A summertime holiday can prove somewhat of a gamble with Scotland’s weather.
However, just like our friends visiting Mykonos and Mallorca, Kéran and I were fortunate enough to experience perfect sunshine and blue skies as we approached the carpark of Karma Lake of Menteith.
PS! You can watch our mini vlog on our experience here!
Nestled on the banks of the serene Lake of Menteith, this gorgeous hotel offers not only a beautifully-executed blend of rustic charm and modern comfort, but also the most wonderful lake views you could hope for.
We spent two relaxing, peaceful nights here, a much needed respite after our month travelling and working across Scotland’s blustery north.
From the moment we arrived, we were taken aback by the picturesque setting.
Of course we had Googled it in advance, but nothing can prepare you for the sight of the soft sunlight rippling over the ancient waters and tiny islands with your very own eyes.
The Lake of Menteith is Scotland’s only natural lake, the other 30,000 or so in the country being “lochs”, as the name apparently originated from erroneous survey material.
Whether lake or loch, Karma Lake of Menteith takes full advantage of its beautiful location.
The hotel boasts a grassy terrace that overlooks the tranquil waters, providing an idyllic spot to relax and take in the breathtaking views.
We had our eye on a little table on the grassy terrace set to the backdrop of faraway cows and sheeps’ bleats, but not before first popping into the Menteith Kirk (church) next door.
The beautiful old Kirk provides an incredible ambience as it towers over Karma and its terrace. Upon entering we exchanged an interesting discussion with the elderly woman operating the church.
Little local experiences and interactive moments add so much to our hotel and travel experiences as you gain the opportunity to feel immersed in and connected with the history of the local area.
Here at Karma, to have one of these little moments we didn’t even have to leave the car-park!
One of the standout features of Karma Lake of Menteith is its bar area.
The nautical, lochside design heralds back to the traditional fishery activity of the region, and has been executed so well that you will even find swimming ducks sculpted into the ceiling!
For whisky lovers, the malt vault is stocked with an impressive selection of over 110 whiskies and the knowledgeable staff are always on hand to offer recommendations.
We spent an evening savouring the local Deanston whisky while chatting with the wonderful staff.
It’s an experience that’s not to be missed on your Scotland itinerary, and Karma provided the perfect cosy little corner to curl up with a dram lochside.
Dining at Karma Lake of Menteith was another highlight of our stay.
As two foodies who spent our past lives working in high-end restaurants (everything from chef, waitress, dishwash, bar manager, events coordinator and restaurant manager) we REALLY get excited about food.
The restaurant offers two delightful menus: one featuring Indian cuisine and the other offering traditional Scottish fare with local seafood, including trout fished straight out of the lake.
The food was absolutely delicious, and the panoramic views of the lake from the restaurant only added to our experience.
The staff were extremely kind and hospitable throughout, making us feel right at home.
Our room at Karma Lake of Menteith was equally wonderful.
The room itself was spacious and tastefully decorated, with all the modern amenities you could need including a coffee machine.
We were delighted by the special little Scottish touches that made our stay even more memorable.
The team provided us with Scottish tablet (a delicious fudge-like sweet), Irn Bru, and Dancing Puffin vodka to make a unique Scottish welcome drink.
These thoughtful details added a unique personal touch that we haven’t seen replicated anywhere else.
One of the most unique aspects of Karma Lake of Menteith, and why we believe it to be a must-visit hotel if you’re planning a trip to Loch Lomond & The Trossachs, is its proximity to the ruins of Inchmahome Priory.
This ancient abbey sits on an island in the middle of the lake, accessible by a little boat that departs from right next door to the hotel.
We took a day trip to the island and were fascinated by its rich history.
The priory dates back to the 13th century and was once a refuge for Mary Queen of Scots as a child, as well as being visited by Robert the Bruce.
Exploring the ruins and wandering through the twisted trees was a truly mystical experience, and I felt like a Celtic faerie as we made our way through the snaking paths!
There weren’t many tourists – this was a huge plus as it added to our peaceful, nature-filled visit.
In addition to its historical significance, the island is also incredibly scenic.
We spent a few hours here, just soaking up the natural beauty and enjoying the solitude. (Psst … you can get a taste of our short time on the island here!)
It’s a perfect spot for a romantic walk and honestly, one of the most unique places I have visited.
The boat trip itself is also a lot of fun, offering stunning views of the lake and the surrounding sparsely populated countryside.
Karma Lake of Menteith’s location near Stirling makes it an ideal base for exploring the local area.
Stirling is just a short drive away, and it’s home to some of Scotland’s most famous landmarks, including Stirling Castle and the Wallace Monument.
We spent a day exploring the town, savouring Keran’s new favourite (fish and chips!), and learning about the town’s fascinating history.
The castle offers spectacular views of the surrounding area, and the exhibits provide a great insight into Scotland’s past.
After a day of sightseeing in the city, it is wonderful to return to the peaceful haven of Karma Lake of Menteith.
The hotel’s serene setting and comfortable rooms provide the perfect antidote to the hustle and bustle of the ancient little town.
We spent our evenings relaxing on the terrace and in the bar area, enjoying the tranquil views and the fresh, clean air, while the reeds and green grass rippled in the wind over the lake.
Overall, our stay at Karma Lake of Menteith was nothing short of perfect.
The hotel’s stunning location, combined with its excellent facilities and warm hospitality, make it a truly special place to stay.
The whole property has a welcoming, traditional yet elegant and relaxing vibe.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a base for exploring the local area, or simply a place to relax and unwind, Karma Lake of Menteith has it all.
If you’re planning a trip to Scotland, and particularly Loch Lomond or Stirling, definitely add Karma Lake of Menteith to your itinerary.
It’s a hidden gem that offers a unique and unforgettable experience.
From the gorgeous lake views to the fascinating history of Inchmahome Priory, it far exceeded our expectations.
We left feeling refreshed, in touch with nature, and already planning our next visit!
We hope you’ve picked up some great travel inspiration for your next Scotland visit!
If you’re looking for some other travel adventures, why not check out our other Scotland destination guides here.
You can learn more about our travel story here. Thanks for stopping by!
