Fonab Castle Hotel

The luxurious Fonab Castle Hotel certainly makes an impression: Set on the scenic banks of Loch Faskally, the gorgeous red-brick castle casts a regal air with its turrets and stately facade. But history and tradition meet the 21st century in the form of a newer wood-paneled annex that abuts the main building, and in the contemporary interiors. Common spaces are fresh-looking, bright, and atmospheric -- packed with antiques and a flurry of patterns -- displaying a modern take on old-world airs, which in other properties can easily become fusty and stuffy. Walls are covered in damask-patterned wallpaper and provide a chic and elegant backdrop to the bright-colored furnishings, which pair well with such traditional features as wooden wainscoting and fireplaces. Tartan-patterned carpets in hallways and the hotel’s restaurants are a nice nod to its Scottish heritage. There’s plenty of common spaces for guests to relax in -- whether it's to imbibe fine whiskey or indulge in a meal at the Fonab Brasserie where floor-to-ceiling windows offer stunning views over the lake -- or linger in the cozy, wood-paneled lounge, where stylish accouterments include an antler chandelier and lilac seating.

Situated on the banks of Loch Faskally, the hotel offers a quiet, tranquil countryside retreat near the small Victorian town of Pitlochry. The surrounding area is full of scenic fields, hills, and mountains, and there are lots of hiking and walking trails in the area. Pitlochry’s town center is a five-minute drive away, or about a 20-minute walk, and is home to several restaurants, bars, shops, and a train station. The Pitlochry Festival Theater, a popular venue for various performances and concerts, is an eight-minute walk from the property and has a cafe and bar with gorgeous river views. Nearby sights worth visiting include the beautiful Blair Castle (a 13-minute drive) and the Blair Atholl Distillery (a four-minute drive).

Individually designed rooms and suites feature fresh-looking, contemporary decor in tasteful color schemes. Beautiful wallpaper accent walls are dotted with gorgeous designs -- bright florals, subtle birch trees, or damask patterns. They are paired with crushed velvet seating in similar hues, and subtle tartan accents. Luxurious beds are topped with Egyptian cotton sheets. Some of the castle rooms have fireplaces, while rooms located in the modern annex feature French doors that open onto decks with direct access to the lake or private balconies with scenic views. All rooms have flat-screen TVs, iPod docks, Nespresso machines, and electric kettles with a selection of free teas, coffee, and cookies. Luxurious bathrooms have either walk-in showers or shower/tub combos, and are outfitted with designer toiletries and fluffy bathrobes. Suites add separate sitting rooms. There’s also a gorgeous penthouse, which features a high, vaulted ceiling and a soft color palette of silky cream hues and crushed velvet details, plus its fourth-floor location offers stunning views over the lake and countryside. The beautiful bathroom has an egg-shaped soaking tub as well as a separate walk-in rainfall shower and vanity area.

The hotel’s renowned, fine-dining Sandemans Restaurant offers multi-course gourmet menus (though not available every day) accompanied by fine wine flights. Besides an extensive wine list, the hotel also has a wide selection of gins and whiskeys. The Fonab Brasserie is a more relaxed dining venue, with beautiful views over the lake and a lovely outdoor patio. Room service is offered 24 hours a day, and afternoon tea is available in the lounge. A tasty and extensive breakfast is included in the room rate, and dinner comes with some room packages.

The sleek and modern spa offers an extensive list of treatments and has a sauna, steam room, and indoor pool, as well as a fitness center. The hotel is a popular wedding venue, and hosts other events and conferences for up to 150 people. Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel, along with parking.