Achi news desk-
It was only at night as guests enjoyed the large garden hot tub that they could remember that time and space actually existed, considering their exposure to billions of ancient protons emitted from the long dead stars that now light up the sky unpolluted Loch Lomond.
So why is the fourth dimension of no consequence to those privileged enough to remain in Stuckgowan? Simply because you won’t find a clock anywhere in this very large country house – not even in the kitchen, where the digestibility of dinner is measured by smelling the air around the oven Aga gargantuan.
Guests could, of course, check the time on their phones. But that would be cheating – this is a destination that exists entirely for the temporary dismissal of all-encompassing interconnectivity, allowing for a brief release from our electromagnetic prisons. That is, if you haven’t connected to the free high-speed broadband wi-fi available throughout the property. But, again, that would be cheating.
Certainly, the deliberate rubber earing of any recognition of the passing of time calls for a vaguely pleasant temporary amnesia. As with clubs or casinos, all worries and cares are magically lost upon entering Stuckgowan. It is only on departure that guests are reacquainted with their fears, their sorrows and their despair about all that is meaningless.
Stuckgowan may refrain from clocks, but what the property boasts in abundance are mirrors. Everywhere you look – small ones, big ones and even bigger ones.
Mirrors that fill entire walls, framed by ornate carvings and fanciful bespoke metalwork. And these are serious walls. Walls that have stood firm for centuries. Walls that could have kept Poland safe from German aggression. Walls that would have held the whitewalkers at bay in Westeros.
And as we marched down the grand hallway of this magnificent mansion, each of these glittering walls seemed to alternately reflect reality through the looking glass, as we watched ourselves experience life from a whole new level on the property school.
Staring at rotting flesh might not be everyone’s idea of ​​a relaxing break from reality, but take my word for it – there’s a natural Photoshop-like phenomenon in Stuckgowan.
It may sound fanciful, and it may be the light skimming across the lake’s skin that filters through the house’s grand windows, but every nook and cranny seems lit in a soft mist light
Surely this housebound oddball from the wisp will provide a natural filter to the mature faces that fill all these mirrors. Whether it’s the creeping light of dawn or the Irn-Bru hues of dusk, the interplay of natural and artificial light presents each guest in their most radiant form.
And with a history spanning more than three centuries, the many walls and mirrors of this grand residence have reflected – and perhaps absorbed – centuries of secret and salty comings and goings of the three families who have called it home.
The house as we know it today was built by the well-heeled McMurricks between 1798 and 1820 as their country home. At that time, the estate covered 5000 acres of land and included most of the village of Tarbet stretching over the hills to Arrochar.
Since then, Stuckgowan has stood as a silent sentinel as it all changed, but its winding, winding corridors and many hallways still echo with the whispers of generations past.
“Looking after the house is an absolutely fantastic job,” smiles buzzy house manager Chris Shaw, who also oversees sister property Stuckgowan Stuckdarach (situated on the same grounds, a slightly smaller retreat that welcomes 12 people comfortably) and the spectacular Stucktaymore (sleeps 29 on). the banks of Loch Tay in Perthshire) to owner Brian Aitken.
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“When we got the estate we were only the third owner,” says Brian. “We spent two years renovating and renovating both inside and out, completely refurbishing and upgrading with bespoke furniture to provide an exceptional residence to get away from it all.”
Chris echoes that sentiment. “There is real magic here,” he enthuses. “We welcome guests from all over the world, from Americans looking to golf to hen parties and special occasion family gatherings.
“And although this is a self-catering property, we understand that you don’t always want to cook so we also recommend chefs and caterers to come and create for you. This is in addition to arranging wait staff, butler services, daily housekeeping, transfers and activities if requested.
“The house is rarely empty and you only need to look at the guestbook to see how much of an impression Stuckgowan leaves on everyone who stays here.”
From the grounds’ origins as a fortified tower for local clans in the 15th century to its transformation into a grand country estate in the Georgian era, Stuckgowan has retained its fine lancet windows and arched doorways as Gothic and Norman references abound. of decorated, polished chandeliers. and patterned marble floors – all complemented by fine antique furniture.
In its early days, the property often hosted Scottish aristocracy and was a prime location for lavish gatherings, extravagant parties and sumptuous banquets. It is no stretch of the imagination to hear ancient echoes of chatter and laughter still reverberating off these majestic walls.
In the 19th century, the property began a new chapter in its intermittent history with the Victorian era. Under the stewardship of visionary new owners, the house underwent a series of renovations inspired by the architectural trends of the time.
Gothic Revival elements were incorporated into its design, adding a sense of romanticism and mystery to its facade. Inside, the interior was decorated with rich fabrics, ornate furniture and intricate woodwork, creating a sense of warmth and intimacy that remains to this day.
Throughout the Victorian era, Stuckgowan continued to be an example of refinement and elegance, attracting artists, writers and intellectuals from far and wide. Its idyllic location on the shores of Loch Lomond was an inspiration to countless creatives, who sought comfort and inspiration in its tranquil surroundings.
In the 20th century, the property survived the challenges of two world wars and the changing fortunes of the Scottish economy. Yet, despite periods of decline and neglect, it remained a symbol of resilience and endurance, standing today as a revived and dignified reminder of Scotland’s rich cultural heritage.
With its 34 acres of grounds meticulously landscaped by the talented Estate Manager David Aitken, Stuckgowan is surrounded by parks, woodland and new gardens, providing plenty of opportunity to explore and relax. Guests could easily spend hours wandering the winding paths, admiring the colorful flowers and enjoying the tranquility of nature.
And from quiet lakeside picnics to lively hikes, there’s certainly no shortage of outdoor activities to enjoy locally with boat cruises and water sports to whiskey tasting and scenic drives all available in abundance along the shores of Loch Lomond.
Saying goodbye to Stuckgowan, I signed the guest book in full sympathy with all those who had scribbled first class before me – before taking one last look at myself in the hall mirrors, a final discombob glimpse through the looking glass on another reality.
There may not have been clocks in this magnificent, historic property, but Stuckgowan certainly gives its guests time to reflect and see the world anew… and also as it once was.
Tarbet Stuckgowan House, Arrochar, G83 7DH 0131 297 1172 stuckgowanestates.com
Stuckgowan offers large luxury group self-catering accommodation for up to 19 people across nine boutique bedrooms Weekly Price: From £6630. 2 Night Weekend: From £4350. 3 Night Weekend: From £4875.
