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MAY 04
Balfour Castle. Orkney Islands, Scotland ...
Balfour Castle. Orkney Islands, Scotland
By Posh Voyage

If you are still daydreaming of suddenly being transported to Scotland with Jaime Fraser and Claire Randall, then here is a little bit more fuel to add to the fire.

The show takes place around Inverness, and although this stunning castle is located in the most northern part of Scotland, it still has the wow factor that Scotland is so famous for.

Balfour Castle was the creation of two distinguished men; David Balfour, the 4th Laird of Balfour and Trenaby and David Bryce, a preeminent Scottish architect of his generation.

In 1847 the foundations for Balfour Castle were put in place and the castle was completed three years later. The castle is home to 7 turrets, 12 external doors, 52 rooms and 365 sections of window. The views are second to none.

A constant issue with renting a castle is that the interiors tend to be a bit tired. Well not in Balfour, the interiors are stunning. Every room has a distinct feel, masterfully created by the choice of antiques with Balfour provenance and the bespoke De Gournay silk wallpaper. Chandeliers and opulent mirrors reflect the light of this ethereal island perfectly. The tactile and cool marble surfaces are contrasted against the warm richness of the fabrics from the deepest pile imaginable carpets to the pure wool comfort of their Scottish bed throws. Quiet spaces with writing desks or bureaus are found in every room perfect for reflective moments. However, my favorites are the bathrooms. They have luxury Heaven toiletries, linen robes and slippers for the pleasure and comfort of our guests.

Balfour Castle is located on Shapinsay, one of the Orkney Islands, just a short distance from the north- east coast of the Scottish mainland. Not close to civilization by any means, but it actually gives it an extra layer of exclusivity for a place this magical. This may sound remote, however, it is relatively easy to get amazing island location – commercial flights come from Edinburgh, Inverness, Aberdeen and Glasgow or chartered private planes can take you direct to the airport just outside Kirkwall on the Orkney mainland. A helicopter can land on the front lawn by prior arrangement, but better still, jump on the castles own boat, Reggie, and arrive at the castle in style.

I write a lot of about fabulous hotels, villas and castles and this one is definitely at the top of my list.

Email stefanie@poshvoyage.com for inquiries.