For so long staycations conjured images of long sticky days at leisure beaches, are we there yet car rides and caravans in the rain. Sunkissed beaches and long days by the pools have become standard honeymoon fayre. While the Maldives, Bali and Hawaii are great for sun chasers, what if you like your creature comforts a little bit closer to home?
I’m going to be honest, the first time I went to Cameron House was straight after my wedding and it was not great. Worse than not great. We left early and ended up spending the weekend eating pizza and wedding cake. But here’s the thing – people kept telling me how wonderful Cameron House was. It was there favourite place to stay, had I tried the Carrick Spa, and oh my god the views. So maybe we were an anomaly? Maybe Cameron House was worth the hype. Maybe it was time to go back.
And what a weekend to return on. Cameron House after the first snowfall of the Winter was like something out of a fairytale. Sure it’s a cliche but really there really is nothing quite like a dram of whisky, a roaring fire and a dramatic view. It can be easy to get starry-eyed with the grandeur of Cameron House, even easier when there’s the service to match. It truly was like night and day and all of a sudden I got it. I got why people continued to come back to Cameron House. When she’s on, there’s nothing quite like her. So for those looking for a minimoon or just a weekend getaway in Scotland, here’s 5 things to do on your next staycation to Cameron House.
Have an executive bath
Who doesn’t love a free standing bath? There really is nothing quite like getting settled into your suite than treating you and your SO to an executive bath.We packed some Lush bath treats for something extra special but each suite is loaded with loads of Arran Aromatics goodies Best enjoyed filled to the brim and with a glass of fizz, you’ll find yourself floating away on a bubbly cloud of bliss. .
Enjoy some local produce
Whether you end up at The Boathouse of The Cameron Grill, you’ll be spoiled for choice at Cameron House’s dining options. If you’re there for a couple of nights though you really should do both as each restaurant has it’s own flavour and their diverse dining options should suit even the pickiest customer. The Boat House is certainly the more family friendly of the two with pizzas and pastas for fussier palettes. It is however, a must for fish lovers with the rainbow trout being a personal favourite. The Cameron Grill as expected is perfect when you’re looking for a really great steak. The kitchen is always happy to accommodate any dietary requirements including pulling together their truffle mac which has recently been removed from the menu.
Go on a champagne cruise (or for the more daring, a sea plane)
Based on the banks of Loch Lomond, Cameron House already benefits from panoramic views of some of Scotland’s most dramatic scenery. Seeing it by air or boat though is something else entirely. For those who like a bit of history with their holiday to those who just want to kick back with a glass of Moet, there really isn’t any other way to take in the splendour of Loch Lomond that by boat.
Have a dram at the Great Scot’s Bar
Cameron House’s Great Scot’s bar expansive whisky menu is the perfect introduction to Cameron House for both the novice and connoisseur. With luxe copper finishings, exposed wood and roaring fires The Great Scot’s Bar is the perfect retreat for a cocktail after dinner.
Take in the grounds
You’ve come to one of the most picturesque parts of Scotland, why would you not take in the views? Take a stroll to the walled gardens, visit the gold courses or even take the footpath along to the Lomond Shores.
Chill Out
More importantly, chill out. For me that was an afternoon down the Carrick Spa in the rooftop pool, for my husband that meant curling up with a book and a cup of tea. There’s so many little nooks and crannies in Cameron House to relax in but we found few better than our room. When not down at the bar or running a bath we would play Monopoly or curl up on the sofa with some reading. Being out of the city, even only a train ride away was perfect for shutting off the noise. It really was the perfect opportunity to switch off.
It’s amazing how somewhere so central can feel so isolated. For those who can’t get away (or those who simply won’t), Cameron House marries luxury with local for the perfect mini holiday.