A bit of originality

The Editor heads to the one that started it all, the original Malmaison in Edinburgh.

Edinburgh looked like the jewel of the East it is reputed to be as I crested the hill on the A702, the city sprawling out before me.

I had never taken this route in before, but what a road for a motorbike, twisting and turning with some great views from Abingdon. But having travelled most of the country to get to my destination I was ready for a good night's sleep.

My accommodation was truly of the highest order, and something worth looking forward to – the original Malmaison in the regenerated docks area in Leith.

Docklands have always been slightly problematic areas for councils to deal with since the steep decline in ship building and transportation.

Often these derelict strips earned the reputations for being no go areas, especially after the heavy industry left.

However in the past decade these areas have seen massive investments and improvements to become desirable places to live, work and stay. The centre piece really for Leith is Malmason.

The Edinburgh Mal is a truly gorgeous riverside property, which has seen many colourful goings-on over the years. It's been a Seaman's mission and even a house of illrepute for ladies of the night.

Nowadays the hotel and bar attracts a far more salubrious crowd. When you wander through the doors you're met by a grand staircase, slinky sofas in the lobby and the doorways to brasserie and bar nirvana.

If you're looking for hotel luxury in Edinburgh, then you'll definitely enjoy the look and feel of this place. It has masses ...

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• By : Rob Allanson
• In : Best of Scotland
• Issue : 49
• Page : 58
• Words : 544