Kinloch Lodge – Isle of Skye

Skye is one of the most spectacular places on earth and Kinloch sits in one of its most beautiful parts, the shores of Loch na Dal. Fittingly, given its history as a hunting lodge, it offers the services of its own ghillie, Mitchell Partridge, for stalking, fishing, foraging and wilderness walks – he’s very knowledgeable and known for providing great ‘craic’. Foodies flock here. Hardly surprising, since it belongs to cookery writer Lady Claire Macdonald and her husband, Lord Godfrey. Although no longer living here, their reputation for the best Highland hospitality continues with their charming daughter, Isabella, at the helm and inspirational head chef, Jordan Webb in the kitchen. Unfussy seasonal cooking has always been its hallmark, from seared north Skye venison and Broadford chard to fillet of Lochalsh sea trout with fresh peas. Inside there’s a welcoming mix of the well-bred and unpretentious, with antiques, family portraits and a cosy whisky bar for a nightcap before guests head to bed in one of the attractive, seriously comfortable rooms. Kinloch is somewhere to relax and recharge, and always almost impossible to leave.

Doubles from £300

+44 (0)1471 833333; kinloch-lodge.co.uk