The south-east corner of Scotland has a dramatic coastline where soaring cliffs alternate with sandy beaches. There can be few more romantic spots on this shoreline than the ruin of Fast Castle, between Cockburnspath (5m, shop, pub, (Pease Bay) end of Southern Upland Way) and Coldingham, (8m, shop, pub ) perched on a rocky crag and reached by a spectacular steep track. At the top of the path going down to the castle is Fast Castle Cottage, one of a row of traditional farm cottages, now lovingly and most beautifully modernised by the owners.
Reached by a quiet single-track road which ends at the owner's farm, it stands in its own, neat, enclosed garden, with parking alongside. Far from traffic, it is therefore ideal for children, who will enjoy the friendly sheep who come nosing along the fence. (The owners will be happy to supply free range eggs, Soay lamb andmutton - raised organically on the farm.)
Inside it is cosy and well appointed. The sitting room has a wood-burning stove, which supplements the oil-fired central heating, there is a very well equipped dining kitchen, bathroom with shower, and upstairs, two bedrooms.
Guests are welcome to enjoy the spectacular walks around the farm There are many Sites of Special Scientific Interest, including archaeological sites, flora and fauna (look out for, peregrines, seabirds nesting on the cliffs at the castle, as well as geese and other migratory birds which visit the lochan just along from the cottage.). As if that were not enough, the National Trust reserve on the fabulous cliffs at St Abbs, one of the foremost sites in the country for seabirds, is only 10 miles away.
Another aspect which makes Fast Castle Cottage really special is the fact that the beach over the hill from the cottage is, from late October/early November a nursery for grey seal pups - the beach is literally covered with them- a truly unforgettable sight.
Further afield, you can walk round the coastal path or cycle the Borders Cycle Routes. There is surfing at Pease Bay and Coldingham, (Pease Bay also has an amusement park). St Abbs is arguably one of the finest centres in Europe for scuba diving. You are within easy reach of some of the best golf courses in the country. Eyemouth and Duns have pleasant country courses, but to hit the Big Time, head up to Dunbar (14m, where there is another family park with go-karts and llamas!) and play one of the many excellent links courses up there, Luffness or even Muirfield itself.
Berwick on Tweed is a historic town, much fought over between England and Scotland throughout the centuries and it is well worth a visit. From there, if a day in the capital appeals, you can take the train to Edinburgh, (or you can drive in about an hour from the cottage.) Inland, there are a number of castles and stately homes to visit - Ayton Castle, Paxton House, or even, if you dip into England, Alnwick, Bamburgh and Lindisfarne.
Heating by oil-fired central heating (INCLUDED) and wood-burning stove. Bed linen and towels are INCLUDED. Two small or one large dog is welcome by arrangement, but must be kept under strict control at all times. Smoking is not permitted in the cottage.
