Bonnie Galloway

Cally 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 point at the heart of 150 acres of landscaped grounds which include small lakes, specimen trees, old oak woods and a private golf course.

The Fleet Valley is designated a National Scenic Area and include the protected Castramont Wood where, in May, the display of bluebells will take your breath away. Sandy beaches are a short drive away, the village of Gatehouse-of-Fleet is pretty, while nearby Kirkcudbright, Scotland's Artists' Town, is much painted and for good reason. Britain's largest forest park is on the doorstep, too.

The hotel has some very grand public rooms – the portico itself sets the tone with its monolith columns. But the hotel won The Hospitality Award2007 thanks to the friendly staff led by kilted manager Douglas McDavid. At night a pianist entertains during dinner and guests dress rather smartly. During the day you could enjoy the indoor swimming pool if the beach sounds a bit too bracing.

Bedrooms come in all shapes and sizes. At the top of the portico is a round window, behind which is deluxe room 61. It has an away-fromit- all charm. Sit right in the ‘bullet window' alcove and daydream while gazing out over the hills. It's a little secret.

Knockinaam Lo...

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• In : Best of Scotland
• Issue : 32
• Page : 62
• Words : 1,077