Travel: A luxury Highland getaway at the Torridon Hotel

Looking out on the magnificent Liathach above Loch Torridon.

With dark nights and relentless city rain heralding the start of winter in Glasgow, my wife and I decided it was time for a much-needed escape from the daily grind. A spot of highland luxury was just what we needed, so we packed up and headed north to the stunning Torridon Hotel.

The Torridon Hotel had just launched their tempting all-inclusive package, and we were ready to be indulged. This turned out to be a million miles away from our previous all-inclusive experiences on fly-and-flop holidays. Instead of cheap burgers in plastic trays, we dined on the finest beef, from highland cattle raised on the hotel grounds – you can’t get more local than that! In place of cheap cocktails in plastic glasses, we were served fine wines and malt whiskies, tailored to our tastes. This was all-inclusive luxury style.

The Torridon Hotel is nestled in the heart of the Scottish Highlands in an area of breathtaking natural beauty. The drive to the hotel itself was an adventure, with winding roads, misty lochs, and majestic mountains welcoming us at every turn. The hotel, an old hunting lodge, is a grand, majestic building set in a stunning position, with plenty of historic charm and detail. We were greeted with a warm welcome by the lovely front of house staff, who checked us in, gave a quick tour of the facilities.

Our room, overlooking Loch Torridon and the surrounding mountains, was the epitome of luxury and comfort. With a large, plush bed, soft furnishings, and a generous ensuite bathroom, it was the perfect base for our stay.

The all-inclusive package included breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, a fine dining dinner, and a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. For two food and whisky enthusiasts like us, this was a dream come true.

Each morning, we started our day with a hearty breakfast in the hotel’s dining room. The menu was extensive, and the helpful staff were always able to accommodate modifications, including the extra tattie scones we couldn’t resist ordering.

Lunch was equally delightful, with a range of options to cater to different tastes. In the cosy drawing room in the main building, we enjoyed homemade soup and sandwiches, and in the resort’s separate Bo & Muc restaurant we were treated to wonderful salads, burgers and specials at both lunch and dinner. The wild mushrooms on sourdough, served with truffle and a hen’s egg, was a firm favourite, and the haggis-topped venison burger was very popular.

The afternoon tea was charming, served in the hotel’s dining room. We sipped on a variety of homemade teas and enjoyed an array of delectable pastries and finger sandwiches while taking in the view of the lush gardens through the large windows. The warm atmosphere and attentive staff, along with elegant silverware and knitted teapot handle covers, made this experience truly memorable.

On one evening we had the pleasure of experiencing the tasting menu in hotel’s fine dining restaurant, 1887, which featured a seasonal and locally sourced menu, incorporating the freshest seafood, succulent meats, and fresh vegetables. This was haute cuisine, served with breath-taking presentation, and balancing delicate and delicious flavours. The wine pairing was the perfect accompaniment.

The grounds of The Torridon Hotel offer a beautiful Highland setting with diverse landscapes. The estate comprises woodlands, gardens, and expansive lawns that slope toward Loch Torridon. Walking paths wind through native plants, offering views of the surrounding mountains. It’s a great place for leisurely walks, runs, or simply enjoying the peaceful atmosphere and scenic surroundings. The kitchen garden at The Torridon Hotel stands as a flourishing testament to the hotel’s commitment to fresh, local produce. Nestled amidst the stunning Scottish landscape, this garden is a patchwork of carefully tended beds, bursting with a vibrant array of seasonal herbs and vegetables. Guests are welcome to pop by and see what’s in season.

For whisky aficionados like us, The Torridon Whisky Bar was an oasis. Stocked with a vast selection of Scotch whiskies, including some rare and limited editions, the bar provided an intimate setting to savour a dram or two. Sean, the young whisky expert, captivated us with his depth of knowledge and infectious passion, adding an extra layer of delight to our whisky journey. Some excellent malts were included within the all-inclusive package, such as the excellent Balblair 12 year old, and the Glen Scotia Double Cask, but I couldn’t resist sampling some of the more unusual whiskies. I have to admit to stopping off at a specialist whisky shop on my way home to invest in a nice bottle of Benromach.

My wife was equally impressed by the cocktails. We had both taken a liking to the homemade marmalade served at breakfast, so were intrigued to see it turn up again in the cocktail menu. The Wester-Ross Sunset didn’t disappoint – an expertly mixed blend of Glenmorangie whisky, aperol, egg white and our new favourite marmalade.

But it wasn’t all fine dining and indulgence! The Torridon Hotel has plenty of options to help you work off your breakfast, and work up an appetite for your next meal. Torridon Outdoors offers an array of exhilarating activities. From guided mountain biking expeditions to rock climbing adventures and guided sea kayaking tours, the activities team have something for everyone.

We opted for bike hire on the first day, and spent a wonderful morning cycling through the resort grounds, and taking in the stunning views of Loch Torridon towards the majestic munro Liathach .The well-maintained bikes and routes ensured that our cycling experience was both enjoyable and safe.

For our guided trek, we ventured a bit further afield to explore the surrounding area. Led by a knowledgeable and enthusiastic local guide, the walk allowed us to explore the area’s history, flora, and fauna. We even saw a rare sea eagle!

The Torridon Hotel is reflected in the still loch.

Winter in the Torridon area presents a stunning landscape with a range of activities suited for adventure as well as pampering. Beinn Eighe National Nature Reserve offers serene hiking trails, transformed by snow-covered trees and icy vistas. For experienced climbers, scaling Liathach or Beinn Alligin provides breathtaking views of snow-topped peaks and valleys. Shieldaig, a nearby village along Loch Shieldaig, offers a peaceful retreat, and Inverewe Garden showcases frosty scenery. The late autumn leaves are incredible in the area’s ancient forests.

After three nights of luxury, I don’t think we have ever been so reluctant to leave a hotel! Our stay at The Torridon Hotel, with its all-inclusive package, was a delightful escape. From comfortable accommodations to delicious meals, outdoor adventures, and friendly service, it made for a memorable late autumn retreat. For those seeking a blend of luxury, nature, and Scottish hospitality, The Torridon Hotel is a great choice.

P.S. The Torridon Hotel’s three-day all-inclusive retreat combines bed and breakfast accommodation in a deluxe bedroom in the hotel with all meals in the hotel’s two restaurants, 1887 and Bo & Muc brasserie, as well as unlimited house drinks, afternoon tea and outdoor activities that really showcase the magical location of the resort.

Available from November 2023 to March 2024, the experience starts from £2,890 for three nights for two people and includes deluxe room accommodation in the hotel, breakfast, lunch and dinners every day, unlimited house drinks, a Torridon Afternoon Tea, bike hire for a day and guided walk with Torridon Outdoors.