Enjoy the flavours of spring in Boat of Garten
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I have always looked at March as a time of transition, an in-between bubble in which we tentatively step into spring, longer days making our bodies feel more energised after the slog of winter.
Warmer days and nature awakening all around us bring a yearning to be out and explore the surroundings, an appetite for new horizons and flavours growing from within.
So, under a “typical” Scottish spring day - alternating rays of sunshine with downpours of rain darting on the roof of the car - we set out for an outing to Boat of Garten, where we had booked in for a lush Sunday Brunch at the The Boat Country Inn & Restaurant.
A hub to explore the Cairngorms
The road on the A9 and then on the back road to reach Boat of Garten offers beautiful glimpses of the Cairngorms range. On a moody day, it’s a lovely drive, with landscapes one would like to frame in a watercolour sketch.
We get to the village with a sprinkle of sunshine still lingering, although the air is chilly and foretelling of the snow on the way for the coming days. But that is a feeling that can be cherished near the mountains. This feels like the perfect hub to explore the Cairngorms - it’s a quiet place, with picturesque homes and walks which are accessible directly from the village or more available at a short driving distance. Or cycling, given the frequent appearance of cycle paths I notice along the way.
The Boat Country Inn is easy to spot - a lovely stone building at the end of the main road, right in front of the Strathspey Steam Railway Station (which can take you back in time if you can get a spot on the train or catch one passing by) and by the River Spey, it quietly stands out from its surroundings. The wind is nippy and we crave the shelter of those stone walls.
Windy Sundays are made for brunches
The historic building has an inner decoration that is typically Scottish and warm, without overplaying the tartan details. It’s a cosy and welcoming environment. If I could have taken home the lounge at the entrance, where leather, wood and a vintage decor play around the fireplace - making it a dream nook where to sit down and wait with a book while watching the world go by.
The wooden details continue in the bar and restaurant, which conveys the familiarity and laid-back atmosphere of a traditional pub whilst having a neater and brighter atmosphere, and a big window looking across the steam railway station and the Cairngorms.
The most wonderful thing was to find the fireplace on - on a chilly day, there is nothing like the aroma of burning embers and the crackling fire in the background, alongside mellow music which provides for a wonderfully comfortable atmosphere.
It’s a family-friendly place and you can also take your pooch in (to our delight, we had a couple of them among our fellow diners).
It takes us a while to pick our choices from the menu: there is a wonderful variety of options, from more breakfast-y plates to fresher nibbles, pancakes and meaty delights.
If you are looking for a Sunday treat this Easter weekend, the restaurant has a special menu with a delightful roast or treats for little ones for all the family to enjoy the day.
We go with the spicy scrambled eggs wrap with halloumi, tomato and onion salsa and crispy potatoes as an opener - the spice is mild and gentle is someone like me who doesn’t have the highest tolerance for heat can really enjoy the dish too. It’s an interesting take on a classic breakfast recipe - and the salsa is fresh and cuts wonderfully through the eggs and halloumi.
Chilly days are made for Sunday roasts, and I was extremely excited when I was brought a giant Yorkshire pudding on my plate, towering over a tender and succulent sirloin of beef and the tastiest gravy I have had in a while. The roast potatoes had a lovely crunchy skin with a hot and soft heart. A perfect highlight to our weekend.
Of course had to steal some of my partner’s chips, which were freshly made and really delicious.
Although you can order almost any type of drink from the bar, I was eager to try a lager of Uile-bheist Brewery - Inverness’ newest distillery and brewery. The bar at the Boat Country Inn has four different types on tap so there is really something for everyone.
Full and happy, we linger a wee bit longer at the table to enjoy the wonderful atmosphere and the fire behind our table.
Although we were caught by one of the downpours of the day, Boat of Garten Calls for a return as spring and warmer days slowly come out of the winter closet. For anyone wanting to plan ahead, the hotel has a great offer to help you step into spring.
