Right on the seafront of the little village of Portessie, some 50 miles east of Inverness, and with glorious views over the waters of the Moray Firth (look out for the dolphins and seals which regularly pass the windows!), Bayview House was built in the late 19th century for a fishing family who sailed from the bay in front of it.  It has since been doubled in size and is now a spacious, comfortably furnished and well-equipped house,  even down to a games room with pool table, which makes an  excellent base for exploring this fascinating area.
 
All the picturesque villages along this lovely (and very sunny) coast retain the character and tradition of their seafaring past, and Portessie is no exception.  From its central position on this coast you can explore to east and west by car, or walk for miles along its many sandy beaches.  Alternatively, you can head inland, perhaps to join the Speyside Way, visit the many whisky distilleries, play the excellent golf courses or visit the historic castles and houses in the hinterland.  Most sports are catered for locally; the river Findhorn to the east is noted for its canoeing and fishing, while the proximity of the Spey itself will have brought a light to the eye of all serious fishermen.  Birdlovers will make for the RSPB reserve at Spey Bay.

For an ecclesiastical day out, there is the lovely ruin of Elgin Cathedral, and you may also visit nearby Pluscarden Abbey.  On an excursion to Inverness, don't forget to take in the historic battlefield of Culloden, which retains its haunted atmosphere to this day.  By making a detour out to Fort George, you stand one of the best chances anywhere in Europe of spotting the pods of dolphins making their way through the narrows there into the inner Moray Firth.

 Nearby Buckie has all facilities.  Heating is by gas central heating and electricity (£15 included).  Bed linen is included and towels may be hired.  Pets welcome by arrangement.

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