Knockderry House Hotel

Built around 1846 as a summer retreat, the Knockderry House was updated in 1890, with an additional lounge and rooms. This Tudor-revival property sits on a large patch of grass, which separates the house itself from the waters of the adjacent Loch Long. Guests can take in views of the water from casual wood seating on the spacious stone terrace. The house very much resembles a small castle, with gray-brick walls, pointy-roofed turrets, and lots of exterior exposed wooden beams. Guests enter through an arched doorway into a main hall, with doors leading to multiple sitting areas. Floors throughout, including up the stairways, have classic tartan carpeting, contrasted with wood and white-painted door frames and banisters. Lighting is warm and welcoming, while touches such as a small bookshelf and a framed map of Scotland lend a homey, cozy feel. The similarly decorated restaurant adds mildly nautical touches such as a model ship, while the comfy drinks lounge is filled with plush leather and upholstered furniture -- both spaces have fireplaces. Most guests are vacationing couples, though the property does get its fair share of wedding groups who come for the romantic, castle-like look and feel of the place. 

The Knockderry House is located in the countryside, on the banks of Loch Long. There's nothing in the immediate area as far as dining and shopping, and the quiet road out front sees little if any traffic. However there are plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. Balmaha Boatyard is a 50-minute drive away, and offers boat charters and island cruises. Linn Gardens, featuring restored Edwardian gardens, is about one hour and 15 minutes away by car. The Cobbler, a great spot for walkers and hikers, is about an hour's drive. Several golf courses, such as Cardross Golf Club and Helensburgh Golf Club, are within 30 to 45 minutes' drive. The nearest train station is Helesburgh Central, a 25- to 35-minute drive away. A car is recommended, but guests can also take bus number 316 towards Ardpeaton and alight at Birchen Hillock, a five-minute walk from the Knockderry House. Glasgow Airport is a 50-minute drive away, while the city center takes closer to an hour to reach by car.

The Knockderry has 16 individually decorated rooms. Although the decor varies, it tends to be a mix of traditional and contemporary, with elegant striped wallpaper, a mix of solid and tartan prints, large oak furniture pieces (some antiques), and modern solid carpeting. There are two Small Double Rooms available for less demanding travelers; one has a shower/tub combo and the other has a walk-in shower. Small and Standard Double Rooms are located in the rear and side of the original building. King Rooms' beds lack footboards, making them a good option for taller guests; some overlook the grassy lawns, while another looks out on the terrace. There are also Master Bedrooms with gorgeous four-poster beds, roll-top baths, and lake and garden views. The best room in the house -- the Library Suite -- sits on the top floor and has gorgeous views of the area.

Cozy touches in all units include Egyptian cotton linens, plush bathrobes, and high-end Arran Aromatics toiletries. Other standard features include Krups coffeemakers, flat-screen TVs, and free Wi-Fi. King Rooms and up have DVD and CD players, while Master Bedrooms and the Library Suite also come with fresh coffee, loose leaf tea, and regular replenishments of fresh baked goods. 

As a smaller property, the Knockderry doesn't offer a ton of amenities, though the surrounding scenery is a feature in itself. The restaurant serves mostly locally sourced cuisine with a focus on Scottish favorites, and has children's menus. Some past guests have complained of tiny food portions. Afternoon Tea is available, and wine dinners are held on occasion. The bar and dining room area has excellent views of the hotel's grassy lawns and the loch beyond. Concierge staff can arrange for nearby outdoors activities, including water skiing and sailing. The Knockderry is also a popular wedding spot and offers plenty of packages. There is free hotel-wide Wi-Fi. Parking is also free.