Stonefield Castle Hotel, Tarbert, Argyll

Not many Scottish hotels enjoy a location as stunning as Stonefield Castle Hotel. Tucked just a couple of miles outside Tarbert on the northern cusp of the Kintyre Peninsula this retreat reclines in thick forest and lush vegetation, with sweeping views out over the shimmering waters of Loch Fyne towards the Cowal Peninsula.

The Stunning Location is Reason Enough to Stay at Stonefield Castle Hotel

The location is, of course, stunning and reason enough to stay at Stonefield Castle Hotel. Then there is the fact that this is a charming historic castle laden with history and tall stories. The Campbells of Argyll dominate its heritage, having owned the land long before the castle was originally built in 1837. Today you can walk amongst their ghosts in the expansive grounds. Another plus is that both children and pets are genuinely welcome.

Sumptuous Suites at Stonefield Castle Hotel

There are only 32 bedrooms. My favourite is 32, a suite with a large master bedroom and an additional room. The main bedroom boasts lovely twin recliners situated in bay windows with great views of the loch and gardens. It may be a historic castle, but this room comes complete with sharp modern colours, neat décor touches, funky flat screen TV and free wifi internet access.

Stonefield Castle Hotel is Justifiably Popular with Residents and Non-Residents Alike

Stonefield Castle’s restaurant attracts diners who are not even staying at the hotel with good reason. It boasts wraparound windows, making the most of the views. The menu delves deep into local produce with the beef for the juicy rib eye steaks coming from the butcher in Tarbert. Then there is the highlight of seafood with starters of the likes of plump langoustines and tasty queen scallops grilled and served with garlic butter and mains including fresh lobster landed at Tarbert. The wine list is decent too with mark ups far from the ridiculous levels you sometimes endure at some other luxury hotels.

On Site at Stonefield Castle Hotel

There is not much in the way of facilities at Stonefield, though there is a snooker table that you can use for free and book by the hour. The public areas are a great place for lounging around with a coffee and some shortbread, or maybe a wee nip of the local Springbank whisky, soaking up the views from the large windows too. The 60 acre grounds are great for strolling around with a little offshore island to explore too. Let you imagination run wild for a few moments and you can imagine you are surveying your very own country estate.

Exploring the Kintyre Peninsula

There is plenty to see and do in and around the hotel on the Kintyre Peninsula. Tarbert itself is a pretty wee fishing town with some nice restaurants, cafes and art galleries. Head further south and both roads to Campbeltown boasts stunning views of the Inner Hebrides. The picturesque village of Machrihanish meanwhile sports a great golf course, the excellent Old Club House pub restaurant and a sweeping white sand Atlantic beach that is ideal for bracing strolls.

Stonefield Castle Hotel, Tarbert, Loch Fyne, Argyll, PA29 6YJ. Tel: +44 (0)1880-820836. www.bespokehotels.com/stonefieldcastle

InsiderScotland Rating

For Families 7/10

For a Romantic Break 8/10

For Food 7/10

For Business People 6/10

InsiderScotland Rating 7/10