Guests say
Balnaird Farmhouse is highly praised for its cleanliness, stunning views, and peaceful location. Guests appreciate the well-equipped property and the wildlife watching opportunities, particularly red kites. The spacious cottage offers a comfortable stay, though some minor maintenance issues and a desire for more personal touches in the decor were noted. Overall, it serves as an excellent base for exploring the Highlands.
Guests consistently mention the property's cleanliness, describing it as 'very clean', 'spotless', and 'well-kept'. The attention to cleanliness contributes significantly to the positive experiences reported.
The location is celebrated for its fantastic views and peacefulness, making it an ideal base for exploring the Highlands and wildlife watching. Its proximity to local attractions and amenities is also appreciated.
The cottage is frequently described as comfortable, with spacious rooms and comfortable beds. However, some guests mentioned issues with heating and bedding, which slightly affected the comfort score.
Facilities are generally well-regarded, with the property being well-equipped. Some guests noted minor issues such as the need for more dining plates and a woodburner that was difficult to light, indicating room for improvement in maintenance.
While guests have not mentioned specific gifts, they have noted the provision of necessary amenities and equipment. However, due to the lack of references to gifts, a score cannot be provided for thoughtfulness.
About this property
In the idyllic Scottish Highlands, on the outskirts of the spa town of Strathpeffer stands Balnaird Farmhouse, dating all the way back to 1868, this detached stone-built cottage is a rural retreat for three. Offering a picture-perfect countryside setting, this property has been carefully renovated to bring it into the 21st century, presenting attractive holiday accommodation, ideal for walkers. After a challenging afternoon of walking, return to the cottage and relax in the sitting room or make use of the wonderful sunroom for a quiet moment. The kitchen has all you need for a self-catered stay, so you can stock up on food and essentials and enjoy home-cooked meals with your loved ones. Gather at the dining table for mealtimes and relish the opportunity for good conversation and quality time. Head upstairs to find two lovely bedrooms, with a King Size and a Single room to choose from both enjoying elegant style and furnishings, and served by the ground-floor bathroom and first-floor cloakroom. Head out in the fresh air of the garden, with outdoor furniture to use for perching at with a morning coffee or dining alfresco, you can breathe in the country air and feel excitement begin to take hold for the day ahead. The town of Strathpeffer is a lovely settlement owing its beginnings to the natural springs, it was a popular European health resort, and nowadays it has seen its old buildings restored, like the Pump Room and the Spa Pavilion, now serving as community spaces and a performing arts centre. The Highland Museum of Childhood is located in the restored Victorian train station, and delves into the realities of growing up in the Highlands, while the town also home to the Seat of the Clan Mackenzie at Castle Leod, a 15th century restored castle open to tours and home to artefacts and galleries. Walkers can choose from a host of peaks and mountains in the surrounding area to walk, as well as natural landmarks like Rogie Falls, famous for salmon viewing, this beautiful spot is surrounded by wonderful forest walks and a host of waymarked trails, as well as a viewing point overlooking the falls. Experienced hikers can challenge themselves to tackling Ben Wyvis, a vast mountain dominating a large area of the Highlands, exploring the slopes and its high whaleback ridge for truly breath-taking scenery, with Little Wyvis, its smaller neighbour offering an easier option. Dive into Loch Achilty and experience some wild swimming, enjoy some peaceful fishing at Tarvie Lochs, or hire bikes from the bike shop in Strathpeffer and explore the area on wheels. The town of Dingwall at the head of the Cromarty Firth is a historic place, home to the Dingwall Museum and as well as a great range of shops, pubs and restaurants. For a secluded Scottish getaway, enjoy the delights of Balnaird Farmhouse. EPC Rating: Band E
The Highlands village of Strathpeffer is a picturesque settlement, founded thanks to the natural water springs in the 18th century. The village has lovingly restored both the Spa Pavilion and the Pump Room, making use of these historic buildings for community events and gatherings, and the restored Victorian train station is now host to the Highland Museum of Childhood. There are several shops, pubs and restaurants to enjoy here, as well as being a great base for walkers, being within striking distance of Ben Wyvis.
Accommodation
Two bedrooms: 1 x King , 1 x Single.
Ground-floor bathroom with bath, walk-in shower, basin and WC.
First-floor cloakroom with basin and WC.
Kitchen.
Utility.
Dining room.
Sitting room.
Sun room
Oil central heating.
Electric oven and hob, microwave, dishwasher, fridge, freezer, washing machine, TV and WiFi.
Power and fuel for central heating inc in rent.
Bed linen and towels included in rent.
Travel cot and highchair available.
Off-road parking for two cars.
Garden with lawn.
Sorry, no pets as the area is surrounding by livestock and no smoking.
Shop 1.2 miles (convenience shop), pub 5.1 miles.
Please note: The larger supermarket is 4 miles away.
Note: There is a £200 good housekeeping bond.
Note: Property accepts a maximum holiday let of 2 weeks only.
Note: This property has King Size room and a Single room - new photos will be added shortly.
Please Note -The owner can only accept changeovers on a Friday.
Reviews (22)
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Wanda
For us it was very good located.
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Ashifa
It's about an hour's or less drive to some spectacular walks north west of the house.
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Helen
If I could suggest a couple of things that would be really appreciated by future guests - some binoculars, and some OS maps of the area. Thanks!