A touch of grandeur

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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 ago – a process that itself took several years – by Graham and Fay Cowan. The Guide has watched with interest and we stayed in spring 2004. We had a feeling that Scotland Magazine readers would be interested in the place and, having been, now know for sure that you will!

The castle sits in a breathtaking position. High on a hillside, its glittering windows looking out to sea and the famous bird sanctuary isle Ailsa Craig. The cliff-edged island is dramatic and resembles, when the mists cling to its top, an exotic smoking volcano.

All around the castle are the most magnificent mature trees, many a century old, tall and swaying as if in some African breeze. The walled gardens are a little piece of Eden: fabulously coloured rhododendrons and roses climb, grow and thrive in this immaculate sanctuary. The glasshouse – in which you may sit – features a long established vine. None of this is exaggeration, and not a word of it purple prose; it is fact.

Graham and Fay, who have a successful hotel business in their family, are easy-going, friendly hosts. Their skills have shaped Glenapp and they enjoy welcoming every guest, as does their hand-picked team. This hospitality awaits ...

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• By : Dominic Roskrow
• In : Best of Scotland
• Issue : 15
• Page : 62
• Words : 1,233