Elspinhope, Ettrick Valley, Ettrick, Selkirk, Scottish Borders

Elspinhope, Ettrick Valley, Ettrick, Selkirk, Scottish Borders

Elspinhope is a serene self-catering holiday cottage located in the picturesque Scottish Borders, ideally positioned within the untouched landscapes of The Ettrick Valley. Perfect for accommodating up to four guests, this cottage provides a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle, inviting guests to immerse themselves in the fresh air and quiet of the area.

Situated on Cossarshill Farm, a 1,400-acre hill sheep farm adjacent to the Southern Upland Way, Elspinhope champions environmental conservation. The farm is designated as an Environmentally Sensitive Area (ESA), where ongoing conservation projects such as dry stone walling and planting native woodlands are a testament to the owners' commitment to sustainability. Guests at Elspinhope can enjoy unrestricted access to the farm, offering the chance to explore numerous walking paths along the hills and by the river.

The cottage itself is secured with a post-and-rail fence around the garden area, which includes a picnic table and a pathway leading down to the Cossarshill Burn, showcasing rocky pools and a small waterfall. The interior of Elspinhope is designed to be a home away from home, providing a warm and inviting atmosphere. Each window frames stunning views of the surrounding scenery and wildlife, making it possible to enjoy nature's beauty from the comfort of your room.

Elspinhope is thoughtfully furnished to maximize comfort, featuring a double bedroom and a twin bedroom with en suite facilities. It also includes a bathroom equipped with a shower over the bath, a well-equipped kitchen for self-catering needs, and a large sitting/dining room with a 55-inch wall-mounted TV, offering all streaming services accessible with guests' own passwords. Utility room facilities include a washing machine, dryer, and ironing equipment. French windows in the dining area open out to the garden, offering picturesque views down to the burn and the expansive hills beyond.

The surrounding woodland is a haven for biodiversity, home to wildflowers, rare butterflies, and red squirrels. In the autumn, Atlantic salmon can be seen in the pool below the cottage, which also serves as an excellent swimming spot in the summer.

The Ettrick Valley is celebrated for its ecological diversity, housing various mammals like otters, badgers, and red squirrels, alongside rare birds such as ospreys and black grouse. The cottage serves as an excellent base for hillwalking, with local amenities for fishing, golf, riding, and mountain biking also available.

For those interested in the rich history and culture of the area, visiting the Borders Historical Houses and Gardens or following the Borders Woollen Trail offers a glimpse into the region’s heritage. Nearby attractions such as the Eskadalemuir Forest, Samye Ling Tibetan Centre, and St. Mary's Loch provide ample opportunities for exploration and adventure.

For more information please visit our website:

https://www.theholidaycottages.co.uk/scottishborders/11822

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Mungo's Den, Carbost, Portnalong, Isle of Skye

Mungo's Den, Carbost, Portnalong, Isle of Skye

During your stay at Mungo's Den, you'll discover Portnalong, a peaceful and friendly crofting hamlet on the North-West of Skye. This vintage getaway serves as an ideal base for exploring the island's wonders, from the enchanting Fairy Pools to a dram at Talisker Distillery, or enjoying fresh seafood from the nearby Oyster shed.

Once an old telephone exchange and post office, Mungo's Den has been meticulously rescued and restored, offering a stylish holiday experience. With a calm and restful atmosphere brimming with style and character, the property features recycled and reclaimed materials throughout. The spiral staircase, rescued from a garden, has been lovingly restored.

The living room boasts warmed floors, a log burner, a comfortable sofa, and a dining table, continuing the recycled theme. The kitchen incorporates a blend of crockery and Victorian cupboard doors. The bathroom is equipped with a rolled-top bath and underfloor heating for added comfort, while the mezzanine level features a super king bed and Velux windows. The first-floor bedroom offers a double bed.

Guests enjoy exclusive access to the entire property, including a small seating area at the rear and convenient front parking. Mungo's Den provides a vintage retreat with a perfect blend of history and contemporary comforts.

Portnalong & Carbost boasts some of the most breathtaking scenery, including the famous Cuillin Mountains. You can enjoy scenic beach walks at Fiskavaig Bay, Talisker & Glen Brittle. Talisker Distillery, only 3 miles away, offers guided tours. Excellent food and music are provided at The Old Inn at Carbost, and fantastic dining can be savoured at the Loch Bay Restaurant, Edinbane Lodge & The Three Chimneys. Toward Portnalong Pier, you can discover beautiful etchings and prints at Loch Harport Gallery, with an abundance of other galleries in the area as well. In Portree, the Aros Centre offers film and performing arts, eagle cams & art exhibitions, plus a popular café/bistro.

For more information please visit our website:

https://www.theholidaycottages.co.uk/isle-of-skye/17243

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Asheston Eco-Barns, Penycwm, Haverfordwest, Pembrokeshire

Asheston Eco-Barns, Penycwm, Haverfordwest, Pembrokeshire

Asheston Eco Barns are a collection of traditional Welsh stone farm buildings that have been transformed into luxurious holiday cottages. Situated in the picturesque Pembrokeshire countryside, these barns provide an ideal setting for a family holiday, combining sustainability with comfort and traditional aesthetics.

The complex consists of five attached barns, each offering privacy without connecting doors, which makes them perfect for larger extended family holidays. Guests will appreciate the privacy along with the convenience of being close to loved ones. The barns are accessed by a quarter-mile of private drive, ensuring seclusion, and there is plenty of parking available at the rear of the property.

Each barn is tastefully furnished with antique furniture and traditional log burning stoves, creating a cozy atmosphere for those chilly evenings. The comfort extends beneath your feet with geo-thermal underfloor heating throughout the barns. The bathrooms are equipped with walk-in wet room showers, supported by high-tech solar panels and large hot water tanks, ensuring a constant supply of hot water.

Outdoors, each barn has its own secluded landscaped area, perfect for dining al fresco or enjoying a sunset with a glass of wine. The design also includes accessibility features, with bedrooms and wet room showers on the ground floor to accommodate those with restricted mobility.

For families, Asheston Eco Barns offer an enclosed play area that caters to all ages, from babies to teenagers. The play area includes a variety of equipment from gentle swings to an adventurous pirate ship and an exhilarating zip wire, ensuring entertainment for every guest.

Just a short drive away, the Blue flag sandy beach at Newgale offers a day of sun and surf with facilities for hiring surfboards, skis, surf canoes, and wet suits. Whether you choose to explore the beach via a scenic path from Pen Y Cwm or use the convenient car parks at either end of the beach, ample opportunities for fun and relaxation await.

Asheston Eco Barns provide a perfect blend of traditional charm, modern luxury, and eco-friendly living, making them an excellent choice for anyone looking to enjoy the natural beauty and tranquility of Pembrokeshire.

For more information please visit our website:

https://www.theholidaycottages.co.uk/pembrokeshire/11306

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Beechenhill Farm Cottages, Ilam, Ashbourne, Derbyshire

Beechenhill Farm Cottages, Ilam, Ashbourne, Derbyshire 

Set in the heart of the Peak District National Park, Beechenhill Farm offers an unforgettable getaway with three charming holiday cottages. Set in a location just up the hill from the picturesque Dovedale, this award-winning destination provides the perfect blend of comfort, charm, and natural beauty.

The Old Wash House - Sleeps 4
The Old Wash House is a spacious cottage in the guest wing of a traditional farmhouse, ideal for couples but also accommodating up to four with an optional second bedroom. The master bedroom boasts a canopied king-size bed and breathtaking valley views, complemented by an ensuite bathroom with a luxurious rainfall shower. Downstairs, guests can enjoy a cosy sitting room with a log-burning stove, leading to a bright, modern kitchen/dining room. Outside, relax in the farmhouse garden or unwind on the private patio, perfect for soaking up the evening sun.

Beechenhill Cottage - Sleeps 2
For a romantic escape, Beechenhill Cottage offers privacy and tranquillity for two. The cottage features a canopied king-size bed and a bathroom with a bath and rainfall shower. The cosy sitting room, complete with a real fire, leads to a compact but well-equipped kitchen with a dining table perfectly positioned by a picture window showcasing the rolling farmland. Outside, the private walled garden is an idyllic spot to enjoy sunsets or watch the surrounding wildlife, from hares bounding through the fields to flocks of birds overhead.

Cottage by the Pond - Sleeps 6 & Wheelchair Accessible
Cottage by the Pond provides a spacious, accessible retreat for up to six guests, making it ideal for families or groups of friends. With three bedrooms, including two on the ground floor and one in the rafters, the cottage features flexible sleeping arrangements, including two zip-and-link beds and a twin room. Accessibility is a priority, with features such as level access, electric profiling beds, a riser recliner in the sitting room, and a large wet room equipped with grab rails, a fold-down shower seat, and a low bath. The cosy sitting/dining room, complete with a log burner, opens onto a south-facing courtyard with stunning views, outdoor seating, and a walled pond.

On-Site Activities and Amenities
Families will delight in the variety of activities available on-site. Children can play on the garden chess set, fly kites in the fields, or enjoy the seesaw and swing in the farmhouse garden.

For ultimate relaxation, the Swedish wood-fired hot tub and secret cave provide a magical experience under the stars. Guests can enhance their experience with a luxury package that includes robes, fizz, and handmade chocolates. The Swedish barrel sauna, complete with an outdoor fireplace and hot/cold rainfall shower, is another delightful feature, offering the perfect setting for a rejuvenating escape.

The Haybarn offers a versatile space for courses, workshops, and events or can be transformed into a games room with table tennis, trestle tables, and chairs, depending on your needs.

Exploring the Local Area
Beechenhill Farm is the perfect base for exploring the Peak District and beyond. Families can enjoy local attractions such as the Peak Wildlife Park and Coombes Valley RSPB Nature Reserve. Adventurers can embark on the Farm Trail or explore Dovedale and the Manifold Valley. Other nearby attractions include the Gladstone Pottery Museum, Crich Tramway Village, Derby Museum and Art Gallery, Go Ape Buxton, and Gulliver’s.

For more information please visit our website:

https://www.theholidaycottages.co.uk/Derbyshire/18038

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The Coach House, Kirkpatrick Durham, Castle Douglas, Dumfries & Galloway

The Coach House, Kirkpatrick Durham, Castle Douglas, Dumfries & Galloway

The Coach House at Durhamhill is a carefully renovated holiday retreat set in the heart of the stunning Galloway countryside. Blending eco-friendly design with traditional charm, this beautifully restored property offers flexible accommodation for up to 16 guests. Thoughtfully crafted by local craftsmen, it provides a warm and inviting space for family gatherings, reunions, and group holidays throughout the year.

The Coach House is divided into two separate wings – the East and West – which can be rented individually or together, accommodating 6 to 8 guests per wing. For larger groups, additional space for up to six guests is available in the main house, making the property adaptable for different group sizes and occasions.

The East Wing has been transformed into a bright and spacious holiday home, designed to maximise natural light and views of the surrounding landscape. A large open-plan kitchen and sitting area features a wood-burning stove, creating a cosy atmosphere year-round. Sliding glass doors open onto an outdoor dining area, seamlessly connecting indoor and outdoor living.

The centrepiece of the dining space is a grand oak table seating up to 16 guests, perfect for shared meals. The sitting area accommodates 6 to 7 guests, with a sofa bed available for extra sleeping space.

Bedrooms include a ground-floor twin room with zip-and-link mattresses, an en-suite shower, and direct access to the decking area. A second ground-floor room features a small double bed with doors opening onto the front lawn. Upstairs, a king-size en-suite bedroom with a wet room completes the accommodation. Carefully placed windows frame stunning views, enhancing the light-filled interior.

The West Wing retains many original features, including the arched doorway of the former coach entrance, now glazed to provide spectacular views from the living room. A wood-burning stove creates a welcoming ambience, while the adjacent kitchen and dining area seats six guests, with additional room for two more.

The ground floor includes a sitting area with seating for six, a dining table for eight, and a fully equipped kitchen. A shower room is also conveniently located on this level.

Upstairs, the West Wing features a double bedroom with a small en-suite shower room, a twin room, and a bunk room with 3ft beds suitable for adults. A clever sliding partition between the twin and bunk rooms creates adaptable sleeping arrangements, allowing for two extra beds if needed.

The surrounding garden has been thoughtfully landscaped to provide private areas for each wing while preserving the site’s natural beauty. Both the East and West Wings have designated outdoor spaces with stone charcoal-burning barbecues. The East Wing's outdoor dining table seats 12, while the West Wing's seats eight.

A shared upper garden offers stunning views of the hills and the llama field, featuring a large horseshoe-shaped stone seating area for relaxation. The garden includes fruit bushes, trees, and thriving globe artichokes. Guests may also receive seasonal organic vegetables from the hosts, Alan and Juliet, during the growing season.

Visitors can meet and feed the resident llamas, making for a fun and unique experience.

A separate building provides laundry facilities, secure storage for bicycles and canoes, and a dedicated area for preparing fresh catches from local fishing trips.

The multi-purpose workshop and studio adjacent to the main building serves as an entertainment hub, equipped with table tennis, table football, and air hockey. It can also be converted into a cosy mini-cinema complete with a wood-burning stove. The studio regularly hosts artist retreats, residential courses, and small conferences, offering a versatile space for various activities.

Eco-conscious design is central to the property, with underfloor heating powered by an air-source heat pump and electricity generated by a discreet wind turbine. Sustainability is woven into every aspect of the renovation, reflecting a commitment to preserving the natural environment.

The surrounding Galloway region boasts an incredible landscape of rolling hills, peaceful lochs, and dense woodlands, framed by a dramatic coastline of rocky bays, cliff-top walks, and sandy beaches. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot ospreys, red kites, red squirrels, otters, and deer throughout the area.

For more information please visit our website:

https://www.theholidaycottages.co.uk/DumfriesAndGalloway/18027

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The Chilterns View, Ewelme, Wallingford, Oxfordshire

The Chilterns View, Ewelme, Wallingford, Oxfordshire 

The Chilterns View offers exceptional self-catering accommodation near Ewelme, nestled in the serene Oxfordshire countryside. With stunning views of the Chiltern Hills and a peaceful location, these luxurious lodges provide the perfect setting for a relaxing getaway.

Each of the beautifully designed lodges is built to a high standard using the latest eco-friendly technology. All lodges are south-facing, featuring floor-to-ceiling glass fronts and raised verandas that provide breathtaking views of the surrounding hills.

The lodges are thoughtfully furnished and come with a king-size bed, en suite wet room, and a wood-burning stove for cosy evenings. A well-equipped kitchenette ensures a convenient self-catering experience. Guests can unwind on a private side balcony, relax in their heated hot tub, or enjoy the outdoors from a hammock. A BBQ is also provided, making it easy to enjoy al fresco dining in this picturesque setting.

Two of the lodges are designed with an open-plan layout, enhancing the sense of space and connection with the outdoors. The combination of comfort and modern amenities creates a luxurious home-away-from-home atmosphere.

For larger groups, the new 'Big Safari Tent' accommodates up to ten guests. It comes with a private hot tub and its own wooded area, offering an exclusive retreat experience.

Guests can enhance their stay with clay shooting instruction provided by Riversidewood Sporting, available exclusively for lodge residents. For those seeking extra relaxation, luxury treatments are offered at an additional cost, making a stay at The Chilterns View even more indulgent.

Exploring Ewelme and Oxfordshire

The surrounding area is perfect for nature enthusiasts, with numerous walking and cycling routes nearby. The charming village of Ewelme is only a 5-10 minute walk away and features a traditional country pub and a well-stocked village shop.

Just under five miles away, Wallingford, a historic market town on the banks of the River Thames, offers a delightful mix of antique shops, art galleries, cafes, and restaurants. History enthusiasts can explore the iconic city of Oxford, home to renowned landmarks such as the Radcliffe Camera, Bodleian Library, and the Bridge of Sighs.

The Chilterns View provides a luxurious and peaceful escape while offering convenient access to some of Oxfordshire’s most beautiful and historic locations.

For more information please visit our website:

https://www.theholidaycottages.co.uk/oxfordshire/16346

The Holiday Cottages is a user friendly online directory for self catering accommodation in the UK & Ireland. To keep up to date with properties on our website join us on our social media pages below: