Fonab Castle

Hotel review

If, like me, you’ve driven past the entrance to Fonab Castle countless times and wondered what it's like, then let me advise you now to stop and take a look. This place is definitely worth the tiny detour off the awful A9, and not just for one night. We’d recommend at least two! The Victorian baronial style pile had fallen into complete disrepair before being spotted as a potential for a daughter’s wedding venue and subsequently turned in to the five star property that it is today. The original red standstone building retains all of its grandeur, but to enlarge the space the owners cleverly added on a very well designed modern extension which provides additional accommodation in the main house. There are also a handful of woodland lodges a short walk from the front door. All the rooms are as as luxurious as you’d expect from a five star hotel, but I’d recommend booking one overlooking Loch Faskally to the hills beyond. The view is stunning! Interiors are contemporary in style, with plenty of purples and greens to reflect the landscape (with just enough tartan/tweed to remind you exactly where you are), all offset with bright pops of orange and dramatic light fittings in communal areas for a fun twist. Not content with providing a lovely bed for the night, at Fonab you can also expect fabulous food. The signature restaurant Sandemans (named for the original owners from the eponymous port company) — a beautifully conceived, atmospheric space decorated with deep jewel colours and dramatic modern art — packs a serious punch when it comes to cuisine. They only serve tasting menus here; but if there’s anything you don’t like, then chat to the immensely helpful and knowledgeable team who will endeavour to ensure you have the best possible experience. It has been awarded three AA Rosettes and you can see why! Don’t miss the accompanying wine flight — maitre d'/sommelier Jamie is very impressive when it comes to picking the right vintage for the dish. Breakfast is served in the more relaxed, loch facing 1892 Restaurant. Expect everything from the full Scottish to porridge or pancakes, all very well executed and hearty enough to easily set you up for the day. Assuming you want to leave the premises! And why would you, when you can hunker down in the Woodland Spa. There’s everything you could want here: 15m indoor lap pool, hot tubs galore (several outside), steam room, sauna, gym, and a handful of treatment rooms where you can relax at the hands of one of the expert therapists who use the gorgeous organic seaweed products from Ishga in their treatments (you can choose anything from a manicure to a full body massage). If you do want to explore, Pitlochry is on the doorstep and you’ve got the Cairngorms National Park just up the road. But for me the beauty of Fonab is that it offers the chance to relax and recharge in stunning surroundings and with guaranteed foodie delights. A fabulous country house hotel, with great staff, that won’t disappoint!

Sarah Empson Review published: 03/12/2024