Hotels: Six of the Best for Christmas

Taychreggan, Scotland
Two hours drive North of Glasgow, a long single track road brings you out on to the shore of Loch Awe, the dramatic setting of Taychreggan. This ancient drovers' inn has been modernised with the addition of a dining room with spectacular views. Even more ambitious for this weather beaten part of the world is the hacienda-style courtyard.

The bedrooms are cosy and comfortable. Downstairs, drawing rooms have deep red sofas and open fires so you can thaw out after a walk.

The scenery is breathtaking, the silence broken only by birdsong and the occasional tiny boat. Outdoor gear hangs by the back door, and and you can hire a boat and ghillie for a day's fishing for £90.00.

Taychreggan offers top class food in an area where the cuisine usually disappoints. The hotel shuts for Christmas but reopens for New Year. A three night break, including seven-course dinner, live music and fireworks on New Year's Eve, champagne brunch and five-course dinner on New Year's Day, costs from £465.00 per person.

Taychreggan
Kilchrenan
Taynuilt
Scotland PA35 1HQ

Clare Longrigg - The Independent on Sunday