‘For tranquillity nowhere else comes close’: readers’ favourite UK retreats

Stunning views emerged from the mist, our tipster noted at Loch Awe Photograph: Sebastian Wasek/Alamy

Loch and awe in the Highlands

Last Easter, to escape the hustle and bustle and stresses of daily life, my partner and I took a few days’ trip to stay in the Highlands of Scotland. At Portsonachan Hotel (doubles from £106 a night B&B) overlooking the aptly named Loch Awe – the longest freshwater loch in Scotland – we found we could mentally and physically unwind. As the mist cleared over the loch each morning, stunning views emerged, creating what my partner would refer to as a “soul spa”. With our holidays usually jam-packed with activities, it was refreshing to change gear and just take relaxing woodland walks amid nature and to recharge the batteries whenever we felt like it.
Greg Marshall