Built for Colonel Archibald Campbell, this stately Victorian mansion is set in rambling gardens at the end of a winding road on the banks of Loch Awe. The house has been transformed into a romantic retreat and dinner in the hotel’s candlelit restaurant is not to be missed. Expect a menu of country house classics with Scottish influence and a contemporary twist. To start, go for smoked seafood from Inverawe, or chicken and bacon terrine with quail egg and brioche. Follow with charred sirloin of Scottish Aberdeen Angus or wild turbot with smoked cod roe. Finish with and indulgent pud, like rhubarb cheesecake or quince crumble. For diners who can’t make up their minds, there’s a Scottish gastronomic tour in the form of a seven-course tasting menu.