STYLE AND SUBSTANCE
The four-star hotel has more than 150 en-suite bedrooms which have recently been refurbished with muted tones of burgundy and grey. The rooms are spacious and spotless with plentiful beverage options and shortbread.
They come complete with robes (although no slippers) for a cosy stroll to the gym or spa, which offers a range of luxury Elemis treatments. Therapist Raluka is an asset to the hotel, chatty and welcoming without being intrusive and fastidious in her approach to treatments.
SLEEPING MATTERS
The beds are extremely comfortable and despite the hotel's central location the triple-glazed windows ensure it's a silent slumber.
FOOD FOR THOUGHT
The hotel recently opened its new and now award-wining Acanthus restaurant, which promotes the use of locally sourced ingredients and offers a set three-course menu as well as a la carte and vegetarian options.
The haddock is deliciously fresh and comes battered or breaded with a generous side of mushy peas and chunky chips that are crispy and moreish.
Breakfast includes a choice of kippers and a vegetarian full Scottish but the options for those who prefer a continental style start to the day are a little lacking. There was only one choice of bread and no rolls.
There were a few items of cutlery missing from our breakfast table and the staff could have been a little more attentive.
DRINK IN THE SIGHTS
We enjoyed an afternoon drink in the comfortable lobby but there is outdoor seating if the sun is shining over Arthur's Seat.
NICE TOUCH
Reception staff called minutes after we put our luggage down to check we were happy with our room.
Also, for diners who can't quite fit in a whole dessert there is the option of coffee and petit fours to finish, so you don't feel you are missing out. More hotels and restaurants should offer this.
ABOUT THE AREA
Slap-bang in the historic Old Town and just a couple of minutes walk from the Royal Mile, the location couldn't be better for exploring Scotland's capital. Our room had views on to the Scottish Parliament.
Doubles from £129 room only. Visit macdonaldhotels.co.uk
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