We have stayed in some fabulous places around the world, but nothing matches the stunning, fabulous, fascinating, gorgeous fairytale experience we had at Thorngrove Manor. We treated ourselves to a night, which we booked through Small Luxury Hotels of the World (which I also highly recommend).
We had the Observatory suite, located in a turret with amazing 360 degree views. Our sunken spa was in its own turret with a beautifully decorated ceiling. The bed and pillows were as comfortable as a cloud and the linen crisp and fresh. We had 4 separate bath/toilet areas with towels a plenty.
Our host, Ken, was so entertaining and his passion for antiques and all the fine inclusions at Thorngrove made our stay as informative as it was pleasurable.
Not only is this property amazingly breathtaking (there just are not enough superlatives to describe this place) but the beauty of the building and surrounds, is equaled by the quality of the food which is as good as, if not better than many chef hatted restaurants we have dined in.
Food began with a wonderful high tea served in the living are of our suite while some music was played in the background. The savoury treats were delicious and the scones and chocolate Beetroot cake, divine.
We opted for the in-room dining, and were were not disappointed. An amazing choice of 3 or 4 per courses of entree, main and dessert. All mouth watering and served on the finest crockery with 18th century silver. We truly felt like the King and Queen of the Castle. You can bring your own wine, so we popped in to Tappanappa Winery (5minute drive away) for a wonderful Chardonay and Pinot Noir to accompany our food.
Breakfast was served on the terrace the next morning. Again, fantastic and so much better that the hotel buffets... The chia pudding and Bircher muesli, fruits yoghurt etc etc, you get the picture - all of the meals were as big as they were tasty. Nydia is a talented chef and as passionate about food as they both are antiques and maintaining a quality of excellence at their property.
If you can only go once in your life, don't miss a chance to go. Worth every cent and if you think you can't afford to go, then give up something (like smoking or that new handbag) and GO!
We did the lovely walk down to Stirling which is a sweet town and a good way to walk off the afternoon tea, but then we hurried back as we never wanted to leave!
It was our 32nd wedding anniversary gift to ourselves and we can't think of anything better!!!!
To quote my husband 'I just found out I am a castle kind of guy'
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