Scotland is one of the most beautiful and scenic parts of the UK, if not the world. Rolling hills, lush green expanse, and vast lochs with endless charm. The Highlands are stunning, with miles of untouched landscape making it the perfect place for sightseeing, and exploring.
We sent our writer, Rachel McAlley to visit one of the most remote hotels in the Highlands, the Bridge of Orchy Hotel. She and her family were invited to enjoy the food, facilities and Scottish hospitality at this award-winning rural location.
We drove 280 miles from our home in North Yorkshire to the small hamlet, Bridge of Orchy in Argyll and Bute. It was a steady, relaxing drive with some picturesque surroundings. We drive through Tyndrum, which is a unique touristy holiday spot, and bypassed the famous village of Glencoe, known for its mountain scenery and historical sites.
The Hotel Room
Once we arrived at Bridge of Orchy Hotel, Nicky at reception advised us where to park the car, and she checked us in. We were booked into a Superior Family Room for three, Room 1 was our base for the next 24 hours. A spacious first floor room with king-sized bed, sofa bed, dressing table, hot drink facilities, bottled water, and Scottish snacks.
The room was ideal for our overnight stay, with extremely comfy beds, views over the Bridge itself, and tasty treats. There is a total of 32 rooms at Bridge of Orchy, with 21 located in the annex building and external cottage, the remainder are in the main hotel where we slept. Wherever you stay at the hotel you’ve got a great view, either over Glen Orchy, Black Mount, or Bridge of Orchy.
Once unpacked we ventured down for dinner in the bar and restaurant. Complete with outside area for guests to enjoy dining. The restaurant was busy with guests, walkers, hikers, and cyclists. It was a hub of activity, with patrons enjoying the menu of local produce.
The Restaurant at Bridge of Orchy
The menu offered everything I wanted and more, all three of us opted for Traditional Scottish Smoked Haddock Cullen Skink, which is the most amazing soup in my opinion! Honestly, I think this is the best, tastiest, heartiest soup ever. Firstly, the bowl was crammed with flaky smoked haddock, potatoes and onions. Secondly, it was all bound by an outstanding butter and cream base. Thirdly, it was simply delicious and extremely moreish.
Moving onto our main course we chose Ayrshire Pork Tomahawk with all the trimmings, Schiehallion Beer Battered Fish with chips and peas, and Roasted Butternut Squash Pappardelle with sage and hazelnut brown butter. Everything was pure perfection. The chef and kitchen team definitely know how to cook delicious food.
We spent some time post dinner enjoying a drink in the bar, chatting with the staff and getting to know the best places to visit in the area. Then it was time to put our heads down and get some rest. Luckily, Nathaniel head housekeeper was in the bar, and he helped get our sofa bed ready for my daughter. It was wonderful to speak to a true Scot, who was loving his job at Bridge of Orchy. Plus, he gave us extra Tunnock’s biscuits, which made him fabulous in our eyes!
All three of us slept soundly, and woke to the glorious sound of birds chirping and guests chatting outside about their planned day in the Highlands. It was drizzling, which was completely normal in that area, but it still looked gorgeous outside.
Breakfast Time
We packed our suitcases, and headed for breakfast downstairs. Sitting next to the window overlooking Black Mount, we realised how stunning the hills and mountains are in the region. Guests were helping themselves to juice and cereals from the breakfast table, as did we. Coffee, tea and toast were served to our table, and we ordered a hot breakfast.
It was wonderful to see so many regional options on the menu. Decisions were difficult, but that didn’t stop us. The three of us opted for Scottish Smoked Salmon & Scrambled Eggs, Eggs Royale on toasted muffin, and a Scottish Breakfast. Moreover, the Scottish Breakfast had local eggs, haggis and scotch black pudding. Each and every dish was outstanding.
Bridge of Orchy Area
Our stay at Bridge of Orchy was sadly over, however we packed the car and went for a walk over the bridge. We strolled along the riverside, and went to see the local train station, perched high above the hotel. It was a wonderful 24-hour visit to one of the most stunning areas of the Highlands.
The four star hotel is extremely clean, very well looked after, is cosy and comfortable. Furthermore, the staff are knowledgable about the area, friendly, and very helpful. We couldn’t have asked for anything more. Plus, the food was exceptional.
Our room is charged at around £199 per night depending on the season. The dinner menu is charged per item, as are drinks. Breakfast is included if you’ve booked a specific package, or added as an extra if required. It is always cheaper to book direct, and if you book 60 days in advance you get an extra discount. Visit Bridge of Orchy Hotel to find out rates and to book your stay.
Words by Rachel McAlley @LadyRach
