Jarbruck Lodge is a substantial, traditional Victorian detached cottage now beautifully restored to the highest standards. It was originally the paymaster's house for a large estate.
It stands in its own large, enclosed gardens just off a quiet country road amid wonderful countryside near the conservation village of Moniaive in Dumfriesshire and some 14 miles from Dumfries itself. Although in a different world, it is reached comfortably in less than two hours from either Glasgow or Edinburgh and within easy access of the M74.
The lodge is a much loved second home. Although not isolated, it has no immediate neighbours and any activity draws much interest from the cows and sheep who watch curiously from the fields. The interior is traditional in style with all modern comforts and conveniences. It has oil fired central heating complemented by open fires and woodburning stoves. The spacious accommodation comprises two sitting rooms, a large kitchen-dining room, three bedrooms and two bathrooms. Half glazed stable doors lead out onto gardens and a flag stoned patio where you can enjoy early morning coffee in the sun, perhaps in the company of visiting woodpeckers and red squirrels stopping off for their breakfast. (A new orchard is also planned). The village of Moniaive is approximately two miles from the house and is pleasant walk or cycle. It has a well stocked grocery shop, a post office, a gift and craft shop and a choice of three restaurants.
This southwest corner of Scotland is truly one of the country's lesser known gems, and at Jarbruck Lodge you are well placed to explore and enjoy it to the full. Forest tracks lead into the Galloway hills behind the house offering spectacular views and an abundance of wildlife. Walkers can spend hours exploring with red squirrels, roe deer, buzzards and dragonflies for company. The Southern Upland Way is easily accessible from the village for those who wish to embark on more strenuous walks. Galloway Sailing Centre at Loch Ken (25 minutes) offers tuition in all water sports and spectacular mountain biking is available at Drumlanrig castle and in the nearby Forests of Ae and Dalbeattie. There is abundant fishing in the countryside around the cottage. The river Nith is well known for its excellent long salmon season and the lochs of nearby Drumlanrig Estate offer rainbow and brown trout fishing in lovely scenery. Tuition and ghillie services are available.
Nature lovers will revel in these surroundings. Particular points of interest are the nearby Red Kite trail, a 25 mile round road route with view points designed to give you the best chance to see these magnificent birds so successfully re-introduced to the Galloway countryside. Mersehead nature reserve, near Dumfries, is home to a wide variety of wildlife at different times of the year - lapwings, snipe, barnacle geese, skylarks, dragonflies, natterjack toads and butterflies.
For 'foodies' a trip to the market town of Castle Douglas is a real treat - this small town has developed a deserved reputation as a gourmet centre for local produce. Internationally acclaimed artist Andrew Goldsworthy lives nearby and takes much of his inspiration from the Galloway Hills. His Striding Arches project is close to the cottage and is an intriguing and impressive sight.
The Solway coast, with its magnificent beaches, is about 45 minutes drive from the house. While there, be sure not to miss Caerlaverock Castle and Sweetheart Abbey. Historic Drumlanrig Castle with its wonderful art collection, museum, shop and restaurant, is closer to home being just a few miles from the Lodge. Mountain bikes can be hired at Drumlanrig to explore miles of trails in the grounds. Garden lovers will enjoy a visit to the National Trust gardens at Threave (27m) and Logan Botanic Garden 14 miles from Stranraer.
Bed linen, towels, heating and electricity are all INCLUDED. One starter basket of logs will be available in the winter months. One well behaved dog is welcome by arrangement. Smoking is not permitted within the house. A refundable householder's deposit will be required. Freezer filling/outside catering service is available in Moniaive.
