Flight Time / September 2016

52 / 132

52 SEPTEMBER
CONCIERGE BREAK TIME
and made to feel like princesses, basically, and it was
alarming how easily we became accustomed to this
treatment. Jen, the manager, was so friendly, funny and
helpful, it’s easy to imagine how comforting it would be
to have her on hand if you were having your wedding
there. We were also treated to a private chef and his
charming daughter, Isla, coming in to cook for us. As I
said, completely spoilt…
It was hard to make ourselves leave Carlowrie Castle
at all, it was such a special place to be. However, to
walk off a little of our over-consumption, we ventured
into Edinburgh and took a stroll up Arthur’s Seat. This
ancient volcano in Holyrood Park towers next to the
city, with various hiking paths up it and stunning views
from the top. It’s a good climb but it’s well worth it.
Next was Edinburgh Castle – book tickets in
advance to save some time in the queue. Once in, join
Above: The beautiful
Carlowrie Castle has wonderful
grounds, a fabulous team
and a lavish, art-filled interior
Below, clockwise from
top: Seriously good seafood
at Ondine; the Royal Yacht
Britannia; inside Carlowrie
Castle
one of the tours – there is such a range of architecture
within the citadel it’s really useful to have one of the
knowledgeable guides to talk you through it. The views
are amazing, there’s a 12th-century chapel, and you
can see the crown jewels worn by Mary Queen of
Scots and also the Stone of Scone – the famous rock
that all monarchs of Scotland, England and the UK
have sat on (or above) when coronated.
To continue the historical theme, visit The Real
Mary King’s Close, where costumed characters bring
to life four narrow streets, with real town houses and
rooms dating back to the 1500s. Hear the stories of
people who lived on these streets, between the 16th
and 20th centuries, from the maid to the merchant, the
plague cleaner to the poet, offering a fascinating insight
into Edinburgh’s history.
To see a different side of the city, take the bus
down to the port of Leith. We bought one-day bus
tickets, allowing you to hop on and hop off, then
headed downtown along the Royal Mile. Leith has
some good seafood pubs and restaurants (we had a
quick local beer in The King’s Wark, overlooking the
Water of Leith, which was a great pub). Down on the
waterfront, you’ll find the Royal Yacht Britannia, the
Queen’s decommissioned family ship. Take a tour and
see the incredible grandeur that the royal family used
to holiday in, with its state apartments, royal bedrooms
and gleaming engine room, or enjoy a speciality tea or
lunch in the extravagant tea room.
In the evening, for a drink in an atmospheric wine
bar, try Café Royal, near Princes Street Gardens. It’s got
a grand brasserie style to it, a really lively atmosphere
and it feels chic. For dinner, if you’re looking for
somewhere special, try Ondine. This is one of the
best seafood restaurants in Scotland and a place that
several people told us was their favourite restaurant in
the city. The service and food is impeccable – starters
of Tempura Squid and Wild Sea Bass Ceviche, and
mains such as Roasted Shellfish Platter or Guy Greive’s
Grilled Scallops with spicy sausage are difficult to resist.
The idea behind the menu is to take local seafood, but
create dishes inspired by international cuisine, and it’s
one that has clearly won over a lot of happy customers.
When it came time to leave Scotland, after
our countryside and city adventure, we were
understandably sad. It had been a whirlwind of Scottish
fun, but hopefully it won’t be too long before we return.
Book before 31st December 2016 to receive a 10% discount
o a minimum three-night stay with the Mains of
Taymouth Country Estate and Golf Course (excludes festive
period). Call 01887 830226 and quote FLYBE to book.
O er subject to availability.