We may by now all be familiar with the Danish lifestyle concept of ‘Hygge’ but I discovered a similar word a lot closer to home during my visit to the Perthshire wilds. The centuries-old ‘Coorie’ is a Scottish word that means ‘to snuggle’. But while hygge describes cosiness, coorie is about embracing the outdoors. And that’s precisely the word to describe a stay at Loch Rannoch Hotel, Spa & Estate. 

Each of the 52 guest bedrooms and suites found at the top of the grand staircase (lift also available) have been fully refurbished with modern, quirky features influenced by the hotel’s majestic location. Most (77 per cent) have loch views and spectacular views of the triangular profile of the iconic mountain, Schiehallion, (also known as ‘the fairy mountain’) in the distance.

For an indulgent stay, I would highly recommend booking the Rannoch Suite. Featuring a private balcony, an eight-foot-wide four-poster bed, an original Victorian fireplace, and a complimentary drinks bar, it may be hard to pull yourself away from it. 

Extensive Leisure activities 

It’s no surprise that the hotel offers an array of outdoor pursuits at its heart. Not one to miss an opportunity to explore the outdoors, our group were quick to change into hiking gear for a brisk hike to Craig Varr – the starting point being just a few minutes’ walk from the hotel – within minutes of checking in. After all, we travel to Scotland to revel in the outdoors, to lose ourselves in the wide-open spaces. 

Positioned between Loch Rannoch and Dunalastair Water we zig-zagged the tracks on the lower slopes before ascending boggy grasslands just short of the final climb. While steep on ascent, it’s worth the effort to witness one of the most rewarding short walks (3m) in the central highlands. 

Two-wheel enthusiasts have a plethora of trails to cycle around. With bikes hired from the Loch Rannoch School of Adventure at the Marina, I decided that a heart-thumping 18-mile ride to the Rannoch Station Tea Room was a good way to spend the morning. It was a great way to enjoy misty hills, unspoilt glen of forests and mountain streams. 

While thoroughly enjoying the ride, the lure of ‘the best cakes in town’ at the Rannoch Station Tearoom made me pedal faster. The local folk weren’t wrong. The cosy tearoom, akin to ‘grandma’s kitchen’ was like an oasis at the end of the long road. We swiftly ordered tea, homemade cake and scones while admiring a collation of ephemera on the wall and shelves. 

Indoor Leisure facilities and spa 

The MATRIX fitness suite at the renovated Marina is the best place for adventure junkies to head to. You can still get a workout while enjoying the incredible Loch views, especially on those dodgy weather days. If you’re lucky, roaming sheep will be outside to champion you along. 

Loch Rannoch School of Adventure at the Marina allows guests to experience aspirational outdoor activities including climbing, wild swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, walking, mountain biking and fly-fishing. 

The latter was enjoyed by a few group members keen to up their fishing prowess. Gordon, the retired fisherman, was keen to help them on their way as they spent a few hours searching for fish. Arctic char, trout and pike are commonly found in the lake but somehow it was a 

lonesome perch that was found dangling on one of the hooks. However, as it was only nine inches and against fishing rules, its life was saved and returned to the water immediately. 

But if you’re looking for the perfect respite from the Scottish wilderness chill then you can head to the hotel spa. An ambitious reimagined spa launched in September 2021, leading to a 12-metre indoor swimming pool complex complete with a steam room and sauna. 

For the ultimate in relaxation, there are three therapy rooms and a relaxation suite featuring world-renowned ESPA treatments. Therapist Vanya had the magic touch as she soothed away the aches and pains from the walking and cycle ride during a sleep-induced massage. 

Gastronomy 

Loch Rannoch Hotel has a superb range of food and drink, with something to suit everyone’s aspirations. From first-class dining in the AA Rosette awarded Estate Room, and bistro fare in the Rannoch Larder to a classic pub menu in the dog-friendly Wild Brownie Bar, there are plenty of options to enjoy locally sourced food and warm hospitality. I was impressed by the portions sizes which were adequate to refuel after long days in the outdoors. Those who are not dining, can still head to the hotel for a drink. The warm cosy Drawing Room is a draw for many after a day spent on the loch. While I didn’t get the chance to sample the afternoon tea, the tiered stands full of deliciousness did look rather impressive.