ANDY COOPER heads north of the border to enjoy a luxurious tour of some special hotels by the shoreline
With over 6,000 miles bordering the sea, Scotland is a coast-lover’s paradise. You could visit for ten years and still have plenty more to take in. And the travel and accommodation options are plentiful too. From wild camping in splendid isolation to five-star stays at some of the world’s most iconic destinations, the country has it all.
So, where to start? Well, perhaps some tips for luxurious hotels on the east, north and western coasts, plus an island stay and a city break close to the shore might be of interest. Having just returned from a fabulous week’s stay in Scotland, allow me to present five of my favourites:
1 THE PIERHOUSE, PORT APPIN, ARGYLL
Tucked away on the shores of Loch Linnhe looking out to the islands of Lismore and Mull, this small hotel and renowned Scottish seafood restaurant is one of Argyll’s most idyllic and romantic destinations.
Port Appin, The Pierhouse’s neighbouring seaside village was recently named one of the best places to live in the UK so it is no wonder the hotel and restaurant welcomes visitors from all over the world.
Having flown into Glasgow Airport earlier on via the quick flight from Bristol, the drive out to Port Appin served as a wonderful introduction to the majesty of the Scottish landscape. It really isn’t long before you are out of the city and winding your way down the side of lochs and marvelling at the mountains rising up above you.
The last stretch of the road to Port Appin was a challenge for me keeping my eyes on the road as my partner gasped at the beauty of the scenery. We arrived to a crisp, blue outlook, the sky reflecting off the still waters of the quaint harbour just outside the Pierhouse. The warmest of welcomes was offered by the team as we were ushered in for a cuppa and a slice of cake in the oh-so-cute residents’ lounge. Relaxation seems to come fitted as standard here.
Food and drink are an integral part of the philosophy and experience at The Pierhouse, with menus showcasing local produce and celebrating the west of Scotland. That was certainly our experience when we sat ourselves down in the bay window of the dining room, drank in the views and availed ourselves of a wonderful meal with the finest of wines.
Suitably replete, we wound our way back to our beautifully-appointed bedroom via a wee dram at the welcoming bar, with a log burner crackling adjacent to us. What. A. Spot.
WHILE YOU’RE IN THE AREA
Take in the Glencoe National Nature Reserve… known
