If you’re looking for a getaway that’s fun for the kids, packed with adventure, and sprinkled with a touch of luxury, Drimsynie Estate in Lochgoilhead has you covered. Over the October holidays, my friend and colleague Laura and I rounded up five kids and set off for a short break that was equal parts entertaining and relaxing.
Spoiler: it was amazing.
A Scenic Journey
Getting to Drimsynie feels like stepping into a picture postcard. The drive winds through stunning loch and mountain scenery that’s so beautiful you’ll (almost) forget about the backseat bickering.
The estate itself is impressive, and check-in was quick and easy. While Laura and I grabbed the keys, the kids ran off to explore the play park, which was just the first of many highlights. Excitement was high as we headed to check out our accommodations.
The Lodge vs. The Caravan
I lucked out with a luxurious 1-bedroom lodge, No. 6 Albatross, for my daughter Lily and I. It was love at first sight. The bedroom was huge, with a plush bed, walk-in wardrobe, and an ensuite bathroom that demanded its own Instagram account. Freestanding tub? Check. Double walk-in shower and sinks? Check. Honestly, it was spa goals. The kitchen looked like something out of MasterChef, and the open-plan living room—with its Smart TV, soundbar, and cosy stone-effect fire—was perfect for lazy evenings.
Laura, stayed in a gorgeous Platinum 3-bed caravan with her girls: Amelia, Amy, Hollie, and Hailie. Despite being home to four lively (but very well behaved) kids, it felt spacious, stylish, and well-designed. The wraparound decking didn’t get much use thanks to October weather, but the pond view made up for it. Laura called it “cosy, stylish and practical,” and even with all seven of us having lunch there on day one, it didn’t feel crowded. Two bathrooms and three bedrooms? A lifesaver for a group or our size.
Dinner with a View
Our first night kicked off with dinner at The View restaurant, where we snagged a table in “The Boat,” a booth shaped like, well, a boat. It added a fun touch to the evening. My kebab stack was delicious, Laura’s rigatoni pasta looked dreamy, and the kids devoured chicken goujons and pizza like they hadn’t eaten in days. Bonus points for the Loch Goil views, which were stunning even with the occasional “Mum, can I have ice cream now?”
Discovering our inner Bear Grylls’ and Robin Hoods
Day two was packed with activities. I took the older girls gorge-walking, which sounded scary but turned out to be a blast. After getting well kitted out we were driven to the most stunning gorge before scrambling over slippery rocks and wading through icy waterfalls with an enthusiastic guide keeping things fun and safe. Outdoor Activity Manager Scott was a gem, and by the end, we were cold but grinning from ear to ear. It was exhilarating and definitely something we’d do again.
While I braved the elements, Laura took the twins to the arcade for some old-school slot machine fun. Later, she tried archery with the older kids whilst I took the younger ones for a hot chocolate and, to everyone’s surprise, Laura was pretty good at it. So good, in fact, that her kids started calling her “Katniss” (if you know, you know).
For the youngest kids, Pirates Paradise was a hit. For £8 each, little ones get to don pirate hats, swords, and go on a treasure hunt experience they absolutely loved. Add in the play park and swimming pool, and we had more than enough to keep everyone entertained.
An Evening at The Goil Inn
On our second night, we ventured to The Goil Inn, a cosy pub just a 15-minute walk from the estate (a bit longer with kids and a dog in tow). The warm atmosphere, friendly staff, and hearty portions hit the spot. Even Frankie, our Frenchie, was welcome in the dog-friendly bar area, which earned him a few pats from the staff. The portions were so generous we had leftovers, which made a great addition to the dinner we cooked in my lodge’s dream kitchen the next evening while the kids enjoyed the hot tub.
A round up of memories…
Drimsynie Estate exceeded our expectations. From luxurious accommodations to exciting activities, it had everything we needed for a fun, relaxing getaway. Whether it was gorge-walking, archery, or just soaking up the views, there were endless opportunities to create lasting memories. The lodge was a little slice of heaven, and Laura’s caravan was delightful, making it easy to keep the kids happy and entertained.
Would we go back? Absolutely. A return trip is already in the works.
If you’re looking for a December escape, Drimsynie Estate is a brilliant option. Less than two hours from Glasgow, Oban, or Gourock, it’s an easy getaway that feels like a proper retreat. Plus, with Platinum 3-bed caravans starting at just £199 for a family of four, it’s a great value for an unforgettable trip.
Reviewed by Nicky Murphy and Laura Campbell at West Coast Today.
Check it out here: Drimsynie Estate Christmas Breaks and beyond...
cove.co.uk/drimsynie
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