If you're on the lookout for something completely different in the way of holiday accommodation, have you ever considered staying in an inkwell? No, thought not, but here's your chance!
'The Inkwells' is the nickname given to the Gate Lodges at Cairness, on a quiet country road a couple of miles inland from the Aberdeenshire coast between Peterhead and Fraserburgh. They form the entrance to the Cairness Estate, now privately owned and with the historic Cairness House. the most important Greek Revival country house in Scotland, at its heart.
Cairness Lodge has now been extended and most beautifully restored as a high spec holiday cottage, which provides a taste of gracious living on a manageable scale. The elegant open plan living area has an open fire and French doors accessing a patio area and there are two bedrooms and two bathrooms. Outside, there is off-road parking for up to four cars and a secluded garden area.
Cairness House, which dates from the 1790s and was designed by the renowned architect James Playfair, has now been completely restored and houses a fine art collection which may be visited.
A certain Mr Trump has already spotted this area's potential as a holiday destination, but at present it is remarkably peaceful and unspoiled. There are several good golf courses within a very short drive of the Lodge while extensive beach at Rattray is within walking distance of the Lodge.
The RSPB reserve at Strathbeg is also close by. This is Britain's largest dune loch where all manner of waders, wildfowl, raptors etc may be seen. It is however perhaps best known for the huge flocks of wintering geese, ducks and swans which fly in, from September onwards, among them 20% of the entire world population of pink-footed geese - a truly unforgettable sight.
Peterhead and Fraserburgh have all facilities and an early morning visit to the Peterhead fish market can be a remarkable experience.
To the south, Aberdeen (airport, all facilities) is within a 45 minute drive. On the way, you could make a detour to take in Fyvie Castle, Haddo House and the gardens at Pitmedden, all well worth seeing. There is a further award-winning beach at Balmedie. To the west, all the picturesque fishing villages of the Aberdeenshire and Moray coasts await exploration.
Electric heating, bed linen and towels are all INCLUDED in the rental. Sorry, pets are not accepted and smoking is not permitted within the Lodge. A householder's deposit will be required.
