LEXUS LBX AT CAMERON HOUSE ON LOCH LOMOND: WHERE TIMELESS SCOTTISH LUXURY MEETS MODERN DRIVING SOPHISTICATION

Cameron House is an 18th-century baronial haven perched right on the edge of Loch Lomond and it embodies all the historic charm and traditional elegance you would expect from a luxury Scottish retreat. But what truly sets it apart is that much like the vast selection of regional whiskies behind the bar, the whole experience has been blended to perfection by combining warm sophistication, dramatic wilderness and a refreshing blast of Caledonian air.

Whether you’re hankering for an adventure in the Highlands or simply want to lose yourself in the tranquillity of the Lowlands, there’s no escaping the magnetic pull of this place. As you arrive at reception, you’re immediately embraced by a heritage that feels more welcoming than imposing. Kilted doormen whisk away your bags and guide you past towering gothic windows and wood-panelled corridors to rooms that radiate warmth and grandeur in equal measure.

Whether you find yourself tucked away in the historic Auld House or lounging in one of the more modern apartments, every room at Cameron House feels suitably welcoming. If you’re lucky enough to snag a turreted suite, you’ll be enjoying breakfast on your private balcony, staring out at Ben Lomond, which is just shy of 3,200 feet or so, but who’s counting?

And here’s the thing - Cameron House extends its luxury beyond the walls. Fancy a Champagne cruise? You’re in luck. Hop aboard the hotel’s private yacht, the Celtic Warrior and glide over a 24-mile stretch of prime Scottish water. More of a mountain type? Grab an electric bike and head off into the Trossachs National Park, where Scotland’s rugged beauty reveals itself at every twist and turn.

And if you’re into your golf? Well, I’m guessing you have probably already checked your Google Maps at this point because some of the UK’s most prestigious clubs are right next door.

And if that’s not enough? Well, how about a seaplane? Yes, you read that right. You can take to the skies and view the Lochs and mountains from a bird’s-eye view, making them even more spectacular. This is what Cameron House does best: it blends old-world adventure with new-age technology in a way that just works.

And speaking of new-age technology, this seems like the perfect segue to introduce the Lexus LBX - What Car’s 2024 Car of the Year.

Being an all-new creation from Lexus that is aimed squarely at shaking up the UK and European markets, the LBX isn’t just a small Lexus, it’s the smallest Lexus. It’s a self-charging hybrid crossover that’s been designed to be as easy to live with as your favourite App but is packed with cutting-edge technology that surpasses expectations for this class.

And this one’s all about reeling in a younger crowd, those who maybe haven’t even glanced at a Lexus before, or for anyone looking to downsize or add a second car to their driveway. You know, something that’s more practical as life gets more sensible.

What’s really got people talking though is the drive. Lexus has gone all in to make sure the LBX feels like a proper little driver’s car. It’s small but packed with the brand’s trademark comfort and confidence. They’ve reworked the platform, stretched the wheelbase and widened the track as much as they can – which is most of the ingredients you need to make things more interesting through the bendy bits. 

And, of course, there’s the self-charging 1.5-litre hybrid engine that gives you proper punchy performance when you need it, without guzzling petrol like a V8 on a Sunday. It’s perfect for zipping around towns or getting about the City, or in my case, cruising around Glens, Lochs and…um, Firths?

They’ve even given it a new hybrid battery that has more electric power in it – a nickel-metal something-or-other that’s basically lighter and more responsive, plus a bunch of tweaks to keep it quiet and smooth on the inside, which is exactly what you’d expect from Lexus.

And on the outside? It’s got a fresh face - what Lexus calls the 'Resolute Look,' which basically means it’s a bit less grille and a bit more presence. Small, yes, but it looks like it goes to the gym on the weekends. Inside, it’s all about the driver. Everything’s within easy reach, thanks to this fancy new setup, which intriguingly is inspired by how a horse rider controls reins. That’s Lexus-speak for 'it’s all there, no faffing about.'

But the real kicker here is how Lexus is shaking things up by letting you pick from different ‘Atmospheres.’ Fancy something sporty? Go for it. Want something a bit more refined? They’ve got that too. They’re all about giving you the freedom to express yourself because personal style absolutely matters these days.

The LBX is also the first Lexus to roll off the line at their Iwate plant in Japan, which got a massive revamp after the 2011 earthquake and tsunami. So, buying one of these not only gets you a fancy car, but also helps keep things ticking over in a region that’s rebuilding itself.

The LBX has already hit the streets (early 2024) and honestly, for a car that’s small, stylish and stacked with tech, it’s certainly worth considering. And once I was done, I simply retreated to Cameron House for a bit of Scottish cuisine and a whisky or two.

Dining at The Cameron Grill isn’t just about food - it’s a full-on immersion into the heart of Scotland. Each course feels like a culinary tour through the very best this country has to offer. West Coast lobster? Check. Aberdeenshire lamb? Succulent. Each dish is a masterpiece in its own right, meticulously crafted but somehow still managing to remind you that luxury isn’t just about fancy décor, it’s about what’s on the plate and more importantly, every single bite.

And yet, despite all the pomp and ceremony on the plate, there’s no pretentiousness here. This is Scotland after all. Even at its most refined, it’s still grounded. You’re never made to feel like you’re in some sort of food cathedral where you have to whisper in reverence.

Then, as the evening sets in and Loch Lomond starts reflecting the twilight like a mirror, you begin to realise that Cameron House has balance. One minute, you’re flying over the Highlands or cruising across the water and the next, you’re back in your suite, all cosy with whisky in hand, thinking that was a day well spent.

Cameron House was awarded 5th best hotel in the UK by Condé Nast US Readers in 2024 and was also ranked 16th best resort in Europe by Condé Nast UK Readers in the same year. And you can absolutely see why because it’s the perfect blend of adventure, tranquillity and indulgence and you will leave thinking, ‘I’m definitely coming back’ - whether by seaplane or Lexus.