STAY : Escape to the Cairndale Hotel, Dumfries for some R&R and stargazing
Located in the heart of Dumfries, Scotland, the Cairndale Hotel is a charming retreat that offers plenty of opportunities for rest and relaxation and even stargazing as I found out on my two night escape down to the Scottish Borders.
The hotel, which has been in the same family for 40 years is a delightful blend of tradition and modern comfort. They are in the process of refurbishing the hotel but what they have done so far, is beautiful and noticeable - the reception lounge, the corridors and the rooms.
As you step into the Cairndale Hotel, you will be instantly captivated by its elegant interior. The stylish decor creates an inviting atmosphere, striking a perfect balance between contemporary furnishings and subtle nods to the area's rich heritage. From the carefully selected art pieces that adorn the walls to the tasteful upholstery that graces every corner, no detail has been overlooked in creating an ambiance that exudes both sophistication and warmth.
The Cairndale Hotel has ample free parking too with their own dedicated parking lot around the side of the hotel. There are some stairs to climb from the parking area to the hotel or you can walk around the hotel.
The well-appointed rooms at the Cairndale Hotel provide a tranquil haven for guests to unwind and rejuvenate. Each room has been thoughtfully designed, ensuring maximum comfort and relaxation. Sink into the plush bedding and let the worries of the world melt away as you indulge in a restful night's sleep. We stayed in a Spa King Room and although the colour palette wasn’t to my taste, the furnishings were great. Large king sized bed, couch, wardrobe, hospitality tray of tea and coffee and a Nespresso coffee machine.
The wi-fi is complementary after you login but it is intermittent in places and for me just didn’t work. However my 4G signal was strong so I didn’t find it difficult to connect online.
As the hotel is located in the centre of Dumfries there are no rolling hills and countryside to look at from the window but our view wasn’t a bad one - we overlooked a street and a leisure centre. The windows provide excellent sound proofing keeping your tranquil stay on track.
R&R starts in this bathroom where its time to indulge in the ultimate relaxation experience with a hot spa bath that takes pampering to another level. Imagine sinking into the warm, bubbling waters while being surrounded by soothing jets and a serene ambiance. But it doesn't end there - elevate your soak by immersing yourself in your favourite TV series or movie, thanks to the in-wall Smart TV. With just a touch of a button, the screen seamlessly appears, allowing you to enjoy your entertainment of choice from the ultimate comfort of your bath. Lose yourself in the captivating storyline as the jets massage away any tension, creating a truly immersive and rejuvenating experience for both the body and mind. This luxurious combination of a hot spa bath and in-wall Smart TV is the epitome of indulgence, delivering enjoyment and relaxation beyond compare.
The Cairndale Hotel offers inhouse dining which is open to guests and public alike. One our first night, the dining room felt more like a mess hall with a very large group of golfers having taken up 70% of the dining room and turned it into their own private dining space and holding a prize giving. This hotel is a popular spot for golfers and I can understand why.
However they soon departed the dining room and normal service resumed. The menu is filled with classic British dishes, some great staples that plays to their main audience of a slightly older more mature guest.
Goats Cheese and Salmon nicoise salad for starters followed by Steak and chips and Duck. Solid cooking and nice presentation.
If you’re not playing golf or taking in one of the many walks around Dumfries, why not stop into Annandale Whisky Distillery. It’s one of the most beautiful distilleries I have visited - read my review HERE.
And if you’re feeling a little peckish and wish to treat yourself, try out The Globe Inn in Dumfries for some elevated dining and their tasting menu - read my review HERE.
The hotel's facilities are second to none, catering to the needs of every guest. Whether you wish to take a leisurely swim in the inviting pool, invigorate your senses in the well-equipped fitness centre, or simply unwind in the serene spa, the Cairndale Hotel has it all. When it’s time to indulge in some much-needed pampering, head down to the Forum Cafe and spa area.
And my favourite spot was right here in the jacuzzi! As a hotel guest you are provided your own ‘special’ locker which is filled with all the goodies to make your spa stay that little bit extra. A fluffy robe, slippers, towel, toiletries and a champagne flute, the most essential item you need to take with you into the spa area (the champagne flute is made of hard plastic and not glass).
There's something undeniably luxurious and indulgent about sinking into the warm, bubbling waters of a jacuzzi; a sanctuary of bliss. This topped with unlimited refills of champagne or prosecco just made this the ultimate relaxation in my book!
Our second evening dining in the restaurant was a completely different experience to our first night and it felt like a hotel restaurant. We continued our menu journey with Bruschetta and Duck liver parfait to start followed by the seabass and chicken risotto (the chicken normally comes with pasta but I requested it with the risotto which was no hassle at all).
After another quick dip in the pool and jacuzzi we retired for the evening and was welcomed with a lovely Annandale whisky nightcap in our room.
REVIEW OF CAIRNDALE HOTEL, DUMFRIES - IDEAL FOR R&R AND STARGAZING
Breakfast is a little early here - its runs from 730-9am. I mean who wants to get up early on holiday??? certainly not us. However day 2, I did make it down just so I could see what was on offer. A classic offering of cereals, toasts, pastries and a hot buffet of everything breakfast. A great way to start your day.
One of the Dumfries’ standout features is its enchantingly dark skies, perfect for stargazing enthusiasts. Later on in the year towards the end of September/October, as the sun sets and the day turns into night, a mesmerizing blanket of stars emerges, illuminating the sky above Dumfries. Away from the city lights and light pollution, the dark skies provide a rare opportunity to witness the awe-inspiring wonders of the universe.
The Cairndale Hotel are hosting two mesmerising events around Dark Skies
Harvest Moon 28th – 30th September 2023. This year, watch the moon as it turns a brilliant shade of orange. The Harvest Moon is expected just after sunset in the evening of Friday, the 29th of September.
Moon Crossing Venus 8th – 10th November 2023. See the Planets closer than ever before & capture dazzling light when the moon crosses paths with Venus on the 9th of November 2023.
Your two night stay includes staying in a Spa King Room, dinners and breakfasts and access to the spa as per our experience. On day two its a trip to Caerlaverock Castle with Matthew, a Dark Sky Ranger who will talk you through constellations, and the wonders of the universe and after stargazing, you will head back to the hotel for a luxury dome dining experience (pictured above). Available from £295pp.
As a 3* hotel, you can’t get much better that The Cairndale Hotel. Staff are warm, and become ever friendlier once they get to know your face. Very attentive and helpful.
Our stay was most enjoyable and comes highly recommended!
THINGS TO NOTE ABOUT THE CAIRNDALE HOTEL
They are dog friendly
They have disabled access, parking and accessible rooms
Check in is efficient and quick
They have an elevator to all floors
The Cairndale Hotel, English St, Dumfries, DG1 2DF www.cairndalehotel.co.uk