Thursday, August 04, 2011

Buildings ....new and old.

Good news.....the new Tesco has opened on time and is extremely useful for us and for our guests staying at Aspenwood Cottage. It is the nearest big store, about 16 miles away from the cottage, and is situated at the end of the Dores Road at the first roundabout. Although it is not as big as the Tesco 24 hour store at the Inverness Retail Park on the outskirts of the city it is very handy for essential shopping as well as for petrol.
On the way to this Tesco you will drive through the village of Dores, about 8 miles from the cottage. This village is situated at the eastern end of Loch Ness and has a long crescent beach and the much frequented Dores Inn - a popular restaurant for guests.
The latest news is that the lease holders have unveiled plans to build a major new tourist development in the adjacent car park. Although the historic Inn is in need of repair it will not be pulled down but possibly adapted for residential use. They have plans to construct a new restaurant, pub and a shop selling local meat, preserves and souvenirs as well as community essentials in a single storey stone building with archways at the front overlooking Loch Ness. The planning application is not expected to be lodged until later this year so do not worry - Dores Inn is still open for good food and drink.
Between Dores Inn and the new Tesco you drive past the long winding entrance to Aldourie Castle on the left. The original building dates back to the 15th Century but there have been many alterations and additions over the years. It was purchased in 2004 by new owners and they have just completed a £10million restoration of the 57 room castle.It is now open for business as a destination for holidays,house parties and corporate functions and rents out at about £21,000 [+VAT] per week.
Needless to say that Aspenwood Cottage is slightly cheaper.

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