Log Cabins to RentChasing a little white ball into a little white hole is popular all over the UK. But most log cabins are built in super scenery, so a local game of golf is a good bet for making the most of it. From a pitch and putt on site to a championship golf course nearby the log cabin locations below will make it easy for you to treat yourself to some golf time.
Norfolk Hall holds a wonderful location set within a 40-acre Estate in the very heart of Norfolk’s unspoilt Breckland countryside. The Hall makes the perfect base for those wanting to explore beautiful Norfolk and all that it has to offer with plenty for guests to see, do and explore in the surrounding area.
Norfolk Hall is accessed by a tree-lined driveway and makes a tranquil retreat for those looking to enjoy a peaceful escape from busy day to day life. The nineteenth century barn and adjoining stable block have been lovingly restored with high attention to detail and today feature stylish, country interiors and all the modern amenities you could possibly need. The heart of the home is certainly the impressive open-plan living, dining and kitchen area which makes the perfect setting for the whole group to come together and socialise. At one end, the cosy living area features a wood-burning stove and a bespoke built-in library, while the modern kitchen comes fully-equipped with all the tools a budding chef could possibly need to create a delicious meal, between the seating area and the newly installed kitchen is a rustic, teak dining table which lies beneath a statement antler chandelier.
Norfolk Hall can comfortably accommodate up to ten guests across its five well-appointed bedrooms. In the main barn, are two super-king rooms with en-suite bathrooms, both of which can be set up with twin single beds on request. In the stable block is the impressive master bedroom with its four-poster bed, sitting area and luxury en-suite bathroom complete with a free-standing William & Holland copper bath tub. Also in the stable block, are a further two double bedrooms, both boasting en-suite shower rooms.
Outside, Norfolk Hall enjoys large landscaped gardens to both the front and rear. Guests will enjoy Summer evenings cooking up a storm on the Weber barbecue and dining al fresco on the terrace. Guests are welcome to take a stroll through the parkland down to the River Wissey, a pretty chalk stream where it's possible to take a picnic or arrange fly fishing with the owner, if you wish.
Norfolk Hall is situated in the heart of Norfolk’s Brecklands, while guests will enjoy a peaceful stay, the market town of Swaffham where a variety of helpful amenities can be found is less than a 15-minute drive away. With attractive Georgian buildings and a vibrant Saturday market, Swaffham is a must-visit. National Trust owned Oxburgh Hall, a moated country house with beautiful gardens is less than a 15-minute drive away and makes a wonderful day out. Similarly, Houghton Hall & Gardens are a 40-minute drive away, the impressive house often hosts exhibitions by famous sculptors and is another must-visit.
The coast is within easy reaching distance of Norfolk Hall, the beautiful North Norfolk coastline home to Wells-next-the-sea and Holkham is less than an hour’s drive away. For families in search of a traditional seaside day out, Caister-on-Sea and Great Yarmouth are just over an hour’s drive away, boasting crazy golf, trampolines, boat trips, donkey rides, and a variety of attractions and amusements they are great for entertaining the kids!
As featured in The Times under "25 stylish UK self catering stays for 2021"...
North Berwick House holds a wonderful location, set within a peaceful sixty-acre private estate, just a short distance from the seaside town of North Berwick. For those who enjoy a little hustle and bustle, the vibrant city of Edinburgh which is home to a wide variety of family-friendly attractions as well as excellent restaurants and shopping, is just a fifty-minute drive away.
North Berwick House is a completely unique home, it seamlessly combines a 200-year-old Gardeners Cottage with a mid-century modern house, built in 1960 by the Scottish architect Sir James Dunbar-Nasmith. Having been recently renovated, the home today retains its original contemporary character while boasting up-to-date stylish interiors and all the amenities those fortunate enough to enjoy a stay here could possibly need. The home can comfortably accommodate up to twelve guests across its six beautifully-appointed bedrooms.
The majority of the accommodation is on the ground floor which enables guests to enjoy the wonderful surrounding gardens. The living accommodation comprises of an impressive drawing room which boasts an open fire and a Bluthner Leipzig baby grand piano, a cosy TV room, a formal dining room and an open-plan kitchen and breakfast room which comes complete with all the tools to whip up a delicious meal. There is plenty of space for the whole group to gather and socialise making this the ideal home for a special occasion such as a family reunion. On the ground floor are four of the bedrooms, a super-king master suite with panoramic windows over the garden and a luxury en-suite bathroom, a second super-king room which has access to an adjacent family bathroom and two king-size rooms both with en-suite facilities. Upstairs, are the final two bedrooms, a super-king room and a twin room, which both share the use of an adjacent shower room.
The outside space at North Berwick House is truly magical, choose to roam the sixty-acre estate on foot or on bicycle or forage for seasonal produce in the walled garden. After action-packed days spent exploring the surrounding area choose to relax on the terrace with a refreshing beverage or indulge in a family-friendly game of croquet, the choice is yours!
North Berwick House holds a rural location, just a 5-minute car journey from the seaside town of North Berwick where a selection of helpful amenities and attractions can be found. The capital of Scotland, Edinburgh, is less than a 50-minute car journey from North Berwick House, and with its Medieval Old Town and Georgian New Town, it is bursting with excellent attractions, including, iconic Edinburgh Castle and the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the excellent Scotch Whisky Experience and Edinburgh Gin Distillery as well as Camera Obscura & World of Illusions and the Edinburgh Zoo, which the whole family will enjoy! For guests travelling in from afar, Edinburgh Airport is less than a 45-minute car journey away making for a short transfer time. For keen golfers, a variety of world-class golf courses are within easy reaching distance of North Berwick House. North Berwick Golf Club and Glen Golf Club are both less than 10-minutes away, Muirfield is less than 20-minutes away, while most famous of all, St Andrew's, is 75-minutes from the house. Please ensure that you check which days of the week they are open to visitors, have a suitable handicap and make sure to book in advance!
Dorset Castle holds a wonderful location on the iconic Isle of Portland and enjoys magnificent sea views over Church Ope Cove and the famous Jurassic coastline, an area so special, it is regarded by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. The neo-Gothic Castle makes a completely unique holiday home for those looking to stay in style while exploring all of the beauty the county of Dorset has to offer.
The Castle can comfortably accommodate up to twenty guests across nine beautifully-appointed bedrooms, each with en-suite facilities. On the ground floor is the impressive living accommodation, a spacious drawing room and library, ideal for socialising while enjoying the sea views, a cosy study, a formal dining room as well as a fully-equipped kitchen which boasts all the tools you could possibly need to whip up a delicious meal. On the mezzanine-style floor above are the first two bedrooms, a super-king and a twin room, both complete with en-suite facilities. Upstairs on the first floor are seven of the bedrooms, each with its own en-suite bathroom or shower room. The master bedroom is truly special, positioned within the turret of the castle it boasts impressive views out to sea and features an emperor bed and freestanding handmade bath. On this level, there are a further five king or super-king rooms as well as a fantastic family room which can be set up with either two super-king beds, four singles or a combination!
The real wow factor can be found in the orangery, during selected months, guests will enjoy splashing around in the indoor heated pool while enjoying the wonderful sea views. The tranquil gardens are perfect for afternoon strolls or picnics, after action-packed days spent exploring this delightful part of Dorset, guests will enjoy laidback meals al fresco on the terrace.
Dorset Castle is situated on the Isle of Portland, the most southernmost point on the Jurassic coast, a tied island joined to the mainland by Chesil beach. Despite being relatively small in size, there is plenty to see, do and explore without even leaving the isle, enjoy a visit to the 16th century Portland Castle, Rufus Castle or Portland Bill Lighthouse or simply choose to spend afternoons lazing in the sun on Church Ope Cove.
The seaside town of Weymouth is just a 20-minute drive away, a resort hugely popular with families and it’s easy to see why with its golden sand beaches, sand sculptures, crazy golf and Sea Life Centre. Further afield, the popular market town of Lyme Regis is an hours’ drive away while dramatic West Bay, made famous from the ITV series Broadchurch, is just 50-minutes away.
This elegant Georgian mansion house, with its 13th century stone spiral staircase at the core of the building, is a well-appointed historic large holiday home. Brimming with period features and antique furniture, Blairgowrie House makes the perfect venue for your family holiday or weekend away.
On entering, there are a series of halls which run through the house like a railway carriage, with the entrance hall having a snug area. The main feature of this grand house is the large drawing room, which was added in the 1920’s and was designed by the renowned architect Robert Lorimer. It is a large impressive room with painted panelled walls, ceilings with swags, tall picture windows and is just a show-stopper of a room. With large sofas, grand piano, and antiques – this is a superb room to entertain in.
Steps take you along the corridor to what is known as the writing room, which is an area with some seating, then to the main inner hall and then to a secondary sitting room, which has comfortable seating and a TV. Additionally, there is the games room with full size snooker table which can be found on the floor below. The large kitchen on two levels can be found to the rear of the house, with two distinctive areas, one for cooking and the breakfasting area which has a country pine table that can seat up to 8 people. The kitchen was renovated to modern standards in 2018 and has been equipped with all the tools a budding chef could possibly need! The dining room is a long elegant room, just off the kitchen, which faces out to the main lawn. The dining room is a long elegant room, just off the kitchen, which faces out to the main lawn.
Blairgowrie House can comfortably accommodate up to twenty-four guests across thirteen well-appointed bedrooms. There is a variety of double, twin and single rooms to suit all groups, whether you are travelling as a family or a group of friends.
Situated within sixteen acres of well-maintained grounds and policy, there are lawns, woodlands and a walled garden to explore. In Summer, the whole group will enjoy splashing around in the outdoor swimming pool which is open and heated between June to August (weather permitting).
It is located 18 miles north east of Perth, situated in the Vale of Strathmore, in the shadow of the Sidlaw hills. A village store, pub and hotels can be found within 2 miles of the property. Blairgowrie, Perth and Dundee have supermarkets for bulk shopping. Glamis Castle is nearby, with the Angus Glens and the Cateran Trail being ideal for walking trips. For those with an interest in golf, then the course of Rosemount is nearby, as well as numerous local courses at Alyth and beyond. In the winter months, nearby Glenshee provides a perfect base for skiing and winter sports. A clay pigeon shooting centre is in the vicinity.
Dating back to the 1770s this Adam style mansion is as magnificent today as the day it was built. Set in well-maintained grounds, with a front lawn surrounded by woodland, the house takes centre stage and is a stunning retreat. On offer is the main core of the original building, with its fine twin-stair entrance, bringing you into the grand entrance hall. Beyond this are the wonderful drawing room, dining room, TV room, family sitting room and functional kitchen, with the 9 bedrooms and 7 bathrooms on the floor above.
The large front-facing drawing room is an elegant room, with comfortable seating, grand piano and large gilt mirror, with an anteroom next door, which can either be part of this main room or as a separate sitting room. It also has comfortable seating with a TV with SKY connection, and these rooms have SONOS. In the grand hall, there is a magnificent wood-panelled snug with wood-burning stove, with this area and up the stairs all decorated with stags heads and ancient armoury. A family sitting room is located to the rear of the house, which is ideal for children to find their own space or be used as an extra function room, depending on your requirements. The pool table is always a popular feature of the room.
The front-facing dining room has character and atmosphere in abundance, with semi wood panelling and fine furniture and family portraits throughout. With seating for 18 people in comfort, this is a dining room with some style and panache. The kitchen is next door and is more modest in style and space, but it is modern and has the capacity to cater for up to 18 people, with two double ovens and 4 hobs. There is adequate storage with a fridge freezer and an additional refrigerator. (For those with extra catering requirements or using a caterer, then an additional kitchen can be made available to the rear of the house on request).
For groups booking the Lodge to increase the group size from 18-23, the dining room can seat a maximum of 22 people in one sitting with the use of an additional round table which can be added to the end of the main table.
*** A Lodge accommodating up to 5 guests can also be made available for larger groups. The lodge consists of two twin/double bedrooms plus a sofa bed in the main living space.
In the house additional staff quarters can also be made available (two bedrooms), please contact us for further information and prices.
Please note that any weddings need to be approved prior to booking as extra costs may be involved.
Set within an enclosed area of grounds, there is an impressive drive, which includes a bridge over the Muckle burn, which is a tributary of the River Findhorn, before leading up to the house. With a lawn to the front where croquet can be played in the summer, to the rear, there is a nice woodland walk past the old doocot.
It is located 26 miles east of Inverness and 3 miles from Forres, which offers supermarkets and a train station. There are golf courses everywhere at Forres and Elgin, with more renowned courses at Nairn and Castle Stuart. The “Castle Trail” is in the area, with Brodie Castle being the nearest. Beaches can be found at Findhorn. Fishing on the Spey and Findhorn is available. The nearest distillery is Dallas Dhu.
This west-facing former dower house, set above a private bay on the east side of Loch Fyne, enjoys stunning views across to the Mull of Kintyre and Arran beyond. It is located a few miles along a private road in a secluded part of what is known as “Argyll’s secret coast” and makes an ideal venue for a Scottish getaway with family and friends. In WWII the house was used as a base for the Norwegian commandos who went on the 'Heroes of Telemark' raid, which was one of the most successful acts of sabotage in the whole war.
This is a holiday house that has tripled in size over the years and has been designed specifically for your enjoyment, with the inclusion of an indoor swimming pool and a games room. The drawing room has large windows so you can enjoy the views across the Loch in maximum comfort. The kitchen is well equipped, and the spacious dining room can seat up to 16 people in comfort and style. The bedrooms are a good mix of double, twin and triple rooms, making them ideal for a family group.
Set in a beautiful location in 50 acres of grounds the sloped lawns lead down to the bay in front of the house. Access to the beach could not be easier for children out with their bucket and spades or those seeking shells. For more activity minded, there is a motorboat moored in the bay for guests’ exclusive use, subject to conditions or it is possible to bring your own boat to use from the jetty. However you wish to enjoy your break here, this is a superb venue for those wishing a family holiday in a beautiful coastal location.
The very large sitting room is located at the front of the house, and the two bay windows offer stunning views across Loch Fyne, With a wood-burning stove and comfortable seating at one end and a TV with further seating, this is a room that you can spread out in or be as one.
A door leads through to the front-facing games room, which houses a pool table and a table tennis table. Access from here can be out to the patio or through to the indoor swimming pool next door. Here there is a 30ft by 15ft heated pool, with sun loungers, a sauna and a shower, with further access to the decking area. Additionally, there is a cloakroom, which is perfect for storing all your outdoor footwear and where you can find life-jackets for trips out on the boat. Pet friendly with two dogs allowed.
The dining room is a light, airy, spacious room, next door to the kitchen, with a long table that seats a maximum of 16 people. Gathering the group in one place for all the meals could not be easier, and there are two high chairs available for younger children. There is excellent light coming in as the larger west-facing windows look past the games room across to the sea view.
Direct access takes you to the well-equipped modernised kitchen with work-island. Cooking is all electric, with hob with 5 rings, 3 ovens with a grill and a microwave oven, as well as 2 dishwashers. A utility room is next door with washing machine, tumble dryer and chest freezer. In the summer months, dining can take place outside at the various tables.
** The maximum number of people which the house will accommodate is 16 (plus up to 2 babies in cots) and this number must not be exceeded at any time.
** Guests who wish to use the boat are obliged to sign a Boat Request Form and be in receipt of a RYA Level Two Powerboat (with coastal endorsement) qualification or higher. Please let us know so the relevant additional legal documentation can be provided during the booking process. All certificates need to be checked in advance and brought on holiday. Use of the boat will not be permitted otherwise.The boat is not included in the rental rates and is only offered to guests at the owners discretion. Please note that the boat is not available between October and April.
Please note that short breaks can only be booked within 4 weeks of the start date.
The House is positioned to the South of the Cowal peninsula between Kinfinan and Tighnabruaich, as part of “Argyll’s secret coast”. Surrounded by a rocky outcrop with mixed woodlands and heather, there is a sloped lawn that leads down to a small bay, which consists of pebble and sand.
This is an excellent location for day trips, with a ferry service to East Loch Tarbert available locally. Golf is available in Tighnabruaich. Alternatively, you could enjoy a trip to the Isle of Bute and do a House and Garden Tour at Mount Stuart. The trip takes about an hour and 15 minutes which includes the ferry crossing.
A motorboat is available to your group, with one tank of fuel provided, as part of the booking – on the provision of an RYA level 2 powerboat (coastal) qualification or higher. All certificates need to be checked in advance and brought on holiday. If you wish to arrive by boat or bring your own boat, that is possible, but please check in advance to confirm.
If you're worried about it being isolated, think again. Once most guests get down to the property, they don't want to leave. There's so much to keep you occupied, a week will whizz by. You've got walking, the beach, fishing, boat excursions, the indoor swimming pool, a games room, a huge garden and day trips to places like the Isle of Bute and Tarbert. You can also use the Visitcowal website and download a map on the touring routes around the quiet roads of this beautiful peninsular or check out their events page for things to see and do.
There's an excellent village store 20 minutes away (Kames Village Store) run by an extremely accommodating proprietor called Andy. He can pre-order groceries and dry goods and arrange a click and collect style service. The meat, veg & fish will all be locally sourced. The local butcher delivers to the village on a Friday, and there's also a local fishmonger.
This is a Scottish country house that exudes charm and character with a fascinating history that goes back centuries. Set in 20 acres of well-maintained grounds, gardens, lawns and woodland, this traditional country house is a joy to walk into and soak up the atmosphere. The large reception hall is a great place to welcome your guests in style before moving to the stylish drawing room with its open fire to add further warmth. Next door is the equally fine dining room, which is adorned in the country house style.
All the bedrooms and bathrooms are to be found on the floor above, which involve many steps as you walk through different eras of the house itself. A housekeeper lives on the estate and is on hand if required, whilst gardening staff come and go in the garden. Easily accessible from anywhere in the UK, with Aberdeen International airport nearby, this country house has entertained kings and queens from around the world and is available to royally entertain again on a self-catering basis.
The first thing you will notice is what an impressively large space the reception hall is and a great place to have drinks and to meet and greet your guests. From here you can go into the large drawing-room, with its comfortable sofas and open fire, which is a light, airy room at the corner of the building. The stylish dining room is located next door with the main table seating up to 16, with the addition of a smaller table to dine 18 people. A study is the opposite, which is a cosy room with comfortable seating, with views overlooking the garden. There are two cloakrooms available either side of the reception hall, both with w.c’s, with one of them being wheelchair friendly.
The elegant dining room is located off the drawing room and is a bright room full of ancestral pictures. The main table can seat up to 16 people, and with the addition of a smaller table, all 18 people can be seated within this room. The kitchen is the other side of the reception hall and is a practical kitchen with an AGA and an electric hob and oven, allowing plenty of cooking capacity for the numbers required. Additionally, there is a larder next door for additional storage, and a utility room beyond. A breakfast room is off the kitchen, with a table that can seat 10 to 12 people. A rear door allows easy access to the kitchen, and the room that houses any visiting dogs is at this entrance.
Accessed via an electronic gate and set within a walled enclosure of 20 acres, there is an impressive drive, which leads up to the house. With a lawn to the side where croquet can be played in the summer, to the rear there a decorative pond and parkland. The rest of the garden includes further lawn, decorative areas and a walled garden, which in the summer months will be a wonderful sight.
Located in a country setting inland from the sea, between Aberdeen and Stonehaven, it is only 10 miles from the bustling, vibrant city of Aberdeen. Golf courses in the area include Royal Aberdeen and Trump International at Menie. Whilst in the area a trip to Dunnottar Castle is a must, whilst a tour in Royal Deeside is always popular. Fishing on the Dee for salmon is a popular pastime. Local distilleries include Fettercairn, Glen Garioch and Royal Lochnagar.
Golf
Local courses
Portlethen – 4 km (Par 72) – Portlethen opened in 1990 and was designed by Donald Steel. The course is a good example of a parkland layout with many excellent natural features. The par five 485-yard fourth hole is a hole that requires caution, instead of valour.
Here, you face the decision whether to lay up short of the burn or attempt the carry to set up a birdie chance. The 15th is undoubtedly the signature hole of the course.
Stonehaven – 14 km (Par 66) – Stonehaven has some of the most dramatic holes on Scotland’s east coast. These are breath taking golf vistas that could grace the front cover of any golf magazine. While it looks dramatic, playing it is another matter.
With most of the holes perched on headland and a parkland section on the other side of the railway line, Stonehaven is not your typical coastal course. It is however a unique challenge and the views are simply glorious.
Deeside Golf Club – 15 km (Par 70) – Founded in 1903, Deeside takes its name from the river valley which climbs westward from Aberdeen into the beautiful hill country of Braemar and Balmoral.
Over the last few years major reconstruction work has taken place to provide a testing 6, 424-yards 18 hole course in which only five of the holes from the old course are virtually unchanged. These include the 15th (the old sixth), which bears the name James Braid, who was adviser to the club during previous course alterations.
Royal Aberdeen – 20 km (Par 64) The Balgownie Links is one of the oldest courses in the world and, as such, has attracted many top players over the years. Even some of them have found it to be a tough test and, for many, it is a perfect example of the exacting nature of links golf.
The 18th is a par-4 measuring 434 yards and is reckoned to be one of the best finishing holes anywhere in the country.
Trump International – 32 km (Par 71) – The eagerly-anticipated Trump International Golf Links opened in July 2012 to an enormous fanfare – and rightly so. The first golf development constructed in Europe by billionaire Donald Trump, the course near Balmedie in Aberdeenshire is nothing short of spectacular and seems destined to host high-profile golf tournaments before too long.
Set amongst what Trump has renamed ‘The Great Dunes of Scotland’, the course has been designed by renowned architect Martin Hawtree and makes full use of its stunning natural environment. It is no exaggeration to say that there is not a weak hole on the course, with the par-3 13th and par-4 14th perhaps the two best back-to-back holes.
Castles
Dunnottar Castle – 14 km – A romantic, evocative and historically significant ruined Castle, perched on a giant conglomorate on the edge of the North-Sea. Once seen – never forgotten.
Drum Castle, Garden and Estate – 19 km – One of Scotland’s oldest tower houses, has a real medieval Jacobite setting with a Walled Garden of Historic Roses that you can stroll through, or choose from three waymarked trails to explore.
Crathes Castle – 19 km – You can wander along the Coy Burn for a chance to spot buzzards, herons and kingfishers. Spend as long or as short a time as you please exploring the castle grounds with six woodland trails taking you all over the gardens.
Balmoral Castle – 71 km – Balmoral Castle has been the Scottish home of the Royal Family since it was purchased for Queen Victoria by Prince Albert in 1852, having been first leased in 1848. The Castle is an example of Scots Baronial architecture and is classified by Historic Scotland as a category A listed building.
Braemar Castle – 86 km – A 17th century castle with a colourful past and an exciting future. Built by the Earl of Mar in 1628, it has been hunting lodge, fortress, garrison and family home.
Beaches
Aberdeen Beach – 17 km -Here is a city beach with bucket and spade-loads of charm! With an art-deco inspired esplanade, the golden coastline stretches 3 km and is one of the best places in Scotland to see bottlenose dolphins in the summer. Keep going along the esplanade towards Footdee, an area known locally as ‘Fittie’, and discover a former fishing village with oodles of 19th century appeal, lined with clusters of quirky cottages originally built for fishermen working along the harbour.
Stonehaven Beach – 14 km – Stonehaven is a popular coastal resort, which is well used by water sports enthusiasts. The area designated is Stonehaven Bay which is approximately 1.1km in length, bound by the outflow of the River Carron and the harbour jetty to the south and rocky outcrops at the northern end. The southern end of the bay is more sandy and therefore gets greater usage by bathers.
St Cyrus Beach Nature Reserve– 47 km – The St Cyrus National Nature Reserve is very often not first on a visitor’s list of things to see and do, yet this lovely little Scottish nature reserve carefully preserves a wide variety of distinctive plant species. It features a variety of habitats and is also home to a number of birds and insects.
Balmedie Beach – 32 km – Explore miles of beautiful flat sandy beach, you can walk either north or south for several miles. Access is via the car park along board walks, through the dunes to the beach. Facilities also include a ranger centre, toilets and shops.
Walking and Cycling
Walking– The more southerly parts of Aberdeenshire have a wide variety of scenery. The upper parts of Deeside are covered in our Cairngorms National Park section, but lower Deeside too has some fine woodland scenery and lower hills, stretching down from Aboyne through Banchory to reach the very edge of Aberdeen. The area is packed out with forest and riverside walks. The high Cairn o’Mount road offers fabulous views before it descends to link with Fettercairn and the more lowland Mearns.
The coastline has attractions of its own. Stonehaven has a fine harbour but it is the spectacular ruin of Dunnottar Castle nearby that draws the crowds and photographers – it has one of the finest settings in Scotland. Further south, St Cyrus is a beautiful coastal nature reserve with a sandy beach. For routes – www.walkhighlands.co.uk/aberdeenshire/stonehaven.shtml
Road Cycling – Aberdeenshire’s rural and wide winding roads matched with its picture-perfect panoramic mountainous landscapes, make it the idyllic place for road cycling in Scotland.
The terrain in this part of Scotland varies from coastal passes and rolling farmland to challenging climbs, including the iconic Cairn O’ Mount, between Banchory and Stonehaven, where gradients of up to 18% will challenge even the fittest legs.
Ride through Royal Deeside to the Cairngorms National Park and take on the challenge of the UK’s highest pass at the Glenshee ski centre, or turn right at Ballater towards The Lecht and test yourself on what is recognised as one of the toughest, and most spectacular, road climbs in the country.
Further south, enjoy the sea breeze as you pass the iconic ruins of Dunnottar Castle on an Aberdeenshire coastal route or travel via the historic manor of Haddo House to through the Banffshire Coast.
Mountain Biking – Imagine how you will feel mountain biking across Scottish Munros, immense loch’s, heathery moors, ancient forests, great estates and wide sandy expanses. Venture off the beaten track in Aberdeenshire as you take in endless views of rugged coasts and mountainous landscapes.
You will find routes and trails designed to challenge all abilities. Start your journey by finding your feet or testing your skill at one of the purpose-built bike parks across Aberdeenshire.
For rugged rides on an abundance of natural trails make your way to the Deeside delights near Banchory, Aboyne and Ballater – think loamy corners, roots and rocky descents with fun trail features all surrounded by remarkable scenery.
There is also the opportunity to follow in the tracks of the racers as you take on the ‘enduro’ trails at Hill of Fare, Pitfichie and Drumtochty. Get ready to earn your descents by pedalling up and then testing your bike skills as you will be faced with steep descents packed with surprises.
Perfectly placed in picturesque Perthshire is this Victorian country house, set within its own secluded grounds, yet within walking distance from the village of Kirkmichael. A short drive, lined by rhododendrons, leads you up to the holiday house, where you will find a fine granite structure that has been extended over the years to become more of a mansion than a house. This holiday house in Scotland is ideal for family holidays for a week in the summer, and get-togethers and weekends away in the quieter months.
Within you will discover an elegant hallway adorned with stags' heads, which leads to the expansive drawing-room on one side and the large dining room to the other, as the two main front rooms. Whilst there is still an air of grandeur here, this is a house that is like walking into a family home, where you feel comfortable and relaxed immediately. Beyond can be found the kitchen, the breakfast room and the very substantial games room. This room with a magnificent fireplace can be used on a multi-purpose basis, as the table tennis table can be removed to create a party room for a ceilidh or impromptu party. All the accommodation can be found on the two floors above, with a selection of 9 bedrooms and 6 bathrooms, making this ideal to sleep up to 17 people.
The drawing-room, with its open fire, and bay window with views to the front, is a large expansive room, full of comfortable sofas for your group of 17 people to relax in. Even with the fine pictures and antique furniture, the emphasis is definitely on comfort with so many sofas and armchairs to choose from. The elegant hallway with the stairs to the accommodation level above leads off in two directions, one to the kitchen and the other to the games room. Accessed by steps, the games room is a large later extension, which houses a table tennis table. However it is more than a games room, with fine pictures on the wall and a feature carved fireplace with open fire, and by removing the table from the room, it can be a party room, for a drinks party, a ceilidh or a small wedding function. Access directly on to the lawn is available from here. Additionally, next door there is a snug room, with a TV and toys for smaller children.
The front-facing dining room houses a long dining table where everyone can sit around in comfort. With an open fire at one end and radiators throughout, this is a warm room, as well as an elegant one, with swag curtains, and family portraits and old prints on the walls. The kitchen is located to the rear of the house and is in two sections. Firstly there is a breakfast room with a dining table that can seat 14/16 people, and then there is the modest kitchen section, with well-equipped kitchen space, with 5-hob “Rangemaster”, grill and oven, as well as an extra oven to the side. Next door is the large utility room with freezer, with the laundry room beyond, with washing machines and tumble dryer.
The expansive grounds are great for children to relax in, whilst in summer croquet can be enjoyed too.
Situated within 3 acres of private grounds in a rural location accessed by a drive, surrounded by fields and woodland, makes this a pleasant location to be based whilst in Perthshire. The grounds are enclosed and include a table and chair set for alfresco dining, a BBQ, croquet lawn and a football kickabout area with mini-goals. Located 71 miles north of Edinburgh and 11 miles from Pitlochry, makes this ideal to explore all of Perthshire and the central section of Scotland.
The village has a small general store, whilst supermarkets can be found in Pitlochry and Blairgowrie. There is a railway station at Pitlochry, which forms part of the London-Inverness mainline. For golfers, there are golf courses at Rosemount and Pitlochry. Families can be entertained at Blair Castle. For the activity minded, there is fishing on the Tay, white water rafting, walking and winter sports available at nearby Glenshee. Edradour distillery is only 10 miles away.
On an elevated position above a bay and the shoreline of Loch Fyne, stands this south-facing purpose-built holiday house which enjoys stunning views across to the Mull of Kintyre and Arran beyond. It is located a few miles along a private road in a secluded part of what is known as “Argyll’s secret coast”. Built in 1999, it is tastefully decorated throughout with practical touches, making this an ideal venue for smaller groups of family and friends to enjoy a coastal break.
The south-facing front of the house has been designed to make the most of the sunshine and light, with the large sitting room with French windows, opening out to an extensive decking area with summer furniture. The house flows well, with the dining room next door, which then leads into the fully equipped kitchen, allowing for ease of use.
The indoor spa room complete with hot tub also enjoys these amazing views, and it is not difficult to see why this is so popular with all ages. There is one bedroom with en-suite bathroom at ground level, whilst the other three bedrooms, with their en-suite facilities, are on the floor above. With ramp access to the front, a ground floor bedroom and all rooms easily accessible on the ground floor, this is perfect for a member of your group with limited mobility. Set in a beautiful location, this is an ideal spot to just watch the sunset from the decking, get children out with their bucket and spades on the beach or to have family and friends to get away for a week.
The large sitting room is located at the front of the house with French windows opening out to the extensive decking area beyond. The wood-burning stove would normally be the focus of the sitting room with the sofas surrounding it and the TV, but it seems the chairs get turned the other way to face the sea and to enjoy the views from the windows.
Next door is the spa room with hot tub, which is kept at 36 degrees centigrade, which also opens out to the decking area. Here you will find the comfortable outside furniture, where you can dine al fresco in the summer months. Additionally, there is the boot room, which is perfect for storing all your outdoor footwear and where you can find life-jackets for trips out on the boat.
The dining room is a light, airy room to the front of the house with amazing views, decorated in pastel blues with a nautical and seafood theme. The dining table and matching chairs are ideal for comfort and for creating a stylish environment. The kitchen opens out from the dining room, and here you will find a modern fitted kitchen with breakfast bar and plenty of work-top space. Cooking is all-electric, and the fitted tiles reflect the continued seafood theme. A utility room is a next door with washing machine and tumble dryer. In the summer months, dining can take place on the front decking, and a BBQ is also provided.
** There is a private water supply at this property, which is checked and approved on an annual basis by the local authority.
** Guests who wish to use the boat are obliged to sign a Boat Request Form and be in receipt of a RYA Level Two Powerboat (with coastal endorsement) qualification or higher. Please let us know so the relevant additional legal documentation can be provided during the booking process. All certificates need to be checked in advance and brought on holiday. Use of the boat will not be permitted otherwise. The boat is not included in the rental rates and is only offered to guests at the owners discretion. Please note that the boat is not available between October and April.
This is an excellent location for day trips, with a ferry service to East Loch Tarbert available locally. Golf is available in Tighnabruaich. Alternatively, you could enjoy a trip to the Isle of Bute and do a House and Garden Tour at Mount Stuart. The trip takes about an hour and 15 minutes which includes the ferry crossing.
A motorboat is available to your group, with one tank of fuel provided, as part of the booking – on the provision of an RYA level 2 powerboat (coastal) qualification or higher. All certificates need to be checked in advance and brought on holiday. If you wish to arrive by boat or bring your own boat, that is possible, but please check in advance to confirm.
If you're worried about it being isolated, think again. Once most guests get down to the property, they don't want to leave. There's so much to keep you occupied, a week will whizz by. You've got walking, the beach, fishing, boat excursions, a huge garden and day trips to places like the Isle of Bute and Tarbert. You can also use the Visitcowal website and download a map on the touring routes around the quiet roads of this beautiful peninsular or check out their events page for things to see and do.
There's an excellent village store 20 minutes away (Kames Village Store) run by an extremely accommodating proprietor called Andy. He can pre-order groceries and dry goods and arrange a click and collect style service. The meat, veg & fish will all be locally sourced. The local butcher delivers to the village on a Friday, and there's also a local fishmonger.
Forming part of a farm courtyard, this 19th-century cottage is available to hire on a self-catered basis for a group of up to 8 guests. Recently refurbished the cottage now offers comfortable and traditional accommodation to a modern standard. The open plan living and dining area is a large welcoming space for everyone to relax. The well-equipped kitchen will cater well for this group size. The bedrooms are all twin-bedded rooms with their own shower room. The spacious games room provides perfect entertainment for all ages. The main section of the cottage has oil fired central heating, with the living room and one of the twin room sections with electric heating. It has been modernised and refurbished to a high standard. With gardens to the front and the farm to the rear, this is a delightful big cottage to enjoy a rural holiday. Situated in a quiet rural setting, though being close to Stirling, there is parking available for 4 cars and it also has access to an outdoor tennis court.
There is one large living space which is split between the seating area and the dining space. The seating area looks like a classic elegant sitting room you would find in a country house rather than a cottage, with comfortable sofas and armchairs and prints of game birds on the walls. With a warming wood-burning stove and TV, this is a lovely setting to be entertained in. In the converted garage space which adjoins to the cottage is a games room/sporting room, which houses a table tennis table, wood-burning stove and is adorned with antlers, taxidermy and rod holders for fishing rods. There is also access to a tennis court within the grounds.
The kitchen is beyond the living space in the centre of the house, and it is a classic rectangular space, which has been well designed to maximise workspace and storage. With four electric hobs and oven, along with the microwave, there is plenty of cooking capacity for the numbers involved. A dishwasher and fridge/freezer are located in the kitchen, whilst a chest freezer can be made available in the games room. There is one large living space which is split between the seating area and the dining space. This dining section is elegantly set-up, with a fine dining table that can seat up to 8 people, surrounded by a dresser and antique pictures on the wall.
Set on a working farm, it is surrounded by fields. Located 10 miles from Stirling, a few miles away from Doune, this property is centrally positioned, being only 46 miles from Edinburgh and 36 miles from Glasgow. With a general store and additional shops in Doune, major supermarkets can be found in Stirling. Blair Drummond Safari Park is nearby and is a perfect day out for families. Stirling Castle, Doune Castle and the Wallace Monument are within easy reach. Fishing is available on the Teith. There are many golf courses in the area, including Gleneagles. The nearest distillery is Springston Distillery.
