Cromlix Hotel
"How did it strike you on arrival?This meticulously resorted Victorian manse set on 34 acres of Scottish woodlands first made headlines in 2014, when it was acquired by none other than tennis star Andy Murray, who hails from this part of Perthshire. Yet you'll find almost no trace of the pro here other than his fondness for this nook of the Highlands. Nice. What’s the crowd like?People who want a true Scottish experience, from rousing walks through the countryside to long after-dinner nightcaps by the fire. How was check-in?With only 15 rooms in the main house, each and every guest receives a warm, personalized welcome. It feels like less of a traditional hotel and more like your fanciest Scottish friend's Highland house. The good stuff: Tell us about your room.There are ten bedrooms: Five suites and a Gate Lodge on the property, all of which are decorated with their own individual touches and overlook the hotel's gardens and surrounding countryside. The decor is historic and traditional without feeling dusty, with most of the bedrooms outfitted with antique Scottish furniture. How about the little things, like mini bar, or shower goodies. Any of that find its way into your suitcase?As with any Scottish estate, it's all about the daytime activities. Cromlix offers tennis coaching on their own Wimbledon-grade courts (of course), loch fishing, archery, garden games, and falconry. Room service and food: Worth it?Famed French chef Albert Roux runs the kitchen at Chez Roux at Cromlix, offering up elegant French-meets-Scottish food. There is also a whiskey room where guests can kick back and enjoy a number of different Scottish whiskies, as well as rooms for private dining. Anything stand out about other services and features? Whether it’s childcare, gyms, spas, even parking—whatever stuck with you.Although just three miles from the town of Dunblane and a mere 45 minutes from Edinburgh airport, Cromlix manages to keep its off-the-grid Scottish Highlands vibe alive and well without sacrificing convenience. Bottom line: worth it, and why?Come here for a Scottish Highlands experience befitting the laird Andy Murray himself. It offers many of the experiences and opportunities of the larger Highland estates, but offers far more intimacy being just a fraction of their size." - Todd Plummer
