News December 2013

December at Craiganour can often be the time of freezing temperatures and the first snow, however, this year we are having unseasonably warm weather. With temperatures into double figures, the last few weeks have meant we have not had the usual worries of burst pipes, icy roads or residents being snow bound.

The estate was, however, battered by high winds at the beginning of the month and a few trees were brought down. Thankfully, the only other casualty of the storms was a particularly beautiful wooden climbing frame in our head keeper’s garden. Perhaps Father Christmas will bring a replacement!

We have recently had four journalists staying with us to experience the lodge and hind stalking. Their experience levels ranged from nervous novice to passionate self-proclaimed expert. They united, however, in raving about their experiences on the hill over a fine dinner and glass or two of wine that evening. They were also taken aback with the standard of the lodge and were delighted with the care they were shown. We are looking forward to seeing their articles in the near future.

Craiganour has also recently welcomed a family who booked a short break at the lodge to celebrate a special birthday. They had a full house of all ages and I understand they had a fantastic time ceilidhing in the common room and singing in the Skyspace.

January’s diary is looking busy with hind stalking and corporate bookings. This can be a quieter time for sporting lodges so it’s great to see our lower rates being taken advantage of.

Looking forward into 2014, Easter and early summer are particularly fine times at the estate. What could be better than relaxing in a roll-top bath while watching the lambs play in the fields and the rising sun reflecting on Loch Rannoch? There may be not stalking or shooting, but our luxury lodge is a fantastic base to explore the local area or wider Scotland. Our keepers can take you out onto the 21,000 acres of heather hill for Land Rover tours or a spot of photography stalking, whereby the shot is with your camera rather than a rifle. Quality family time can be spent picnicking at the walker’s bothy or head further out to Loch Garry at the northern end of the estate for a cooling dook if you are brave enough! And after a day exploring, our chef and housekeeper are on hand to ensure your evenings are equally enjoyable and relaxing.