16-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Scottish Sun
Inside Scots hotel where you can stay in Outlander heart-throb's room and take an e-bike ride from your doorstep
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I'VE visited Inverness many times, but this weekend was full of firsts.
I stayed in a hotel room once occupied by Hollywood heartthrob and Outlander star Sam Heughan, zipped through the Highlands on an e-bike, enjoyed a private bagpipe performance and sampled exclusive whiskies at Tomatin Distillery.
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E-bike tour was a highlight
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The stunning Lochardil House
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Sam Heughan once stayed in the room
It was a trip that turned the familiar into something extraordinary.
Our adventure began the moment we checked in at Lochardil House Hotel and were shown to our stunning Garden Wing room.
With French doors opening onto a private patio overlooking landscaped gardens, it was the perfect blend of tranquillity and elegance.
After settling in, we were off to the hotel's atmospheric garden conservatory restaurant for dinner.
For starters, we savoured grilled goat's cheese and a rich pâté, followed by mains that were nothing short of perfection.
My husband Stephen couldn't stop raving about the succulent featherblade of beef, while I relished the beautifully prepared trout fillet. Somehow, we even found room for dessert — sticky toffee pudding and ice cream concluded an unforgettable dining experience.
Next morning, after fuelling up with a delicious cooked breakfast, we were buzzing with excitement to meet Kev from 42 Cycling, our guide for our very first e-bike adventure.
Starting from the doorstep of Lochardil House Hotel, we embarked on a four-hour ride that showed Inverness in a whole new light.
Our journey took us to the banks of Loch Ness, before heading to Dores Beach — a serene spot that felt like a hidden treasure.
Along the way, we explored the fairytale-like Aldourie Estate. Kev's expert guidance, and the ease of the e-bikes, made the experience perfect.
W Edinburgh Crowned Scotland's Hotel of the Year 2025
Optional boat tours and hidden gems added charm to this unforgettable half-day adventure. Kev then impressed us with an impromptu bagpipe performance back at the hotel, which was an absolute treat.
Afterwards we rewarded our efforts with a well-deserved glass of wine in the cosy bar before heading to the restaurant for another exceptional meal.
This time, Stephen opted for the burger, while I couldn't resist the classic fish and chips — both dishes were spot on and left us thoroughly satisfied.
Pleasantly exhausted, we called it an early night, knowing we had an exciting start the next morning: the final highlight of our trip — a tour of the renowned Tomatin Distillery.
We were warmly greeted by Ken, our tour guide, whose passion and encyclopaedic knowledge about whisky made him one of the best guides we've ever encountered.
Over the course of two hours, he led us on an immersive journey through the whisky-making process. Time seemed to fly by as we soaked up every detail.
GO: INVERNESS
ROOMS at the 4H Lochardil House start from £159 per night, B&B, two sharing.
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The tour reached its pinnacle with a unique tasting experience in the iconic Warehouse 6, where, we savoured the New Make Spirit alongside four exclusive single cask expressions, each poured straight from the cask into our glasses.
The atmospheric location added a sense of reverence to the moment. This is where Tomatin's most treasured casks are kept, allowing their rich flavours to develop undisturbed.
It was the perfect way to end our weekend in Inverness — a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation that mirrored the essence of the Highlands.
Inverness has always held a special place in my heart, but this trip elevated my love for the city and its surrounding beauty.
From the luxurious comfort of Lochardil House Hotel to the thrill of exploring the Highlands on e- bikes, and the unforgettable moments at Tomatin Distillery, every experience was unique and incredible.
Whether you're a seasoned visitor or considering your first trip, Inverness promises something extraordinary for everyone.
I'm already looking forward to my next adventure in this enchanting corner of Scotland and hopefully a lot more firsts to follow.
