Gem on the Loch is Real Argyll Treat
If you are looking to get away from the stress of Christmas and New Year celebrations, look no further than Loch Melfort Hotel and restaurant.
Situated 30 minutes’ drive from Oban on the Argyll coast, this comfortable, family-run hotel is nestled among some of the finest views this part of Scotland has to offer.
This romantic country house hotel boasts amazing views from all bedrooms across Loch Melfort and Asknish Bay. On a clear day, several islands of the Inner Hebrides can be seen.
The friendly atmosphere is obvious as soon as you arrive, as the staff are very welcoming and attentive.
My fiancée and I were shown to our suite in the main house.
It was an elegant, bright, modern room which featured French doors leading out to a balcony with beautiful views over Asknish Bay.
There are 25 individually styled bedrooms in total, which are split between the main building and a Scandinavian-style Cedar Wing.
Before dinner, we relaxed with a glass of wine in front of the log fire in the lounge overlooking the beach.
The hotel’s two AA Rosette Asknish Bay Restaurant is stunning. We dined on freshly caught langoustines, Islay scallops, pigeon breast, black pudding, and beef.
Each course was made from locally sourced products, a fact that has helped give the restaurant the reputation as one of the top 100 places to dine in Scotland.
It’s not just the food that is locally sourced. Everything from fabrics which cover the furniture to the organic handwash is from local firms.
Having only had the hotel for two years, Calum and Rachel Ross have done an unbelievable job in modernising the building while managing to maintain its integrity.
The hotel is beside the famous Arduaine Gardens.
Braving the frosty weather, we ventured through the 20 acres of twisting nature trails and unusual plant life.
After a bracing walk, you may want to head straight to the hotel’s lounge for a delicious hot toddie to restore some warmth to your body.
In a stunning location with beautiful views – and spectacular Scottish food – Loch Melfort Hotel is the perfect winter getaway.