KEYS TO KNOW
Kirsty Mcluckie finds the best of Scotland’s Big County properties make the most of their surroundings
There is little point in living in one of the most beautiful areas of Scotland unless your home takes in the location.
In Perthshire, properties have the advantage of views over mountains, lochs, rivers and beautiful historic sites, so buyers have their pick of some of the best outlooks in the world.
Andrew Thomson of Savills says that a pretty location is on the wishlist of many buyers in the county. “A lot of buyers moving into the area are in their 50s and 60s and are looking for a good quality of life.
“Whether they are moving from Edinburgh or England, they tend to be looking for a good rural location, but close to a centre of activity such as Aberfeldy.”
He says while buyers will be looking for opportunities to take advantage of Perthshire’s excellent walking, cycling and golfing, being close to the entertainments, cafes, shops and restaurants of Perth or smaller towns is popular but in the £300,000 to £600,000 price bracket views are certainly prized.
While traditional properties may have been built to keep out the elements, advances in insulation means that the addition of a sun room or conservatory can keep the heat in and give views and access to the outside.
Modern properties meanwhile often base their design and orientation to get the best vista.
Gannochy Lodge, set in an elevated position over Loch Tummel is close to Queen’s View, the famous vantage point looking out over one of the most iconic panoramas in Scotland.
On a clear day, you can see across the loch to the distant mountains surrounding Glencoe. The house was built by the current owners and is oriented so that the main reception rooms and three of the four bedrooms take in the views to the loch.
There is a first floor sheltered balcony off a galleried landing, and the house is flooded with light throughout.
The White House in Auchterarder is another contemporary property, built in 1999, and designed by the architect James Denholm. It is built in a period style and has accommodation which extends to 3,295sq ft.
Set behind private gates its conservatory extends out on three sides to the private garden. The house’s location has the advantage of being within walking distance of Gleneagles Hotel with its iconic golf courses and facilities.
The Schoolhouse at Killiechassie is a traditional property with direct views over the River Tay just outside Aberfeldy. The addition of a sunroom makes the most of a quiet location and the outlook.
Wester Ley, near Blairgowrie, is a fine Victorian villa with views over beautiful open countryside.
The gardens enhance the outlook, with lawn, hedging, mature trees and a variety of impressive plants and borders including a rose arbour, virginia creeper, honeysuckle, wisteria, sycamore, holly, sweet chestnut, plum and apple trees.
In terms of value for money views, however, there can be few properties in Perthshire to rival Keathbank Mill. The converted A-listed building offers reasonably priced apartments with spectacular views over the River Ericht. Where is it: Gannochy Lodge, Strathtummel, ten miles from Pitlochry. What is it: A contemporary four-bedroomed house with large dining kitchen, two reception rooms, a first floor balcony and an acre of grounds with outbuildings. Good points: The views over Loch Tummel are astounding. Bad points: No-one in the family would want the fourth bedroom which doesn’t have the view. Price: Offers over £550,000. Contact: Savills on 0131 247 3738.