Standing in its own delightful, secluded and extensive garden grounds just outside the prettily named village of Beeswing, near New Abbey in Dumfriesshire, Nether Cairnyard is a large and very distinctive timber house which is sure to appeal to families and groups of friends wishing to holiday in this attractive region of southwest Scotland.
Once the home of the owner's family, the house is beautifully furnished and equipped. The spacious open plan living area is rendered bright and spacious by enormous windows, with two separate sitting areas facing in different directions, so you can catch the sun for most of the day. For warm days, patio doors lead onto large decking areas (furniture, barbecue), well sheltered by the surrounding hedges. Of the four double bedrooms, two have en suite facilities with a shared bathroom between the other two. One bedroom has additional child-size bunk beds. There is secure storage for bikes and sporting equipment in an adjoining shed. Its secluded situation also makes Nether Cairyard ideal for both children and pets.
This is a really lovely area, quiet and rural. Turning left at the village of Beeswing, you will find yourself driving along the banks of Loch Arthur (fishing permits available) and on to New Abbey, a picturesque village with the red sandstone remains of the 13th century Cistercian Sweetheart Abbey. Criffel Hill offers excellent walks and views over the Dumfriesshire countryside and across the Solway Coast.
Nearby, too, is Kirkbean, the birthplace of John Paul Jones, the ex-pirate who went on to become the founding father of the US Navy, while the coast around the scenic cove at Rockcliffe and the sandy beaches of wide Sandyhills Bay should not be missed. The area is rich in wildlife, particularly birds, and the 8-hectare NTS bird sanctuary at Rough Island can be accessed at low tide from Kippford, which is a popular sailing centre.
Dumfries and Galloway has become a favoured area for mountain bikers, with a huge selection of dedicated forest and hill trails for all grades of ability. The nearest are in the Mabie Forest just to the north east of the house, which boasts The Dark Side, a Double Black Trail(!). This can be accessed directly via a forestry road just 2 minutes walk from the house, ideal for accessing the Dark Side or just going for a walk. The Dalbeattie Forest trails too are only a few miles distant. In fact there is easy access to all the 7 Stanes cycle trails.
Those who like to get around and explore while on holiday will find plenty to do here. The A75 is a fast road which will quickly take you west to Castle Douglas, Gatehouse of Fleet, The Machars and Whithorn, Threave Castle, Loch Ken, the Rhinns of Galloway and attractive Portpatrick. And from Stranraer or Cairnryan you can even go 'abroad' for the day with a trip over to Northern Ireland.
Dumfries (7m) is the nearest large town, with all facilities for shopping, leisure (including golf courses) and entertainment.
Oil background central heating, £20 of electricity, and bed linen are INCLUDED in the rental and towels may be hired. Well-behaved pets are welcome by arrangement. Smoking is not permitted within the house. A refundable householder's deposit will be required. Wi-Fi is available, subject to provider. (Charge.)
