No more vivid could the contrast be, between the rugged water and land vista on which this revelatory property sits, to the contemporary modern, clean lined interior of Ardtorna, on Argyll’s western fringes.
Only the highly avant-garde exterior suggests that surprises may await within; its contrasting nature captivates and entices you in from the sublime to its equally sublime antithesis.
Karen and Sean had a dream of creating a property unlike any other stereotypical Highland retreat; and they have achieved that with enthusiasm, exacting design and flair. Light oak, marble and glass, draw in light and the outdoors to immaculately planned, vast spaces, where vibrant colours compliment a magnificently stark backdrop and offer lavish detail, attention to which, is precise and unobtrusive. Every exacting finish caters for the guest promising a comfortable, luxurious and memorable stay.
Their passion for creating a welcoming sanctuary exudes from Karen and Sean, and they have, with ease, mastered the creation within what I am reluctant to describe as a bed and breakfast, albeit of the 5 star variety. A visual masterpiece has been born; a place of contradictions, confirmation of your locality, affirmed only by the picture perfect west coast view.
Ardtorna is sleek throughout; floors covered with lightly toned marble and boosted by under floor heating; the minimalist principal counteracted by additional modern conveniences such as iPod docks, WiFi and flat screen televisions, which, together, have earned Ardtorna the much coveted Gold Award from Visit Scotland, bestowed only on the chosen few and an acclaim held in much regard by the owners.
An uncompromising belief in luxurious detail, essential for 5 stars, has earned their reward; I personally was delighted with the Molton Brown toiletries, thoughtfully chilled water, chocolates and fresh fruit and flowers which heralded my welcome and that of every other guest in one of Ardtorna’s four spacious bedrooms, all with stunning views of Loch Creran.
There is a very apparent acceptance here that each guest is cherished and a genuinely honest desire to offer maximum satisfaction through the modern embodiment of Scottish hospitality that Ardtorna offers in caskfulls!
Thoughtfully placed whiskies grace the bedroom wing should the desire arise for a hearty nightcap and a chocolate box choice of coffee and warm homemade scones offer a homely touch.
The fabulously different breakfast menu, serving delights such as grilled halloumi, capers, salmon and oatcakes along with the more traditional Scottish breakfast and a vast range of juices, cereals, nuts and freshly baked breads, negates the requirement for lunch, nevertheless, provides extremely thoughtful snacks for guests venturing out to the hills for the day.
A reluctance to leave this west coast idyll, I am sure, is a common complaint but guarantees that guests return, with promises of further indulgence of the senses. Karen and Sean have built a considered and very giving property in a beautiful location; they had a dream and that dream came true – that dream is Ardtorna.
