Argyll Hotel

Overlooking the sea towards Mull, in a 'fabulous location near the harbour', this hotel on the Hebridean island of Iona has a deserved reputation for its warm welcome, fresh and creative food, and feel of restorative peace. Hands-on owners Wendy and Rob MacManaway and Dafydd and Katy Russon give a ‘friendly personal welcome’, reports a reader who returned for the ‘peace and serenity’ and ‘cosy intimacy’. Bedrooms, most on the small side, are simple, with pine or oak furniture, neutral colours and local artwork, all with garden, courtyard or sea views. There are no TVs, but guests can ‘step out of the door to the glorious garden view'. 'Delicious and elegant' meals, all made from scratch including the bread, use kitchen-garden produce, sustainably sourced seafood and meat from local crofters. Hand-dived Isle of Mull scallops and pan-fried fillet of cod with parsley mash were ‘truly gourmet’. There are good vegetarian choices and the presentation ‘with flowers and herbs was stunning’. There are walks from the doorstep, three cosy lounges, one with a fire, and binoculars in the conservatory for bird-spotting and wildlife-watching – you may see a dolphin or two. (Alison Forrester)