Weaving through dramatic Scottish landscapes, each cloaked in autumn’s spellbinding russet palette, we made our way to our own magical corner of the Highlands, Druimarbin Farmhouse.
Nestled in the Coruanan Estate, towering pines and breathtaking views over Loch Linnhe encompass the retreat. Framed by mountains and vast skies, this captivating backdrop enthrals throughout the day, brushed by the fiery glow of dawn and transformed into an inky silhouette as night falls. An irresistible perspective, we spent much of our time simply admiring the landscape from our cosy sanctuary.
Marrying traditional farmhouse features with playful design and cosy nooks, Druimarbin’s interiors are soulful and effortlessly welcoming. Adorned with soft pops of colour and sumptuous furnishings, a feast of books on every shelf, and two gorgeous fireplaces, heavenly moments are promised in every space.
With French accents throughout, we loved crafting dishes in the sage-green kitchen, plucking ingredients from the larder and enjoying our welcome hamper, before gathering fireside in the dining room where a large table and country-striped seating beckon for hours of feasting and conversation.
Stepping outside, the dreamy wellness space - featuring a wood-fired sauna, hot tub, and plunge pool - ensured our stay was utterly relaxing and restorative. As the elements moved from glistening October sunshine to scenes infused with drama, we savoured our time under deepening skies, relishing the warmth of the sauna and soothing hot tub under twisting clouds. Embracing the plunge pool added to the indulgence of the sauna, allowing us to immerse in the benefits of hot-cold therapy for a truly revitalising experience.
Feeling completely refreshed, we spent evenings playing board games next to the wood-burning stove and sinking into the plethora of coffee table books and vintage pages of treasured tales. All the while, our dog relaxed at our feet, basking in the farmhouse warmth.
The perfect setting for gentle strolls or long walks by day, we headed out on foot from the doorstep after breakfast, tracing paths through the estate to discover a host of unforgettable views. The wild swimming lake was a lovely spot to have a dip and amble across the water in the little rowing boat, before continuing on our way. Winding along the river, we looked out for Atlantic salmon and trout, before stopping a moment to enjoy the fishing cabin lovingly crafted by Sandy, the estate manager of close to 40 years. It was a highlight to meet Sandy and hear his anecdotes about life on the estate, a place so clearly cherished by him and the family who have owned it for generations.
As our time on the grounds unfolded, we were awestruck as the clouds parted to reveal Scotland’s highest mountain, Ben Nevis. Captivated by the grand peaks and tapestry of patchwork fields where sheep gently grazed and birds of prey drifted overhead, we were mesmerised by the beauty of the estate. It was easy to lose all sense of time here, and easy to forget the world beyond its gates.
As alluring as our retreat was, we couldn’t resist spells of exploration in a setting as otherworldly as the Scottish Highlands. With Druimarbin situated in the popular garrison town of Fort William, all manner of places await nearby, from the grand Glenfinnan Viaduct of Potter fame to hidden waterside gems.
We particularly loved Glengarry Forest, where mossy trails led to a thundering waterfall, and a hike in Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park to gaze over lofty seascapes peppered with islands. With the majestic valley of Glen Coe and coastal charm of Oban also nearby, Druimarbin offers the perfect retreat for every adventure seeker; although many, like us, could easily settle into its cocooning embrace and never leave.
Hours of adventure were all the sweeter knowing our heavenly retreat awaited our return. A place for savouring slow living in cosy corners, blissful moments of self care, and connection with Scotland's wild landscapes, Druimarbin Farmhouse is an unforgettable homestay for a wonderfully coorie escape.
