Mingary Castle – Kilchoan, Ardnamurchan
Before its painstaking excavation and renovation, Mingary Castle was in danger of collapse, which shouldn’t come as a surprise given its 700-year history. Sitting proud above the Sound of Mull in its own rocky outcrop, the 13th-century hexagonal keep has not only endured the harsh elements of the Ardnamurchan peninsula, but has been at the centre of bitter feuds between kings and clans. It was even the target of a three-day long siege by the ship San Juan de Sicilia of the Spanish Armada. Highly skilled craftsmen swept in like knights in shining armour to make good the crumbling stonework, as well as the long-lost roof and floors, and in 2016, the drawbridge was lowered for guests. Play king of the castle and hire all five bedrooms, each boasting a four-poster bed, making use of the dining room for creative, locally-sourced food cooked by in-house chefs and the drawing room for a glass of whisky, distilled on the estate. Even your canine companion is welcome. Picture it now, after a long day of walking over the rugged landscape, sitting in front of a wood burning stove with a well-deserved cup of tea and a good book. Heaven.
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Name to Know: Head chef, Iain Nicholson, has trained with the best and possesses a very unique style. Ask him any questions you may have during a question and answer after dinner.
See: White sands, clear turquoise seas at Sanna Beach. Boat trips to the Isle of Mull or Staffa. Wildlife spotting or just the peace and tranquillity of the rural landscape.
Eat: At Mingary’s own restaurant, head chef Iain Nicholson creates a no fuss tasting menu truly showcasing the best Britain has to offer with a Nordic twist.
Buy: On Mingary’s doorstep you have the Ardnamurchan Distillery for Whisky, and also Ardalanish Tweed for a range of woven products, wool and tweed.
Want to find out more? Visit the hotel's website.
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