Perfect seclusion in a sensational location
The Hermitage, Colvend, Dalbeattie, Dumfries and Galloway Offers over £1.6m Sarah Devine delights in a five-bedroomed new-build hidden away in a sheltered plot surrounded by spectacular scenery
The Solway Firth on Scotland’s south-west fringe, is renowned for its many natural charms including dramatic coastal views, stunning sunsets, and rarely matched big-sky landscapes.
The Hermitage is a magnificent five-bedroom detached family home which has been designed by its current owners to make the most of the region’s spectacular surrounding scenery, situated on the outskirts of Colvend, a small village ten minutes south of Dalbeattie.
Gail and Robin Aston spent three years on the self-build project before moving in just ahead of the first Covid-19 lockdown in March 2020.
The main appeal for doing so, Gail explains, was the plot’s location overlooking White Loch.
“We always wanted to live on water and we have a business just along the road, which is Coastal Kippford Holiday Park,” she says.
“We came down here from Edinburgh really to be nearer the business and for us both to semiretire in this beautiful setting.”
The couple came up with the design with support from a local architect, and the process lasted around a year, before planning permission was eventually granted two years later.
Delays were also caused by an old bungalow on the site, which had to be demolished to make way for the new dwelling, but the Astons feel it was definitely worth the wait.
“The location is really beautiful, and the house is down a very quiet lane,”
Gail says. “There are houses around, so we are not on our own, but it is very peaceful and private.”
The Hermitage boasts an impressive 4,700sq ft of floorspace, but the couple’s close attention to detail is clear upon entering.
A welcoming reception hall features a double-height ceiling and a sweeping handmade oak staircase, which leads to the home’s galleried first-floor landing.
A quirky wooden sliding door opens to the large open-plan kitchen, dining and family room, which has fullheight south-facing sliding doors by Mozolowski & Murray that provide wonderful views over the water.
The kitchen, which contains exposed wooden beams and a range cooker surrounded by an elm feature arch, was handmade by Dumfriesbased Hiddleston Joiners and boasts a grand limestone archway.
Gail recalls: “I actually saw it on Pinterest and asked our builders if they could source that for me, which they did, and it is absolutely beautiful.
“We have enjoyed all of the views because every window looks over the loch. All the bedrooms and our three sitting rooms have different views over the water, which is something we will really miss.”
A generously-sized drawing room features elegant French doors that offer access to a terrace heated by a wood-burning stove in a sandstone surround.
The ground-floor principal bedroom benefits from a floorto-ceiling window in addition to a double-height vaulted ceiling.
The couple are moving back to Edinburgh, where they will be joined by their two grown-up daughters who are currently in London.
All of the Aston family have enjoyed
“Thelocationisreally beautiful, and the houseisdownavery quietlane...itisvery peaceful and private”
all of the outdoor space at The Hermitage, which includes a timber summer house on the water’s edge, woodlands, terraces, and lawns – including one dedicated to croquet.
Gail adds: “We have a beautiful decking and windows that open right out to make the home an inside-out house.
“We also have the boathouse, because we have a rowing boat that we enjoy taking out on the water.
“Our daughters would come and spend summers here, and I have two grandchildren, so that has been really nice.”
With easy access to Dumfries, Castle Douglas and Dalbeattie, The Hermitage would make an ideal home for anyone seeking a charming location with exceptional views.
For more information, telephone Fine & Country South Scotland on 01896 829 569.