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Girvan area hotels

Glenapp Castle Hotel

Ballantrae
by Girvan
Ayrshire KA26 0NZ

Tel +44 (0)1465 831212

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Graham & Fay Cowan, owners, at The Scottish Hotel Awards 2011 with the Gold Laurel trophy for their restoration of the castle and gardens

Graham & Fay Cowan, owners, at The Scottish Hotel Awards 2011 with the Gold Laurel trophy for their restoration of the castle and gardens

Hotel reviewed by...
Gary McLean-Quin, Vivien Devlin, Ken Scott; and others


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The hotel's current Recommendation Rating Level from The Scottish Hotel Guide

Glenapp Castle Hotel

Review below ▼   "Incomparably beautiful castle hotel with the finest dining"
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Incomparably beautiful castle hotel with the finest dining


Awards   2011 > Romantic Hotel of the Year

Other guides    VS 5 gold stars | AA 5 red stars & 4 rosettes | FoodStars™ 6

Rooms 17

 

Judges' notes

There are but a few places such as this in Scotland and in the main they're private or for exclusive use only; this castle is very much open as a hotel and restaurant (non-residents welcome, but do book). On Ayrshire's coast south of Turnberry is Ballantrae, a well-kept village; beyond, a country road will lead you to iron gates. Nothing is signed, all is discreet; an intercom system will open the gates. Ahead, a mile-long drive uphill through superb mature woodland. Near the hilltop a sturdy, handsome big castle emerges: its outlook, over terrace garden and exotic trees, is spectacularly to the sea and iconic Ailsa Craig. 

This magnificent escape from the madding crowd is gracious but unstuffy, flexible enough to meet the demands of those who expect... and yet intimate and cheerful. Intimidating, it is not. The Real McCoy, it is. Built in the 19th century for aristocrats who could choose the most plum of plots Glenapp Castle was restored by Graham and Fay Cowan who received a Gold Laurel at The Scottish Hotel Awards 2011 in recognition of their achievement over the last decade. The photos above show the interiors, including bedrooms and suites, and also its captivating gardens. A new spa nearby is a boon.

An absolute strength is the food: it is most decidedly amongst Scotland's elite and best. Adam Stokes, head chef, is at the peak of ability. His craftsmanship and skill is revealed in beautiful, balanced, restrained cuisine. There are innovative twists and traditional marriages on the plate and all is lifted yet by an avoidance of the otiose in a celebratory showcasing of best ingredients. Dinner [sample menus] is a joyful privilege and the first-class service, led by manager John Orr, is knowledgeable and kind. 

5 Gold Stars - Castle Hotel

© 2011 | Judges & Researchers | The Scottish Hotel Awards & Guide

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