First timers to Inverness are typically, surprised and impressed by the discovery of such a large and vibrant city, sitting right in the middle of the Scottish Highlands.
Usually having followed the A9 from the south, through glens steeped in the shadows of haunting mountains; and on this occasion, a winter-scape with the heather clad hills coated with snow; the city landscape with an impressively mountainous backdrop, seems contradictory to itself.
Sweeping down the last stretches of A9 into Inverness is however, a revelation and the Capital of the Highlands offers a very warm welcome to visitors who have been treading this well-worn route for many years.
Built around the River Ness, which reaches into the further expanse of Loch Ness, to its southern tip, Inverness is a mix of tradition with modern edges; and a recent example of the progression within Scotland’s second Capital, is within Highland Apartments.
Purchased, only months ago, by Mansley, the company have added 16 one and two bedroom apartments to their already impressive portfolio, overlooking the River Ness and Inverness Castle.
The ownership and management of their new Inverness properties, adds to a list of luxurious serviced apartments in London’s Mayfair and Kensington and The Knight Residence in Edinburgh – previously reviewed by Must Visit Scotland.
Having won a host of top awards, including ‘best hotel in the UK for customer service’ by Trivago for The Knight Residence, the pressure is on Mansley to compare, within the highland Capital.
Unsurprisingly, Highland Apartments does not disappoint. Sitting literally on the banks of the river with a balcony, offering panoramic views of the city, to boot; this is a city centre, luxurious alternative to hotels, Inverness shall undoubtedly benefit from.
Collecting keys and check-in information from a downstairs restaurant (very handy); and still reeling from the news that we had city centre private parking, dedicated to our apartment; directions to an under-property garage were clear, concise and easy to follow. A secure access from the garage area, to the apartment, followed, reached by superbly maintained public areas for access to the additional apartments.
On entering our one-bedroom property, the first impression was the sheer size of the apartment, the second was the impressive view. Camera at the ready, as always, the pull was to the floor to ceiling windows, offering that prized view over the river, the castle, the city and hills beyond – priceless!
A second glance of the property, reflected the great care which had obviously gone into selecting the correct furnishings for the apartment; capitalising on the space and not deterring from the focus of the view.
This particular property could easily have housed two bedrooms, however, instead, the owners have chosen to present a luxuriously expansive living space; one where you would be equally as comfortable for a lengthy stay, as a quick visit.
Two superior bathrooms (one ensuite) present the solution to those who enjoy both bath and shower and a most comfortable bed in a bright bedroom, which affords the same fabulous river views.
The kitchen and dining area offers the flexibility for arranging quick meals, if heading out to explore the extensive delights of the multiple attractions, shops, bars and restaurants, literally on the doorstep; or dinner parties for those welcoming guests to their home from home, with the impressive backdrop of Inverness Castle.
Everything at Highland Apartments is geared for ease and flexibility, as it should be with luxury serviced accommodation. Allowing for privacy and a lengthy stay, which is not cost-prohibitive, I personally, am delighted that the same flexibility afforded to other UK cities has arrived in Inverness, which shall do everything to encourage more visitors into the Highlands.
Being here, you cannot fail to be moved by the beauty of Inverness and looking out of the window, offers guests a real sense of where you are within Scotland’s geographical landscape.
I personally, wish Mansley, every success with this most recent purchase and would highly recommend Highland Apartments as a MUST STAY!
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