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The National (Scotland)
The National (Scotland)
National
Andrew Smart

See inside this iconic Scottish hotel after massive refurbishment

AN iconic hotel in Scotland has undergone a major refurbishment in what has been dubbed one of the institution's largest-ever investments.

The revamp of Crieff Hydro Hotel, part of a 900-acre resort, has seen the creation of six new bars and restaurants as well as a total rethink of the menus on offer at existing spots.

The owners hope that by positioning the hotel as one of the "most exciting" culinary locations in Scotland, it can meet the needs of younger visitors.

See inside Crieff Hydro after Scottish hotel given massive revamp

EASTCrieff Hydro's "signature" restaurant - EAST is described as an Asian-inspired dining spot (Image: Crieff Hydro) The new food and drink venues on offer at the Crieff Hydro in Scotland range from Asian restaurants serving small plates to elegant and relaxed cocktail bars.

The hotel's signature restaurant is EAST, an Asian-inspired dining spot offering "sizzling" sharers and a menu that is perfect for mixing and matching.

Dishes on offer here include Javanese Sticky Chicken with a Gooey Sweet Sauce, Korean Fried Chicken, Spicy Gochujang Sauce, Slow Cooked Cambodian Spiced Lamb Shoulder with a Masala Sauce and a Hong Kong-Style Whole Pan-fried Seabass.

The Ballroom BarThe Ballroom Bar (Image: Crieff Hydro) The Ballroom Bar, which is set in a "totally reimagined" space, is said to be a nod to the hotel's heritage while still offering a "relaxed, elegant and contemporary experience".

For some "feel-good" food, guests can check out The Brasserie, where rustic, bistro classics await, including burgers, fries and pies.

The Winter GardenThe Winter Garden (Image: Crieff Hydro) The Winter Garden, another new location at the lodging, retains all the elements of a traditional Victorian Winter Garden, making it an "airy" and "elegant" space.

Guests can enjoy coffee and pastries in the morning, as well as light lunches and drinks in the evening. 

Crieff HydroThe Winter Garden, looking away from the greenhouse (Image: Crieff Hydro) A wee brew or two can also be enjoyed at Tea at Loggia, a lovely spot that draws on Scotland's traditional larder.

Dishes here include Gazpacho Soup with a Chorizo Bon Bon, Cullen Skink Quiche and Mini Venison Cottage Pie. 

LoggiaDishes available at Loggia include Chorizo Bon Bon (Image: Crieff Hydro) Finally, there is The Hermitage, a spot which has been described as a "speakeasy-style, decadent, low-lit, grown-up hideaway".

It is said to blend mixology with a "bit of mischief," thanks to its curious cocktails, non-alcoholic creations, and rare whiskies, including six exclusive Diageo bottlings locked behind a private keep-safe.


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Discussing the changes, Stephen Leckie, chief executive of the Crieff Hydro Family of Hotels, said this is a "significant" chapter in the hotel's 157-year-long history.

He added: "For us, investment large and small is always about creating something better for our guests and for our team here.

"This is no exception, but the scale of the transformation, I believe, will really put us on the map for food and drink in Scotland."

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