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Who doesn’t want to bed down in a Highland castle? Although to be strictly accurate, this turreted pile only dates back to 1863, built by Lord Abinger close to the original 13th-century fortress. Queen Victoria was said to have taken a shine to it, however, as did celebrity guests Charlie Chaplin and Robert Redford.
It’s old-school luxury – there’s a dress code for dinner and gentlemen are requested to wear a jacket and tie – with reams of chintz, four-poster beds, a belt-busting Michelin-starred restaurant and glorious grounds.
To arrive in serious style, the hotel can arrange airport transfers from Glasgow or Edinburgh in a Rolls Royce phantom, which can also be hired for guided day tours.
Green glens, craggy mountains, deep lochs: step outside the hotel and gaze in awe at the sheer magnificence around you.
The hotel is just three miles from the unbelievably ugly eyesore that is the outdoor activity centre, the town of Fort William on the west coast. But you need never go there. Ben Nevis is a 10-minute drive.
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Bucket list experiences our writer says you must do in this destination, closest first
Fort William, Scotland, United Kingdom (UK)[4.2 miles]
One of the world’s greatest scenic railway journeys – 165 miles (5 hours) through Scottish mountains, moors and lochs from Glasgow, Fort William and finally Mallaig.
Best for ages: 6+ | £15 | 4-5 hours
Fort William, Scotland, United Kingdom (UK)[6 miles]
The highest mountain in Britain, ‘The Ben’ is a challenging but rewarding Munro ‘to bag’.
Best for ages: 13+ | Free | Full day
Ballachulish , Scotland, United Kingdom (UK)[19.3 miles]
A magnificent brooding glen that was the scene of Scotland’s bloodiest historic massacres – the slaying of the unarmed MacDonald Clan.
Best for ages: 13+ | £6
Scotland, United Kingdom (UK)[35.6 miles]
One of the world’s most spectacular rail journeys – an 84-mile round trip from Fort William to the little fishing village of Mallaig along the west coast of Scotland.
Best for ages: 4+ | £90 | 6 hours
Other worthwhile experiences in this destination if you have the time or the interest, closest first
Scotland, United Kingdom (UK)[47.6 miles]
Pronounced ‘cheerum’ this atmospheric, 13th-century ruined fortress on a tidal island in Loch Moidart in Lochaber on the west coast has been uninhabited for around two centuries. Closed to visitors due to the dangers of crumbling masonry you can still wander across the sandy causeway to marvel at its ancient exterior.
Best for ages: 6+ | Free
Inverness, Scotland, United Kingdom (UK)[56.6 miles]
Hike up to the 165-feet high Falls of Foyers to see a famous optical illusion. Stare at the water then flick your eyes sideways to see the rock wall move upwards. The waterfall feeds into Loch Ness.
Best for ages: 13+ | Free
Isle of Skye, Scotland, United Kingdom (UK)[58.1 miles]
This family-run, manor house hotel offers a combination of stylish comfort and warm hospitality from owner Isabel. If you don’t stay, then go for the outstanding gourmet food – using fresh local ingredients and traditional Highland recipes. There’s a whisky bar with over 120 different bottles.
Best for ages: 13+ | Free
Inverness, Scotland, United Kingdom (UK)[64.9 miles]
This former medieval fortress, on the shore of the loch, once was the home of Scotland’s Grant Clan. Built in the 13th century, it was subsequently destroyed by the English in 1692 following the crushing of the Jacobite Rebellion at Culloden. You can watch a film of its history in the visitor centre.
Best for ages: 13+ | £10
Destination guides including or relevant to this place to stay
Scottish Highlands, United Kingdom (UK)
Magnificent mountain scenery slashed by silvery lochs and peppered with brooding castles: all laden with rich Scottish heritage, history and tradition.
