Autumn is a season for the senses in Scotland
15 September 2021
With forests, mountains and lochs lit up by the red and gold hues as the leaves change their colours, now is a fantastic time to visit the Scottish countryside. Why not get friends and family together for the October half-term or plan ahead for your Christmas and Hogmanay celebrations with a Farm Stay Scottish break?
The advantage of staying on a farm is finding yourself in some very special and often luxurious locations with hosts who are keen to share an insight into the landscape they know so well. Your break away will enable you to relax and become rejuvenated like never before. Picture yourself relaxing in front of a breathtaking view that’s right outside your window, exploring historical landmarks, having adventures in the hills enjoying your favourite activity or trying something new.
Scotland is a perfect destination for those who love the outdoors, whether that be scaling mountains or gentler wildlife-spotting rambles, exhilarating road cycling and mountain bike riding, fishing, and golf. There are castles and stately homes to explore and fascinating history to become immersed in, as well as local food specialities to savour. And don’t miss the opportunity to sample Scotland’s famous whiskeys with a tour of a whiskey distillery if you can.
Farm Stay have the perfect places for you to stay in bonnie Scotland, whether you are looking for a comfortable B&B, a self-catering cottage, or somewhere to pitch up with your campervan. So come on… what are you waiting for? Plan your own Farm Stay Scottish escape today!
Here is a selection of delightful Scottish Farm Stay properties to whet your appetite…
Pilmuir is a former coaching inn set in three acres of land in the Cairngorms National Park. It is within easy reach of the Snow Roads Scenic Route, North Coast 500 and the North East 250, so it’s a perfect base from which to explore. This characterful four-bedroom self-catering cottage has panoramic views over the nearby mountains and abundant wildlife on its doorstep. The owners have made sure that it offers a home-from-home experience for families, with a modern kitchen with a range cooker, a living/dining area with woodburner stove, a utility and drying room. There’s even an option to have your own hot tub! For those bringing their own skis or bikes, there’s a store especially for them.
Culligran Cottages are located on a Highland estate within Glen Strathfarrar, one of Scotland’s secret glens, a Special Area of Conservation. It’s the perfect base from which to enjoy the great outdoors, exploring the Highlands, including Loch Ness. There’s a choice of a spacious traditional cottage or one of four Norwegian chalets all of which offer fabulous views and the chance watch the wild deer from your window. This is a working sheep and deer farm and you’ll have the opportunity to meet the animals on a conducted tour. Popular activities here are salmon and trout fishing on the river Farrar, watching wildlife, walking and cycling on the estate’s private roads (bike hire is available).
As guests arrive at Orroland Holiday Cottages, near Kirkcudbright, Dumfries & Galloway, they pass between statuettes of eagles sat atop gateposts. Secret gardens and inspiring scenery open up ahead revealing a fairy tale-style tower and a landscaped loch, then sweeping views over fields to the sea, the Isle of Man and the Cumberland Hills beyond. The two comfy cottages and large lodge offer a perfect setting for a break away from it all on this coastal farm, for couples, families and larger groups. Dumfries and Galloway is renowned for producing fine foods, so be sure to follow the owners’ recommendation to order in ingredients for grocery deliveries for your stay.
At The Bairnkine in the Scottish borders there’s a choice of two well-equipped cottages as well as pitches for caravans on an organic farm with far-reaching views and its own nature walks. This area has a rich history, culture and tradition and it’s well worth a visit to nearby Jedburgh with its Abbey, Mary Queen of Scots House and the Castle Jail and Museum to get a flavour of Scotland’s past. The Borders is also an ideal destination for active visitors with options for horse riding, golf, fishing, walking, cycling and shooting close by.
Blarghour Farm has a beautiful and peaceful setting by the shore of Loch Awe, Scotland’s longest freshwater loch. It has four characterful self-catering holiday cottages sleeping two to six. Close to Inveraray and Oban in Argyll, there’s lots to see and do in this area. Drive through scenic Glenorchy and see the majestic mountains of Glen Coe, take a day trip from Oban to Mull, Iona and Staffa, the location of Fingal’s Cave, or visit Inveraray Castle and gardens. Leave the car behind and take off on walking routes to explore hills, forests, mountains and nature reserves, keeping a look out for red deer, birds of prey and beavers too if you visit Knapdale Forest. Thrill seekers should head to the High Wire courses at the Nevis Range near Fort William where it’s also possible to hire bikes and ride the mountain trails.