Unspoilt Scenery, Eco-Fish Suppers and No Cars: Is This Scotland's Greenest 'Daycation'?

15 August 2011
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A Youth Hostel Restaurant at Scotland’s most remote mainland railway station is proving to be one of the country’s most desirable new ‘daycations’ this summer.

Corrour Station House Restaurant and Rooms, one of the newest additions to the SYHA Hostelling Scotland network, is enjoying increased popularity among day trippers under new management and with its own unique menu.

Situated in the breathtaking surroundings of Corrour Estate, hungry walkers can choose from the Youth Hostel’s own Scottish eco-fish dish – mackerel in oatmeal – and a selection of hearty meals.

Sweet toothed Scots also love the Fruit Crumble, which changes daily to make use of fresh, in season fruits.

And the selection of real ales is a hit with thirsty travellers returning from a day out in the hills, which offer a range of walks for all levels of ability.

Managers Hal Jacob and James Muldoon head a dynamic team of six, who have all come together to create new ideas for the menu.

The former art conservators were thrilled to land the joint role managing Corrour Station House, which may be familiar to some as the setting for a scene in iconic Scots film Trainspotting.

The secluded location is only accessible by train, and the absence of traffic or worries about parking only adds to the uniquely relaxing atmosphere.

Keen walkers, the co-managers are relishing the opportunity to make the most of the stunning situation with its array of wildlife, and enjoy meeting daycationers, staycations and far flung travellers from all walks of life.

James Muldoon said: “We are seeing an increasing number of families, couples and groups of friends coming from Fort William, Glasgow and across Scotland for the day.

“It’s a great place to enjoy a day in the hills followed by a hearty meal and maybe a couple of drinks before getting the train home.

“We love working here because of course it is a beautiful location, and it feels very isolated, yet we get to meet lots of different characters.

“There will also be people staying at nearby Loch Ossian Youth Hostel or even walkers who are camping in the hills who come down to the restaurant to treat themselves to a hot meal. It’s like a warming little sanctuary in the wilderness.

“We are lucky as well to have a fantastic team here – they are all creative and full of ideas, so we all got stuck in to creating the menu.”

The mackerel dish in particular was inspired by Marine Conservation student Neil Baxter, who was keen to ensure only sustainable fish featured on the menu.

The idea was welcomed by SYHA Hostelling Scotland, which has a strong ethos of respect for the environment and conservation.

The team chose delicious MSC certified mackerel as the ideal eco-alternative to classic cod, and then came up with the idea of adding oatmeal instead of batter for a healthier – and quintessentially Scottish – twist

James added: “It’s proving really popular – it’s one of those meals that if you smell it, you want it!”

There are also special Corrour versions of hearty Scottish favourites, including Corrour Venison and Oban Ale pie, Cullen Skink and the ubiquitous Haggis Neeps ‘n’ Tatties.

The very reasonable prices - main meals start from only £8.50 – also add to the appeal.

The restaurant is open for breakfast from 8.30am-10am, lunch 11.30am – 2.30pm and dinner 5-8pm

To book a table or accommodation call 01397 732 236 or email [email protected]

SYHA Hostelling Scotland is a registered charity dedicated to providing low cost, quality accommodation across Scotland. The charity is committed to promoting the social, environmental and educational benefits of hostelling to all, from families to retired people, couples to groups of friends, but especially young people.

Visit www.hostellingscotland.com for more information about the Hostel Network. Book on line or call the Reservations Team on 0845 293 73 73.

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