Courtesy of the Glenmorangie Company
At first glance Glenmorangie House tells a story
The country house hotel is set between rolling barley fields and a vacant stretch of Scotland’s North Sea — true homage to highland beauty. The region, deeply Scottish, slightly remote and remarkably stunning, is often overlooked; but it is these very ingredients that are bringing travelers in for a taste.
Situated near Tain and a short drive from Royal Dornoch-Championship course, Glenmorangie House stands beautifully restored. The structurally historic 17th century farmhouse is now a lovingly adorned four-star property offering guests an experience to be savored.
The House
Appropriately named Glenmorangie House, the house hotel literally translates to “tranquility restored” in Gaelic. And restoring tranquility is exactly what the staff at Glenmorangie intend to do, whether restoration entails playing a round of golf at one of the numerous highland courses nearby or strolling along a pristine beach, the choices are plenty.
Courtesy of the Glenmorangie Company
Upon entering the Glenmorangie House, guest bedrooms will surely set the tone of your stay. Each room is individually furnished with elegant Scottish décor, soothing colors are warmed by ample natural lighting, and windows open to surrounding countryside or house gardens. Cozy in style, rooms are fitted with comfort in mind from the soft bathrobes, Arran Aromatic toiletries, a little Glenmorangie whisky, and the enhanced Bose speaker system. In addition, rooms feature typical amenities such as Wi-Fi, iron and ironing board, hair dryer, telephone as well as tea and coffee making facilities.
After sundown, settle into Glenmorangie House, often a guest’s favorite part of their stay. Relax in the Buffalo Room, for sipping a hot tea or local whisky alongside a toasty fire — a thoroughly encouraged activity. Later, make your way to the dining room to enjoy a five-course dinner made from the freshest local ingredients. Dining at the house is intimate in scale, using a long, shared table, guests converse late into the night enjoying a steady flow of whisky and laughter.
Courtesy of the Glenmorangie Company
The Whisky
The whisky mustn’t go unnoticed. Glenmorangie House is most certainly related to the Glenmorangie Distillery, and for this reason amble tastings of the single malt whisky cannot go a miss. The distillery, founded in 1843 is a short distance away from the house. Guests are welcomed for a special guided tour to learn about the smooth complex taste that will certainly bring one back to the Glenmorangie House year after year.
Whisky, like wine has a regional flavor. Each distillery refines their dram using local resources which reflect the taste, from the water, to peat and ultimately the process. Of the several regions throughout Scotland, Highland is known for its healthy robust flavor. The good news is, when you leave Glenmorangie House you can bring a little whisky back home; sip, savor and remember what you loved best about your highlands experience.
-Megan Meadows
