Archive for July, 2009

Film Crew Flies into Loch Melfort

Friday, July 24th, 2009

I dont think the Chartroom II Bistro has ever been busier. First class kids entertainment courtesy of Tiger Aspects film crew hiring in a helicopter to take shots above the Corryvreckan whirlpool, the third largest in the world, for Robson Greens new Channel 5 series Extreme Swimming.

Helicopter Landing in the Field

Helicopter Landing in the Field

When the series hits our screens we expect to see stunning footage of not only the whirlpool, but also the many tidal races that lie between the many islands in the Sound of Jura, at least one of which runs faster than the Corry. The scenery here is simply beautiful and attracts outdoor enthusiasts from all over the world for it’s rich marine and island wildlife such as whales, dolphins and eagles and it’s extreme sea kayaking.

Heading out to the Corryvreckan Whirlpool

Heading out to the Corryvreckan Whirlpool

The helicopter was in and out of the hotel field for about 4 hours, much to the disgust of the cows!

Returning from the Whirlpool

Returning from the Whirlpool

Robson Green Films Near Loch Melfort

Friday, July 24th, 2009

Robson Green and the Tiger Aspect film crew are staying at the hotel filming the latest in his extreme series called Extreme Swimming.

Robson Green in the Binocular Lounge

Robson Green in the Binocular Lounge

Robson’s last series, Extreme Fishing, saw him travelling the world to hunt and battle huge fish, often taking to the water in search of rare underwater creatures. This time round, it’s Extreme Swimming, which will be an “adrenaline-fuelled tour of Britain’s waters” including waterfalls, pools, rivers and wild sea locations such as the extreme coastline around the Sound of Jura.

Robson and Rachel on the Stairs

Robson and Rachel on the Stairs

As well as an exploration of Britain’s wildest waterways, Robson will be meeting the hardy souls who make them their playground.

Topping the Field

Thursday, July 23rd, 2009
Topping the Field

Topping the Field

The tractor was in today topping (cutting the grass) both fields in front of the hotel to prevent the spread of Dock seed into the NTS Arduaine Garden next door and in preparation for a helicopter due to land at the hotel tomorrow.

Renovations Continue

Thursday, July 23rd, 2009
Revamping the Entrance

Revamping the Entrance

Our entrance is getting a revamp with a brand new roof whilst the weather is dry. Fantastic doors handmade by a local carpenter are now in place along with matching wooden window frames. We were so impressed by the new doors’ appearance that the first part of the walkway between the hotel and the Cedar Wing will be clad with the same wood. Bespoke iron railings for the steps are ordered and the black limestone has been delivered to lay on the steps. A whole new image awaits…watch this space!

Exploring at Loch Melfort Beach

Monday, July 13th, 2009

Loch Melfort is bathed in hot, sunny weather and was a good excuse to go exploring and having fun on the beach. While hunting for crabs Hugh discovered a jellyfish which we think is the Lions Mane variety. If anyone knows different please let us know.

Lion's Mane Jellyfish

Lion's Mane Jellyfish

Thanks to the hot weather and the warm current of the Gulf Stream, the shallow coastal waters are lovely for a swim as Duncan demonstrated.

Swimming at Loch Melfort

Swimming at Loch Melfort

Hugh, on the other hand, preferred to paddle in the shallows and continued looking for crabs and other shoreline creatures.

Hugh in Wetsuit

Hugh in Wetsuit

DRAM Award Nomination

Monday, July 6th, 2009

Loch Melfort Hotel has been nominated for a presitgious DRAM award. Our Chartroom II bistro is a finalist in the Nautical bar and Restaurant of the Year category sponsored by whisky distillers Benromach.

After refurbishment, the new Chartroom II (formerly the Skerry Bistro) is a light and airy, informal bistro serving delicious meals made from high quality local seafood and produce. The nautical theme is created by a vibrant colour scheme and decor, navigation chart window blinds, and of course, the magnificent panoramic view the Sound of Jura.

By day, the Chartroom II is a pleasant place to relax over a coffee, wee dram, snack or light meal. But on certain weeknights, it is home to our regular music night where local musicians come to indulge in some traditional Scottish tunes.

Created in 1994, the DRAM awards, or the Scottish Licensed Trade Awards, are an annual recognition of excellence in Scottish licensing and is organised by Dram magazine, the premiere licensing trade magazine in Scotland.

The awards ceremony takes place on Monday 6th July, so please come back to see how we fare.