Ben Cruachan Inn - AWEsome!

On the shores of Loch Awe

“It’s the food that sells it,” says Mike, the GM of this roadside inn on the shores of Loch Awe.

He is right, but there is also more to the Ben Cruachan Inn, a hostelry that sits snugly in the niche between pub and restaurant, on the road to the isles; not least the views, showcased through giant windows so that you an watch the changing colours of the landscapes while you sip a drink.

Add a roaring fire and Loch Fynes ales, and we feel immediately at home when we arrive.

The inn has recently been refurbished and has a Scottish-Scandi feel. Rooms are simple,

warm and comfortable. And kudos for the large lift that makes Ben Cruachan Inn accessible.

Hot homesmoked salmon

You won’t find bizarre taxidermy, old school tartan, haggis or sad boiled veg here. Instead, expect simple dishes expertly executed in modern surroundings.

Stornoway Black Pudding Scotch Egg is served with homemade brown sauce. I have a salad which is brave for the highlands, and what’s more, it’s excellent: pickled beets and kohlrabi are bundled with vibrant leaves and handfuls of dill, mint and nutty sunflower seeds. Mike tells us that Chef Paul Moran is at the helm while the sous chef takes regular jaunts to Asia for inspiration.  Salmon comes from supplier John Valance when he is on his way from Oban to Glasgow, and the chef smokes it. It comes with a warm potato salad and is outstanding. The locals concur (I earwig another table's chat), and although it is a special when we visit, it may be destined for the regular menu, confides Mike. Mr Bite has Puddledub Bangers with mash and proper onion gravy, and then it’s on to chocolate brownie and rice pud with berry compote.

Ben Cruachan Inn works closely with Wild about Argyll & the Isles to promote the area. After a good night's sleep, we leave with a Grumpy Mule coffee to see us on our way, knowing there are plenty of reasons to return; St Conan’s Kirk, a cycle to Kilchurn castle, Ben Cruachan Dam and Munro (the hollow mountain) are all on the agenda. What's more, we want to return to spend more time at this little hotspot on the road to the isles and to explore the adventure coast.