Loch Kinord Hotel

We found it a great base for exploring Royal Deeside, with Ballater and its many facilities very close by. The hotel is nicely presented, with a spacious lounge and a lawn set out with tables and chairs. We stayed four nights, and the staff went the extra mile to make us comfortable and look after us.

Dinner was a highlight: we ate at the hotel three times, and the food was delicious each time. The staff were friendly and easy-going too. The place has a charming, nostalgic feel, like stepping back 50 years, and it suited the landscape beautifully, though that style may not be for everyone. Our first room was very small, with a tiny, poor-quality bed. After we raised it, they offered us a bigger room with a better bed for an extra fee, which we appreciated. Breakfast choices were limited, but what was served tasted good. The coffee wasn’t quite to our taste, though that seemed common throughout Scotland. We also found it inconvenient that there was no drinks price list. It’s certainly worth recommending, but we’re not sure we’d return, mainly because the rooms are basic. Maybe the lodges would suit us better, though we don’t know if they’re available for just two guests.

We didn’t stay overnight, just went to the restaurant on bank holiday Monday. The menu was fantastic and the food delicious, though it was very expensive. I had the chicken and haggis, beautifully presented, and the staff were attentive. We had coffee in the lounge and a few drinks before heading out, but it was very quiet and felt a bit short on atmosphere. The decor was very dark as well. Tasty, but pricey: £40 for two courses and £28 for two double whiskys.

The hospitality at Kinord Hotel and Restaurant made our meeting memorable. We were welcomed with nice coffee, then had club sandwiches and hot, creamy lentil soup for lunch, both delightful. The meeting itself went well, and we met in a cozy wooden vintage setting. The food, service and comfortable surroundings make it a standout choice, with a setting that seems perfect for Deeside walks. I’m looking forward to coming back for a meal or perhaps staying in one of their bungalow shaped rooms.