Beautiful oasis of calm a short drive from city
IT MIGHT be cliche but a break away from the hustle and bustle can do you the world of good.
And for me it was on the cards after a summer of watching everyone on social media post beach selfies and sunset cocktail pictures from exotic locations across the world.
For the first time in a long time, I didn’t go on a “traditional” summer holiday last year – and I was in desperate need of a relaxing weekend.
Nestled on the banks of Loch Ard is the Macdonald Forest Hills Resort and Spa – the perfect location for a girls’ weekend with my friend Heather.
Just 40 minutes from Glasgow, it still astounds me the beauty Scotland can offer within a few miles of the city centre. I’ve travelled a fair amount over thXeXyXeXarXsXaxcrxoxsxsxExurope, America and AsiaX, bxxuxt I’ve made it my mission for now to explore more of Scotland.
So Aberfoyle was added to the list and our bags were packed for the trip – albeit a short one.
The quietness of the area was noticeable as soon as we drove up the winding driveway. Yet the hotel is located just a 10-minute drive from the town.
It has recently undergone a £3.5million renovation which has completely transformed the cocktail bar, piano lounge and bedrooms.
From the moment we arrived, it was relaxing in every way. Our room was made up to the highest of standards with black-out blinds and king-size beds, ensuring we had the best night’s sleep in a long time.
Food was our next stop and it was time to enjoy the friendly Rafters Bar and Bistro.
Although we planned for a relaxing short break, I convinced Heather to go out on Loch Ard for a spot of canoeing the next morning.
I’m not going to lie – I’m far from a watersports enthusiast. But I thought it would be a fun start to the morning.
The weather was perfect and it was a relatively easy canoe across to a small island, though we did take a few stops for pictures of the breathtaking scenery.
After our “workout”, we took time for a swim and sauna at the hotel spa.
And it wasn’t long before we booked ourselves in for a massage and facial – we did deserve it after all!
Our dinner for the evening was booked for the fine dining Garden Restaurant.
I normally settle for some ice cream as a dessert but the warm sticky toffee pudding with honeycomb pieces, butterscotch sauce and ice cream was definitely my favourite dish on the menu. It would satisfy any sweet tooth.
Before we knew it, it was time to check out the next morning and head back to reality, but not before a cooked breakfast to finish off our stay in true Scottish style.