Dundee, Scotland, a city on the rise, might not always be on the top of most people’s travel lists, but for me, it’s become one of the most enchanting getaways in the UK. The perfect blend of modern innovation and rich history, this city has a charm that makes it stand out. This time, I decided to venture to Dundee for a tranquil, seaside retreat, away from the usual noise of busy city life. What better place to stay than at a seafront hotel, where the calming sounds of the waves and the breathtaking views of the River Tay become a part of the experience?
1. The Allure of Dundee’s Seafront Hotels
Dundee has a lot of offer, but one thing that really struck me was its collection of unique, character-filled hotels along the seafront. There’s something about being able to wake up to the sight of the water, the occasional boat drifting by, and the fresh sea breeze sweeping through the city. It’s the kind of place where you can slow down, take a deep breath, and simply enjoy the moment. I knew I had to experience this, so I booked myself a room at the Malmaison Dundee, one of the city’s premier seafront accommodations.
2. Malmaison Dundee: A Hotel With Character
The Malmaison Hotel in Dundee sits right on the banks of the River Tay. Located in a beautifully restored building that used to be a warehouse, it perfectly blends the old with the new. The red-brick exterior has a historic charm, while the interior offers a stylish and contemporary atmosphere that is surprisingly warm and inviting. The blend of industrial and chic gives it an edge that other hotels in the area simply don’t have.
When I arrived, I was greeted by a friendly receptionist who quickly checked me in and handed me a room key. The lobby itself had an elegant and cozy feel, with dim lighting, soft music in the background, and plush seating areas. There’s a distinct maritime theme to the decor, which fits perfectly with the hotel’s waterfront location.
3. The Room: A Sanctuary of Tranquillity
Once I made my way to my room, I was instantly impressed by how comfortable and relaxing it felt. I stayed in a River View Room, which allowed me to see the River Tay right from my window. The room was spacious, with a large king-sized bed draped in soft linens. The furniture was sleek and modern, yet it didn’t feel too cold or minimalist – there was a warmth to the design that made the space feel very much like home.
The view was what really made the room stand out, though. From the window, I could watch the passing ships, see the sparkling water stretching to the horizon, and catch glimpses of the Dundee skyline in the distance. The constant hum of the river below was calming, and it was easy to feel as though time had slowed down.
The bathroom was equally impressive, with a large, deep bathtub that I indulged in every evening after a long day of exploring. The Malmaison’s attention to detail was evident in everything from the luxurious toiletries to the soft, fluffy towels. The room even had a small sitting area by the window where I could curl up with a book and simply take in the view.
4. Dining at Malmaison: Waterfront Dining with a Twist
One of the highlights of my stay at the Malmaison Dundee was the hotel’s dining options. The hotel’s Brasserie restaurant is located on the ground floor, offering an impressive menu of modern British cuisine. There’s something special about dining with the view of the River Tay in the background.
I had dinner there on my first evening and was immediately impressed by the ambiance. The restaurant has an intimate yet sophisticated feel, with dark wood paneling, soft lighting, and a relaxed atmosphere. The menu was varied but focused on locally sourced ingredients, a feature that is becoming more common in Scotland’s restaurant scene. I started with a smoked salmon starter, followed by a perfectly cooked fillet steak, accompanied by a glass of crisp, white wine. The food was excellent – rich in flavor and beautifully presented.
The service at the Malmaison was impeccable. The waitstaff were friendly, knowledgeable about the menu, and provided recommendations when I asked about local wines. After dinner, I took a seat at the bar and enjoyed a cocktail while watching the sun set over the river. It was the perfect way to unwind after a long day.
5. Exploring Dundee’s Seafront: A Quiet, Scenic Experience
Beyond the hotel, Dundee itself is a fantastic place to explore. As I ventured out to walk along the seafront, I was struck by how quiet and peaceful it felt. The walkways along the river offer a beautiful setting for a leisurely stroll, with well-maintained paths, benches, and plenty of spots to sit and watch the world go by. The waterfront area is dotted with a mix of contemporary architecture and historic buildings, each telling its own story about the city’s past and present.
The Discovery Point, home to the RRS Discovery, a research ship that famously carried Captain Scott to Antarctica, is just a short walk from the hotel. Visiting this historic site was an interesting way to spend the afternoon, especially since the museum offers insight into Dundee’s maritime history. I also took some time to visit the Dundee Law, an extinct volcano that offers a stunning view of the city from the top – a great way to get an overview of the area.
The best part about staying at the Malmaison, however, was the location. It’s right on the edge of the River Tay, making it an ideal starting point for a peaceful exploration of the surrounding area. Whether I wanted to wander the waterfront, pop into a local café, or simply relax in the hotel with a book, everything felt close and easily accessible. The Malmaison allowed me to truly escape from the hustle and bustle and take in the quiet beauty of Dundee at my own pace.
6. Booking the Stay: Easy and Affordable
When it came time to book my stay, I opted for the Malmaison’s official website for the best price and added perks like early check-in and a complimentary room upgrade, which made the experience even better. The room rates for the River View Room typically start at around £120 per night, but I managed to snag a deal for about £110 per night during the off-season, which included breakfast. It was a bit more than some of the other options in Dundee, but the extra comfort and location made it well worth the price.
For those looking to book directly, I’d highly recommend checking out the Malmaison website or using reputable hotel booking platforms like Booking.com or Hotels.com, both of which often have competitive prices and offer flexible cancellation policies. It’s worth keeping an eye out for deals, especially during off-peak months like early autumn or late spring, when the city is quieter.
7. A Tranquil Stay That Sticks With You
What made my stay at the Malmaison Dundee so memorable wasn’t just the great room, the spectacular view, or the delicious food – it was the sense of peace I found in this waterfront hotel. It’s rare to find a place where you can really get away from it all, and the Malmaison helped me achieve that. Whether I was lounging in my room, enjoying a meal by the water, or taking a quiet walk along the seafront, every moment felt like a pause from the outside world. If you’re looking for a serene escape, Dundee’s seafront hotels, especially the Malmaison, offer exactly that.
