THE ROYAL TREATMENT

Combining a break away with some pampering in a luxurious spa is a sure-fire cure for the stresses and strains that modern life throws at us

Chilling out is the name of the game with top Scottish spa breaks

Dalhousie Castle and Aqueous Spa, near Bonnyrigg, Midlothian Reviewed by Christopher and Margaret Umpleby from Harrogate

The first glimpse of Dalhousie Castle as we approached along the sweeping drive left us in little doubt that this was a special place.

We entered through an impressive front door to a tranquil and calm atmosphere. Allannah at reception was welcoming. Our bags were taken care of whilst the duty manager Hannah took us on an informative short tour of the Castle. Dalhousie Castle is ‘Scotland’s Oldest Inhabited Castle’. The Ramsay Family and their 850 years of making history at the Castle made fascinating reading.

Our room was comfortable and spacious with a lounge area, TV, a large bathroom with double vanity unit, large bath and rain shower over and luxurious Molton Brown toiletries. We were provided with a clear map of local walks and we set off for a delightful walk along the river in the February sunshine.

We arrived in plenty of time to use the facilities at the Aqueous Spa prior to the pre-booked treatments. Upon arrival, Teresa explained the different areas to us. There was a wide range of treatments available and the staff were knowledgeable, professional and very helpful indeed. There was also a bright and warm conservatory area where you could relax and enjoy drinks and magazines. It was a wonderful experience. No wonder you have to book well in advance.

We had dinner booked in the Dungeon Restaurant. We started with drinks served in the library and a chance to peruse the very tempting menu. The Dungeon was candle lit, atmospheric and romantic. The food can best be described as exquisite.

Breakfast was served in the Orangery whilst we watched the snow fall. It was delicious with a wide choice on the menu, the service was excellent. A most enjoyable stay. Prices from £99 B&B or £149 DBB per room per night

Fonab Castle Hotel, Pitlochry Reviewed by Reviewed by Patrick Bennet from Edinburgh

Arriving on a wet but mild Friday afternoon we were instantly greeted by Alan. Umbrella in hand and a warm smile on his face. A great introduction to the hotel.

Our room was huge and you could tell that a lot of thought had gone into every detail from the Nespresso machine to the rain shower. Once we had settled in our room and played with all the gadgets we headed to the Spa. What a great space to relax and unwind. We had the pool to ourselves and pretended to do a wee workout, but that didn’t last long before we jumped into the Jacuzzi. Then I headed off for a massage, which I have to say was amazing. The therapist was lovely and the room was lit perfectly. The music was so relaxing that I nodded off and woke up feeling invigorated. We then headed to the thermal suite. Just wow.

After relaxing for a bit we then head for dinner to the Brassiere. The lighting and space were suitably relaxed and atmospheric. Staff were attentive and friendly.

We both ordered fillet steak which was the best fillet I’ve had in a long time; cooked to perfection with just the right amount of peppercorn sauce.

The wine list was impressive with a great selection of wines by the glass and bottle.

After a fabulous sleep we headed down for breakfast I was still full from the sticky toffee pudding I had last night but wasn’t going to miss out on my freshly cooked breakfast.

Finally it was time to leave, if only we could have stayed longer.

This is one of the best hotel I have ever stayed in and I can’t recommend it enough. If you’re looking to escape, eat amazing food, relax in a spa and treat yourself to an awesome treatment, Fonab is definitely the place to be.

Prices from £175 per room per night

The Roxburghe Hotel, Edinburgh Reviewed by Nichola Channing and Gavin Irvine from Clydebank

Staying at The Roxburghe Hotel was a very enjoyable experience. The Balance spa has a pool, gym, sauna, steam room and offers a wide selection of treatments. Reviews are brilliant and the fact that the spa was fully booked during our stay is testament to that. I will go back to see for myself and I will book in advance.

On arrival staff on reception were friendly and booked us in efficiently. We had a quick walk through the hotel which is a nice mix of modern and traditional style. The various reception rooms on the ground floor were all busy with ladies having afternoon tea. The Roxburghe is in a very central location on George Street, so the shops are a two minute walk away.

We were in a premium deluxe room in the older original part of the hotel, it was spotlessly clean and very spacious. The room was well equipped and everything felt very new and luxurious.

Dinner was exquisite. The service was well paced unintrusive and attentive. We had three courses and the food was very well cooked tasty and high quality. The candlelight and comfy chairs creating a nice atmosphere.

The hotel was quiet overnight despite its central location and the bed was comfortable and huge.

Prices from £140 B&B

Balbinny, Forfar

Reviewed by The Bootlands from Roslin

Balbinny strikes the perfect balance between luxurious, yet intensely rural surroundings. Situated on a working farm with its very own Highland cattle, the three steading houses (we stayed in Isla) are designed to maximise the incredible views of the Angus Glens from which they take their names. Interiors are modern, but feel warm thanks to the proliferation of oak and the underfloor heating.

We loved the heated balcony, where we watched huge snowflakes blanket the landscape while sipping hot chocolate under a blanket.

There’s much to do outdoors in the glorious countryside here but we limited our fresh air time to building a snowman before hot-footing itto the spa. The pool and jacuzzi were a massive hit with the children, especially the gigantic floating beanbag, big enough for all the family. The wall to ceiling windows again making for dramatic views. Life doesn’t get much better than watching a snow storm roll in while warm in the pool and neighbouring jacuzzi. I was lucky enough to have a massage during my stay while the little ones spent yet more quality pool time. There’s also a fitness suite for those who are that way inclined.

The two-bedroomed houses are perfect for families and we can’t wait to return to try out the gorgeous brochs which are now up and running.

Prices from £575 for a three night break