STYLE AND SUBSTANCE
One Devonshire Gardens has long been renowned as one of Glasgow’s most beautiful hotels, and a recent refurbishment has not only dragged it up to date but has also moved it up another level.
One of the most impressive aspects of the revamp is that it brings out the best in the historic townhouses that now make up the hotel and accentuates the beauty of what has always made these buildings a jewel in Glasgow’s crown, rather than burying it under tartan carpets.
Upon lifting the old flooring, for example, stunning mosaic tiling was uncovered that has now been lovingly restored. It all gives the hotel a much more modern feel than in the past, while retaining the feel of a gem that has been polished.
SLEEPING MATTERS
Despite facing out onto the Great Western Road, the luxurious rooms and comfy handsprung mattresses along with Egyptian Linen bedding means there is no problem getting a refreshing night of rest.
We stayed in the Vettriano Grand Duplex Suite, an impressive open-plan bedroom with nods to the artist throughout.
There is a standalone bathtub in front of the open fire if you feel like taking a dip, while the huge bathroom on the room’s lower level features twin walk-in monsoon power showers.
FOOD FOR THOUGHT
The Bistro at Hotel Du Vin is a stunning setting for lunch or dinner, with a modern feel that retains a feeling of intimacy with oak-panelled walls and the glow from a huge chandelier in the bay window.
Head chef Gary Townsend has created stunning a la carte and tasting menus using seasonal locally sourced produce wherever possible.
We were treated to the seven-course tasting menu along with a wine flight from the attentive Head Sommelier Alan Brady, with bespoke wine pairings along with each course.
Particular highlights included Orkney Brown Crab with Sea Bream, Avocado, Radish and Puffed Buckwheat, the Duck Liver Parfait with Beetroot, Pear, Smoked Eel and Pain d’Epices, the Scrabster Monkfish with Lentil Dahl and Masala Onions served with a Yellow Pepper and Coconut sauce, and the sumptuous Herdwick Lamb Saddle with Smoked Belly, Wild Asparagus, Wild Garlic and Pink Fir Potatoes.
The extensive cheese trolley, served up by the knowledgeable and enthusiastic waiter Robbie, was also a delightful bridge to the stunning desserts that rounded off a memorable dining experience.
DRINK IN THE SIGHTS
As well as the period mosaic flooring that now welcomes you to the hotel, the new flooring in the restaurant areas and the modern décor make the hotel a feast for the eyes. Still the most stunning features though are the stained-glass windows at the top of the staircases, a reminder of the fascinating history of the buildings that used to make up five separate dwellings, one of which belonged to Sir William Burrell.
As well as the 49 luxurious rooms and the bistro, there is a bar, wine cellar, cigar shack and whisky room to explore.
NICE TOUCH
A voucher for a free dram is a wonderfully warm welcome, and means you can round off the evening with a warming nightcap rather than being handed a drink on arrival.
ABOUT THE AREA
Set in a classic tree-lined Victorian street in the West End, the hotel is a perfect base for exploring the city or even further afield, with Loch Lomond just a half hour’s drive away.
Visit www.hotelduvin.com/locations/glasgow/ for all the latest offers and availability.
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