The Press and Journal (Inverness, Highlands, and Islands)
FAMILY HOUSE WITH STUNNING SURROUNDINGS
Moving from Alaska to Durris might feel like a culture shock for some families, but not the Robertsons. Philippa Gerrard found out more
Birds chirp and sunlight dapples through the trees as you gently bump down the charming country road through the Woodlands of Durris.
Situated in lower Deeside between Banchory and Aberdeen, the area is set back from any main roads, yet despite the feeling of remoteness, you need not feel alone.
Alongside the red squirrels and roe deer which frequent these woods, brief glimpses of occasional country pads can be seen through the foliage, creating a sense of community in this lush, secluded forest.
At the end of the track there is a clearing in the trees where 18 Woodlands Park stands tall against the landscape, and where the Robertson family have called home.
“It is the most wonderful setting for a house,” said Brenda, 49.
“In the autumn in particular the trees which surround us are just a kaleidoscope of colour.”
But the colour of the trees isn’t their only remarkable feature, as the woodland itself offers the most unique of history lessons.
“This collection of trees is really a one-off,” said Ian, 51.
“Its biodiversity is most unusual and there are trees here which come from all around the globe.
“It also has six of Britain’s ‘Champion Trees’ which are the tallest of their species in the UK.
“There are several Sierra Nevada Silver Fir in particular which are over 150 feet in height.
“Local legend has it that the Laird of Durris House in the 1800s, Anthony MacTier, made his money by piracy in the Far East.
“MacTeir used seeds and seedlings from far-flung parts of the globe to populate the forest.
“In 1871, the next owner of the Durris Estate was a wealthy oil baron called James Young, who made his money from shale oil.
“He continued the planting of unusual trees and now, years later, it has made for a most unique woodland.”
Set within a clearing in among the trees themselves, the property is sympathetic to the landscape, while at the same time offering a high standard of living.
Complete with five bedrooms and two reception rooms, Number 18 is spacious and bright.
Despite being in the heart of Aberdeenshire, both the interior and exterior have a distinctly American feel, which was something that suited the Robertsons down to the ground.
As a chemical engineer in the oil and gas sector, Ian’s job has taken him all over the world.
Originally from Ayrshire, Ian met his wife Brenda while living in Houston, where the pair stayed for several years after having twins Madeline and Malcolm, now five.
In 2016, Ian’s job took the family to Alaska, before he was transferred to Aberdeen just a year later.
“I guess we have missed Alaska in a way,” said Brenda, who is a housewife.
“But this house really made up for anything we missed.
“Here we can walk out the front door and we are straight into the woods.”
And it seems that Number 18 has suited the twins too, as Madeline’s endless drawings of the woodlands are pinned up around the kitchen and Malcolm’s favourite hobby is exploring the forest.
However, after just a year in their dream house, the Robertson clan are uprooting once again, following a new transfer in Ian’s job.
“We are quite used to moving but it is always sad to leave,” said Ian.
“I have a favourite Scouts quote though which goes ‘Opportunity is a bus with very few stopping places’.
“It’s been a wonderful chance to explore this area of Scotland, and we will certainly miss the house.”
It’s easy to see why, as the spacious layout has provided the ideal family home.
The kitchen in particular is a great space, with ample unit and worktop space as well as a central island and plenty of room for dining furniture.
Double doors lead through to the main lounge
which is a fabulous space complete with an open fireplace and large sliding doors out to the patio.
Just off of the spacious hall are three bedrooms, one of which is an en suite.
All three rooms are of a generous size with views out over the garden.
The family bathroom and utility room finish the downstairs accommodation.
The star of the first floor is the large master bedroom, complete with en suite and separate dressing area.
A further family room and bedroom can also be found on this floor, along with two wonderful balconies ready to take advantage of the long summer nights.
Outside, there is a large garage and workshop, as well as approximately half an acre of private gardens.
As the Robertsons begin their next property hunt, there is a chance for a lucky new owner to enjoy the unique tranquillity offered at Durris’ very own pirate forest.
And once you see it, you’ll be hooked.
Offers should be made in the region of £500,000.
Contact Raeburn Christie Clark and Wallace on 01330 822931.