Art Breaks
Check out the art scene around Scotland and stay at one of these fine hotels
PERTHSHIRE
With its romantic setting on the banks of the River Tay, the Ballathie House Hotel is renowned as a country sports base, where guests can enjoy fishing one of Scotland’s best salmon rivers along the hotel’s own 1.25-mile beat of the Tay.
The 17th century, baronial style mansion, complete with turrets and antique furnishings, stands on a 3,000- acre working farm estate at the end of a half-mile fairytale forest drive. If you’re in a hurry to escape the bustle of the city, you can even set your helicopter down in the hotel’s landing area.
This elegant, four-star country retreat has a double AA Rosette-rated restaurant specialising in locally sourced beef and poultry, which can be washed down from a selection of 350 wines. Ballathie House Hotel, Kinclaven, Stanley, T 01250 883268, www.ballathiehousehotel.co.uk
ABERDEEN
Malmaison Aberdeen’s luxurious bedrooms and four suites are tastefully decorated with hints of Scottish inspiration, while retaining the hotel’s distinct, contemporary feel.
With a stylish Champagne bar, a well stocked whisky snug, a crystal wine tasting cellar and a brasserie serving the finest local ingredients – including some of the best locally reared steaks in town - only an art opening or exhibition will drag you from the hotel. The tranquil Le Petit spa will help you unwind after a day’s gallery-hopping.
The “Mal” has hosted exhibitions of work by Jack Vettriano and John Byrne. Look out for future shows.
During Malmaison’s ‘Northern Lights’ winter campaign, rates are from £99 per room inclusive of traditional breakfast and a £20 dining voucher to enjoy local produce. Quote ‘Northern Lights’ when contacting the hotel. Malmaison Aberdeen, 49-53 Queen's Rd., Aberdeen, AB15 4YP, T 01224 327370, reservations.aberdeen@malmaison.com, www.malmaison.com
BORDERS
A unique example of Arts and Crafts-era architecture, the Maplehurst Boutique Guest House is tucked into a lush garden with walkways overlooking the impressive Borders hills on the outskirts of Galashiels.
Owners Derek and Linda Chapman have a meticulous eye for detail and have restored the interiors of this magnificent home to its original majesty. Every room blossoms with period detail, from wood panelling, an original wall tapestry and a spectacular stained glass window to period mirrors and authentic Monart moulded glass lamps.
Each of the four bedrooms is dressed with stylish Morris wallpapers and window hangings and boasts exquisite touches like Art Deco washbasins, roll top baths and original brass fittings.
Aga-cooked breakfasts are cooked to guests’ tastes and can include thick French toast with maple syrup, omelettes, an almost fat-free version of the Full Scottish or platters of fruit drizzled with vanilla syrup or laced with lemongrass and honey. All ingredients are locally sourced.
The Maplehurst is popular with authors, writers and artists topping up their creative juices on a peaceful and restorative break. Maplehurst Boutique Guest House , 42 Abbotsford Rd., Galashiels, TD1 3HR, T 01896 754050, www.maplehurstguesthouse.co.uk
EDINBURGH
Malmaison Edinburgh began life as a seaman's mission back in the late 1800s and was transformed into a glamorous haven for culture vultures and food and drink aficionados in 1994.
The first in the Malmaison group, this gorgeous boutique hotel on the picturesque Leith waterfront boasts many period features, including a grand staircase and resplendent central clock tower. Visit the newly reopened Scottish National Portrait Gallery and make a night of it at Malmaison Edinburgh.
During Malmaison’s ‘Northern Lights’ winter campaign, rates are from £99 per room inclusive of traditional breakfast and a £20 dining voucher to enjoy local produce. Quote ‘Northern Light’ when contacting the hotel.Malmaison Edinburgh, 1 Tower Place, Edinburgh, EH6 7BZ, T 0131 468 5001, reservations.edinburgh@malmaison.com, www.malmaison.com
