Dunalastair Hotel (Perth&Kinross)

“Newly refurbished, with a makeover that has enriched this Victorian sporting lodge, you will enjoy stylish interiors complemented with fine dining and a range of activities to amuse and entertain.” The homepage of the Dunalastair carries a quote from The Telegraph, a ‘newspaper’ that has always positioned itself as the voice of those aspiring to join the tweed set, as ‘perfect for those who love the great outdoors but aren’t prepared to rough it’. That just about sums up the lifestyle of the modern shooter, who likes to ‘feel special’, be helicoptered in, be led to a deer or have huge numbers of birds flushed directly over them, and then be wined and dined in front of the ubiquitous ‘log fire’ afterwards. Does Dunalastair aspire to fulfil the fantasies of the modern shooter then?  It’s not easy to find, but look at “Stalking holidays” (which without a hint of irony is right next to ‘Safari Holidays’ and promises of rare wildlife), and you’ll find the answer: “Easily accessible a short distance from our luxury holiday accommodation in Perthshire, the Rannoch Estate boasts over 20,000 acres of beautiful scenery and tranquil surroundings…It’s here where you’ll find the acclaimed stalking facilities set in some of the most secluded and serene parts of the Scottish Highlands.” That would be a yes, then…