SENSATIONAL SECLUSION
Staying at these beautiful self-catering properties lends itself to exploring the great outdoors. Our subscribers went to enjoy some fresh air and relaxation
A review of some peaceful self-catered staycations
The Coorie Cabin REVIEWED BY ISLA & KATE HALL FROM KIRKNEWTON
Idyllic views, a cosy cabin, and perfect peace – what more could we want? The adventure started with a short walk through the woods to the cabin. Inside it’s such a clever use of space and they have managed to include everything you’d ever need. The log burning stove heats up the cabin so quickly, and makes it feel warm and homely.
We were welcomed with home baking, fresh flowers, whisky, and the log burning stove already on. The owners welcomed us very soon after our arrival to make sure we were settling in nicely, and to answer any questions we had.
In the cabin, there were many interesting books and maps of the local area, and information about activities like cycling, fishing, hiking, and much more. The cabin was built by the owners with the help of local craftspeople and is eco-friendly.
In the Speyside area, there are countless distilleries and factory tours galore, enough fantastic walks to fill a week’s holiday, and so many quaint villages (and pubs!) Aberlour is the home of Walkers Shortbread and offers the foodie visitor a treat in the form of The Spey Larder. We visited the cooperage in Craigellachie, Macallan Distillery, walked the Linn Falls, and even tested the local Copper Dog pub.
A perfect retreat for an adventurous couple wanting to enjoy the great outdoors, friends wanting a cosy and relaxing trip away from civilisation, whisky lovers wanting to visit the whisky capital of the world – Dufftown – or anglers wanting to fish on the famous River Spey. This cabin is for everyone.
Duck Pond Cottage REVIEWED BY ANDREA & CHRISTOPHER COOKE FROM PERTH
We spent a fantastic weekend at Cloncaird Castle in Ayrshire – a hidden gem. The castle stands in 140 acres of stunning grounds and has eight individual cottages, offering luxurious Scottish charm to self-catering guests.
Guests are free to explore the castle’s beautiful woodland and river walks. The accommodation boasts a range of amenities, including WiFi, pet-friendly options, laundry and concierge services, and a welcome pack with local produce.
We stayed in Duck Pond Cottage, situated near the courtyard, and it was ideal for a couple. The bedroom has a super king bed which can be made into a twin on request, with an interesting beamed ceiling and shower room (along with beautiful bedding and towels). The open-plan living area includes the kitchen, dining area and comfortable sitting area, and there is underfloor heating throughout. It is beautifully furnished in heritage colours and the fabrics are exquisite.
We found it the perfect place to relax after a day exploring Ayrshire. Guests can pre-order local produce and even tailored bathroom products. We arranged for a fresh seafood platter to be delivered – delicious hot-smoked salmon, smoked mussels, sardines, white crabmeat and oatcakes made the perfect supper, along with a bottle of wine and homemade lemon cake left for us in the welcome pack. The Mossgiel milk and eggs provided our breakfast, along with Nespresso coffee and Eteaket artisan teas. A perfect self-catering holiday.
REVIEWED BY MALCOLM & AILEEN NORVAL FROM ALLOA
The Boathouse, located within the magnificent grounds of Dundas Castle, is the epitome of a romantic getaway. On following the winding driveway past the lodge house we were met by this charming property perched serenely on a lochan.
We were given detailed instructions on how to access the property, encouraging us to embrace its enticingly secret location. Arriving late afternoon on a wet and windy day, the boathouse was already lit with an electric coal fire and pretty lamps aglow. The property consists of one open-plan room with antique furniture and fabrics, en-suite shower room with bathrobes and slippers, and a galley kitchen complete with period cutlery. It exudes the luxury of bygone times with crystal glasses and Tantalus containing a nip of whisky and gin.
We donned our boots to explore the estate and enjoyed the most magnificent view of the three River Forth bridges
– a viewpoint many photographers would envy. The estate itself boasts an array of wildlife with fallow deer, heron and coots, not to mention the family of swans with five cygnets who would appear at the veranda for some croissant crumbs.
The first evening we dined in on goodies brought from home, but the following morning we set off to Edinburgh then headed further south into North Berwick for some lunch and a wander round the individual shops and harbour. We were spoilt for choice with many first-class restaurants within easy reach. The location of the boathouse, off the beaten track, is the perfect place to relax and unwind.
REVIEWED BY RICHARD AND EMMA PARKER FROM EDINBURGH
From our first glimpse of the churning sea from the living room windows, we were hooked on this magical part of Fife. The delightful two-storey house and courtyard have been lovingly renovated by Mel and Dom, who were helpful, friendly hosts. It’s spacious, comfortable and full of character, with a winding stone staircase and charming shutters. Beautiful furniture, artwork, carpets and photographs adorn each room.
There was a wild storm on our first day. We watched the breakers crash against Pittenweem Pier and were then blown into many wonderful galleries in the village. It’s famous for its artists as well as being the only working harbour in the East Neuk, where boats brave the North Sea to bring in langoustine, crabs and lobsters. For foodies there are several renowned seafood restaurants in the area including The Ship Inn in Ellie and the East Pier Smokehouse in St Monans.
Golfers will love the links by the coast, and there are great walks and pubs like the Dreel Tavern to relax in.
In the evening we snuggled by one of the two wood burning stoves and enjoyed cooking in the well-equipped kitchen. The next day dawned with blue skies, perfect for a walk along the coast to explore Anstruther and Crail. St Andrews, steeped in history and atmosphere, is just 15 minutes away by car.
Then back to enjoy the spectacular rooftop views over the Firth of Forth, with the Isle of May, Berwick Law and the Bass Rock glinting in the pink evening light.