The Isle of Skye is a fairy tale setting for a festive break. With snow lying on the ground, dusting the surrounding forests, and a frost sparkling on tranquil Loch Na Dal, Kinloch Lodge is the perfect spot to enjoy a Scottish Christmas fit for a king.
Feeling more like a home than a hotel, Kinloch Lodge was built in the 17th century as the hunting Lodge for the MacDonald Clan. More recently it was home to the current Clan Chief, Lord Godfrey Macdonald. He and his wife, the world-renowned food writer and cook, Lady Claire Macdonald, turned Kinloch into a cherished, family-run hotel, now managed by their daughter, Isabella.
Beautifully balancing old and new, Kinloch is at it’s best at Christmas; classic grandeur is complemented by discreet luxury touches. Glistening candle light and beautifully decorated fir trees join family portraits and historical artifacts.
Famous for their festive breaks, a tradition started over forty years ago, the Macdonalds’ philosophy is ‘our home is your home’. Christmas is a laidback affair; staff take the strain while guests enjoy activities or simply relax with a book, board game, and perhaps a wee dram by a roaring fire in one of the hotel’s three drawing rooms.
This year it’s traditional-with-a-twist; festivities start with seasonal cocktails and a sumptuous 7-course dinner on Christmas Eve. Guests are then invited onto the frosty lawn, where the island’s dark skies provide the perfect setting for stargazing. An astronomer will help guests look for the North Star, or perhaps a sack-laden sleigh, while warming drinks are served.
Father Christmas arrives delivering handpicked, local gifts on Christmas Eve. On Christmas day there is a traditional celebration festive lunch. Then a gentle afternoon of relaxing or walking off the excesses around the beautiful grounds before a light festive buffet is served in the evening.
Boxing Day is for wintery walks; guests can go it alone or join Isabella on a stroll through neighbouring Letir Fura Forest where a rustic Huntsman’s lunch will be served. Back at the hotel, the log fires continue to roar and there’s a bounty of mince pies, mulled wine and whisky to enjoy.
Prices start from £600 per person for this three-night break and include dinner, bed and breakfast each night.
