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Scotland Magazine section Best of ScotlandThe blackhouse villageRichard Ford samples some very unique accommodation on Lewis You wouldn’t be mistaken for thinking Gearrannan to be the name of an Elven stronghold of Middle Earth... nestled perhaps between Rhovanion and Eriador. Instead, Gearrannan is the name of a restored crofting village offering unique accommodation on the Isle of Lewis, in Scotland’s Outer Hebrides. G... By Richard Ford from Issue 36 published on 14/12/2007 Tee time at Cameron HouseVivien Devlin visits a luxury hotel on the shores of Loch Lomond that has much to offer the golf enthusiast. Sir Walter Scott called Loch Lomond “The Queen of Scottish lochs,” and today it is still a majestic and enchanting place. With pine forests, mountain springs, tiny islands and the dramatic peak of Ben Lomond, this natural landscape was designated Scotland’s first National Park. Here is the tranquil... By Vivien Devlin from Issue 36 published on 14/12/2007 The lap of luxuryIan Buxton visits Corrour Lodge, an exclusive holiday home in the Highlands Is Scotland credible as a luxury destination, at the very top of the global market? That was the daunting question facing an group of travel writers, and your humble correspondent, on a recent trip to a hidden jewel in the heart of a Scottish estate. Our base was Corrour Lodge, a £20m+ Highland hid... By Ian Buxton from Issue 35 published on 15/11/2007 Home from HomeFancy experiencing Edinburgh in a different way when you next visit? Then why not set up temporary home there? Dominic Roskrow reports What sets Edinburgh apart from so many other cities isn’t just its castle, its history, or its age – it’s the way you can envelope yourself in it and let it wash over you. It has none of the remoteness of other big cities such as London, Paris or Rome; and you can base yourself in its very heart and... By Dominic Roskrow from Issue 34 published on 30/08/2007 One for the girlsGrand Perthshire estate Kinnaird is offering unique fishing breaks specifically for women. Sally Toms found out more If, like me, you’re a woman that cringes at the ‘women’s section’ in a newspaper, then the idea of a specialist fishing holiday for women may at first seem a bit... patronising. But, even in these days of sexual equality, there are undeniably more men interested in the sport than women. For decade... By Sally Toms from Issue 34 published on 30/08/2007 Hebridean hospitalityKinloch Lodge Isle of Skye Tel: +44 (0)1471 833 333 This hotel simply couldn’t be in any country other than Scotland – it has an unmatchable sense of place. The whitewashed stone architecture is part up-market country lodge and part farm; the newer South Lodge is just as restrained externally b... By Sally Toms from Issue 34 published on 30/08/2007 Mr & Mrs SmithsThe new Smiths Hotel in the town of Gretna Green has a reputation for romance… Vivien Devlin stayed there For centuries painters, poets and travellers have recognised and relished the beauty, magic, mystery and altogether romantic tranquility of the Scottish landscape. Nowhere more so, it seems, than the village of Gretna Green, renowned as Wedding Capital of the world. In 1754 England passed a law pre... By Vivien Devlin from Issue 33 published on 22/06/2007 House proud (House of Bruar)After almost 15 years of purveying the best of Scotland’s edible and wearable produce, House of Bruar is becoming a legend in its own lunchtime. Even people who hate shopping make the pilgrimage there, discovers Kate Patrick The phone springs to life. It is a text from someone who would rather be stuck in an immigration queue at Miami airport than out shopping for his wardrobe. Driving down A9. Stopped at Bruar. Bought fabulous cashmere jacket! Wonderful! This is a turn-up for the books. He doesn’t usually use words l... By Kate Patrick from Issue 33 published on 22/06/2007 Hotels of the year 2007Dakota Eurocentral by Glasgow Tel: +44 (0)1698 835 444 Winner: Rising Star Award 2007. Dakota is a powerful new hotel brand being developed principally by Ken McCulloch, founder some years ago of One Devonshire Gardens hotel in Glasgow, the city’s five-star townhouse. He was also behind the funky ... By from Issue 33 published on 22/06/2007 Whisky island paradise (Jura)A new luxury lodge on the Isle of Jura is the perfect place to relax and discover the island's whisky made just next door, as Kate Ennis discovers One of the joys of visiting Jura is in how difficult it is just to get there in the first place. From Glasgow, the journey equates to a three-hour drive and two-hour ferry ride to Islay, or taking a gamble on the unreliable small plane service, proceeded by a drive to another ferry before you even s... By Kate Ennis from Issue 32 published on 13/04/2007 Bonnie GallowayCally Palace Hotel Kirkcudbrightshire Tel: +44 (0)1557 814 341 A sylvan patchwork quilt of rolling, wooded hills and ‘dry stane’ dyke-framed fields is the glorious Galloway setting for one of the more gracious if rather old-fashioned grand hotels in Scotland. Few hotels can boast of being a focal p... By from Issue 32 published on 13/04/2007 A slice of luxury (Myres Castle)Sally Toms finds out what's cooking at Myres Castle For most of us, a stay in a five-star hotel is the absolute height of luxury. But we’ve discovered something even more so... imagine having complete run of your own five-star hotel. Such extravagance is off the chart, yet it is more realistic than you might believe. Myres Castle is a beautiful 16t... By Sally Toms from Issue 31 published on 16/02/2007 Two fat ladiesRob Allanson checks out a Glasgow restaurant renowned for its fish cuisine One thing Glasgow does best is small, intimate restaurant settings. When you scratch the surface of the city there are a myriad to choose from, offering great food and relaxing surroundings. Two Fat Ladies, named after the bingo call (being at number 88 Dumbarton Road) not the television programme,... By Rob Allanson from Issue 31 published on 16/02/2007 That something special (Kilcamb Lodge)Sally Toms visits Kilcamb Lodge, a luxurious country house hotel in Argyll What do you look for in a holiday? If it’s peace, tranquillity and spectacular scenery then we’re going to let you in on a secret; the west coast peninsulas are the place to be. Travelling north by road from Glasgow is scenic, but you share the road with scores of tourists hot footing it to the Hi... By Sally Toms from Issue 30 published on 01/12/2006 The first resort (St Andews)An ideal family winter break? Kate Patrick thinks she may have discovered it, and right on her doorstep too If you are reading this from Miami or Santa Monica you might be only marginally interested in our nation’s winter holiday predicament. You have Baja and the Caribbean on your doorsteps, complete with miles of virgin white sand and as much midwinter fun and sunshine as you need. For those of us who l... By Kate Patrick from Issue 30 published on 01/12/2006 Painting the town red (Vermilion Restaurant)Rob Allanson dines at Vermilion Restaurant beneath the iconic Scotsman Hotel, Edinburgh Edinburgh has plenty of tucked away, intimate restaurants for that perfect dinner rendezvous or relaxing lunch. One of the best is to be found hidden away deep in the vaults of the stunning Scotsman Hotel, which maintains a silent vigil over the city’s North Bridge. This red sandstone Edwardian bu... By Rob Allanson from Issue 30 published on 01/12/2006 Relaxation NationIn association with HotelReviewScotland.com Mar Hall near Glasgow Tel: +44 (0)141 812 9999 Mar Hall is a historic property on the rural banks of the River Clyde and yet it’s handy for both Glasgow International Airport and the city itself. Rated five stars by VisitScotland, the hotel is also a finalist for Scottish Luxury Hotel of the Year, ... By from Issue 30 published on 01/12/2006 Wild island paradiseGlengorm Castle is a luxurious retreat on the Isle of Mull. Rob Allanson visited it There are several elements that go in to making a memorable stay at an island retreat – and Glengorm Castle has them by the sack full. Whether it is the romantic, windswept landscape, the dramatic castle, log fire and comfy leather armchairs or just the owners’ down to earth hospitality – a stay at... By Rob Allanson from Issue 29 published on 25/10/2006 Beyond your wildest dreamsFor the right money Dream Escape will provide your dream Scottish holiday. What would constitute your ultimate Scottish short break? Perhaps it entails being met at the airport by a chauffeur-driven vintage car, and being driven to the Balmoral Hotel for dinner and an overnight stay; collecting a sports car the following morning, maybe, and driving yourself down to Turnber... By Dominic Roskrow from Issue 29 published on 25/10/2006 A hole in oneVivien Devlin visits Archerfield, an exclusive use mansion and golf course in East Lothian St. Andrews may be well established as Scotland’s royal and ancient ‘Home of Golf,’ but East Lothian, stretching along the white sandy beach coastline east of Edinburgh, is equally a world class golfing destination. Here is the famous Muirfield, currently ranked number two in Golf World’s Top 100 c... By Vivien Devlin from Issue 29 published on 25/10/2006 Christmas & Hogmanay HotelsNew Lanark Mill Hotel Clyde Valley, Lanarkshire Tel: +44 (0)1555 66 7200 There’s something more than a little magical about the hidden-in-avalley UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s New Lanark village. There’s a palpable sense of how life was in the past, especially in the early days of industry... ... By from Issue 29 published on 25/10/2006 Perthshire perfectionRob Allanson checks in to East Haugh House in Perthshire If outdoor Scotland whispers to you as you sit in the office surrounded by concrete and cars, then it is time for a break. For those who dream of stalking a big stag or hooking the fish of a lifetime while cocooned in some of the best scenery that Scotland has to offer, then East Haugh House provid... By Rob Allanson from Issue 28 published on 20/09/2006 Castle on the edge of the seaVivien Devlin visits Amhuinnsuidhe Castle, a beautifully preserved baronial castle available for rent According to mythology, on the sixth day of creation God scattered the final precious fragments at random, landing in the open sea off the Scottish coastline shaped into a curving necklace of sparkling jewels. The archipelago of the Western Isles numbers around 200 islands, islets and tiny skerries... By Vivien Devlin from Issue 28 published on 20/09/2006 West coast wondersIn association with HotelReviewScotland.com ON A BUDGET Where to stay for less of your pay This month’s top three tips ABBOTS BRAE HOTEL DUNOON A great little friendly hotel set high on a hillside and with terrific views over the Clyde. Nice rooms redone this year. Food always good and easy to get to. Tel: +44 (0)1369 705 021 SCARINI... By from Issue 28 published on 20/09/2006 A new lease of lifeThe Old Waverley Hotel is blessed and cursed by its past. Sally Toms reports Ensconced in a comfy corner gazing at an array of spirits bottles on the bar, it’s hard to believe that when The Old Waverley Hotel originally threw open its doors it was the first Temperance hotel in Scotland. Opening a teetotal hotel in 1848 on the best street in the city was a bold move at the t... By Sally Toms from Issue 27 published on 09/06/2006 Against the grainTucked away in Edinburgh’s Old Town lies a restaurant that is well worth discovering. Sally Toms picks up her knife and fork Hidden amongst the colourful shop fronts of Edinburgh’s Victoria Street, just below the Royal Mile, lies an unassuming restaurant called The Grain Store. Outside, there’s a plain looking board printed with the menu and comments from happy diners; including reviews from a few local papers and a stan... By Sally Toms from Issue 27 published on 09/06/2006 Well worth waiting forMark Nicholls welcomes the re-opening of Scotland’s most popular museum The building is stunning, the collections diverse and the artwork sublime. As an institution, the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum has been missed by the people of Glasgow and visitors alike over the past three years while it has been closed for refurbishment. But from July 11 it re-opens with an ... By Mark Nicholls from Issue 27 published on 09/06/2006 Restaurants with roomsLochside Lodge and Roundhouse Restaurant Bridgend of Lintrathen, Angus Tel: +44 (0)1575 560 340 On the border of Perthshire and Angus and so happily handy for Perth or Dundee, Lochside Lodge with its attractive Roundhouse Restaurant won The Scottish Restaurant with Rooms of the Year Award 2006 in A... By from Issue 27 published on 09/06/2006 2006 Restaurants of the YearScotland pioneered online voting as a way of registering nominations of approval (and otherwise) for the country’s hotels. The result was to become The Scottish Hotels of the Year Awards, and the third annual event has just taken place. Scotland Magazine was, of course, there in the midst of it all ... By from Issue 27 published on 09/06/2006 A Rum idealOne of the most impressive houses in Scotland can be found on the remote Isle of Rum. Marieke Smegen pays it a visit Imagine an extravagant 19th century house, built by 300 people, during a period of three years. The house is built to impress - and only the most privileged people are allowed to visit. This describes Kinloch Castle: an imposing house on the remote Isle of Rum. The castle was built in 1897 for Sir ... By Marieke Smegen from Issue 26 published on 21/04/2006 Scotland’s peak districtBen Nevis and the surrounding area are the perfect stopping point on your journey up the West coast. Hannah Adcock reports Ben Nevis, the highest peak in Britain at 4,409 feet, rises majestically above the Fort William area in the west of Scotland. Famous for its changeable weather, ‘The Ben’ magically attracts clouds even on the clearest of days. But when the weather co-operates, the views from the top are truly panora... By Hannah Adcock from Issue 26 published on 21/04/2006 Tasteful hedonismPrestonfield in Edinburgh is a study in opulence. Sally Toms stayed there Just a short taxi ride away from central Edinburgh’s clatter of traffic and tourism, lies Prestonfield; a five star oasis of luxury quite unlike anything you’ve ever seen. To get there you pass through a sea of very ordinary suburban streets, which makes arriving all the more dramatic. A mature tre... By Sally Toms from Issue 25 published on 17/02/2006 A slice of paradiseThe Loch Torridon Hotel takes some getting to, but as Dominic Roskrow finds out, it’s worth the effort The journey from Inverness to Torridon in terms of miles isn’t that far – less than the distance from Aberdeen to Inverness. But as you make your way west and the roads become increasingly track-like, as you cut through the stunning mountainous terrain, perhaps pulling up just to breathe the air an... By Dominic Roskrow from Issue 25 published on 17/02/2006 Small and perfectly formedArnot Tower Gardens are a slice of history. Cate Nelson-Shaw visited them They say the best things come in small packages. Unobtrusively tucked away in a corner of Scotland’s Kingdom of Fife is a gem of a find. Built from the stuff of legends, yet relatively unheard of until recently, Arnot Tower Gardens are a true historical jewel and, thanks to their owner Helen Gray, ... By Cate Nelson-Shaw from Issue 25 published on 17/02/2006 A labour of loveCastle Venlaw is a fairytale hotel a few miles south of Edinburgh. Sally Toms stayed there Twenty three miles south of Edinburgh, in the beautiful and quiet border country, lies Peebles – an ancient and Royal Burgh in the valley carved out by the river Tweed. On a hill overlooking the town is Castle Venlaw; a four star 18th century hotel. It’s a small fairytale castle with a little round... By Sally Toms from Issue 24 published on 05/01/2006 All up in smokeAlex Mead looks at how Arbroath became world-famous for smoked haddock Meddling magistrates and local councils have, forever it seems, been a thorn in somebody’s side somewhere and none more so than in Auchmithie, a small fishing village on Scotland’s east coast – three miles or so north east of Arbroath. Arbroath. Now, that’s the place the Smokies come from isn’t it?... Festival of musicCeltic Connections is a breeding ground for new talent. Helene Dunbar reports Thirteen years ago, a Celtic music festival was launched in Glasgow to fill a hole in the Royal Concert Hall’s winter schedule. Glasgow in January is typically a cold and grey place and there wasn’t much happening in the city’s post-Christmas period so it was hoped that the festival would provide a... By Helene Dunbar from Issue 24 published on 05/01/2006 Hidden luxury in the HighlandsAlladale is a vast estate packed with natural beauty. It can also host visitors in luxury. Ian Mitchell visited it Set in the gorgeous Northern Highlands, close to the Sutherland/Ross-Shire border, Alladale Estate is so remote that I had some difficulty locating it on the map before visiting. Remote – yet accessible at only an hour’s drive from Inverness airport or rail station. The estate has become a high fo... By Ian Mitchell from Issue 24 published on 05/01/2006 Solway coast is bird watchers’ paradiseSome of Britain’s rarest birds live in the vast mud flats and sands of Solway on the Dumfries coast. Anthony Toole reports The coastline of Dumfries and Galloway follows a tortuous route from Gretna to Loch Ryan. The direct distance is less than 100 miles, but the meanderings to north and south more than double this. Around a backbone of low hills, the rivers Annan, Dee, Cree, Bladnock and the waters of Urr and Fleet, ... By Anthony Toole from Issue 23 published on 14/10/2005 Princess of the Scottish seasVivien Devlin finds that a life on the ocean wave improves dramatically when you’re on a small but perfectly formed luxury liner It’s a balmy June evening as the Hebridean Princess makes steady progress up the Sound of Jura, the sea calm and shimmering in the amber summer sunlight. A flock of Little Tern skim swiftly over the water, undisturbed by the buzz of conversation and clink of glasses as a few dozen passengers sip co... By Vivien Devlin from Issue 23 published on 14/10/2005 Hogmanay hotelsIN EXCLUSIVE ASSOCIATION WITH HotelReviewScotland.com Ceilidh Place Ullapool, Wester Ross Tel: +44 (0)1854 612 103 An hour west of Inverness, the single word ‘hotel’ just isn’t enough to describe what you’ll find – for this is a unique place, one we admire hugely. Anticipate a Highland inn, coffee shop, restaurant, bar, parlour, bookshop, bunkhouse, ... By Dominic Roskrow from Issue 23 published on 14/10/2005 New life for LanarkNew Lanark is now a tourist attraction and recognised internationally. But that wasn’t always the case. Hannah Adcock reports New Lanark is one of Scotland’s most impressive success stories. Just over 30 years ago this historic village was on the brink of ruin, with the scrap metal merchants poised to move in. Today, the village is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which welcomes more than 400,000 visitors every year and emp... By Hannah Adcock from Issue 22 published on 10/08/2005 Facelift for the futureEdinburgh’s “Caley” celebrates more than 100 years of hospitality by seamlessly blending historic with modern What does it take to bring an historic hotel into the 21st century? For one of two grand dame hotels (the other is the Balmoral) on Princes Street in Edinburgh, it took 130 site operatives a little more than nine months, working on 125 guestrooms, a restaurant and bar, and the leisure club. Though ... By Dominic Roskrow from Issue 22 published on 10/08/2005 Taste of the countryIN EXCLUSIVE ASSOCIATION WITH HotelReviewScotland.com Roxburghe Hotel. By Kelso, Roxburghshire. Tel: +44 (0)1573 450 331. The Roxburghe Hotel and Golf Course, near the handsome market town of Kelso on the confluence of the Tweed and Teviot rivers, is an ideal choice for a break – be it relaxing, active or even romantic. Enjoy walking, fishing, horseb... By Dominic Roskrow from Issue 22 published on 10/08/2005 Where business is a pleasureAcanthus is a private conference and dining facility in Glasgow’s fashionable West End. Dominic Roskrow visited it These days it’s becoming increasingly common to mix business with pleasure, and if you’re coming to Scotland it may well be you’ll want to take the opportunity to catch up with some business associates while there. And if the thought of trying to impress some potential client while seated in the st... By Dominic Roskrow from Issue 21 published on 10/07/2005 Everything a port should beOban is a great centre for exploring the West coast and some of the islands. Dominic Roskrow reports They say location is everything. In which case, the Oban Caledonian Hotel has it all. The town itself nestles on a rugged stretch of the West coast and you can only approach it from two directions: South, after winding your way along the roads North of Loch Fyne, past Loch Awe and on the winding ro... By Dominic Roskrow from Issue 21 published on 10/07/2005 Entertain like a lairdProvenance of food is key to internet company Caledonian Connoisseur. Dominic Roskrow spoke to managing director Gillian Bell It’s something many of us have dreamt about: hiring some beautiful house or even a castle in Scotland, inviting over friends we have met there, and entertaining them with the very best of Scottish produce. Beyond the realms of possibility? Not if a growing band of people who have discovered self ca... By Dominic Roskrow from Issue 21 published on 10/07/2005 Hot in the city tonightIn exclusive association with HotelReviewScotland.com Malmaison Edinburgh. Leith, Edinburgh. Tel: +44 (0)131 468 5000. The Malmaison Edinburgh is in the capable hands of Lizzy Kelk, winner of The Scottish Hotel Manager of the Year Award 2005. Management matters: over the past year this hotel has returned fully to form and now offers guests some of th... By Dominic Roskrow from Issue 21 published on 10/07/2005 2005 Hotels of the YearWhen you plan your holiday in Scotland – or even a business trip – it’s sometimes a challenge to know which hotel to book. There are several guides, one of which is the leading independent website HotelReviewScotland.com with which Scotland Magazine has an exclusive partnership – this means we can b... By Dominic Roskrow from Issue 21 published on 10/07/2005 Success comes from running a tight ChipThe Ubiquitous Chip is celebrating 30 years at its current location. Dominic Roskrow visited Thirty years in the restaurant business is impressive anywhere. In Glasgow it represents a lifetime. Back in the 70s the city had little at all in the way of a dining culture. What it did have tended to come courtesy of the city’s Italian residents. And when it came to finding anywhere Scottish, we... By Dominic Roskrow from Issue 20 published on 10/04/2005 Joys of living on an islandIn exclusive association with HotelReviewScotland.com Kilmichael House Glen Cloy, Isle of Arran Tel: +44 (0)1770 302 219 The Isle of Arran is renowned these days for several principal things: quality food and drink produce; it’s the family home of first minister Jack McConnell; people call it ‘Scotland in miniature’ and as a favoured holiday destinatio... By Dominic Roskrow from Issue 20 published on 10/04/2005 On the right side of the tracksThe Royal Scotsman is renowned across the world for class and style. And as Kate Patrick found out, it’s well justified For the Royal Scotsman’s three-day swing around the West Highlands, I took along my 75-year-old father-in-law. As a small boy coming from the north of Ireland to his school in Wales, he regularly made the trip by steam train from Stranraer, via much of Britain, and can still recite serial numbers o... By Kate Patrick from Issue 19 published on 20/3/2005 Wild nature at its bestGlen Affric in the Highlands is an outdoor enthusiast’s delight. Our not so outdoorey Editor Dominic Roskrow went for a look About 60 seconds. That’s how long it took us to realise that we’d made a terrible mistake. All the clues were there: the children were rolling down the mud bank in front of us laughing manically as their clothes turned from smart light blue to dark, dirty, muddy brown. I was free-skating just behin... By Dominic Roskrow from Issue 19 published on 20/3/2005 Hotels making a meal of itIn exclusive association with HotelReviewScotland.com Three Chimneys & House Over-By By Dunvegan, Isle of Skye Tel: +44 (0)1470 511 258 The dramatic Isle of Skye is a perennialfavourite: but where to eat and stay? Well a witty cast-iron lobster weather vane, artfully placed over the Three Chimneys House Over-By and its designer bedrooms, swivels in the... By Dominic Roskrow from Issue 19 published on 20/3/2005 Perfect for the familyThe Isles of Glencoe is the perfect base for exploring some of Scotland’s most impressive and intimidating regions. Dominic Roskrow reports It’s not the smartest hotel in the world, or the most stylish. Indeed, by the end of a hard tourist season it looks a little battered and frazzled at the edges. For all that, though, the family hotel Isles of Glencoe is charming, friendly, welcoming – and the ideal family launch pad for exploring th... By Dominic Roskrow from Issue 18 published on 8/1/2005 Perthshire: perfect for winterKinloch House by Blairgowrie, Perthshire Tel: +44 (0)1250 884 237 Relais & Châteaux member Kinloch House stands in 25 acres of grounds near Blairgowrie. Built in 1840 at a time when it was fashionable for newly-rich industrialists to establish seats for themselves in the country, Perthshire, with r... By Dominic Roskrow from Issue 18 published on 8/1/2005 Years late, but worth the wait?The new Scottish parliament has been dogged by controversy. But it’s a stunning building set to draw hundreds of thousands of people. Nick Bibby reports If you’ve heard anything about the new Scottish Parliament building in Edinburgh, it’s likely to be about how much it cost. Admittedly, it’s anywhere between three-and-a-half and 10 times over budget, depending on whose figures you believe, and is more than three years behind schedule regardless of ... By Nick Bibby from Issue 17 published on 29/11/2004 True pride on the ClydeClydebuilt is an astounding look at the shipbuilding at Glasgow’s Braehead shopping centre. Dominic Roskrow reports It’s not everybody’s idea of historic Scotland. It’s not very bonny. It’s not likely to end up on a biscuit tin. Indeed, it’s very Glasgow. But as an eye opener it takes some beating. And if you want to make a day of it, a trip down the Clyde on the Pride of the Clyde ferry, a few hours in the stun... By Dominic Roskrow from Issue 17 published on 29/11/2004 St. Andrews: open all yearSt. Andrews Golf Hotel sits high above the impressive West Sands – famed for the beach running sequence in the film Chariots of Fire. St Andrews Golf Hotel 40 The Scores, St Andrews Tel: +44 (0)1334 472 611 St. Andrews Golf Hotel sits high above the impressive West Sands – famed for the beach running sequence in the film Chariots of Fire. Book a front-facing room and enjoy not only the most spectacular view of the crescent beach ... By Dominic Roskrow from Issue 17 published on 29/11/2004 A very special DiscoveryThe Discovery now resides on the River Tay and is packed with history. David Bowers visited it Standing on the deck of a three-masted barque berthed on the River Tay in Dundee on a sunny autumnal morning, it was difficult imagining this vessel trapped in a sea of ice over two long Antarctic winters as fierce snow gales eclipsed its dark, alien form against the all encompassing whiteness. The... By David Bowers from Issue 16 published on 15/9/2004 Scotland’s top adventure playground?The Aviemore and Cairngorm district of the Highlands is undergoing a major transformation. Dominic Roskrow gives this special report If you’ve visited Aviemore in recent years then chances are you won’t have made plans to rush back. From Scotland’s most progressive ski resort in the ‘60s, complete with state of the art hotels and leisure facilities, it has over the last decade or so most visually represented the declining fortun... By Dominic Roskrow from Issue 16 published on 15/9/2004 Small is beautifulIN EXCLUSIVE ASSOCIATION WITH HotelReviewScotland.com Pool House Poolewe, Ross-shire Tel: +44 (0)1445 781 272 There are many different hotels which might prove the claim that ‘small is beautiful’ but none are quite as diversely intriguing as Pool House. It’s in the glorious north-west county of Ross-shire, in the village of Poolewe on the edge of Loch... By from Issue 16 published on 15/9/2004 A touch of grandeurGRAND VALUE ROOMS - Where to stay for far less pay! This month’s top three tips in association with HotelReviewScotland.com Glenapp Castle Near Ballantrae, Ayrshire Tel: +44 (0)1465 831 212 Glenapp may be a relatively recent addition to highly prestigious Relais & Chateaux membership but the castle itself is no less than 134 years old. Now one of Scotland’s finest establishments, Glenapp was grandly restored a few years... By Dominic Roskrow from Issue 15 published on 18/7/2004 Fancy a fling?The Highland Games are where storybook Scotland and the real thing meet in a spectacular coincidence of colour, pageant and competition. Simon Walton finds out that just about every other genuine Scottish community is touched by the tradition The diminutive figure of Queen Victoria is hardly the quintessential image of the Highland Games. The toss of the caber, the skirl of the pipes, and the dervish whirling of the highland dancers could hardly have amused. Yet, without the patronage of that universally popular monarch, the games would ... By Simon Walton from Issue 15 published on 18/7/2004 Room with a viewCairnGorm Mountain has reinvented itself as a destination for all seasons. Dominic Roskrow reports Damn the tabloid journalist in me! I just can’t help myself. Tell me that winters just aren’t consistent enough to make ski-ing in Scotland worthwhile and every pun tumbles out like I’m Lou Grant or someone – you know the sort of thing; the situation being ‘snow joke’, the resort having ‘snow future... By Dominic Roskrow from Issue 15 published on 18/7/2004 All things to all peopleEdinburgh’s The Dome has something for everyone says Dominic Roskrow The Dome is one of those magical places which balances decor, decadence and indulgence in equal amounts; the sort of place that no matter what age you are, whatever reason you find yourself in the centre of Edinburgh or what time of day it is, it beckons to you as you pass it by and you have to figh... By Dominic Roskrow from Issue 15 published on 18/7/2004 Hidden gems close to EdinburghIn association with HotelReviewScotland.com OROCCO PIER 17 High Street, South Queensferry, by Edinburgh Tel: +44 (0)131 331 1298 You don’t have to stay in the city centre to enjoy Edinburgh. Why not stay a few miles away by the seaside? Orocco Pier is a new, cool and contemporary hotel – best described as a restaurant with rooms – located on... By Dominic Roskrow from Issue 14 published on 2/5/2004 Glasgow's gourmet gemKate Ennis samples one of Glasgow's finest restaurants If you take a taxi from central Glasgow to The Buttery – one of the city’s best restaurants – for the first time, the journey may take you somewhat by surprise. First you bypass the sleek modern brasseries of the city centre, and then you head out towards the busy motorway. But you are not headed ... By Kate Ennis from Issue 14 published on 2/5/2004 Heart of the highlandsMairi MacDonald visits Loch Torridon Country House Hotel Many years ago Lord Lovelace, a few friends, his ghillie and a handful of staff would set out with a pony or two around the head of the loch to the shooting lodge Beinn Damph for an annual event. There they would stay for a few weeks, stalking the hills during the day returning to the roaring fires... By Mairi MacDonald from Issue 14 published on 2/5/2004 Hotels in the best possible tasteKNOCKINAAM LODGE Knockinaam Bay, by Portpatrick, Wigtownshire Tel: +44 (0)1776 810 471 Fax: +44 (0)1776 810 435 This sparkling little hotel still bears testimony to the golden age of touring and sporting activity and has carefully retained much of the unmistakable character and personality (and ma... By from Issue 13 published on 25/3/2004 Much Mor for your moneyFancy a week's holiday at Gleneagles for the rest of your life? The hotel's new seasonal homes offer just that opportunity. Dominic Roskrow reports. It says much about the world fame of Gleneagles and its reputation for golf that when it announced plans to open 50 seasonal homes the week covering the Ryder Cup – still some years away – sold out almost immediately. The seasonal home concept – launched last year and still in the construction proc... By Dominic Roskrow from Issue 13 published on 25/3/2004 Edinburgh's dark and sinister sideThe vaults give a glimpse into Edinburgh's murky past - and reports suggest they're haunted too. Frances Anderson visited them. For years, tourists flocking to the capital for the world famous festival have been unaware of the ancient stories hidden beneath their feet. While the festival attracts record-breaking numbers of visitors annually, the city has another booming tourist industry. It is the public’s fascination with ... By Frances Anderson from Issue 13 published on 25/3/2004 Hire a piece of historyMyres Castle is a nine-bedroom castle near Auchtermuchty, a few miles south of Perth. You hire it exclusively, and it might well be haunted. Dominic Roskrow spent a night there all alone. It’s not often you get the chance to sleep in a room which played host to Mary Queen of Scots. But there is plenty of evidence to suggest that the Queen’s Room at Myres Castle was used regularly by the monarch when she was a little girl. Had I been choosing a room to stay in, this would have been m... By Dominic Roskrow from Issue 13 published on 25/3/2004 Recomended for romanticsIn association with HotelReviewScotland.com ARDANAISEIG Kilchrenan, by Loch Awe, Argyll Telephone 01866 833333 Fax 01866 833222 On a remote corner of Loch Awe in the West Highlands, the Victorian gothic-style Ardanaiseig Hotel, with lawns sweeping down to the loch’s edge, is indeed a perfect setting for a wildly romantic rural retreat. The h... By from Issue 12 published on 19/1/2004 Splendour at PitlochryHotels don't get much more grand than Atholl Palace in Pitlochry, says Brigid James Pitlochry’s Atholl Palace Hotel rises in Scottish baronial splendour from its 48-acre grounds of woodland and parkland. Situated under one hour’s drive north of Perth on the south side of the Highlands, the hotel’s setting, both within its own grounds and in the swelling mountainous landscape, is s... By Brigid James from Issue 12 published on 19/1/2004 A special kind of tree houseThe Scottish Crannog centre brings history to life in spectacular fashion. Joyce Bram went to visit it. Imust confess I’m a bit of a Philistine when it comes to history. Museums make me morose and castles leave me cold. But even I couldn’t fail to be impressed by the Scottish Crannog Centre, near Kenmore, on the shores of Loch Tay in Perthshire. The reconstruction of a round home on stilts over a loc... By Joyce Bram from Issue 12 published on 19/1/2004 A new lease of lifeThe dovecot tapestries are going from strength to strength. Roddy Martine assesses a true Scottish treasure It was more than two decades ago that I discovered the Dovecot Tapestry, in those days situated in the Edinburgh village of Corstorphine and on that occasion, I had been invited to a “cutting-off” ceremony. It was my first visit to the workshop which had taken its name from the adjoining 17th centu... By Roddy Martine from Issue 12 published on 19/1/2004 Music up close and personalThe Bein Inn is attracting world-class musicians and letting you get face to face with them. Dominic Roskrow reoprts Imagine the scene. It’s late afternoon and you’ve just completed an exhilarating round of golf on one of Perth’s many courses. You’ve returned to your hotel, a cosy enough place nestling in Glenfarg, and you’re about to ask for your key when you notice someone sipping tea in one of the lounge’s sofa... By Dominic Roskrow from Issue 11 published on 17/11/2003 No better place on the planetThe Scotsman and the Balmoral are the best hotels in the World to enjoy Hogmanay argues Dominic Roskrow Scotland has long laid claim to be the perfect place to enjoy Hogmanay. Edinburgh now makes a case as the Hogmanay capital of the world. And if both those claims are true, then you could certainly make a bid for the hotels at either end of North Bridge as the perfect venues for New Year festivities... By Dominic Roskrow from Issue 11 published on 17/11/2003 Racing's Ayr of distinctionJULIAN ARMFIELD, OF BBC WORLD SERVICE, EXPLAINS WHY SEPTEMBER’S WESTERN MEETING IS THE JEWEL IN THE CROWN OF THE COUNTRY’S RACING CALENDAR Ayr Racecourse is to Scotland what Newmarket is to England and the Curragh to Ireland. It is the ‘headquarters’ of the Scottish turf and provides racing of the highest quality, both on the flat and over jumps, throughout the year. The Scottish Grand National meeting in April attracts huge crowds bu... By Julian Armfield from Issue 10 published on 5/9/2003 |  | ||||||||||||
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