Tuileries, Rutherglen review: Monarch of the 'glen

There's a vineyard holiday with something for the kids as well, writes Mary O'Brien.

Finding a place to suit the whole family can be difficult, but Tuileries in Rutherglen comes pretty close. Grandly named after historic gardens in Paris, Tuileries is a relaxed boutique hotel in the old winemaking town near the Murray.

We get off to a good start when we check in at reception. The day before, on the spur of the moment, I booked my family of four into Tuileries but only two twin rooms were available. Owner Tony Lamb tells us the good news that a two-bedroom apartment has become free unexpectedly. This is much more suitable for a family - and cheaper - so we're pleased before we even put our key in the door.

The hotel is set in lovely, well-maintained gardens. The hotel rooms have attractive decks that overlook Tuileries vineyard. Our apartment is one of four that look out to an olive garden. Mature palm trees provide shade and a Mediterranean touch.

Our accommodation is spacious with a bedroom containing a king-size bed, a second bedroom with a double and single bed, a living area with large wall-mounted flat-screen TV, DVD player, sofas, table and chairs. There are no cooking facilities but there's a microwave, electric kettle, tableware, tea and coffee. The bathroom is bright and cheerful with a spa bath and shower. Outside on the verandah are a table and chairs.

Travelling with two teens is never easy, and one of the reasons I've chosen Tuileries is for the tennis court, swimming pool and gym - enough activities I hope to keep teen fingers off keyboards and phones and given a healthy workout. The gym is small but there's enough equipment to keep my daughter busy. The 10-metre pool is more a dip-and-keep-cool option than a swimming pool, but it's a great plus during a hot weekend.

The hotel incorporates the historic Jolimont Cellars, which were built in 1886 as part of a winery. They have been nicely updated with a courtyard and fountain in the centre. Here's where Tuileries comes into its own with a restaurant, cafe and wine bar on site. A basic cooked or continental breakfast (included in the room rate) is served in the cafe.

The wine bar is nice for a pre-dinner drink. Dinner is a dress-up affair in the nicely appointed restaurant. Service is efficient and the wine list is interesting. The food can be overambitious but the whole experience, a stroll away from one's room, is enjoyable.

The main street is a three-minute walk away so we park the car for the afternoon and explore Rutherglen's bookshop, popular Parker Pie shop and the historic Victoria Hotel.