Waterfall at An Teallach North West Scotland

Waterfall at An Teallach, North West Scotland.

View to Stac Pollaidh from Ben More Coigach

View to Stac Pollaidh from Ben More Coigach.

Sandstone Ridge of Stac Pollaidh

Sandstone Ridge of Stac Pollaidh.

Pinnacle on Stac Pollaidh

Pinnacle on Stac Pollaidh.

Cul Mor from Stac Pollaidh

Cul Mor from Stac Pollaidh.

Achiltibuie from Meall an Fheadain

Achiltibuie from Meall an Fheadain.

Achiltibuie is a very special place in the North West of Scotland. It's just got that indescribeable 'feel' to it. We enjoyed a fantastic September day chilling out in the area. The short walk to the summit of Meall an Fheadain gives marvellous views out to the Summer Isles and back over to Stac Pollaidh and the Coigach hills.


Stac Pollaidh from Meall an Fheadain.


Looking to Suilven from Meall an Fheadain.


The Summer Isles from Meall an Fheadain.


Garvie Bay near Achiltibuie.

Garvie Bay is a super little spot near Achiltibuie. You are likely to get the beach to yourself and I took advantage with a dip in the sea. Not for long mind you!


Achiltibuie Smokehouse.

The Smokehouse at Achiltibuie offers some fantastic products - I settled for smoked salmon which was delicious! In the afternoon we climbed the superb mountain of Stac Pollaidh. Whilst not the largest, it is the favourite of many people in Scotland. The path is possbly the best in Scotland and most of the difficulties on the ridge can be by-passed. There were many walkers taking advantage of the sunshine on the 18th September.


On the Ridge of Stac Pollaidh.

If you would like to stay in Achiltibuie, there's a lovely cottage, Greenhill, perfecty situated for enjoying this area.

Ascending Ben More Coigach North West Scotland

Ascending Ben More Coigach, North West Scotland.

Another great day in September climbing the seven peaks of Coigach including the Grahams of Ben More Coigach and Sgurr an Fhidhleir. We started from Culnacraig and after a short distance on the coastal path, climbed steeply to the top of Garbh Choireachan. From there a delightful ridge walk led us to the summit of Ben More Coigach. The short hop over to Speicein Coinnich gives delightful views of the ridge itself as well as some of the other unique mountains in this area in the North West Highlands of Scotland.


Lochan Tuath and Beinn an Eoin, North West Scotland.

From there a short drop and ascent leads to one of the most dramatic clifftops in Scotland, the summit of Sgurr an Fhidhleir, a wonderful viewpoint. More ridge walking over another two tops brought us to the final summit of the day, Cairn Conmheall, overlooking the Summer Isles and the special village of Achiltibuie.

Another wonderful September day in the North West Highlands of Scotland.


The Summer Isles and Achiltibuie from Cairn Conmheall

Strath Rannoch looking to Beinn A' Chaisteil

Strath Rannoch looking to Beinn A' Chaisteil.

A perfect day walking and cycling to the Grahams of Carn Loch nan Amhaichean and Beinn nan Eun. A bumpy cycle ride along the beautiful Strath Rannoch, before ascending the long ridge to the summit of Carn Loch nan Amhaichean.


Carn Loch nan Amhaichean.

From there, we skirted the circular Loch crossing peat hag to the steep approach to Beinn nan Eun.


Beinn nan Eun from Carn Loch nan Amhaichean.

Another wonderful day in the Highlands of Scotland!

Cloud Inversion from Sgurr Mor Fannich

Cloud Inversion from Sgurr Mor Fannich.

It was just one of those perfect days in your hill walking career when you are lucky enough to climb through the clouds to find a cloud inversion, making it seem like you're on top of the world. Amazingly, this is the second time I've enjoyed one on Sgurr Mor! The start of the day was murky when we set off to climb the first munro of the day, Beinn Liath Mhor Fannich. After descending and starting to climb Sgurr Mor, it still wasn't promising as you can see from this picture.

Ascending Sgurr Mor from Beinn Liath Mhor Fannaich.

I had however the memory of a previous walk when we enjoyed a magnificent inversion and my hopes were high. As we neared the summit I just new it was going to happen and my heart sang! The view at the top is over Carn Na Criche, a Munro Top, and the Munro of Meall A' Chrasgaig, to the distant An Teallach. Although it wasn't our intended route we decided to follow the sun over these two tops and were rewarded with stupendous views back to Sgurr Mor.

An unforgettable day - Sunday 13th September 2009!

Scrambling on An Teallach North West Scotland

Scrambling on An Teallach, North West Scotland.

Fantastic day enjoyed scrambling on the Torridonian sandstone pillars of An Teallach, North West Scotland in September 2009. Translated from Gaelic as the Anvil or Forge, it was certainly hot work!

We traversed the mountain from Corrie Hallie over Sail Liath to the Corrag Bhuidhe Buttresses pictured above. Moving on to the two munros of Sgurr Fiona and Bidein A' Ghlas Thuill gave us a memorable day on the mountain. An Teallach has to be one of the most beautiful mountains in Scotland and great fun to climb. On our last visit, lightning struck as we were on the summit of Bidein A' Ghlas Thuill giving us a hair raising descent in more ways than one!


Ridge on An Teallach.

Self-catering Holiday Cottage near Insch Aberdeenshire Scotland

Self-catering Holiday Cottage, near Insch, Aberdeenshire, Scotland. This cosy and bright semi-detached holiday home, 4 Station Cottage, is a brilliant base for touring this scenic area. Within walking distance is Leith Hall with its colourful gardens overlooking the Aberdeenshire countryside. Kennethmont has its own distillery and the diverse scenery in the area allows for winter skiing at Lecht just 45 minutes away, or summer beach walks along the Moray Coastline near Banff. Walking on the doorstep and golf, riding and fishing nearby. Shop and pub 3 miles, restaurant 7 miles. Ground floor: Step down to living room. Dining room. Kitchen. Utility room. Bathroom with shower over bath and toilet. First floor: 2 double bedrooms, one with en-suite shower room and toilet, one with single bunk above.

Self-catering Holiday Lodge sleeps six Forres Morayshire Scotland

Self-catering Holiday Lodge, sleeps six, Forres, Morayshire, Scotland. This delightful, detached, single-storey holiday property, Thornhall Lodge, is well furnished and set within the grounds of the owner’s home near to the pretty hamlet of Dyke. The Moray Coast is home to miles of white sandy beaches, quaint coastal villages, golfing, sailing, cycling, fishing, horse riding and some of Scotland’s most scenic countryside. All are readily accessible, not to mention the Whisky Trail and the city of Inverness. Shop, pub and restaurant 2 miles. All on ground floor: Living/dining room/kitchen. Dining room with tiled floor. 3 bedrooms: 1 double, 1 twin (zip and link), 1 bunk. Bathroom with shower over bath and toilet. Shower room with toilet.

Large self-catering detached Holiday Cottage sleeps six Carrbridge Inverness-shire Scotland

Large, self-catering, detached Holiday Cottage, sleeps six, Carrbridge, Inverness-shire, Scotland. This stylish, contemporary, detached villa, Wild Oak, is very pleasantly situated at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac on the outskirts of Carrbridge. With views over the local golf course at the rear of the house, it is a wonderful base for making the most of the fabulous leisure opportunities found in this scenic area. The house boasts a large enclosed garden at the rear, which can be accessed from the attractive sun room, and has a cosy multi-fuel burner in the living room, ideal for coming back to after a day out enjoying skiing or hill walking. If you enjoy winter sports but want to get away from the hustle and bustle of nearby Aviemore, Carrbridge is ideal. Excellent salmon fishing, pony trekking and cycling can be found in the village itself, not to mention the famous Landmark Forest Theme Park. There are forest and river walks in the village, quad biking at the Rothiemurchus Estate and, of course, fantastic wildlife to be glimpsed, as well as stunning scenery, throughout the whole area. Shop and pub ¼ mile. Ground floor: Living room with French doors. Dining room with French doors. Kitchen. Sun room. Utility room. 1 double bedroom. Shower room and toilet. First floor: 2 bedrooms: 1 double with Velux, 1 twin. Bathroom with corner bath and toilet.

Self-catering Holiday Cottage sleeps five Garmouth Morayshire Scotland

Self-catering Holiday Cottage, sleeps five, Garmouth, Morayshire, Scotland. Thrums Cottage is a charming period cottage within the conservation village of Garmouth. Tastefully renovated to offer comfortable, spacious and well-equipped holiday accommodation. Golf, riding, bird sanctuary, sea and river fishing (on the Spey) all within walking distance. On the doorstep of both Castle and Whisky country and at the start of ’The Speyside Way’. Seals, dolphins and osprey can be seen along the Moray Firth Coast. Shop and pub 100 yards. Ground floor: Living room with maple floor. Dining room/kitchen. Cloakroom with toilet. First floor: 3 bedrooms: 2 double (one 5ft four poster), 1 single. Bathroom with shower over bath and toilet.

Self-catering Holiday Cottage Nethybridge near Aviemore Strathspey Scotland

Self-catering Holiday Cottage, Nethybridge, near Aviemore, Strathspey, Scotland. Nethybridge is a quiet and picturesque wooded village, beside the river, with good village amenities such as hotels, shops and golf on the doorstep. Woodbridge is attractively set in its own secure garden surrounded by mature pines and a variety of deciduous trees with numerous attractive walks nearby. The Abernethy Forest and RSPB reserves in the area make this a walkers’ and birdwatchers’ paradise. The Spey Valley offers something for everyone - an ideal holiday base. Shop and pub a 5 minute stroll. All on ground floor: Living room. Dining room/kitchen. Conservatory. 3 bedrooms: 1 double with en-suite shower room, 1 twin, 1 single. Bathroom with toilet.

Large self-catering country Holiday Cottage sleeps six by Huntly Aberdeenshire Scotland

Large, self-catering, country Holiday Cottage, sleeps six, by Huntly, Aberdeenshire, Scotland. This charming holiday cottage has been completely renovated internally to provide all modern conveniences within well appointed accommodation and offers good views from front and rear over the surrounding countryside. A delightful property to spend a restful holiday. Together with four other charming cottages, Wester Park is located within the extensive grounds of Aswanley Estate, in unspoilt surroundings on the upper reaches of Glen Deveron. All are peacefully set in secluded locations, enjoying uninterrupted views across beautiful scenery and each has its own private garden. Visitors are welcome to explore the Estate grounds, where there is an abundance of wildlife. Fishing and shooting can be arranged, and safe inlets on the river offer fun paddling for children, with deeper pools for swimming. The famous Whisky Trail is easily accessible from the properities and many of the distilleries offer guided tours and the chance to sample the local malts.
A choice of coves, sandy beaches and attractive fishing villages can be reached within a 35-minute drive of Aswanley. Golf, swimming and tennis available at Huntly (7 miles). For a change of scene, Aberdeen with its many shops, restaurants, theatres and museums is well worth a visit. Castles, museums and picturesque towns are all within easy driving distance. Falconry centre 3 miles. Salmon fishing (3-mile beat of the Deveron) by prior arrangement. Riding locally. Living room with open fire and wooden floor. Modern, well-equipped kitchen/dining area with Aga and tiled floor. Utility. Twin-bedded room (zip & link beds) with en-suite bathroom/W.C and over-bath shower. Separate W.C. First floor: Twin-bedded room (zip & link beds) with en-suite bathroom/W.C. and over-bath shower. Double bedroom with en-suite bathroom/W.C. with over-bath shower.

Large country Holiday Cottage sleeps six by Huntly Aberdeenshire Scotland

Large, country Holiday Cottage, sleeps six, by Huntly, Aberdeenshire, Scotland. On the edge of the moor, this very attractive holiday cottage commands fine views of the heather hills and woodlands beyond from its sunny conservatory and has its own enclosed garden within 2-acres of wooded grounds. It offers very restful accommodation, which can be enjoyed whatever the weather. Together with four other charming cottages, Wester Bodylair is located within the extensive grounds of Aswanley Estate, in unspoilt surroundings on the upper reaches of Glen Deveron. All are peacefully set in secluded locations, enjoying uninterrupted views across beautiful scenery and each has its own private garden. Visitors are welcome to explore the Estate grounds, where there is an abundance of wildlife. Fishing and shooting can be arranged, and safe inlets on the river offer fun paddling for children, with deeper pools for swimming. The famous Whisky Trail is easily accessible from the properities and many of the distilleries offer guided tours and the chance to sample the local malts. A choice of coves, sandy beaches and attractive fishing villages can be reached within a 35-minute drive of Aswanley. Golf, swimming and tennis available at Huntly (7 miles). For a change of scene, Aberdeen with its many shops, restaurants, theatres and museums is well worth a visit. Castles, museums and picturesque towns are all within easy driving distance. Falconry centre 3 miles. Salmon fishing (3-mile beat of the Deveron) by prior arrangement. Riding locally. Living room with open fire. Dining-room with wood-burning stove. Fitted kitchen. Sun room with countryside views. Steps to double bedroom. Bathroom/W.C. Shower room/W.C. First floor: Two twin-bedded rooms.

Self-catering country Holiday Cottage Glen Lethnot Angus Scotland

Self-catering country Holiday Cottage, Glen Lethnot, Angus, Scotland. Surrounded by breathtaking scenery, these two beautiful adjoining period stone cottages are situated in secluded Glen Lethnot - an unspoilt Angus glen. A great sense of peace is felt here among the green slopes and heather clad hills, nestling behind the two Iron Age Hill Forts - the Brown and White Caterthuns. Although in a wonderfully rural setting, these two newly refurbished holiday cottages, West Balfield Cottage and East Balfield Cottage, are just 5 miles from the village of Edzell with its selection of shops, tearooms and parks. Excellent walks, with an abundance of wildlife, abound from the doorstep, or slightly further afield at Glen Prosen, Clova, Glen Isla and Glen Esk. Numerous golf courses are within a short drive and this, coupled with excellent beaches at St Cyrus and Montrose, make it an ideal spot for couples or families. The house also features an attractive garden with access through to the woods beyond. The Victorian Heritage Trail through Fettercairn to Braemar passes through some gorgeous scenery, and there are numerous castles and stately homes to visit. The Distillery at Fettercairn is of note for whisky lovers, whilst the peace and tranquillity of this beautiful area can just simply be enjoyed. Fishing, stalking, horse riding and golf are nearby and can be arranged on request. Living room with open fire. Modern kitchen with breakfast area. Utility/boot room. Two bedrooms, each with rugs on wooden floor; one double with 5ft bed, and one twin-bedded with additional foldaway bed (for +1 child only). Bathroom/W.C. with shower cubicle.

Self-catering seaside Holiday Cottage Crovie Banffshire Scotland

Self-catering, seaside Holiday Cottage, Crovie, Banffshire, Scotland. This gorgeous little cottage, Weavers Cottage, with its strong Indian influence throughout, offers something different from others in this quaint conservation village. Beautiful throws and fabrics adorn the little cabin bed in the living room which acts as a comfortable sofa. The sea is literally just a few yards from the front of the cottages. Being at the foot of a cliff with a rugged coastline, enjoy beachcombing along the shore at low tide. You can walk to neighbouring Gardenstown (tide permitting) where there are a cluster of local shops. There are many villages to be explored, and activities such as fishing and boat trips. Shop and pub 1½ miles. Ground floor: Living room. Kitchen. Separate toilet. First floor: 1 double bedroom. Bathroom with ½-bath, shower attachment and toilet.

Self-catering Holiday Cottage Ballater Aberdeenshire Scotland

Self-catering Holiday Cottage, Ballater, Aberdeenshire, Scotland. These tastefully converted holiday cottages overlook the stunning Dee Valley in the Cairngorms National Park. Each with their own character, they are ideally situated for exploring the north east of Scotland. Victoria Cottage is so named because of its association with Queen Victoria as the place where she first met John Brown; Byron, because this was where the poet is said to have written ’Fair Morven’ and finally Fir Tree, due to the planting of said tree next to the cottage. All are warm and comfortable and benefit from fine views to the front. Aberdeenshire is a wonderful area to explore and has everything an outdoor enthusiast could wish for such as golf, horse riding, fishing, gliding, cycling and some fantastic walking in the Cairngorms. With complimentary tickets for all the National Trust properties, the National Park offers something for every visitor and covers mountains, moorlands, forests, rivers, lochs, glens and castles. Ballater itself is a lovely village situated close to Balmoral and its famous castle. A short drive away is Lochnagar Distillery which is well worth a visit. If visiting in winter, try skiing at nearby Glenshee and Lecht ski areas. Excellent location and facilities. Shop, restaurant and pub 1 mile. All properties: Elec heaters, elec, bed linen and towels inc. DVD. Elec cooker. M/wave. Washer/dryer. Sitting-out area. No smoking please.

Large detached self-catering Holiday Lodge sleeps six Ballater Aberdeenshire Scotland

Large, detached, self-catering Holiday Lodge, sleeps six, Ballater, Aberdeenshire, Scotland. Dating back to the 19th century, this detached Victorian Lodge, Turner Hall House, offers spacious, family holiday accommodation. From the garden there is also access to woods behind the house for walks. Fishing, shooting, golf, gliding, skiing and horse riding all available locally, whilst Ballater itself offers a good range of shops (many by Royal Appointment) and eateries. Just 8 miles away is the Royal residence of Balmoral with Braemar on the upper part of Deeside. For an interesting day trip, visit Aberdeen with its striking architecture and beautiful flower gardens. Living room with wood-burning stove, bay window and window seat. Dining-room with bay window. Spacious kitchen. Utility. Step up to games room with piano, games and books. Double bedroom with en-suite shower room/W.C. Shower room/W.C. First floor: Double bedroom with wash basin. Twin-bedded room with wash basin. Shower room/W.C.

Rona from Eilean Tigh

Rona from Eilean Tigh.

Self-catering Holiday Cottage near Stonehaven Kincardineshire Scotland

Self-catering Holiday Cottage, near Stonehaven, Kincardineshire, Scotland. This cosy holiday cottage has been tastefully renovated to provide modern standards of comfort and convenience, with a fully fitted kitchen and patio doors opening onto an attractive garden. Traditional Cottage is an ideal touring base, conveniently set in Laurencekirk village amidst Scottish farming country, rich with historic sites. There is the beautiful coastline on one side and the picturesque Angus glens on the other. There is also golf close by, and the nearest beach is just 8 miles away at Montrose. Shop and pub 500 yards. Ground floor: Living/dining room with patio doors. Kitchen. Bathroom with shower over bath and toilet. First floor: 2 bedrooms: 1 double, 1 twin.

Fisherman's seaside Holiday Cottage Portknockie Banffshire Scotland

Fisherman's seaside Holiday Cottage, Portknockie, Banffshire, Scotland. This delightful little fisherman’s cottage, Tradewinds, sits just yards from the village’s rugged coastline, with a coastal path meandering down to a small shingly beach almost on the doorstep. Furnished to a good standard it offers modern conveniences and makes a super holiday base for exploring the village and surrounding area. Portknockie has lots of traditional cottages clustered above the quaint harbour, which in summer has a natural swimming pool. Ideal for Whisky and Castle Trails with sandy beaches along the coasts. Visit Duff House in Banff, Elgin, Inverness or Aberdeen for interesting days out. Shops and pubs 300 yards. Ground floor: Living room. Dining room with laminate floor. Kitchen with laminate floor. Bathroom with toilet. First floor: 2 double bedrooms, one 5ft, one with additional single, both with sloping ceilings.

Detached self-catering Holiday Cottage Aboyne Aberdeenshire Scotland

Detached, self-catering Holiday Cottage, Aboyne, Aberdeenshire, Scotland. Standing alone in an elevated rural position on the edge of the Cairngorm National Park, this traditional 19th-century farmhouse, Townhead Cottage, takes full advantage of the panoramic views over the Dee Valley towards Cairn o’ Mount and Mount Keen. Pine-lined walls and ceilings in the principal rooms combine with contemporary facilities to provide comfortable accommodation with a reminder of bygone country living; there is even an old drover’s road passing by the door. The area is renowned for its superb fishing and golf. There are restaurants and shops in Aboyne (4 miles), and many NTS properties, including Crathes Castle and garden. The property is ideal for dogs, although visitors should bear in mind that the owners keep poultry and there are sheep in the nearby fields. Parlour with open fire. Living/dining-room with restored Victorian range. Modern fitted kitchen. Shower room/W.C. First floor: Two bedrooms; one double and one twin-bedded.

Detached self-catering Holiday Cottage sleeps five by the river Spey Aberlour Banffshire Scotland

Detached, self-catering Holiday Cottage, sleeps five, by the river Spey, Aberlour, Banffshire, Scotland. This detached holiday property, Tigh-na-Bruaich, is set amidst the beauty of Strathspey in the village of Aberlour (home of Walkers Shortbread) which stands by the famous river Spey. It is an ideal base for exploring this area of Northeast Scotland, which hosts the renowned Whisky and Castle Trails, and you can walk the Speyside Way which is a trail that follows the former railway line and is well worthwhile. The Spey is a noted salmon river (permits can be obtained locally) and is host to many species of wild birds which you might see along the many fine walks. In season, skiing is available at both the Cairngorms and the Lecht. Shop, pub and restaurant 0.5 miles. Ground floor: Living room. Dining room. Kitchen. 1 double bedroom. Bathroom with shower over bath and toilet. First floor: 2 bedrooms: 1 twin, 1 single.

Large self-catering Holiday Cottage sleeps six by the river Spey Aberlour Banffshire Scotland

Large, self-catering Holiday Cottage, sleeps six, by the river Spey, Aberlour, Banffshire, Scotland. Centrally located in the pretty town of Aberlour, this house is situated just a stone’s throw from the beautiful river Spey, famous for its superb salmon fishing. This beautifully presented house, Three on High, with its high ceilings and spacious rooms provides a superb base from which to explore this area. Visitors can enjoy lovely walks direct from the property. The famous castle and whisky trails are all within a short drive. Golf, fishing, riding, hill and forest walking all locally. Shops, superb restaurants and pub all within 2 minutes walk. Ground floor: Lounge, kitchen, rod room, 1 5ft double bedroom with en-suite shower room with toilet & basin, separate toilet & basin. First floor: 2 bedrooms - 1 5ft double, 1 twin, each with en-suite bathroom with bath, shower room with toilet & basin.

Self-catering country Holiday Cottage Alford Aberdeenshire Scotland

Self-catering, country Holiday Cottage, Alford, Aberdeenshire, Scotland. The Steading is set in a quiet rural situation but just half a mile from the local inn and only 7 miles from Alford village where a swimming pool and leisure centre, golf course, extensive motor museum and good shops can be found. A convenient bright holiday house all on the first floor with fine country views. Constructed from a converted barn with a small workshop below. This is ‘Castle’ country with numerous within an hour’s drive. Aberdeen city just under an hour to the east. Shop 1 mile, pub ½ mile. All on first floor: Living/dining room. Kitchen. 2 bedrooms: 1 double, 1 twin. Shower room with toilet.

Ruins on Eilean Tigh

Ruins on Eilean Tigh.

Self-catering Holiday Cottage by the River Dee Ballater Aberdeenshire Scotland

Self-catering Holiday Cottage, by the River Dee, Ballater, Aberdeenshire, Scotland. Centrally set in the village of Ballater which sits on the famous salmon River Dee, this delightful listed holiday cottage, The Stables, has been sensitively renovated and furnished to a good standard in an attractive mews location. Visitors can enjoy easy level walking, good variety of shops and hotels and all around are world famous castles. Hill and forest walking, golf, fishing and riding are all readily available in this beautiful valley by the sparkling River Dee. Shops, pubs and restaurants 2 minutes walk. Ground floor: Living room with beams/dining room. Kitchen. 1 single bedroom. Bathroom with shower over bath and toilet. First floor: 2 bedrooms: 1 double with en-suite bathroom with shower attachment and toilet, 1 twin. Separate toilet.

Large detached country Holiday Cottage sleeps six Dufftown Banffshire Scotland

Large, detached, country Holiday Cottage, sleeps six, Dufftown, Banffshire, Scotland. Set in the magnificent scenery of Glen Rinnes this attractive detached holiday cottage, The Smithy Croft, offers peace and relaxation. Surrounded by the hills of the Glenfiddich Estate to the front and the brooding bulk of Ben Rinnes to the rear, there are walks right on the doorstep. Being in the heart of the Whisky Trail there are many distilleries to visit, salmon fishing on the Spey, cycle trails and some wonderful beaches on the Moray Firth, 25-30 miles. Shop, pub and restaurant 4.5 miles. Ground floor: Living room. Dining room/kitchen. Utility room. 1 single bedroom. Bathroom with bath, shower cubicle and toilet. First floor: 3 bedrooms: 1 double, 1 twin, 1 single with sloping ceiling.

Self-catering seaside Holiday Cottage Gardenstown Banffshire Scotland

Self-catering, seaside Holiday Cottage, Gardenstown, Banffshire, Scotland. This well furnished terraced holiday property, The Sanctuary, occupies a marvellous elevated position in the quaint village of Gardenstown. Offering fine views over the bay from the front garden, visitors can enjoy al-fresco dining while looking for dolphins and other marine life. The village clings to the steep, rugged coastline, and the property is a short but quite steep walk to the harbour and old seatown. There is a shop a few hundred yards away which offers basic essentials in addition to a hotel, cafe, tearoom, gallery and pottery. Visit the other villages along the coast; Pennan, Crovie and Banff, each with their own charms. Shop, pub and restaurant 0.5 miles. Ground floor: Living room with double sofa bed (alternative sleeping only)/dining room/kitchen. 1 double bedroom. Shower room with toilet. Loft ladder to 1 twin bedroom with sloping ceiling.

Large detached Holiday Cottage sleeps nine Gardenstown Banffshire Scotland

Large, detached Holiday Cottage, sleeps nine, Gardenstown, Banffshire, Scotland. This wonderful detached house, The Salmon House, sits directly on Gardenstown Harbour, providing marvellous views from the lounge to the sea beyond. Built in the 1870’s this building was the salmon packing warehouse, net store and boat house for the fishermen of the village. You can walk out the door down to a sandy beach with towering cliffs or walk out on the pier. In the local area are a maritime museum, an award winning aquarium, several golf courses, walks to colonies of gannets, razorbills and puffins and boat tours of the Moray Firth. Whales, dolphins and seals are seen along the coast. Easily accessible are the Castle and Whisky Trails along the River Spey and in the heart of Aberdeenshire. Shop 200 yards, pub 250 yards, restaurant 35 yards. Ground floor: Living/dining room. Kitchen. 1 double bedroom. First floor: 3 bedrooms: 1 double plus single, 1 double plus single leading to 1 single bedroom with en-suite bathroom and toilet. Shower room and toilet. Wooden floors throughout.

Detached self-catering country Holiday Cottage Braemar Aberdeenshire Scotland

Detached, self-catering, country Holiday Cottage, Braemar, Aberdeenshire, Scotland. The Old School House is a totally renovated, traditionally spacious, detached holiday cottage set in the small hamlet of Inverey, 4 miles out of Braemar on the road to the Linn of Dee. Wide open expansive views to the rear of the heather clad hills and mountains and attractive mature woodland with wonderful walks from the front door. Tracks lead to Derry Lodge and on into the Grampian Mountains. Golf, restaurants and shops in the village. Shop and pub 4 miles. Ground floor: Living room. Dining room/kitchen. Bathroom with toilet. First floor: 3 bedrooms: 1 twin, 1 double with en-suite shower room and toilet, 1 single (accessed via double).

Detached self-catering Holiday Cottage Portknockie Banffshire Scotland

Detached, self-catering Holiday Cottage, Portknockie, Banffshire, Scotland. This attractive detached property, The Old Post Office, has been tastefully decorated and furnished for your comfort where you may care to relax in the beautiful surroundings of this coastal village or tour this most attractive part of Moray-Shire which hosts many amenities including golf, horse riding and walking along safe sandy beaches. For those who wish to explore the Whisky and Castle Trails these can be accessed locally. The many coastal fishing villages set at the foot of dramatic high cliffs for which the area is renowned are well worth visiting. So why not come and spend time exploring this wonderful area of Scotland. Shop, pub and restaurant 200 yards. Ground floor: Living room. Dining room/kitchen. Bathroom with shower over bath and toilet. First floor: 2 bedrooms: 1 double, 1 twin.

North Screapadal Raasay

North Screapadal Raasay.

Fisherman's self-catering Holiday Cottage Portknockie by the Moray Firth Banffshire Scotland

Fisherman's self-catering Holiday Cottage, Portknockie, by the Moray Firth, Banffshire, Scotland. This delightful detached fisherman’s cottage is situated just a stone’s throw from the spectacular coastline of Portknockie. The Old Net Store has been wonderfully renovated to provide bright and attractive holiday accommodation whilst retaining a ‘feel’ for the past. Situated on the Moray Firth, this lovely fishing village offers an ideal location for touring this beautiful and unspoilt area. Dolphins and seals are regularly spotted along the coast (boat trips available to view close-to-hand). There is a good selection of small shops, together with pubs and restaurants within easy walking distance. Golf, fishing, riding, cycling and visiting the world famous Malt Whisky and Castle Heritage Trails are all highly recommended. Shop 50 yards, pub 120 yards. Ground floor: Living room. Dining room. Kitchen. First floor: 2 bedrooms: 1 double, 1 twin. Bathroom with shower over bath and toilet. Most rooms with wooden floors.

Large self-catering country Holiday Cottage sleeps eight Tomintoul Banffshire Scotland

Large, self-catering, country Holiday Cottage, sleeps eight, Tomintoul, Banffshire, Scotland. The Old Kennels sits above Tomintoul, reputedly the highest village in the Highlands, with spectacular views across to the mountains beyond. This single-storey, traditionally built holiday cottage was where the gundogs were housed when the area was owned by the Dukes of Richmond and Gordon. It is now part of the Glenlivet Crown Estate with its series of trails and wildlife programmes organised by the estate ranger in Tomintoul. The property has been refurbished and modernised whilst maintaining its traditional atmosphere with a farmhouse kitchen and modern bathroom, and open fires in the living room and master bedroom. It has a large garden on two levels and a separate vegetable garden where guests can pick their own produce. It is an ideal family base to explore both Speyside to the west and Dee and Donside to the east, the latter by way of the spectacular Tomintoul to Cock Bridge road. Tomintoul itself, which is less than a mile away, now has three craft shops and a number of eating places, one of which is the spacious and atmospheric lounge bar of the Glenavon Hotel which provides excellent family bar lunches. Situated within the Cairngorm National Park, there is a wide variety of sporting activity to be enjoyed. Fishing is available at all levels from the local River Avon and its tributaries to the nearby Spey. The holiday cottage is within easy reach of golf courses of all standards including the championship course at Aviemore and the Donald Steel designed 9-hole course at nearby Ballindalloch Castle. There is superb local walking and dogs are welcomed in the main rooms. The Speyside Way spur starts in Tomintoul and the Cairngorm mountains offer outstanding climbing and hill walking. The Extreme Dream indoor climbing wall at Aviemore, also with an exciting outdoor programme, is very welcoming to all standards. Visitors can go dolphin watching by boat off the Moray Coast an hour away and explore the magnificent beaches. The Tomintoul trekking centre at St Bridget’s farm is a BHS approved centre with animals and treks to suit all standards. The cottage is in the centre of the Whisky Trail with the renowned Whisky Castle shop in Tomintoul and an excellent visitors’ centre at The Glenlivet. In winter there is skiing locally at the Lecht and at Aviemore, where guests can also visit the reindeer herd on the Cairngorms. For a special meal visit the award-winning Minmore House Hotel at nearby Glenlivet. Living room with open fire. Large, well-equipped, farmhouse-style kitchen with electric range cooker and Belfast sink. Two double bedrooms, each with 5ft bed; one with open fire. Bunk-bedded room. Single bedroom. Bathroom/W.C. with over-bath shower. Separate W.C.