Castle Douglas were a delight. This part of the country deserves far more attention for its blindingly beautiful coast.