In the heart of the Scottish Highlands, I've stumbled upon a hidden gem, a place that defies expectations and offers a unique blend of beauty and adventure. But here's the twist—it's not your typical Highland retreat.
Imagine a landscape adorned with oil rigs, stark and angular, standing tall in the Cromarty Firth. These industrial structures, often overlooked, become a captivating sight against the sweeping backdrop of the Firth and the majestic North and South Sutors. It's a scene that challenges conventional notions of beauty, and I find myself captivated by this unusual allure.
The Black Isle, a peninsula nestled between Inverness and Invergordon, is a place of surprises. While the main road, the A9, may rush by, those who venture off the beaten path are rewarded. This area, named for its dark, fertile soil, is a haven for whisky lovers, with barley fields stretching across the land. Surrounded by water on three sides, it feels like an island sanctuary.
Newhall Mains, my accommodation, is a testament to transformation. Once a derelict farm, it's now a boutique hotel, thanks to the vision of owner Euan Ramsay and London's Kelling Designs. The hotel suites and self-catering cottages exude coziness, with rich tweeds, tartans, and well-stocked minibars. The bar, with its Japanese-inspired design, offers local brews, while the restaurant, a former grain store, showcases art from the Royal Scottish Academy.
The food is a celebration of Scottish produce, from Peterhead halibut to local cheeses and charcuterie. Breakfast is a feast, inviting guests to indulge in a farmhouse-style spread. And the foraging walk with the restaurant's mushroom expert adds a unique touch, allowing guests to gather and savor wild chanterelles.
Cromarty, a short ebike ride away, reveals a rich industrial past and charming sandstone houses. The town's Sutor Creek restaurant serves up delicious local fare. Wildlife boat trips offer a chance to explore the bay, and in winter, Chanonry Point becomes a dolphin-watching haven. The nearby RSPB nature reserve, Fairy Glen, delights with its pink-hued sand and waterfalls.
Back at Newhall Mains, the guest lounge invites relaxation, and the courtyard fire pits create a cozy ambiance for marshmallow toasting. The Finnish-style sauna and cold plunge tub add a touch of wellness, and the resident Highland cows provide a friendly audience. The hotel's private airfield is a unique feature, offering guests the chance to soar over the breathtaking landscapes they've explored on foot.
This Highland retreat challenges expectations, offering a blend of industrial beauty, natural wonders, and luxurious hospitality. It's a place where adventure meets comfort, and where the unexpected becomes the most memorable part of the journey. And this is the part most people miss—the hidden treasures that lie beyond the well-trodden paths.
