The five star Isle of Eriska Hotel, Spa and Island, located just off the West Coast highlands of Scotland are thrilled to announce the appointment of new head chef Ross Stovold who joins the multi Award-winning restaurant from his joint Head Chef position at Michelin starred Alimentum in Cambridge.

Ross has a natural approach to his cuisine. He believes in cooking in cooking in a way that develops and enhances the flavours of the ingredients through as little manipulation as possible which means he is very well suited to the Isle of Eriska where there is such a diverse natural larder. The 300 acre island produces a much wider variety of raw ingredients than most places in the UK; from sea vegetables and berries, to wildhips, mushrooms and naturally growing herbs. Ross is very keen to showcase the island as well as the local community; he has recently commissioned a new range of crockery for the restaurant from a local pottery.

Ross commented on his move to the island:

"The first thing that attracted me to Eriska was the incredible setting of the hotel, when you arrive onto the island for the first time which I did in the full bloom of summer it took my breath away.

You don't know where to look! Then when you get out of the car you just want to start exploring, the beach, the forest, the mountains. As a chef my mind just went into overdrive of what this little island can offer us, and I haven't been disappointed."

The menu, as ever will be kept fresh with different, traditionally Scottish dishes every evening, and guests can expect to find a variety of starters and main courses, with one fish from the surrounding waters, a meat dish from the hills surrounding the island and a final vegetarian alternative inspired by one of the gardens or larders close to hand.

Those wanting to visit the Isle of Eriska for a short break and experience Ross's new menu can visit for 3 nights and dine in the restaurant each evening from £575 per person. When guests are not enjoying the fantastic cuisine in the restaurant they can be sinking their toes into the sand with long walks along the beautiful, untouched beach, or for ultimate indulgence, a treatment in the ESPA spa. For the more active there is also a 9-hole golf, indoor tennis, an indoor swimming pool, and activities such as whiskey tasting, kayaking, horse riding and clay pigeon shooting can be arranged on request. More adventurous guests can even try some wild swimming!

There are 25 luxurious bedrooms at the hotel. For those travelling in a couple or small group, the Luxury Spa Suites and the two bed-roomed Cottage Suites come complete with their own private hot tubs where guests can kick back and relax with their partner or friends whilst enjoying a glass of their favourite wine, soaking up the tranquility and enjoying the unique experience of staying on a private island.

Easily accessible from Oban, Connel Airport, Glasgow and Edinburgh, guests can arrive by car, boat, or even aboard a private sea plane from Glasgow Airport.

The wildlife, incredible food, second-to-none service and serene location all help to give Eriska a magical feel that truly is unrivalled and makes it the perfect destination for an ultra-luxe foodie break in the UK.

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For Press enquiries please contact Emma Simmons at Perception Sales & Marketing on pr1@perception-uk.com or alternatively by telephone 0845 293 2552.

Notes to Editors

The Isle of Eriska is a luxury 5* resort and member of Relais & Chateaux; located on its own 300 acre Private Island just off the coast of Scotland. With unrivalled views, this haven of tranquility also boasts its own 9 hole golf course, a relaxing spa and a 3AA rosette restaurant.

The package starts from £575 per person. A 'pay before you stay' option may be available.

The island is 5 miles from Oban Airport and a two hour drive from Glasgow airport. It is also 6 miles from Connel Ferry train Station.

Private Sea Plane from Glasgow Airport to the Isle of Eriska can be arranged on request and costs £1500 return, carrying up to 8 guests.

The Special 3 Night Package from the Isle of Eriska includes:

■ Bed and breakfast in luxurious accommodation

■ Fine dining in the 3 AA Rosette Restaurant each evening of your stay

■ Morning coffee and afternoon tea each day

■ Full use of the luxury leisure facilities; 17m heated indoor swimming pool, sauna, steam room, Jacuzzi, golf course and driving range, croquet lawn as well as the multi-purpose sports hall