Wild island paradise

Glengorm 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 this remote hide-away can be the stuff you remember for a long time.

Possibly one of the more remote hotels you might find, Glengorm is situated on the northern tip of the Isle of Mull near Tobermory, surrounded by forestry, lochs and hills.. The castle overlooks the Atlantic and has views across 60 miles of ocean to the Outer Hebrides and islands of Skye, Rhum and Canna.

Built in 1860, the castle had a history of changing hands until 1962 when it was sold to the Nelson family. The present owners, Tom and Marjorie Nelson, took over the management of the estate from Tom's mother in 2000. Marjorie has her own family connections to the castle as her grandfather was once the farm manager.

It is this family-run feeling that pervades the castle walls these days, and creates the perfect rural retreat.

Once you get there, and through the main door, the most welcoming place is the great hall, the heart of the castle.

If you arrive in the evening there is often a roaring fire on the go and your hosts are always willing to join you for a chat and a whisky from the well stocked bar.

There are five luxurious bedrooms, four with en-suite and one with its own private bathroom. All have...

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• By : Rob Allanson
• In : Best of Scotland
• Issue : 29
• Page : 41
• Words : 790