Editor Sophie Ritchie shares why you need to ‘loch’ in to the idea of a Scottish Highlands adventure with the newly-reopened five-star Dunalastair Hotel Suites in Pitlochry this summer
My lingering Texan accent can be misleading to the untrained ear, but if you listen closely enough, there’s an undeniable Scottish twang in there. Born in Aberdeen but raised across the pond, Scotland and its plethora of natural scenic beauty always holds a special place in my heart. From New Year’s Day dips at the bone-chilling Aberdeen beach and fond memories of riding around in my late grandfather’s Land Rover through to kilt-clad ceilidhs and watching my sister’s first ultramarathon in the mountains, I always look forward to returning here.
But for many people, if you so much as mention the words ‘staycation’ and ‘Scotland’ in the same breath, you can find yourself met with a grimace, furrowed brow and following immediate declaration of why this part of the UK is firmly NOT a holiday-worthy destination.
Maybe it’s the weather, someone’s relative, a transport issue – regardless, the notion of a summer trip here can often be discarded faster than you can say “Highland Coo”. But don’t judge a destination by its weather forecast. There’s plenty to see, do and inhale, particularly in the Scottish Highlands where the captivating landscapes and intriguing history simply demands to be explored.
Curious to see more of the Ritchie homeland (we have our own clan tartan, y’know) I grab my EasyJet-friendly luggage and head to the Highlands for a getaway with the newly-reopened Dunalastair Hotel Suites in Loch Rannoch, a five-star hotel located about a two-hour drive from Inverness airport.
The Property
Survive the meandering roads that lead through to Kinloch Rannoch village and find yourself met with the worthy reward of the Dunalastair Hotel Suite’s elegant grey stone exterior. A property long respected as one of Highland Perthshire’s most distinctive boutique hotels, this much-loved stay has recently undergone a major facelift courtesy of its new owners.
A restoration project that honours the building’s Victorian sporting-lodge roots (I’ve never seen quite so much deer-themed memorabilia in one space), the makeover has also introduced contemporary touches and subtle, whimsical nods to its Highland heritage through clever menus and light-hearted decor. One highlight includes a newly-created open fireplace – complete with its original mantle – now forming a striking focal point that adds to the coziness within these walls.
The Room
Set within the centre of this slumbering village, each of the 32 suites balances traditional charm with refined, contemporary interiors designed to help a guest relax, unwind and switch off from reality when they arrive in this tranquil part of the world. With soft cream colour tones and other neutral shades juxtaposed with rich blues in the form of bed headboards and chairs, the varying rooms are luxuriously spacious – kitted out with huge beds, places to lounge and mini kitchenettes complete with fridges, kettles, sinks and Nespresso machines for the perfect morning booster. The bathrooms are equally modern – my own features a walk-in shower, beautiful locally-made Arran toiletries and fluffy towels so soft I deliberate the consequences of stuffing one into my handbag for the journey home.
Dunalastair Hotel Suites provides a home from home, a place to set a suitcase down and settle in for the night – whether that’s a weekend or full seven-day itinerary. My own admittedly never stays put for that long – there’s far too much to explore in this outstandingly beautiful terrain.
After snaffling one of the handmade welcome pastry creations, on my first afternoon I put my trainers back on and soak up the surroundings with a quick stroll through the village, where mini waterfalls, reservoirs and beautiful mountain eyefuls can be enjoyed within minutes of Dunalastir’s doorstep. I’m lucky enough to catch this patch of Highland beauty in the sunshine, but even on a gloomier day I can imagine it’s incredibly atmospheric.
Where to dine
1 Tuck into local produce at The MacNab Restaurant
Open daily for breakfast and dinner, The MacNab at Dunalastair Hotel Suites places a large emphasis on Scotland’s finest seasonal produce and game, from estate venison and Perthshire lamb to fresh Scottish seafood. Even its name pays homage to the surroundings – it’s inspired by the legendary MacNab Challenge, a Highland sporting pursuit in which participants must stalk a red stag, catch a salmon on the fly and shoot a brace of grouse between dawn and dusk. You won’t need to do any of that to enjoy a delicious meal here, of course – simply pull up a chair, admire the beautiful dish presentation before you and devour away.
2 Curl up with something delicious at The Tipsy Stag
Ideal for cozying up on a rainier day, The Tipsy Stag (also found within the hotel) offers an excellent respite. With its log fire and stag-themed decor, this lounge serves imaginative small plates that can be shared or devoured solo, along with daily afternoon cream tea and excellent cocktails. Make the most of an extensive drinks list, ranging from whisky-based serves to sweeter creations.
3 Find fine dining up the road at The Estate Room
Around a 1km walk away awaits sister property Loch Rannoch Hotel & Spa, where The Estate Room makes an excellent evening’s outing for anyone with a love of beautifully-presented dishes and grand surroundings. Plus, play your cards right and you might even catch a bagpipe performance.
4 A scone at Rannoch railway station
One of Britain’s most remote and scenic railway stations, found perched on the historic West Highland Line in Scotland, this adorable tiny railway station makes an excellent spot for a mid-day pitstop during a day’s hiking. Head along the platform to find a classic tea room, where a good brew, freshly-baked scones and hefty slices of cake can be enjoyed amongst locals and tourists alike. For what it lacks in oat milk and barista serves, it makes up for in excellent service and its impossibly adorable location.
Things to try
Work hard, Strava harder. For the explorers, there’s plenty to keep you occupied at Loch Rannoch and its surrounding areas
1 Run up Craig Varr and around lake
The call of a trail run is hard to ignore, particularly when the route seems a little gruesome. With 400ft of elevation within the first 2km alone, a run up to Craig Varr located directly behind the hotel is not for the faint-hearted (nor the unfit) but if you fancy the challenge, it’s a beautiful start to the day. Reach the top then reward your efforts with a gorgeously-presented breakfast at The MacNab Restaurant to follow. For those used to the endurance efforts, I recommend following it up with a few kilometres around Loch Rannoch, where the road and its rolling hills feels like child’s play compared to the mini mountain trek.
2 Learn about the area with Highland Travel
Book a half-day guided tour with Highland Travel, who run immersive Clan Heritage Tours throughout the warmer months. Not only scenic, these in-depth driver-led tours share fascinating facts about the violent clan history surrounding the area, as well key points of local interest mixed in with plenty of beauty spots.
3 Highland Games
Hosted annually, each village within the region hosts its own version of the Highland Games with unique challenges and activities. The Rannoch Highland Gathering is an authentic, local Highland Games held annually on the third Saturday of August in Weller Poley Park. Save the date for Saturday, 15th August and marvel at traditional heavyweight events, piping, dancing, and a challenging hill race up Craig Varr.
4 Archery with Dunalastair Suites
A bullseye for adrenaline lovers or those that prefer a more stationary activity, Dunalastair Hotel Suites can organise archery sessions at a nearby location that are perfect for both beginners and advanced students. Ideal for getting into the true Highland spirit, pick up a bow and take aim for the afternoon with expert tuition within a relaxed yet highly safe environment.
5 Hike or run up Schiehallion
If you’re looking to tick off a Munro during your visit, Schiehallion is a prominent 1,083-metre (3,553 ft) Munro that makes an excellent day’s outing. Known fondly as the “fairy hill of the Caledonians” and famous for its near-perfect conical shape when viewed from the west, take to the well-maintained path for about a 5–6 hours hike or 2.5-3-hour long run. Back at Dunalasair Hotel Suites, the sweet treats awaiting you are highly worth every steep step.
6 Spa day at sister property Loch Rannoch Hotel & Spa
Nearby sister property Loch Rannoch Hotel & Spa is a charming destination resort set on the peaceful banks of Loch Rannoch (and a getaway that offers its own fantastic dining experiences). For those that enjoy a little R&R with a getaway, guests can book a range of pampering treatments at the on-site spa. The Swedish massage is particularly good for sorting out tension knots – with a petite range of facilities such as a sauna, steam room and indoor pool awaiting you post-massage. Later this summer, the experience will be further enhanced with the introduction of a dreamy new outdoor Woodland Spa, complete with jacuzzi, places to lounge and more.
The Wordrobe Verdict
It’s time to ‘loch’ into the idea of a Scottish Highlands adventure with Dunalastair Hotel Suites this summer. Surrounded by incredible scenery with hilly routes that simply demand to be explored, this luxuriously-renovated property makes an excellent base for anyone seeking both adventure and ambience with their getaways. With modern amenities, excellent dining opportunities and comfort galore, a Highlands-based getaway has never looked so suite.
Make it happen
How: To find out more and make a booking, visit dunalastairhotelsuites.com
Where: 1, The Square, Kinloch Rannoch, Pitlochry PH16 5PW
Wallet: Nightly rates at Dunalastair Hotel Suites start from £225 for 2 guests in a superior double room on B&B basis.
Words by Sophie Ritchie, editor
