Hoping for many happy returns to magical marina’s hidden gem
I t might not be as sophisticated as Capri’s Marina Grande or as luxurious as Marbella’s Puerto Banús – but the Auchinstarry Marina was every bit as magical for my husband and I.
Child-free for the first time in months, we headed to the Boathouse bar and restaurant. It’s tucked away between Kilsyth and Croy and with f r iendly staf f , tasty fare and dazzling cocktails, the Boathouse is a real find. Our table had views over the marina and watching the yachts and barges bobbing about on the Forth and Clyde Canal as we dined made us feel like we were a million miles away. Bar manager Malcolm made sure our glasses of fizz a nd be er wer e never empty. He recommended the spiced scallop and pance t ta starter and it really was out of this world. Friday night is steak night so it would have been rude not to partake. My hubby, who opted for the very tasty battered fish, looked only slightly jealous when my 28-day aged charcoalgrilled sirloin arrived with a jug of peppercorn sauce.
The Fantinel Prosecco was so divine I had three glasses, while hubby stuck to Tennent’s.
After dessert of Irish liqueur crème brûlée and tablet ice-cream, I was getting ready to roll on home when my other half broke it to me that we were staying the night.
Celebrations were in order, so cue cocktails and the best Singapore Sling I have ever tasted. After a couple of liqueurs, we headed to our boutique room, bringing to an end one of the best nights I’ve had in years.
Still, I suppose it’s not every day you turn 40.