HIDDEN GEM

The Four Seasons Hotel in Perthshire, Scotland, is situated in a picturesque setting on the banks of Loch Earn just over an hour’s drive from Glasgow and Edinburgh.

The Herald: The Four Seasons Hotel at St Fillans, PerthshireThe Four Seasons Hotel at St Fillans, Perthshire

This hidden gem in St Fillans is not one that you would find easily, let alone set out for perhaps as your destination... more, stumble across. And it should be noted that the google map route from Glasgow which snakes through the Comrie Hills is not for the feint hearted. That said, whichever route you choose, the scenery will not disappoint.

The Herald: The Four Seasons Hotel at St Fillans, PerthshireThe Four Seasons Hotel at St Fillans, Perthshire

Nestled on the lochside, the hotel has arguably the finest view of most of the properties surrounding the water’s edge.  Built in the early 1800s and converted into a hotel in the 1900s, it is cosy, warm and inviting. And for pets too - as the hotel is dog friendly.

The Herald: The Four Seasons Hotel at St Fillans, PerthshireThe Four Seasons Hotel at St Fillans, Perthshire

EVERY COMFORT

The bedrooms at The Four Seasons are generally of a good standard. Our own double had a stunning view overlooking the Loch  – it’s worth asking for availability in advance when booking. With light to no traffic on the road in front, what really struck us was just how quiet it was.

The Herald: The Four Seasons Hotel at St Fillans, PerthshireThe Four Seasons Hotel at St Fillans, Perthshire

Fully furnished with flat screen TV, BOSE radio (CD’s available to borrow from the library), full complement of water, coffee, oatcakes – it was difficult to fault the commitment of the owner to ensuring the guest has every comfort. Individual room heating controls and a comfortable bed should make for a pleasant night’s rest.

The Herald: The Four Seasons Hotel at St Fillans, PerthshireThe Four Seasons Hotel at St Fillans, Perthshire

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

The Four Seasons has a choice of two restaurants. The stylish and more informal Meall Reamhar offers fine dining (evenings only – seasonal and check in advance) serving a contemporary Scottish cuisine, consisting of fresh fish, Scottish beef and lamb, and locally grown vegetables. The Tarken Bistro on the other hand offers the same standard of cuisine in a more informal setting, providing light lunches, blackboard specials and suppers.

The Herald: The Four Seasons Hotel at St Fillans, PerthshireThe Four Seasons Hotel at St Fillans, Perthshire

Our meals, breakfast and the comprehensive four course meal in the Meall Reambhar restaurant - were cooked to perfection, and presented in a way you might not associate with a restaurant in a rural Scottish setting. The breakfasts were superb and the waiting staff could not do enough for us.

The Herald: The Four Seasons Hotel at St Fillans, PerthshireThe Four Seasons Hotel at St Fillans, Perthshire

DRINK IN THE SIGHTS

The lounge bar area was a delight to relax in, looking out over the loch whilst the flames on the well-stocked log fire roared and crackled away. With a fine selection of drinks and malt whiskies on offer, it’s easy to instantly feel you are somewhere special.

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ABOUT THE AREA

The beautiful village of St. Fillans has a 9-hole golf course and offers water sports, hill walking and fishing. Must see would be The Brewery, The Mirror Man and the Local Church.

Upon leaving, why not consider driving on to Callandar, a modest 30 minutes’ drive from St. Fillans, with some breath taking waterside parking and picnic areas along the way.

The Herald: Church at St Fillans, PerthshireChurch at St Fillans, Perthshire

The Herald: Loch Earn Brewery at St Fillans, PerthshireLoch Earn Brewery at St Fillans, Perthshire

SUMMARY

If you want to get away from the hum drum of the City and find some time to be alone with your thoughts and those closest to you, The Four Seasons is for you. Not necessarily lots do, but great if you want to chill out and reboot while soaking up some of the most stunning scenery that Scotland has to offer.

The Herald: PerthshirePerthshire

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