Lundies House

Tongue, United Kingdom - map
www.lundies.scot

Nestled in the serene village of Tongue along Scotland's North Coast 500 route, Lundies House is a resplendent gem. Formerly a church manse, it has been meticulously transformed into a boutique hotel that emanates understated luxury and warmth. Here, the essence of warm hospitality, exquisite cuisine, and contemporary design unite to create a haven in the heart of the Scottish Highlands, beckoning travelers to immerse themselves in its unique charm.

The house itself harmoniously blends timeless tradition and contemporary vision. Original features like stone floors and grand shuttered windows are meticulously restored, anchoring the house in history. Yet, seamlessly interwoven are iconic Scandinavian design pieces, revitalizing the manse's heritage. This creative synergy between Scandinavian and Scottish talents permeates the house. Works by esteemed Danish artists such as Trine Søndergaard and Peter Blonde coexist with bespoke furniture and cabinetry from skilled Scottish craftsmen.

Warm, inviting colors, natural materials, and carefully curated decor characterize the lounge and study areas, inviting guests to engage in conversations or find solace with a good book. The dining room is an artistic hub where culinary artistry and visual elegance converge. Adorned with botanical artwork by French artist Clare Basler, the walls mirror the ever-changing seasons and the ingredients gracing the plates.

Lundies House, a picturesque 19th-century stone structure, overlooks the scenic Kyle of Tongue and the majestic mountains beyond. The ground floor houses communal spaces, while the spacious ensuite bedrooms on the upper floor each possess their unique charm, with soothing palettes, sumptuous linens, and sweeping views. The shared lounge and study areas exude homely comfort, encouraging gatherings around crackling log fires and convivial conversations. The Lundies kitchen serves as the heart of the house, where guests can convene over coffee as chefs prepare culinary delights.

Adjacent to the kitchen, a fragrant herb garden opens out, offering sea views and the historic Castle Bharrich. Nearby, the original L-shaped steadings, restored and extended, house three studio bedrooms, a self-catered apartment, and a communal working and meeting space. These buildings encircle a picturesque courtyard, a sanctuary for collective moments. A tranquil stream meanders through the outer reaches of the garden, featuring a Nymph Pool—a serene oasis perfect for a refreshing dip.

Lundies House immerses guests in the wild and rugged environment, integral to the experience. The unique northerly location influences the menus, which feature locally-sourced ingredients from land and sea. The culinary team often forages along the shores and nearby woodlands, uncovering hidden culinary treasures. These humble ingredients are then elevated in the kitchen, resulting in a small yet ambitious menu where each ingredient earns its place on the plate. Guests indulge in a relaxed three-course candlelit dinner in the dining room, enhanced by bespoke tableware from Scottish ceramicist Cara Guthrie and Danish duo Aage and Kasper Wurtz.

Lundies House offers e-bikes for coastal exploration, unspoiled sandy beaches, and wetsuits for those seeking the thrill of wild swimming. The area caters to surfers year-round, from beginners to seasoned experts. Nearby Talmine beach, just across the Kyle, offers paddleboarding and coasteering by arrangement, ensuring a safe and friendly aquatic adventure for all.

To fully embrace outdoor adventures, it is advisable to bring hiking boots and suitable outerwear, ensuring a complete immersion in the breathtaking beauty of the North. Lundies House, with its seamless blend of heritage and modernity, invites you to experience the untamed allure of the Scottish Highlands, etching unforgettable memories on your heart and soul.