What a fabulous transformation! The work by JJ Vass & Sons is amazing. The Hotel has been transformed into somewhere really special.
The bar & restaurant, including the outdoor seating, are first class. Gorgeous views over the harbour & towards Shandwick Bay. The public bathrooms are stunning too, with beautiful Arran Aromatics toiletries.
Our room was beautiful, with a modern seaside feel. Bed was comfortable, the temperature perfect, the bathroom gorgeous. Everything spotlessly clean. Toiletries another lovely touch.
One thing I would flag for the future is the beautiful cream carpets throughout the communal areas & bedrooms. They look amazing, but I did wonder how easy they will be to keep pristine long term. We were very conscious of our shoes after walking on the beach, and of course not every guest will remove theirs! Perhaps just something to keep an eye on as the hotel gets busier.
We ate in the restaurant and were so impressed. Huge portions, great value and absolutely delicious. The best langoustines we have ever had! The lobster was fantastic, and the steak & lamb from Fearn Farm were fabulous. Everything fresh & cooked to perfection.
Breakfast lovely too. Second morning service a little slower and cooked breakfasts arrived without the beans. They did arrive, but unfortunately after we had eaten.
Hopefully these are taken as helpful pointers. Balintore has a special place in my heart and I wish the hotel every success. We loved our visit and can’t wait to return!
