Balinakill is an imposing listed mansion house dating to the 1920s, and it appears little has changed since. The elegant furniture, taxidermy and boarding school whiff of furniture polish and home cooking lend an aristocratic feel, although hosts Angus and Sue couldn't be more laidback.

Walkers are relieved of wet boots and socks on entry and ushered to the lounge for tea or beer. The hotel has ten ensuite bedrooms and you can state a preference for a shower, bath or open fire. Food is mostly locally-sourced and homemade, and the restaurant has recently been awarded an AA rosette.

Rooms start at £45 per person including breakfast, a three-course meal without wine costs £28.95

Clachan, Argyll, PA29 6XL, tel. 01880 740206, www.balinakill.com

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The travel editor at Times Online delves into the collection to choose his favourite recent features on the Scottish islands

Background

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Background

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• Balinakill Country House, Clachan, Argyll

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