ARRIVING in Moffat in the dark, I have to admit the first thing running through my mind was how random a destination it seemed.
When planning a weekend getaway, the likes of Glasgow or Edinburgh might be picked for a city escape, while the west coast of the Highlands might be chosen for a getting away from it all experience.
I can't say that Moffat, about 55 miles south of Glasgow, would figure in my hitlist of places to go - but sometimes it's more fun to explore somewhere off the beaten track.
However, being off the beaten track is not the best way of describing Moffat. Being just five minutes from the M74, it and the hotel were easy to find.
The Annandale Arms stands proud right at the heart of the town and has done for 250 years. What immediately struck me was how the town, complete with its historic buildings and central square, was almost like a bigger version of Beauly.
From the onset, it was clear what a tight ship is being run by its owners Simon and Margaret Tweedie. All the staff were friendly and efficient and made us feel at home.
It was also clear the owners are very much at the centre of it, with Simon covering reception on my arrival and him telling me Margaret "runs the hotel from the kitchen".
The bedroom itself was at the side of the building so there wasn't much of a view to speak of, but it meant it was quiet and peaceful and the spacious and clean room had a tranquil feel about it with its modern decor and lovely soft bed.
The bathroom too, with bath and power shower, was also roomy and clean.
As well as tea and coffee making facilities, the hotel's 16 bedrooms also boast wi-fi and digital TV. I couldn't fault the accommodation.
On the ground floor, there was the dining room/restaurant where breakfast, lunch and dinner is served, and also a separate bar.
In the morning, we plumped for a full Scottish breakfast, with everything cooked to a sizzling perfection.
As we had not yet explored the area, we decided to descend upon Dumfries on the Saturday.
Located about 20 miles away, it was quite a scenic drive past rolling hills but I can't say I was much impressed by the town.
We took a wander round the shops, but for Rabbie Burns fans there is the Burns House to visit. Burns lived in Dumfries from 1791 until his death in 1796 and in the sandstone building is the chair in which he wrote his last poems, as well as many original letters and manuscripts.
At night, I was looking forward to dinner in the restaurant, which has been awarded an AA Rosette. The hotel also won a gold medal in last year's Scottish Hotel Awards Real and Local Food category so it had a high expectation to live up to.
And I have to say, it didn't disappoint. Following a beautiful and tasty selection of canapes, I opted for Cullen skink, then steak au poivre which was a chargrilled 8oz Scotch beef sirloin with a brandy and pepper cream sauce, grilled tomato, battered onion rings and mushrooms. Everything was delicious, and the portions were great too.
Starters ranged from £3.50 to £8.25, with main courses priced between £13.95 and £19.50.
The modern surroundings, which had a Scottish flavour, were quite swish, so it made for a lovely, relaxing meal.
This hotel is geared towards couples and perhaps the more mature guest who has peace, comfort and relaxation in mind.
Fact File:
Location: Moffat, Dumfries and Galloway
Distance: Just over four hours from Inverness
Rates: Double/twin B&B £110; double/twin dinner B&B £170; single B&B £70; single dinner B&B £100.
For further details see www.annandalearmshotel.co.uk/output/home.asp or phone (01683) 220013.
What to do locally: Golfing - there are 22 courses within 45 miles. Walking - Moffat is at the centre of many wild hills. Fishing, shooting and mountain biking are also available nearby.
