Laid-back charm in a beautiful 300 year-old Scottish manor

Along a winding, wooded lane 20 minutes’ drive from Oban this charming 300 year-old mansion opened as a hotel in May '09. A grand first impression is followed by warm Scottish hospitality (Julie a star), period décor, contemporary touches, hints of romance. A handsome hall; an original big sitting room with sofas, beautiful plasterwork, a grand piano; the ‘Laird’s Room’ has whisky bar, open fire, plush red armchairs… all is the real McCoy. First-class food: the owners (notably well-travelled) have set standards, prices to match the best in Argyll. Dining room is spacious, gold-hued; tables with linens, fresh flowers, candles. Skilled chef Craig Ferguson offers three choices at starters, mains and desserts (sublime whisky tart a must-try); also canapés, amuse bouche (we’d a wildly flavoursome gratinated smoked salmon), sorbet course, homemade fudge. Afterwards your bedroom will be a true country house affair. Marvellous billiards room very popular. Families genuinely welcomed. It's not formal, but a laid-back, stress-eliminating weave of setting and service.

E S S E N T I A L   I N F O
> The house has 8 bedrooms, 3 of which are superior; one is a family room / suite; self-catering cottages
> Moray is a pretty, superior king with a big bathroom; Finlarig has twin carved beds and is very quiet
> Edinample is tops if you like a loch view, pretty feel; airy, bay-windowed king Glenure is maybe our fave
> Taymouth is biggest; half-tester bed and bay window; huge bathroom; a real suite with dressing area
> All rooms have flat TVs, DVDs, free internet, luxury tea / coffee cabinet; locally made toiletries
> Some rooms have quirks; we didn’t like the tiny kettles; shortbread / fresh milk have to be requested
> There’s a notably flexible approach throughout; we like this 'yes we can' style – it’s called hospitality!
> Dinner can be à la carte from, or the full, daily-changing menu; less formal (i.e. a steak) catered for happily
> House is in great walking country, plenty of information is on hand; grounds beautifully wooded
> Ideal for small weddings and partnerships (licensed) and perfect for exclusive use

R A T I N G
Highly Recommended

L O C A T I O N   Map
If you can find Oban on the map (west coast, north of Loch Lomond…) then Barcaldine is not far away, a bit to the north and over the Connel bridge. By car it is about two and a half hours from Glasgow or Edinburgh. You can take a train to Oban from Glasgow (a beautiful trip) and get a taxi or ask hotel to arrange a lift.

T I P S   &   H I N T S
If you look for flawless perfection, the formality of jacket and tie, keep looking. If however you seek a warm Scottish welcome, superb food and a spacious, historic manor with a happy feel, then this is a really inviting option. Top floor rooms are most private. Taymouth suite has some kitchen fan noise; that will soon be fixed. Eat here: chef has been given the tools – and has the local ingredients – to excel. And is doing so.