Phonetobook -
The NEW Telephone Accommodation Referral System.
Developed here in Scotland, Phonetobook is believed to be the first of its kind (one always hesitates to say anywhere in the world), but let’s say the team who have developed the concept are unaware of anything similar.
You will then hear details of current availability, for example;-
“The (Morton Hotel) has rooms available from (£75) to (£100) per room per night, (2) night minimum stay, located (3) miles from (Inverness) town centre, with a Trip Adviser The concept was born after unexpectedly Rating of (4.1).” requiring to stay a night in Inverness and “The (Marion Hotel) has rooms available experiencing the frustration with online webfrom (£100) to (£150) per room per night, based booking systems. (1) night minimum stay, located (0.5) miles (Inverness) town centre, with a Trip The Phonetobook system ? from Adviser Rating of (4.5).” The entire referral process works from anywhere, using an ordinary touch-tone landline or mobile phone, whether you are in the house, on the move in a train, car or bus; as long as you have a telephone or mobile signal, you can use the system.
Accommodation ? 1. Dial Phonetobook 01133 208108 2. Enter the dialling code for the area in which you want to find accommodation 3. Choose the accommodation required from Hotels, Guests House-B&Bs or The enquirer selects the provider and is put Self-catering 4. Select ‘Book for tonight’ or ‘Book straight through. ahead’. There are no middle men; no mark-ups, no hidden extra costs to the enquirer, the enquirer speaks directly to the accommodation provider .
Accommodation Providers ? Registration is via the Phonetobook web site www.phonetobook.com or by leaving a message for a call back to register via the telephone 0113 208109.
1
Explore Scotland News. There have been some changes over the last 12months. James Rattray writes, ‘Kathleen (my wife) and I are 65 and 64 years old this summer, Kathleen tells me the first marriage was better, as she was a kept woman! Where as James says he believes in equal rights, with Kathleen having been at the very heart of Explore Scotland and their tourism business over the last 18 years.’ Eileen Owens retired a year ago, and we are pleased to announce that Volpa (who market the Enchanted Forest) have taken over Explore St Andrews and Explore Stirling. This year we are looking for some one to take over Explore Inverness, so we will only focus on Explore Highland Perthshire going in to 2016. The Explore network has Jackie and Alan based in Tobermory on the Isle of Mull running Explore Western Isles, Helen who lives in Oban runs Explore Oban and Mull. Siobhan and Kim based in Perth run Explore St Andrews and Explore Stirling, James and Kathleen run Explore Inverness and Highland Perthshire. If you want to know more — Call 01796 473335 or e-mail james@explorescotland.net
Page 2
Explore Inverness Tourism Newsletter 2015
The Loft Country Kitchen & Restaurant—Blair Atholl Proprietors: Stuart Leishman and Jennifer Neilson
Stuart’s delicious dishes and take in the beautiful scenery that surrounds us. We pride ourselves in providing excellent cusHaving shared the dream of one day having tomer service on a personal level and makour own restaurant, my partner Stuart and I ing sure that each dining experience is a opened The Loft Country Kitchen and pleasurable one. Stuart Restaurant in May 2014. We felt dedicates his time to that having trained and worked in creating dishes which the Hospitality Industry for many make use of the fantasyears we had gained enough tic selection of local and knowledge and experience to make seasonal ingredients the dream a reality. available to us and with this in mind we change 10 months on and we are delighted with the success of the restaurant and the our menus every 2 months. fantastic support we have received from the We serve Lunch and Evening Meals, altlocal community and visitors to the Blair hough we do close after our Lunch service Atholl area. to allow us time to prepare for our Dinner service. Alongside our Lunch Menu we offer an Afternoon Tea selection which has proved extremely popular in recent months. Afternoon Tea does require an advance reservation and we highly recommend that advance reservations are made for Evening Meals, especially during the busy summer months.
“the dream of one day having our own restaurant”
We offer customers a welcoming and relaxing environment in which they can enjoy
Our opening hours for the coming year are available on our website: www.theloftrestaurant.co.uk and we up-
Spirit of Wood — Aberfeldy
date the website with our new menus as and when they change. We look forward to the seasons ahead and seeing familiar faces as well as welcoming new ones. Should you have any enquiries or wish to make a reservation please do not hesitate to contact us on: 01796 481377 or email: info@theloftrestaurant.co.uk as we would be more than happy to assist. Best wishes,
Edradour Distillery
tresses are available for immediate delivery with prices for a single starting at £99.
It looks like it is going to be another busy year at Spirit Of Wood. This year we have added several new ranges suitable for accommodation providers. Our new Lyon oak living & bedroom collection is extremely robust, stylish and great value with a
25% reduction for trade customers. We have added new styles of headboards and divan beds all available made to measure with hundreds of fabrics available. Prices start at £225 for a complete bed including mattress. Our most popular mat-
As the main supplier to a variety of hotels, B&Bs, restaurants & pubs we pride ourselves on giving our customers a personal service, combined with quality products at an affordable price. We also offer free local delivery and an installation service. For more information please contact Conor on 01887 829899 www.spirit-ofwood.com 2
UPDATE 2015 Season Opening Times:-
CLOSED Easter (this decision was taken after Explore Highland Perthshire Guides had gone to the printers).
OPEN for Main Season:20th April through to 17th October — 10am to 5pm CLOSED Sundays. LAST Tour 1 hr before closing Time. Tours include a dram and video. Tel:- 01796 472095 E-mail:- edradour@btconnect.com
Page 3
Explore Inverness Tourism Newsletter 2015
Victoria’s Restaurant — Pitlochry
As always, Fiona, Angus John and the team at Victoria’s Restaurant look forward to welcoming you and your customers to dine this coming season.
The kitchen team have been working with our suppliers over the winter the ensure we always secure the freshest local produce for our menus – delights this year will include wonderful seafood from the East Coast including halibut, a real favourite with our customers.
“if you’d like to receive news and offers from us, be sure to sign up through our website at www.victoriaspitlochry.co.uk”
There have been a few adjustments to our menus At Victoria's, the dining experience is a styl- with some dishes retiring ish blend of daytime speciality coffee house and exciting new ones added on such as merging seamlessly into a chic evening our pulled pork focaccia. eatery. The terrace at the front of the Restaurant Open from 10am until late and serving will be busy again this year during the summouth-watering food from breakfast mer months and the addition of our new through to dinner, menus include a wide seating and tables has made a big improvechoice of dishes from patisserie and pasta ment to both the look and the comfort of to steak, seafood & fajitas. dining outside. We hope you’ll manage to get a chance to come and dine outside when the flowers are in bloom!
and offers from us, be sure to sign up through our website at www.victoriaspitlochry.co.uk. You’ll also be able to see what’s happening on Pitlochry’s Atholl Road by viewing our live web-cam, also available on our website.
Our loyalty card scheme continues to go from strength to strength and it’s wonderful to have a physical measure of just how many guests you send to us here at Victorias – once again, THANK YOU! It’s hugely appreciated. At the start of the season we’ll be sending you out a pack with new menus and our ever popular wine cards. If you need a stock in the meantime, please do email me on fiona@victorias-pitlochry.co.uk and I’ll arrange for some to be dropped off. We hope to see you soon at Victoria’s Restaurant and wish you all a prosperous season ahead.
At Victoria’s our aim is to make sure that every customer has an excellent experience when visiting us.
Yet again, Malwina has been excelling herself by providing a wonderfully tempting array of home-baking, cakes and nibbles for our customers to enjoy. Our coffee machine has been serviced and sits gleaming ready to perk the perfect coffee.
Our team of dedicated, longstanding staff are once again on hand to offer our trademark friendly and consistently excellent service and we’re looking forward to seeing faces old and new over the coming months. As always, we like to keep in touch with our customers through email newsletters and our facebook and twitter pages, so if you’d like to receive news
Pitlochry Golf News 2014 was a great year with a prolonged warm summer and I am sure that you all enjoyed the sunshine and warm nights. I would like to thank all our members, loyal customers, local B&B’s, hotels, businesses and visitors for their continued support. For those who haven’t found us yet, I would very much like to tell everyone that we are OPEN TO ALL and a warm Pitlochry Golf welcome awaits you. With our friendly approach to customer service, you will be made to feel like a valued customer as soon as you walk With so many golfers taking advantage of a through the door. good summer last year, we had a very busy 3
season and with many great green fee deals to be had (some including catering too) we hope to see as many players back to pit their wits against our very scenic 18 HOLE GOLF COURSE sometime in the very near future. During the summer we also saw our new GOLF RANGE AND ACADEMY open to the public and we are very pleased with the response we have had to this new facility – it’s open 7 days a week from dawn until
Page 4
Explore Inverness Tourism Newsletter 2015
Pitlochry Golf News (Continued from page 3) marinated to enhance the flavour, whether it is a casual bite or dining on steaks, we use only the freshest, seasonal ingredients, sourced locally in Perthshire for you all to enjoy. Throughout the year we run our very own Curry Club. This runs every Wednesday from 5pm until 9pm, with six different curries from around the world on offer and as it’s dusk and is the ideal place to perfect that an ‘all you can eat buffet’ for only £9.99 guest the opportunity to receive 10% disthis is becoming a very count in the Clubhouse and discounted golf golf game in such wonderful popular night. surroundings. for only £27 to play in Pitlochry and £18 to play in Blair Atholl. Marketing materials for Every Thursday is our both golf courses are available for the local With a new short game practice Steak & Grill Night accommodation providers to collect anyarea and a 6 hole, Par 3 SHORT which offers a selection time, so please feel free to visit us any time. COURSE now open and fully of meat, fish and vege- Keep your guests informed and busy during operational, we now have a sutables all grilled to your their stay. They will appreciate information perb all-round facility, which in liking. We also have a about local attractions available nearby. our view creates a top drawer very popular Sunday destination for all golfers from Carvery for both golfers all over the world to come, see and diners. Simply get and use for themselves. your family and friends With a fabulous clubhouse oftogether and give mum fering great food at fantastic a day off and join us for prices, a fully stocked PRO our traditional Sunday SHOP, 2 PGA Professional’s on roast (where there’s no site offering top quality golf leswashing up!). Last year sons in the new Golf Range and we launched our very Academy, equipment for hire such as ride own Family Meal Deal, which became very popular, so we will keep going with it this For more information please visit our webyear. For only £29.95 we offer 2 adults site www.pitlochrygolf.co.uk or contact: meals, 2 kids meals and a draft soft drink each. During the season we host a number Pro Shop: 01796 472792, of different events so check out the website pro@pitlochrygolf.co.uk www.pitlochrygolf.co.uk for our Theme and Tribute Nights. Clubhouse: 01796 472334, manager@pitlochrygolf.co.uk Perhaps less known is the fact that the golf course also has a PUTTING COURSE set Marketing: 07711458260, marketaway from the main golf course facilities, at ing@pitlochrygolf.co.uk on buggies, electric and pull trolleys, golf the other site of Pitlochry on the way to the clubs and a very accessible golf course set Dam and Fish Ladder. The putting green From the Pitlochry Golf Team in stunning surroundings – why would you provides an ideal introduction to the fun of the game of golf for all go anywhere else for a relaxing day out?! the family. You don’t have to be a golfer to love THE CLUBHOUSE. Socialise over drinks on the For local B&B’s, hotels decking with amazing views of the course and businesses, Pitlochry and Ben-Y-Vrackie, watch golfers playing Golf have a number of their approach shots to the 18th green, different schemes and enjoy tea, coffee, wine, beer, traditional initiatives to help to proBritish and international food and a first mote your business, our business and the whole class service in our relaxing Clubhouse. of Highland Perthshire as Dishes are cooked to order in a simple but a great destination to traditional way. Grilled, smoked, roasted or come and visit. Give your
“Give your guest the opportunity to receive 10% discount in the Clubhouse and discounted golf for only £27 to play in Pitlochry and £18 to play in Blair Atholl. ”
4
Page 5
Explore Inverness Tourism Newsletter 2015
Red Deer Centre at Highland Safaris - First Year Success! of prey. A key feature of the Centre is the Discovery Trail - a short, inspiring walk featuring interpretation of the unique surrounding landscape and outstanding views.
Scotland’s newest wildlife attraction, the Red Deer Centre has been a fabulous addition to Highland Safaris, Aberfeldy. The Red Deer Centre enables visitors to discover the fascinating life cycle of this magnificent, iconic animal in an interactive experience led by a kilted Safari Ranger before going outdoors to hand feed the Red Deer herd.
Director, Donald Riddell said ‘We have been absolutely delighted with the success of the Red Deer Centre. It has been a key reason for many visits to Highland Safaris. We are continuing to enhance the Discovery Trail with the addition of a ‘Bug Motel’, Wild Flower Meadow and a Maze’.
Safaris. We are delighted to have it on our itinerary’. The ‘Christmas Experience’ including a festive Red Deer Centre, a theme of Red Deer v’s Reindeer and a light filled Discovery Trail was also a hit with groups and individuals.
“The Red Deer Centre enables visitors to discover the fascinating life cycle of this magnificent, iconic animal ”
The Red Deer The Red Deer Centre has also proved a Centre comwinner with Coach groups who have welbined with Land Rover Safaris, Gold and comed the opportunity to come face to face Gem Panning Centre (unique in Scotland), with Britain’s largest land mammal. Mountain Bike Trail Centre, award winning Visitors also meet ‘Ossian’ the Barn Owl in a Alison Moore, General Manager of Lochs Café and Gift Shop is a truly authentic dishands-on demonstration and have fun covery of everything that makes Highland and Glens Holidays said ‘Our guests are learning the secrets of this captivating bird loving the new Red Deer Centre at Highland Safaris an exceptional destination.
Perthshire Visitor Centre’s New Name and Brand and setting out an be the introduction of a gourambitious plan for the met takeaway where visitors season ahead. will be able to pick up fresh With more than two and tasty snacks from homedecades of leadership made soups, deep filled sandat Perthshire Visitor wiches and even sushi! We’ll Centre, Wilson and also be extending the range we Catriona have decided stock in our enhanced Deli to hang up their with the intention of putting us aprons and enjoy their on the map as THE place to go much deserved retirefor a Taste of Perthshire. ment whilst Calum and Jane MacLellan (also We hope to welcome you and owners of Craigmhor your customers across our Lodge & Courtyard in doors this year and we thank An era of change approaches for Perthshire Pitlochry) are ready to take the helm and you for your support of the centre over the Visitor Centre and the whole team are excit- steer the centre into a new bright future. years and in the exciting time ahead. ed about what’s ahead for the popular cenWhilst the centre as you know it won’t be tre at Bankfoot. As I write, we are putting Make sure to like our facebook page – to changing drastically – we’ll still have the the final touches to a new name and brand keep up with all the developments! same great restaurant, shopping outlets and friendly staff – there will be some enhancements to make the customer experience better.
“Wilson and Catriona have decided to hang up their aprons and enjoy their much deserved retirement”
Our aim is to offer a local focus with as many fantastic Perthshire suppliers as we can manage across all ranges – food, drink, clothing, jewellery and gifts. It is our intention to bring back fresh local fruit and vegetable produce too, which many will be pleased to hear! The biggest development for this year will 5
Page 6
Explore Inverness Tourism Newsletter 2015
Thyme at Errichel Restaurant, Errichel Farm, Aberfeldy
Situated 2 miles above Aberfeldy, on the Crieff Road, Errichel enjoys a beautiful setting and spectacular views across Highland Perthshire. A family business, we run sheep and pedigree Shetland Cattle on the hill, breed Highland Ponies, Large Black Pigs and keep a selection of goats and poultry. Our pork, beef and free range eggs often feature on our menu.
“A family business, we run sheep and pedigree Shetland Cattle on the hill, breed Highland Ponies, Large Black Pigs and keep a selection of goats and poultry. ”
Paul, Patron Chef of Thyme at Errichel, creates a menu which reflects seasonality, showcasing the best of Scottish and local produce, with flavours and influences from around the world. While the menu changes frequently there are a number of Paul’s signature dishes including Thyme’s Own Beetroot Cured Scottish Salmon with Essence of Orange and Dewar’s Whisky and our best-selling Puddledub Buffalo Steaks available all year round.
Our Cookery School, is launched! Paul will be teaching a day on Morroccan Speciality dishes in May. We welcome David MacCarfrae, once cake maker for the Royal family, to Errichel in September 2015 for a series of fullday cake decorating workshops.
apprentice Chef Benji Harvey is doing a fabulous job creating starters and desserts for our evening menu and Cathy Vass is our invaluable Housekeeper, looking after our guests at breakfast too. We are available for private dining, weddings and events throughout the week, ideal for those people looking for bespoke, private functions. If you would like to know more about what we are up to you can visit our website, follow us on facebook or contact us direct.
Thyme to Eat, supplies businesses with top quality products to retail in their own outlets, from sausages and burgers produced here at Errichel with our own rare breed pork and beef, to ready meals and baked goods. We Thyme at Errichel Restaurant, Errichel, continue to do a small line Crieff Road, Aberfeldy, PH15 2EL in celebration cakes for special occa- Tel: 01887 829562 sions. E: enquiries@errichel.co.uk We are deWeb: www.errichel.co.uk lighted to announce Opening Hours: April – October Open for that Fiona dinner Wed, Thurs, Fri, Sat from 6pm. Sloan, who Open for lunch on Friday and Saturday from has been looking after 12 noon. our guests in Open for Easter Sunday lunch, 5 April the evenings Regular Sunday Openings to be announced on a part-time basis, will be joining the soon! team full time from March onwards. Our
News from the Old Mill Inn — Pitlochry The Old Mill Inn, owned and run by Fiona and Angus John MacLellan (who also own Victoria’s Restaurant in Pitlochry), continues to go from strength to strength and is one of THE top places to go in Pitlochry for a meal and a few drinks or for live music at the weekends.
Inn of the Year 2014 at the Scottish Hotel Awards and we’re shortlisted again this year – wish us luck! We have a real passion for driving our business forward and over the winter months we have been working hard at refurbishing bedrooms, adding a new biomass Green Energy Boiler and improving the public areas of the Inn. And we won’t stop there! Later on in the year we have plans to upgrade the signage at the front of the Inn. Lots going on…
The Inn was honoured to receive the accolade of The Inn is one of the best places in Scot6
Page 7
Explore Inverness Tourism Newsletter 2015
News from the Old Mill Inn — Pitlochry (continued) throughout the winter. We now have five Deluxe rooms which are hugely popular with our guests as well as our 7 Standard rooms. Just two rooms at the Inn remain untouched since we took over and they are heading for refurbishment soon too! Food & drink continues to go down a treat and on top of our normal menu we also offer a cocktail menu, bar nibbles menu and a Sunday Roast every weekend! If you land to hear local and national musical tal- haven’t been in for a while, please do nip in please do – it’s our way of saying thank you ent and we have a strong following within for a bite to eat – we’re sure you’ll love it! for every guest you send to us. the live music scene. This year, we will continue to have music available every Friday Fiona, Angus John and the team at The Old Here’s hoping 2015 is a bumper season and Saturday night. Our popular Etape Mill Inn are looking forward to another busy and we look forward to seeing you soon. festival will be happening season ahead and again this year as well as “The Inn was honoured to would like to two Beer & Live Music thank you for your festivals. To keep up to receive the accolade of Inn support and cusdate with all of our tom – you’ve of the Year 2014 at the helped to put The ev en ts , v is it www.oldmillevents.co.uk Mill Inn on the Scottish Hotel Awards and Old map and we’re Our accommodation is we’re shortlisted again this very grateful. If now better than ever with you haven’t yet the newly refurbished signed up for our year ” rooms introduced loyalty card,
Bespoke Highland Car Tours — After my 1st year been a long tour). A lot of my clients were from the USA researching their family history, and I am pleased to say I was able to assist (with help from Sylvia Robertson – local historian, and David Henderson of Castle Menzies). My first year as Bespoke Highland Car Tours Pitlocry, has proved both successful and very interesting. It has been most enjoyable meeting clients from all over the world, with ages ranging from 90yrs old to 6 months old. (Now proud owner of a baby seat! For the car)
“the Swedish gentleman looking for a romantic location to propose to his girlfriend. (Yes she accepted! Just as well as it would have
Just a re-cap of what I offer. Lots of people arrive in the area with either no car, or no knowledge of the area.
I can take 2-4 people on tours tailored to their perfect day out including Castles, Distilleries, Gardens etc. or just take them on minor roads to places not normally on the tourist routes.
been a long tour)”
Most of my clients were visiting Highland Perthshire and wanted to experience the “Off the beaten track” scenery and wildlife. Castle and Distillery tours were very popular, with stops at other attractions for coffee and restaurants. With regard to the coming season I have bookings for most months, as well as
I hope I have been of service to Hoteliers, Accommodation Providers and the Pitlochry Area Tourist Sector.
welcoming repeat customers.
Tours are a minimum of four hours, but some people book exclusively for 3 or 4 days, picking them up from their hotels etc. I am a retired police officer (qualified to class 1 driver) and am fully insured with over 10 years experience within tourism in Highland Perthshire.
I have had a varied clientele, ranging from a Japanese Film Crew, shooting a film on the delights of Highland Perthshire, to the Swedish gentleman looking for a romantic location to propose to his girlfriend. (Queen’s View, and yes she accepted! Just as well as it would have
Bespoke Highland Car Tours Pitlochry, Ronnie Owens, Personal Driver Guide, Killiecrankie, Pitlochry PH16 5LR Tel: 01796 473934 or 07979 41283 e.mail rowens55@rocketmail.com Follow me on Facebook. 7
Page 8
Explore Inverness Tourism Newsletter 2015
Riders of the Storm — Killiecrankie we provide lessons, experience days which are aimed at all age groups, from children through to adults, individuals to families. These can be booked as a part day or all day session. We also run Easter, Summer and October holiday camps. For the more adventurous, there is also vaulting, trick riding, jousting and horse boarding — choose anyone or a combination of any of the three of these for an action packed day with Riders of the Storm, at our If you would like any more information on base in KilliecranI am sure many of you will have heard of any of the services, call Kirsty on kie. Riders of the Storm, founded by myself 07784119377 or you can watch our show Kirsty McWilliam, I am a local lass having reel by visiting our website People taking been brought up in Highland Perthshire. part do not need www.ridersofthestorm.co.uk or facebook Riders of the Storm is Britain’s youngest page. to have ridden and Scotland’s Elite Equestrian Stunt Diswww.facebook.com/scotlandsstuntteam before, but we play Team. ask that they are reasonably fit and We travel throughout Britain performing healthy and undisplays at agricultural shows, country fairs, der our weight horse trials and galas. I am pleased to say limit of 14 stone. we have a fairly busy program of events planned for the 2015 season. I am please to say we do have I am asking for your help to let your guests people travelling know what we do, and help spread the word from all over Britfor us. If your guests are interested in the ain to take part. equestrian world, they might like to know
“we provide lessons, & experience days aimed at all age groups, from children to adults, individuals to families”
Meet our miniature ponies — Dainty and Dexter You can image the stir they caused when the large horses first met them. As I am sure you know horses, just like humans, have their own personality. Dainty and Dexter are no exception, they were not going to accept any below the belt comments from the large horses and soon established themselves in the stable pecking order.
the guests sitting room, which provided much tactile excitement. They are the perfect party guest, inside in the house or outside. We have various party packages to make that perfect birthday wish come true. Dainty and Dexter are also very used to the limelight and can be used for product launches, photoshoots and much more. Call Kirsty on 07784119377 or email info@ridersofthestorm.co.uk for more information.
“originally bred for work underground in the coal mines to pull the wagons”
I would like to introduce you to the two new additions to the Riders of the Storm equestrian team, sister and brother, Dainty and Dexter. Yes they are fully grown. They are half the size of horses most us would normally meet, a breed that was originally bred for work in the coal mines to pull the underground wagons. We adopted them from England, as their owner was unable to give them the attention and time they needed, due to a new baby. We travelled down south and collected them bring them back on the 1st February.
Two months later I am very pleased to say they have settled in well. Their role in Riders of the Storm is to provide a totally different service than their larger relations —that is pony parties, visits, plus meet and greet. Being so small they can go indoors, we have had them at the Atholl Hair and Beauty Rooms, at Blair Castle Caravan Park to be groomed, with ribbons in their hair and nail varnish on their hooves. They have also visited Fishers View in Pitlochry, going in to 8
Page 9
Explore Inverness Tourism Newsletter 2015
News from the Scottish Crannog Centre We are also involved with more outreach activities in schools and museums. Our public programme includes craft events at Perth Museum (6th April), Kelvingrove Museum (16th May) and Perth Prehistory Fair (date to be confirmed).
“Easter Sunday featuring prehistoric pancakes and chocolate tasters led by Charlotte Flower Chocolates.” conjunction with local landowners to provide copThe Scottish Crannog Centre by Kenmore, piced hazel and other timbers required to Loch Tay, offers visitors a unique opportuni- maintain the recreated crannog. Most of ty to experience early Iron Age life on the this work takes place during the winter water. Dress in period clothing, enter the when we are closed to the public but some high status roundhouse, try out ancient tasks continue throughout the year. Volunskills like fire-making, textile working and teers are always welcome to assist with woodworking, and become immersed in the harvesting materials and practicing coppice archaeology of discoveries underwater. crafts like making wattle hurdle screens. It’s healthy, satisfying and sociable while also Regular guided tours and open-style event benefiting the woods and wildlife. days promise educational entertainment for families, individuals and special interest We open for the season on April 1st with groups alike. Our introductory video clip, some exciting plans this year, including www.youtube.com/watch?v=i931HbTN9z4, revamping our website provides a glimpse of what we offer. (www.crannog.co.uk) this Spring and continuing to work through the requirements for In addition to operating the five-star heritmuseum accreditation with Museums Galage centre, we are actively involved with leries Scotland. woodland management programmes in
Our first public event at the Crannog Centre takes place on Easter Sunday featuring prehistoric pancakes and chocolate tasters led by Charlotte Flower Chocolates. Full details of all events will be posted on our website and facebook pages, or for direct contact please ring 01887 830583 or email us at info@crannog.co.uk
Iain Burnett Highland Chocolatier & Scottish Chocolate Centre 4 Star Scottish Chocolate Centre exhibition and relax in Legends Coffee and Chocolate House, which has outdoor seating in a secluded courtyard for sunny days. Emphasis is on fresh locally sourced produce with daily specials. The seasonal menu includes homemade soup and new Scottish platters as well as scrumptious chocolate Just five miles off the A9, Iain Burnett High- cake, award-winning hot chocolate and the land Chocolatier offers a chocolate filled indulgent Hot Velvet Shot of pure ganache. escape from the fast lane. An international- Special evening openings are planned, but ly acclaimed chocolatier creates multiplease check first. award winning truffles and pralines by the Most recently Iain was acknowledged as banks of the River Tay, in the picturesque one of only 50 Food Stars in the UK. He village of Grandtully. continues to perThis continental style Chocofect new flavours late Shop with its wide and create new range of gifts and artisan seasonal delights. delicacies made using the Already in 2015 best natural ingredients is three flavours of well worth a visit. While the exquisitely there, take time to visit the smooth The Velvet
“Easter Bunny Demonstration and Easter Monday Egg Hunt”
9
Truffle have been launched – Strawberry and Star Anise, Dark São Tomé and Passion Fruit with a touch of Mango. There are samples to try and feedback is always welcomed. On weekdays watch the chocolatiers at work through a viewing window and if you would like to learn more about the chocolatiers’ artistry you can choose from three escorted tasting tours (weekdays, reservation only). During school holidays there are children’s events too, such as the Easter Bunny Demonstration and Easter Monday Egg Hunt. Car and bicycle park at the rear. Open every day 10.00 to 5.00. Iain Burnett Highland Chocolatier & Scottish Chocolate Centre, Legends of Grandtully, between Aberfeldy & Pitlochry PH9 0PL www.HighlandChocolatier.com IainBurnett@HighlandChocolatier.com Tel:- 01887 840775
Page 10
Explore Inverness Tourism Newsletter 2015
‘Food in the Park’ Fish and Chip + Pizza Restaurant + Coffee House - Blair Atholl Manager for the first time to help run the business – Richard Kirby re joins the team after a successful year with them in 2014 and Sally and Dave are very happy to have him on board again for this coming season.
“For 2015 Food in the Park has appointed a Manager for the first time, Richard Kirby whose attention to detail and customer service is top notch”
O’Groats completing the Wooden Spoon Challenge, plenty of Munroe baggers, and many more individual charity challengers for 2015!
The usual number on which to place an order is 01796 481484 so you can pre-order your meal and pick it up later in the day or night. Bookings can also be taken on this number to enable you to reserve seats in our restaurant, if you have a large party. You can keep up to date with what’s happening at Food in
Richard’s attention to detail and customer service is top notch and he now knows ‘Food in the Park’ Fish and Chip & Pizza what it takes to keep Restaurant and Coffee House in Blair Atholl our customers smiling! is now firmly on the map! In 2014 new We have 4 very dedisigns went up on the main road through cated assistants returning for a 2nd and Blair Atholl directing customers to ‘The best 3rd season with us plus 2 new full time Fish and Chips in Scotland’ according to staff with a wealth of previous experience in one Trip Advisor review! And it seems that the catering trade, so we are very excited many customers agreed, when Food in the about being able to continue the high level Park was awarded the “Certificate of Excelof customer service that has been enjoyed lence” for the outstanding customer rein past years. views in 2014! We will also be welcoming back Nel Davidson, our scrumptious cake maker, who delivered above and beyond last year in terms of quality and taste on a wide range of delicious cakes! Following a very successful year of cake selling in 2014 we have appointed a second baker for 2015, the Park by ‘Liking’ them on their Facebook Zuzanna Cwik, who will also be delighting Page. the taste buds!! REMEMBER! There is a HUGE car park, Food in the Park will be undergoing a makefacilities to eat in or sit outside in one of the over for 2015, with new tables and chairs in two alfresco areas with views of the river the restaurant and a lick of designer paint and mountains, or you can take – away . As the summer hotted up the unique Yo! on the walls! This is a long awaited change, Frooty Frozen Yoghurt and Smoothie unit, which will also include unusual artefacts of There is also a large garden ideal for kids to which is now nicely positioned at the front local interest being hung from the walls and run around in and work up an appetite! And of Food in the Park, did a roaring trade and ceiling – Intrigued?! Go and have a look! don’t forget that you can hire bikes from also won its first award; The Healthy Living Blair Atholl Bike Hire, which is situated withAlso, having been bombarded with quesAward rolled out by NHS Scotland. Dave in Food in the Park! tions from customers regarding the best and Sally will be proudly picking up their route to cycle, hike or run to get to AvieFood in the park is open 11am until 8pm award in a ceremony at the end of March more, Braemar or beyond, the proprietors (9pm in the Summer Holidays) 01796 this year! have commissioned a huge OS map of The 481484 For 2015 Food in the Park has appointed a Cairngorm National Park to adorn the wall in the cafe! To match the premises’ make over, the staff will also enjoy a fresh, new uniform helping to underpin the business’ professionalism. As always Food in the Park will be catering for and supporting quite a number of charity events that are passing through Blair Atholl; For the 3rd year in a row they will play host to cyclists from Lands End to John
10
Page 11
Explore Inverness Tourism Newsletter 2015
News from Mains of Taymouth Country Estate & Golf Course atmosphere. Open daily offering breakfast, lunch and dinner, the Courtyard is a great location for all the family and is a stone throws away from The Mains of Taymouth Golf Course & Mains of Taymouth Stables. 2014 saw a new addition to The Golf Course as Rannoch boy Rhys Keir joined the green keeping team as a young apprentice under the watchful eye of local man Peter Bancroft, Estate Manager. Rhys will have the opportunity to further his career in green keeping by attending a green keeping Mains of Taymouth Country Estate & Golf college course this year at Elmwood College Course have had yet another fantastic year, in Dundee. The golf course has gone from along with many others, with the success of strength to strength this year and is looking The Common Wealth Games and Ryder the best it has even been. Cup, and 2015 looking to be just as good. Taymouth Stables The demand for luxury 4 & 5* self- catering had a successful properties have encouraged Estate owners 2014 and the local Robin & Irena Menzies to develop another 6 weekly Pony Club luxury 1 and 2 bedroom 5* Maxwells Villas has grown dramatias buy-to-holiday-let investment. With secally over the year cure deposits already in place, they are benefiting from the looking to start building in late 2015 to new outdoor all avoid any disruption to their summer weather riding guests. school which beneAlready voted as the “Best Holiday Cottage fited from the Griffin Windfarm Grants. Complex in Britain” by the SUNDAY TIMES, Manager Katy Bennett, is now in her 5th Mains of Taymouth have gained worldwide year at Mains of Taymouth and has put recognition as a luxury holiday destination together a great team to see her through with many overseas travellers choosing the 2015 season. Local girls Isla Munro Kenmore as their base for touring the rest and Heather Menzies have joined Katy this of Scotland. year and both will learn from her vast knowledge and experience of horsemanThe Courtyard Bar & Restaurant have welship. comed on board, a local man of Blair Atholl, John Bristow, as the Restaurant Manager. Last year with Highland Tipis’s from Blair John has already established a great team Atholl, we experienced our first local wedand is gearing up to see that The Courtyard ding on Mains of Taymouth Country Eswill have a brilliant year. New for 2015 will tate and have many further weddings be a larger outdoor children’s play area already confirmed for 2015/16. 2014 which currently sits just outside the Courtsaw the completion of the old, well loved yard, perfect place for children to play and Byre Bistro into a spectacular small wedparents to sit back and enjoy the relaxing ding venue, The Coach House. This new
venue has become the ideal location for both small & large weddings with a spacious marquee lawn running alongside that can cater for the 200+ marquee wedding market. The Coach House has also proved to be a great corporate venue where delegates can have a private location with ample accommodation for all.
“voted the ‘Best Holiday Cottage Complex in Britain’ by the SUNDAY TIMES”
Another new addition for 2015 at Mains of Taymouth Country Estate & Golf Course is Balloch Park Country Retreats, a new private gated development that will be located in our old Quarry site, with the majestic river Tay passing by on one side and dramatic location of Drummond Hill on the other. Designed and built by local builders, Blairish Restorations, these luxury lodges will offer stunning south facing views and will be beautifully landscaped to enhance the stunning location. Built for private use only, these lodges can be your new forever home or your home-fromhome holiday lodge where you can escape the daily busy routine to a peaceful, picturesque location.
Prince of India — Pitlochry Prince of India offers a great value three course lunch for £6.95 and children under 12 eat for £3.95. Open all year, 7 days a week, 12 noon to 4pm in main season (to 2pm in winter) and the main menu is served from 5pm to 11pm each evening. To book a table or take away call 01796 472275. 11
Page 12
Explore Inverness Tourism Newsletter 2015
News from the Taymouth Marina Restaurant — Kenmore Taymouth Marina Restaurant opened in August 2013 and has been going from strength to strength. Located on the shore of Loch Tay right beside the Scottish Crannog Centre we arguably have the best view in Highland Perthshire and possibly even the whole of Scotland! On a warm sunny day where could be better than the terrace at Taymouth Marina to enjoy a delicious meal or a drink from our bar. We even serve Stewart Tower Dairy ice cream from our adjoining gift shop, there is something for everyone! We offer a wide ranging choice of meals with our lunch menu covering everything from soup, sandwiches and freshly made stone baked pizza’s to East Coast Haddock and chips, seafood platters, and Burgers. Whether it’s a quick bite or a leisurely meal everyone is very welcome here.
atmosphere as the sun sets over Ben Lawers while sampling a bottle of wine from our wine list or a single malt from the bar after their meal. Our Head Chef is a local man who has lived and worked within Highland Perthshire for the majority of his 40 year long career. The Cullen Skink is his secret recipe and is loved by everyone who samples it. The menu reflects his Scottish heritage by using local meat and Scottish seafood. Along with the consistently high standard of meal, he specialises in making the portion of onion rings into a pyramid and then watching our front of house staff to make sure the onion rings arrive with the guests without falling over!
“With such a beautiful location we are fast becoming a wedding venue ”
cebook page that are updated regularly with our current menus and events. Table reservations can be made online or by calling us on 01887 830450. Javen, Lindsay and the rest of the team look forward to welcoming you to Taymouth Marina Restaurant throughout the year.
With such a beautiful location we are fast becoming a wedding venue and the feedback we received from the weddings in 2014 was entirely positive. With the use of a marquee on the lawn area adjacent to the restaurant we can comfortably cater for up to 150 guests for a sit down meal.
Dinner tends to be a much more leisurely affair with customers enjoying the
We have a website and Fa-
Drummonds of Pitlochry from frozen packets. This year we are offering great value High Teas—two courses for £11 and three courses £13—that surely is hard to beat! We have had great reaction to this especially for those not wanting to have fancy dining every night of their holidays.
We are proud to say all our food is sourced locally using the local butcher, it is basic good old home cooking without all the frills and fancy twirls of modern restaurants. The kids meals are freshly prepared and cooked to order, no food
There is outside seating, well away from the smokers area, which is proving to be popular with visitors during the warmer days and also those who want their dogs by their side. Drummonds is a family restaurant in every sense of the word, with members of the family working at the front of house and in the kitchen. We take great 12
care in ensuring every thing we do is done to the very best of our ability. We are open from 10am to 11pm all year round. We are under the railway arch just to the left of Pitlochry War Memorial and gardens.