Dalhousie Castle, Scotland

For a true Scottish experience, staying in a castle is definitely the way to go! From the moment I arrived atDalhouise Castle, the warm Scottish welcome that I had imagined, became an immediate reality. The staff is extremely friendly and you feel like you are instantly part of the family.

Dalhousie Castle dates back to the 13th Century and is set within acres of wooded parkland and river pasture, less than a half hour’s drive from Edinburgh and the airport.Family owned for centuries, it was re-planned as a hotel in 1972 and although you get all the luxuries of a modern hotel, it doesn’t take away the feeling that you are staying in a “real” Castle. The 27 beautifully styled bedrooms were designed after extensive renovations and each is individually decorated in traditional fabrics, some with four poster beds and turrets. Although antique in style, each room has all the modern amenities.

The Castle offers 2 choices of dining. “The Dungeon” Restaurant is an experience not to miss during your stay. The ancient barrel-vaulted dungeons provide a very medieval location for an elegant dinner. Stone walls and suits of armour create the setting, with jacketed waiters, candles and white tablecloths providing the elegant atmosphere. Fine traditional Scottish and classical French cuisine are prepared beautifully and taste wonderful!

For a more casual experience you can visit the “Orangery”, a glass enclosed terrace overlooking theSouth Esk River. Rabbits and deer graze seemingly unobserved on its banks with an adjoining meadow providing a lovely view. The “Orangery” has an eclectic menu featuring a lot of Scottish and European choices and is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Scottish salmon and beef are always good choices from the menu.

The staff also loves to share their personal experiences in ghost sightings. I heard some very interesting stories and was even shown one of the original dungeons by a waiter who shared his ghost sighting experience with me!

For the ultimate relaxation be sure to visit the “Aqueous”, a hydra spa that is the first of it’s kind inScotland. You can also participate in sports such as falconry right outside the front door.

The Castle is located about 20 minutes outside of Edinburgh which makes it the perfect location for those who want to be in reach of the city, but far enough away to enjoy the relaxed environment of the Castle. True to its authenticity, there’s no handicapped access or elevators, but if you’re looking for a real Castle with a friendly yet luxurious environment, Dalhousie Castle in Scotland is exactly what you’re looking for!