Castle Hotel, Huntly

Formerly a home of the Dukes of Gordon this 18th century structure stands in 7 acres of woodland and sweeping lawns in the heart of ‘the castle trail’ just off the main Aberdeen to Inverness road and a short drive from Aberdeen airport.

All bedrooms and suites have been upgraded to a high standard – the suites are particularly spacious and quite luxurious in all aspects. Large en suite facilities. The views from most of the rooms and the dining room are spectacular.

Enjoy a pre-dinner drink in the aptly named Distillery Bar (this area is part of the whisky trail) and sample traditional Scottish cuisine with fresh produce from the renowned agricultural area of Aberdeenshire, not to mention the marine harvest of its coasts.

The Meiklejohn family have a 'hands on' approach and it's to their credit that they have taken this hotel to a new level over many years.

Other options could include golf, fishing, trekking or hillwalking. Area steeped in history – an abundance of castles to visit.

Service was very courteous and friendly – a very warm welcome and most enjoyable experience.

(First visited, 1999).