A Scottish mansion lovingly renovated by tennis star Andy Murray and partner Kim Sears is a real smash.

Tucked away in the lush folds of Stirlingshire, Cromlix emerges like a scene from a Scottish postcard. This isn’t just any countryside retreat – it’s Andy Murray and Kim Sears’ foray into the hotel business. And if you thought Andy’s backhand was impressive, wait until you see what he’s done with the place.

Under the couple’s guardianship, this Victorian mansion has traded its stiff upper lip for a slightly more relaxed smile, offering a retreat that feels both grand and modern. Allie, the front of house, greets you with a warmth that makes you feel like you’ve just stepped into a friend’s (very large and fancy) house rather than a hotel, and we happily sit by the fireplace with a glass of something fizzy while our bags and car are organised.

The hotel is a gallery of sorts, with modern art pieces scattered around like Easter eggs for guests to discover. Between bites of Granny Murray’s secret-recipe shortbread, you might find yourself staring into the eyes of a Damien Hirst creation or pondering the meaning of a David Shrigley. Each room, named after local flora, showcases a blend of upcycled furniture and themed wallpaper that might inspire you to redecorate your home, or at least dream about it.

The renovation here was a sentimental one, as Cromlix has been the backdrop to many Murray family milestones, including Andy and Kim’s own wedding reception. There’s even an on-site chapel dating back to 1874, in case you feel matrimonial during your stay. It’s clear, though, that this swing at hoteliering is a labour of love. Each room, from the junior suites to the fairy-tale turret, is a lesson in luxury with a Scottish twist. Our deluxe suite was stunning, with freestanding baths fit for a laird or lady. The décor is upcycled chic meets ancestral estate, proving that you can combine the old with the trendy and still come out on top. There are beautiful views of the gardens and woodland and further to the Stirlingshire countryside.

WINGING IT

For those looking to engage with nature, Cromlix doesn’t disappoint. Our two-year-old son found pure joy in the vast estate, showing luxury can be muddy and gleeful. He was provided with wellies and put them to good use – scuttling around the gardens and adjoining loch a few minutes’ walk from the hotel. The hotel offers a falconry experience, which is where things got real. Roxanne, the falconer, introduces you to birds of prey with the casualness you’d use to show off a collection of garden gnomes. She begins with a cute little owl, gradually producing larger and larger birds. By the time she brings out an American eagle that looks capable of carrying off your firstborn, you’re trying to remember if you updated your will recently.

Come rain or shine, you’ll never fall short of things to do at Cromlix. The hotel’s approximately 50 minutes’ drive from central Glasgow, or an hour from Edinburgh. Dunblane’s railway station is also just over 10 minutes away from the hotel. The drive from Edinburgh to the hotel is lovely, with winding roads framed by gorgeous Scottish firs. It offers a perfect getaway to the countryside while maintaining proximity to the city.

TUCKING IN

Dining at the Glasshouse, the estate’s restaurant, is an experience that mirrors the rest of Cromlix – a blend of traditional Scottish with a dash of modern flair, and executive head chef Darin Campbell takes farm-totable seriously. As the name suggests, the room is a glass-walled conservatory overlooking the gardens with an open kitchen so you can watch the chefs at work.

The room is bathed in light, which makes breakfast particularly pleasant. We tuck into the excellent selection of pastries, fresh fruit and porridge as we watch the sun rise over the Stirlingshire countryside. My partner enjoys the ‘eggs Cromlix’, essentially eggs Benedict with added mushroom. I opt for the ‘full Scottish’ to gird myself for a walk around the grounds.

In the evening, the assiette of Perthshire lamb with apple peas and broad beans, and the Scottish guinea fowl with mustard cream and wild mushrooms, were notable highlights. It was finished by chocolate and hazelnut delice with a beautiful honey ice cream.

In essence, Cromlix is Andy Murray’s love letter to his roots – a place where luxury meets laidback charm, and where the food is as impressive as the art. From rows of Barbour wellies ready for an impromptu adventure, to a billiards room that could double as a hunting lodge, it’s a Scottish experience with a twist.