In a lovely secluded position high in the green and purple Border hills some 10 miles south of Selkirk (all facilities) and with views to die for over the unspoilt Borthwick valley - not another house in sight! - Easter Harden Cottage is a delightful and comfortable holiday retreat from the cares of the world.
The cottage is south facing, bright and sunny and really warm in all seasons with its open fire, modern white meter electric heating and double glazed windows. Furnished and equipped to a very high standard, it is reached by a private drive, and stands in its own enclosed garden grounds (summer house, furniture), where children can play far from traffic and adults can relax and unwind in glorious surroundings. The cottage also has a small barn housing a table tennis table for visitors' use.
Inside, it has a bright and cosy sitting room with doors to the garden, a spacious kitchen diner, made particularly warm by the electric Aga (full instructions given for non-Aga hands) and three excellent bedrooms, one with en suite bathroom.
There is superb walking in the hills straight from the doorstep. This is traditional riding country; visitors can bring their own horse by arrangement, or mounts can be hired nearby. Loch fishing is available on the Estate, where visitors can also enjoy bird-watching and mountain biking. Craik Forest, reputedly the largest man-made forest in Europe, is close by, with many woodland trails to explore on two feet or two wheels.
Further afield, Edinburgh can be reached within 1½ hours while Hawick (5m, shops, restaurants, swimming pool) is 'the home of cashmere' and is the nearest place for shopping. The many stately homes, gardens and country houses for which the Borders are famous are within easy distance. For longer trips, you are almost equidistant between the beaches of the Berwickshire coast to the east and the Solway coast to the west.
Heating is by off-peak white meter electric central heating and open-fire. Electricity is included up to the value of £20.00. Bed linen and towels may be hired. Pets are welcome. Sorry, no smoking in the house.
