Given to the Erskine family by Robert the Bruce for helping out at the Battle of Bannockburn, Pittodrie estate has kept a fighting spirit in its lineage over its 500-year history. Damaging fires in the covenanting period forced a rebuild of the big house and a couple of hundred years later substantial surgery sculpted what is Pittodrie House today.

The house and estate are owned by Mr Theo Smith whose grandfather bought Pittodrie in 1896. In 1977 the house became a hotel and it is currently being managed by Macdonald Hotels.

Having this information in advance, the visitor may quickly come to terms with the personal items that are to be found throughout the hotel.

The corporate vein in furnishing is replaced by busts and oil paintings of the owner's relatives. One such, an oil that if laid flat would cover the lounge floor in a modern house, shows grandfather George on horseback. It hangs in the dining room and if paintings could talk he might be heard to say ''clear your plate''.

Throughout the public rooms there is a delicious scent of log burning fires. The lounge, a room drenched in red, hangs with oils and is packed with antiques, it isn't cavernous but neither is it small, producing a comfortable and cosy atmosphere. An antiques trail can be followed around the house. And clocks, intricately carved tables, and items from far away lands

have taken root here in the north-east.

Although the hotel would not discourage the younger guest it is a place better suited to those seeking peace and quiet, excellent food and gentle to moderate exercise.

The estate is situated in more than 2000 acres in the foothills of Bennachie, an eastern outpost of the Grampians. Walking trails have been created and guests can follow gentle courses that can be as long as the need for a packed lunch.

After a day in the fresh air, the dining room summons. Thankfully portions are not under control and local produce is represented on a well balanced menu.

The billiard room is a good resting place after dinner. A couple of stag's heads look out on to the frolics. They seem quite happy with their lot and manage a smile. After a few ports, I was sure one of them winded. Life can't be that bad after all.

l Short break rates from #65 per person. Telephone Macdonald Hotels central reservations 0345 585593.