Fancy staying in a former lookout tower in beautiful Perthshire?
If staying in a truly unique, luxurious Scottish hideaway is your idea of heaven then why not book into The White Tower?
As far as famous royal abodes go, Balmoral is surely the name that springs to mind when thinking of Scottish retreats.
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Hide AdBut before finding the charm of Balmoral, legend has it that Queen Victoria and Prince Albert honeymooned at Taymouth Castle in 1840.
The Castle was the home of the Marquis’ of Breadalbane – owners of one of the largest estates in Scotland.
This may well have been the start of Queen Victoria's love affair with the Highlands, which lasted a lifetime and started the tradition of holidaying in Scotland, something that the current Royal family still does every summer.
Today Taymouth Castle is set to become a luxury hotel and spa destination.
It has had many identities; from a Polish hospital during the Second World War, a civil defense school and a hotel and golf course.
Picture: The White Tower
Visitors looking for a luxurious stay nearby should check out the Castle's former lookout tower.
Recently renovated, The White Tower overlooks Loch Tay and is accessed by an unassuming single track road through the trees.
Picture: The White Tower
Arriving on a dark, winter's night, the tower is a welcome sight and provides an even more welcome place to stay for a weekend.
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Hide AdDecked out in a style that can be described as traditional Scottish lodge meets modern Gothic, no expense has been spared in making The White Tower a luxury destination in this popular pocket of Perthshire.
Picture: the kitchen, The White Tower
On arrival (where to find keys and information on the accommodation is sent on booking, making checking in a fuss-free and private affair), guests will enter through a small porch to the modern, well-equipped kitchen/dining area.
Picture: the patio, The White Tower
Outside from here, guests will find a spacious patio with outdoor furniture and a fire pit
Spiraling up from the kitchen is the cosy living room complete with leather sofas, large, log burning stove, flat screen TV, Sky Box and DVD player - perfect for nights in.
Picture: the living room, The White Tower
The sauna and extra shower room are accessed from the living room.
Picture: the sauna, The White Tower
Continuing up the spiral stairs, guests will find the first bedroom with en suite, followed by a charming library nook - with a leather wing chair and wall full of books (and some board games).
Picture: one of the bedrooms, The White Tower
Further up are the main bathroom with its freestanding bath and second double bedroom.
But it is the top of the tower where guests will find themselves spending most of their time.
Picture: The White Tower
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Hide AdNot only is this the best vantage point for views over Loch Tay, the hot tub and loungers provide the ultimate place to take in the beautiful surroundings.
Picture: The White Tower
Each room boasts stunning views of the scenery, which just get better the higher up you go. Despite the small windows of the tower, it is hard not to appreciate the beauty of the location.
Picture: The White Tower
Both of the bedrooms have statement headboards, faux fur throws and antique furniture.
Little extras such as plush bathrobes, slippers and Kenmore shortbread alongside tea and coffee making facilities just add to the five star appeal.
Picture: the top bedroom, The White tower
The White Tower is owned by award-winning local architect Eric McKenzie Strickland and his wife Naomi, who is a successful graphic artist and photographer.
Picture: The White Tower
When they visited The White Tower for the first time they fell in love with it’s beauty and the grandeur of the surroundings, which made them want to transform it into the idyllic holiday home that stands today.
Available to rent for a minimum of three nights, more information on The White Tower and its availability can be found here.