I'M DREAMING OF THE RIGHT CHRISTMAS.
ERISKA HOTEL
CELEBRATE ON YOUR OWN PRIVATE ISLAND
Life can be pretty demanding in the run-up to Christmas, and sometimes the only solution for just the two of you is to indulge in a complete change. Imagine spending Christmas on a tiny island – the Isle of Eriska Hotel sits on its own 300-acre island – linked only by a bridge to Oban. A mansion built in 1884 for a famous Scottish family, the Stewarts of Appin, this imposing house has been sympathetically converted into a hotel, yet remains recognisably a home, particularly in the character of rooms like the library, which has changed little since the Stewarts’ day. With award-winning dining and (given the location, you won’t be surprised to hear) a wonderfully peaceful setting, the Eriska is a hotel you could remember forever. Book a room (there are only 25 in all) with an open fire, or be really daring and reserve one of the hotel’s new spa suites – complete with Zen garden and outdoor hot tub.
To book or find out more click here or call 01631 720371 Christmas: minimum stay 4 nights, full board from £948pp
RUTHIN CASTLE
ROMANTIC INTRIGUE TO SPICE THE SEASON
Ruthin Castle in Denbighshire is the kind of location that should appeal greatly to anyone who enjoys history and romance. This fairytale fortress, built in 1277 and dominated by its classic crenellated towers, has borne silent witness to many a royal tryst over the centuries. And for your romantic Christmas stay, you can even reserve the Prince of Wales’ own suite, with its double bath. And from that luxurious apartment you can regally descend the staircase to your own intimate, candle-lit table in Bertie’s restaurant – where you might not be surprised to hear that the fare is fit for a king (and queen). As for the setting, few landscapes are more romantic than Snowdonia in winter – when, with the roads to yourselves, a drive through Llanberis Pass on a clear, cold day can be breathtaking. Press on as far as Caernarfon and you could also explore Edward I’s stunning castle before returning to your own for a quiet dinner and happy thoughts of tomorrow’s adventures at your warm, secret Ruthin retreat. To book or find out more click here or call 01824 702664 Christmas: minimum stay 3 nights, full board from £348pp