Old Pines is one of those places that happen once in a while, where everything is right and you wonder why you can't stay there for ever. It's like a cosy little discovery where guests could experience the beauty of the scenic location and relax in the comfortable sofas with a book in tow, while real fires keep the toes nice and warm. Indeed this is a homely hotel with food very much at the centre.

If there was one word to express the kitchen's philosophy it would be 'natural' and all their bread, ice-cream, jams and marmalades, desserts, pasta, scones and shortbread are made in-house. Going with the principle of locally sourced materials try the Isle of Eigg crab salad and avocado salad with tomato vinaigrette, followed by a roast chump of Mull lamb, parsnip and spring onion mash, braised shallots, port and thyme jus.

To round off proceedings allow yourself to be beguiled by the Highland selection of Isle of Mull cheddar, Dunsyre Blue and Lochaber smoked cheese with homemade oatcakes and quince jelly.