The Place
A small, family-run farmhouse, Monachyle Mhor has a charm all of its own. The setting is both serene and romantic – as well it might be: this was the location of the family home of Rob Roy MacGregor, approached along the Braes of Balquhidder (described in Kidnapped) and set beside Lochs Doine and Voil.
Rob and Jean Lewis came here some 30 years ago from Monmouth and first farmed the 2,000 acre estate, then opened the building as a hotel as well. Since then Jean and Rob have moved to the South of France, but their children, Tom, Dick and Melanie have taken over and expanded the business. Outbuildings have been converted into suites, and the hotel now has a total of 14 individual and very stylishly decorated rooms; six in the main house, and eight in the courtyard buildings. As well as the farm and hotel, the Lewis empire extends to a fish shop (MHORFish), a bakery (MHORBread) and a tearoom (MHORTea).
Tom Lewis is the highly-praised chef, and the hotel’s restaurant – situated in a light and airy conservatory overlooking the two lochs – is popular with locals and guests alike. Much of the produce comes from the farm, including lamb, beef and organic vegetables.
For a relaxing country break in magnificent scenery and with memorable food, Monachyle Mhor would be hard to beat.