A country spring

Fortingall Hotel Perthshire
Tel: +44
(0)1887 830 367

Fortingall is one of the most beautiful little villages in Scotland and it holds more than one fascinating secret...

Fortingall Hotel, named Small Country Hotel of the Year 2007, sits beside a fine old kirk in whose churchyard is the still-growing Fortingall yew, believed to be 5,000 years old and recognised as one of the world's oldest living things. Fortingall is also held by many to be the birthplace – however unlikely this sounds – of Pontius Pilate; certainly there is evidence to support this.

But it's the hotel you want to hear about. It's a wonderfully Scottish place, and its rare arts and crafts style architecture and details delight the eye. Step under the carved stone lintel and into a log fire-warmed house with a refreshingly light décor set off with superb period pieces of furniture and gentle, clever tones. Subtle tartan and fine panelling add warmth and character.

Manager Ellie Miles and her team extend a genuine welcome; husband Ashley is head chef and creates delicious, fresh and not overwrought food – served in a truly delightful dining room. The hotel's owners and Iain and Janet Wotherspoon also own the encompassing Glen Lyon Estate and the beautiful countryside can be explored by car or on foot and the hotel is experienced at arranging country sports.

There are ten rooms bedrooms, and the bathrooms are surprisingly luxurious. Attention to detail is impressive.

Tigh na Sgiath Inverness-shi...

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• By : Sally Toms
• In : Best of Scotland
• Issue : 37
• Page : 64
• Words : 960