Inside Cromlix, Scotland’s Most Luxurious Hotel

Scotland is a haven for US tourists seeking destinations rich in culture with the option to go off the grid. A part of its charm lies out in the glens, where the landscape is verdant, rivers flow abundantly with aquatic species, and the air is particularly crisp. Think Alaska without bears or Hokkaido without the language barrier, and factor in ease of access to the trip. US visitors simply fly into Edinburgh direct from JFK or ORD, and within the hour a chauffeur will transport them to Cromlix Hotel grounds, nestled deep in the scenic Scottish countryside. 34 acres of secluded woodlands and picture-perfect gardens to be exact. Here lies a boutique luxury hotel with just 15 bedrooms plus a Gateside Lodge. Owned by Scottish tennis champion, Andy Murray (winner US Open, Olympics, and Wimbledon) and his family, and recently renovated, Cromlix promises to reshape the way we think of country house hotels. Upscale Living Magazine stashes away our digital devices and checks in to connect with nature and immerse in the ultimate country getaway.

Rooms and suites packing bags of character

When it comes to modern makeovers, many historic residences lose their charm. That’s not the case for Cromlix. Each of its ten bedrooms, five suites, and one-bedroom Gate Lodge has an individual design and distinct character (they even have flower names). They’re all outfitted with antique furniture, including beautifully preserved dressers and cabinets crafted for quality. The heritage of the house is important to Cromlix, as a grand Victorian family home and now as a lush country house hotel, with an understated elegance. Guests will notice a bohemian and eclectic feel that evokes a cozy feeling of staying at a friend’s or family member’s own home. The modern perks that facilitate daily life remind you that this is indeed a hotel, where there’s no need to hesitate to make any request. USB charging, Mitchell & Brown smart TVs, Nespresso machines, and delicious MODM bath amenities keep Cromlix in line with today’s five-star hotel offerings, whilst thoughtful touches such as Andy’s granny’s shortbread (paired wonderfully with an Earl Grey from the beverage drawer) and peacock emblazoned cushions breathe warmth to the heavenly mix. Velvet textures, intricate patterns, freshly plucked flowers, and a shiny zinc marble bathtub mean every corner is simply scrumptious and the Peter Reed 400 thread count Egyptian cotton bed linen is a chance to wrap yourself in it all night.

Mealtime that’s country fresh

Cromlix’s The Glasshouse Restaurant can be found on the ground floor, within a stunning botanical glass-walled conservatory overlooking the gardens. Chefs work from an open kitchen crafting breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, and dinner seven days a week. Here, you have a chance to discover the flavors of Scotland’s landscape through locally sourced, thoughtfully prepared ingredients. The breakfast selection ranges from full Scottish to eggs royale with salmon, but it’s the porridge brûlée with whisky, cream, and demerara sugar that’ll really kick start the day, a surprisingly filling and energizing concoction. Meanwhile, dinner menu sample items include Scottish smoked salmon, roasted Perthshire lamb rack (serves two), and a rich Choux au craquelin (dark chocolate cremeux, white chocolate namelaka, and coffee ice cream) for dessert. Enjoy a nightcap at the swanky adjoining bar where an extensive wine menu or Scottish whiskey list can be found.

Rooms for reading, reconnection, and reflection

Wander beyond the staircase, and you’ll step into an enchanting corner that facilities any digital detox in the countryside. For playtime on a rainy day, the Billiards room offers a light spot of recreation with a collection of penny sweets to refuel on within its emerald floral walls. It’s never busy, so transition to reading or simply admire the mix of playful accessories and stag trophies on display. Down by reception, a fireplace acts as a nook to peruse one of the property’s art and design periodicals, and if you’re lucky front desk might even pour you a glass of their welcome rose Prosecco. Meanwhile, the garden room and study offer elegant and thoughtful respites from the buzzing eatery, but the pinnacle of serenity lies in the chapel behind the reception. Dating back to 1874, the beautifully restored structure today is a popular venue for Scottish weddings, though outside of celebratory occasions is a joy to the senses. Sit in still and marvel stained glass windows, fable side drums mounted to the walls, and towering original church organ. You’ll lose all sense of time.

An outdoor playground at your disposal

With 34 acres of land, outdoor adventures are aplenty. Cromlix offers tennis courts, a multitude of gardens for strolls (Barbour Wellington boots provided for guest use), outdoor garden games, and even archery and falconry. A memorable excursion suitable for all the family is fishing on the estate’s private loch. Steven Walker and his team guide you on a full or half day of fly fishing on the House Loch stocked with brown and rainbow trout. No matter what your ability, the team will provide assistance and advice to ensure the best chances of success—and their enthusiasm is infectious! Catching fish is never guaranteed, but thanks to healthy populations, is highly likely. Relax in the fisherman’s cottage with a cup of tea and reflect with the boys after your time out on the loch. Best of all, your prize can be taken back to the hotel to be cooked for supper. Fishing is also available off the estate since Comlix is surrounded by ideal locations to fish for salmon, trout, and pike. 

(Images courtesy Cromlix Hotel & James Wong)

7 Tips to Digital Detox Mindfully in Scotland

Countryside getaways call for wired individuals to disconnect and reconnect, particularly at Cromlix which invites discovery. Here’s how to stay tech-free and what to pack.

1. Get out in nature: borrow the estate’s Barbour boots and hit the trails. Summers in Scotland are mostly sunshine and roses, though it’s advised to pack smart in case of heavy rains or snow. A Klattermusen jacket is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts where terrains can be unpredictable, with outerwear that’s water and wind resistant and insulated for your comfort.  
2. Write down what’s on your mind: Getting your thoughts on paper helps the mind reset and prioritize. Intelligent Change’s five-minute journals use positive psychology in a guided gratitude format, or those traveling with a partner can take advantage of prompt questions with Let’s Get Closer cards.  
3. Boost mood with happy memories: Photographs of good times provide an instant jolt of joy but swiping on a phone could lead to a tunnel of tech. Before arriving at Cromlix, print your camera roll snaps on Recently, which creates personal photo magazines straight from your cell on collection-worthy Mohawk paper. Bring those instead and reminisce.  
4. Laugh out loud: Tempting as it might be to put on a comedy series on your hotel smart TV, there are other ways to enjoy a release that increases jolly endorphins. Try a book, or if you’re in company, a card game such as Cards Against Humanity in the Billiards room. Family-friendly versions are available for those with younger ones at the party.  
5. Start your day with yoga: Set your intentions and start the day to benefit both body and mind. Even just a 20-minute yoga session in your room or out on Cromlix grass will do wonders. Sweaty Betty’s Flow Yoga Mat is ideal for traveling, weighing just 2 kg, and made with a durable and recyclable fabric. 
6. Indulge in an afternoon of grooming: Self-care might go out of the window during busy times. So bring your pamper kit and lose a few hours in grooming. The experience can be extremely cathartic and is proven to lower cortisol levels. Remington’s T-Series Hair and Beard Kit has all the tools for gents, whilst facial cleansing brushes and a range of hair kits are available for women. Browse their website for cutting-edge tech (not the blue screen sort) that’s easy to pack and travel with. 
7. Focus on sport: A guaranteed method to switch off from work is to focus on a game. Cromlix’s tennis courts provide ample opportunity to do so, so pack a pair of ECCO’s sportiest trainers that are versatile enough for hikes and daytime wandering around the estate and put them into action. Biom Natural Motion Tech means speed, comfort, and high performance are all combined in select options – so go wild and go fast.