This is not your usual bed and breakfast! If you are lucky enough to stay at the Isla Bank House with Nick and Vena you are in for a truly wonderful experience.
The House: It is a wonderful old (ancient by American standards) manor. My wife and I felt a little like we were staying at Downton Abbey. The home is mostly original and is being preserved and cared for respecting all of its beauty and history. You can tell that the home itself is a labor of passion and that Nick and Vena care deeply about it. I can not wait to see it again after hearing some of their plans for the future.
You will enjoy a wonderful Scottish breakfast and can hear the faint and cheerful sounds of the classic rock music of my youth coming out of Nick's kitchen. His food is WONDERFUL and every detail is perfect. The dining room is comfortable and spacious and has everything you could ever need to accompany the view of the garden. The breakfast is a not to miss as they have sourced it locally and was the best "Scottish breakfast" we had during our 2 weeks of touring.
Care for the small details is what sets the Isla Bank House apart from all the rest. We had remarked at the fact that the bed, after being in many institutional ones on our trip, was absolutely wonderful and Nick and Vena told us the story of the time they spent trying to find the perfect ones. They were not wrong! The small details in the room, the breakfast, the appointments in the bathroom.... All top shelf and impeccable. The kind of details you would expect to find at only a high-end London hotel and not in a country B&B.
A note for American's that are used to going to wine country and just showing up for tours and tastings. On the Whiskey Trail you need reservations in advance. Nick will be happy to help you find the ones that suit your tastes and can make recommendations on many things in the local area. Take him up on his offer to do so as it is an earnest offer and between he and Vena they know the area.
The hospitality and care were an absolute highlight of our trip and we hope to be able to stay at the Isle House with Nick and Vena again. If they are free and you are lucky enough to enjoy a dram with them do take them up on it. As others have said you will drive away with two new friends having stayed at a magnificent property. read more