As the days get longer, new life begins to blossom and the colour in the leaves returns, spring arrives and Easter is not far behind! Whether you desire to spend your Easter break adjacent to a castle, watching new lambs frolic on the farm, or resetting on the coastline, Scotland has a destination for all of your springtime adventures.
A Castle on the Coast
Nestled in the heart of Dunrobin Home Farm, spend a fairytale Easter just a 5-minute stroll from the magnificent Dunrobin Castle at Kennels Cottage at Dunrobin. The main draw is, of course, the magnificent Dunrobin Castle, which perches on the coastline of Dornoch Firth. Once home to the Sutherland Estate’s gamekeepers, the cottage has been renovated into a cosy comfort, highlighting its wood-burning stove, flagstone kitchen floors, and covered sitooterie outdoors.
Embrace Easter with wildlife watching, find arriving ospreys, wandering red deer, sleepy otters or nocturnal visitors like owls, bats and perhaps the Northern Lights. More wildlife can be found at Loch Fleet National Nature Reserve, just 3 miles from Kennels Cottage.
The abundance of majestic landscapes in Sutherland means an abundance of exciting dog walks to embark on. Discover the beautiful coast at Golspie Beach (1.5 miles) or follow part of the North Coast 500 route. Find the Duke of Sutherland Monument at the summit of Ben Bhraggie. Or stroll along the beautiful coastline from the castle to the picturesque coastal village, Brora.
You’re spoilt for choice with golfing options. Stay for a round of golf at Brora’s beautiful coastal golf course, return to Golspie for theirs, or try the Royal Dornoch’s Championship course, which is nearby. While in Dornoch (12 miles), enjoy their Spring Highland Festival, full of ceilidh dancing, farm visits, historical walks and delicious food and drink.
Easter on the Estate
All the benefits of the delightful Dalmunzie Estate in the Cairngorms National Park can be enjoyed from the comfort of your two-bedroom home at Sauchmore Cottage in Spittal of Glenshee in Perthshire. The cottage features a warming wood burner and an elegant French door to the garden, inviting in beautiful views of the Cairngorms and perhaps little lambs gracing the neighbouring fields.
Walkers, climbers and animal lovers have much to explore due to the varied terrain and array of wildlife on the extensive estate. Guests noted outside the picture window at Sauchmore is the “ ’Maternity ward’ for the numerous lambs we watched being born and taking their first steps during the week we were there”, making it the perfect location for your spring holiday. More wildlife can be seen at the Loch of Kinnordy RSPB Reserve (24 miles).
The 79th-tallest mountain in Scotland, Glas Tulaichean, can be found on the vast grounds of the Dalmunzie Estate, or guests can join in on part of the Cateran Trail as the route passes near the cottage. Spend your Easter uncovering the Mary Queen of Scots history at Glamis Castle and take the Lambs on the Loose Easter Trail at Huntingtower Castle, great fun for the family. Visit Balmoral Castle Estate and Gardens as they open for their summer season. After all the Easter adventures, return to your countryside abode at Sauchmore Cottage.
Lochside Lounging
Settled on the shores of Loch Fyne in Strachur, Cottage by the Shore is perfectly described by its name and promises magnificent views of the loch and the sublime surroundings of Argyll, right on your doorstep. Sit in the bay window looking out to the shore while you cosy yourself by the log fire, dine on your Easter chocolate, or simply appreciate the beautiful new life gracing the outdoors. Out on the Loch, there’s a chance of spotting dolphins, porpoises, minke whales and seals. Water sports, diving and boat tours can be arranged on Loch Fyne.
Take an Easter Sunday walk in Glenbranter woods part of Argyll Forest Park. Dine in at the highly acclaimed Inver Restaurant, just a 10-minute drive away. After your meal, begin your walk by parking adjacent to Lachlan Bay, crossing your way over to Old Castle Lachlan, a fascinating castle ruin. It’s the perfect time of year to visit the Benmore Botanic Gardens for remarkable views overlooking Holy Loch, the rhododendrons coming into bloom or spotting wandering wildlife. A day trip can be taken to the Isle of Bute, visit Mount Stuart’s magnificent house and gardens, or the impressive Rothesay Castle. After all the spring adventure, return to your waterside cottage at Cottage by the Shore and drift off to the quiet sounds of your adjacent loch.
Slow Down and Savour Scenic Trails
Found near the historic market town of Duns, The Barley House is a beautifully semi-detached stone cottage. Surrounded by peaceful arable land and rolling pastures, peace, serenity. Take the scenic trail along a disused railway from the cottage, leading right up to the Palladian Marchmont House. Take a dog walk to the last 12th-century/ early 13th-century remnants of Hume Castle (5 miles). Cruise through acres of majestic farmland, see lambs frolic in fields or nip to nearby Duns for a wander round the Castle Estate and Hen Poo Pond for a scenic walk in the fresh spring air. Slow down with fishing on the River Blackadder and reward yourself with a hearty meal at the extremely popular local pub, The Blackadder.
While there’s plenty to do outside in spring, The Barley House has plenty of activities to keep your schedule full. Rise with the sun and take in the morning air with yoga out on the east-facing patio, the equipment provided by the house. In the evenings, lounge with loved ones in the family room, equipped with a comfy corner sofa, board games, and a TV with plenty of DVDs for regular movie nights, or watch the uninterrupted skies fill up with stars. Whether you’re indoors or outdoors, slow down at The Barley House and enjoy a restful start to spring.
From secret spots, grand historic castles and cosy cottages all against backdrops of unforgettable scenery, there’s endless adventure to embark on in Scotland this spring.
