scottish tourist board accommodation self catering

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Accommodation

Book your dream accommodation in Scotland – with an excellent range of hotels, B&Bs and self-catering options, you’ll be sure to find what you’re looking for.

Self-catering

If you’re looking for a home away from home where you can relax in your own space, then self-catering is the way to go! In Scotland the options for this accommodation type are endless, with apartments, lodges, holiday parks, cottages, hostels and even castles available to choose from.

Search for self-catering accommodation on VisitScotland.com

You’ll find luxury, budget, boutique and spa hotels in Scotland, all perfect for putting your feet up and enjoying a good night’s sleep. Grand country houses, sleek penthouse suites, authentic family-run inns and pleasant golf resorts are just a few of the hotel types you’ll find in Scotland.

Search for hotels in Scotland onVisitScotland.com

B&Bs and guesthouses

Choosing a bed and breakfast (B&B) is a sure-fire way to meet hosts who are passionate about Scotland and willing to go the extra mile to make your break fantastic. Wake up to a homemade breakfast, get local tips on the best places to go, and enjoy a relaxed stay.

Search for B&Bs and guesthouses on VisitScotland.com

Caravan and camping holidays

Pack a tent, bring your caravan, book a yurt, or hire a campervan and head to a campsite, caravan site or even into the wild for a Scottish adventure. Wild camping is permitted in Scotland, as long as you stick to the Scottish Outdoor Access Code , but there are plenty of campsites and glamping experiences where you can enjoy the outdoors without forgoing indoor comforts too.

More about caravan and camping holidays in Scotland on VisitScotland.com

Unusual places to stay

Live out your dreams with a stay in a Scottish castle, former church, working farm or lighthouse. Or maybe you’d like to enjoy the freedom of a boat holiday, anchoring down in a different destination each day? Hotels, B&Bs, hostels and self-catering accommodation come in all shapes and sizes, many providing a unique experience that goes well beyond providing a place to rest your head at night.

Find unusual places to stay in Scotland on VisitScotland.com

It’s in the stars

VisitScotland’s Quality Assurance scheme is a star-grading programme for accommodation, places to eat and attractions. Look out for the stars to get extra insight on the experience waiting for you. All the accommodation types above include accessible options for those who need them. Got a special requirement? There will be somewhere for you too, whether you want dog-friendly digs , an exclusive use hotel or a room with a view...

Get more accommodation ideas from VisitScotland.com

Are you looking for inspiration?

Scotland’s cities, regions of scotland.

SELF-CATERING HOLIDAY COTTAGES

Live availability - secure reservations and someone ready to take your call if that's what you prefer! Small cosy cottages, family houses and large house party holiday homes, stay near the beach, in the highlands, near a loch, rural or central - an incredible choice of gorgeous cottages.

SCOTTISH HOLIDAY HOMES

Family beach holiday, walking in remote areas, canoeing lochs, touring scenic roads, cycle rides you will never forget. Visit ancient castles and monuments, go whisky or gin tasting, birdwatching, fishing, golf, off road driving safaris, local food - Scotland has everything to offer those looking for a self-catering holiday.

SCOTTISH HOLIDAY DESTINATIONS

• Enjoy self-catering holidays houses, apartments and cottages
• Sutherland, Caithness, Ullapool, Easter Ross
• Torridon, Gairloch, Loch Ness
• Moray, Nairn, Fort William, Cairngorms and Aviemore
• Aberdeenshire
• Argyll, Oban and Bute
• Loch Lomond and Trossachs
• Angus, Fife and Stirling
• Glasgow, Ayrshire, Lanarkshire
• Edinburgh and Lothians
• Galloway and Dumfries
• Scottish Borders
• Scottish Islands

SELF-CATERING RENTALS

• Don't forget the dog - many properties are pet friendly
• Highland holiday homes
• Mountain crofts
• Seaside cottages
• Eco friendly cottages
• Holiday homes with wheelchair access
• City apartments
• Lodges with hot tubs
• Lochside retreats
• Romantic boltholes
• Last minute availability
• Walking holidays
• DIY golf holiday - pick your courses
• Stalking and shooting breaks
• Fishing holidays

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Brackenbrae Holiday Cottage

The Ardnamurchan Bunkhouse

Viking Cottage

Old Firestation Apartments

Mingarry Lodges

Allt an Dorran

Self catering in and around ardnamurchan.

Immerse yourself in the wilds of Ardnamurchan and stay for a while. Choose from selected self catering properties located throughout the Ardnamurchan area, including the Ardnamurchan and Morvern peninsulas, Sunart and Moidart. Featured properties range from wildlife-friendly woodland cabins to luxury cottages; from bunkhouses to remote crofts, from boat houses to Victorian and Baronial style mansions.

Each property offers a unique insight into the wild and beautiful landscape of the West Highland peninsulas and beyond.

Make time for a memorable holiday in the Scottish Highlands.

The Ardnamurchan Bunkhouse offers eco friendly self catering accommodation in eight ensuite bedrooms including single, double and family rooms. In addition there is a shared kitchen and dining room enabling guests to either eat together or separately. There is also a games area with pool table, table tennis and board games to entertain yourself in the evenings, though with an abundance of wildlife and dramatic landscape on the doorstep you may be otherwise distracted. A great base to explore the Ardnamurchan Peninsula and handy for the RSPB reserve at Glenborrodale and The Ardnamurchan Distillery.

The wee village of Glenuig is a great base for a holiday with sandy beaches and walks nearby as well as being well positioned to explore, Moidart, Ardnamurchan and The Road to The Isles. The four bed roomed Viking Cottage is situated adjacent to The Glenuig Inn where food is served all year and nearby to Glenuig Hall which hosts occasional music and art nights. Glenuig also has a small shop and is home to The Glenuig History House and Ardshealach Smokehouse. The nearby sandy beach at Samalaman is a favourite with locals on sunny days and the remote beach beyond the old crofting village of Smirisary is also well worth the walk.

Viking Cottage has two double bedrooms, one twin and…

Come stay awhile in this spacious family friendly  cottage set in its own grounds and with lovely views over Loch Shiel.  Brackenbrae Cottage is situated in the small crofting village of Acharacle which supports a grocery store, post office, artisan craft shop, cafe and a hotel.   Brackenbrae Cottage offers three bedrooms which include a double bedroom and two twin bedrooms,  one with ensuite facilities.  There is also a separate bathroom with bath.  The kitchen is well equipped with fridge-freezer, oven, microwave, dishwasher, washing machine and tumble dryer.  There is also a spacious sitting room with garden views in which to relax after a day…

Get back to nature and stay in a cosy wildlife focussed woodland cabin. Enjoy close encounters with pine martens, red squirrels and a host of other wildlife. Each lodge sleeps up to four in a double and a twin bedroom, with a separate bathroom and shower room. There is also a well equipped kitchen, with separate dining area, and a comfortable sitting room. Situated in the small working crofting community of Mingarry, 3km from the village of Acharacle, the two cabins provide an ideal base to explore Moidart and Ardnamurchan, as well as The Small Isles, Mull, Fort William and Lochaber. There are also some great walks from the doorstep and amazing beaches and castles nearby. Mingarry Lodges…

Allt an Dorran is situated in the lovely coastal village of Salen on the Ardnamurchan peninsula and is a short walk away from the Salen Inn and the Salen Jetty Shop, the latter stocking groceries and local produce.  This large spacious bungalow offers two double bedrooms and two twin bedrooms and accommodates up to nine guests.  The master bedroom has an ensuite bathroom with bath and shower; there is also a separate shower room.  The kitchen is well equipped with oven, hob, microwave, dishwasher, washing machine and tumble dryer.   Enjoy stunning coastal views  alfresco in the private garden or from the spacious sun lounge, whilst looking out for eagles and…

Red , White and Blue ... a set of three tastefully furnished apartments with stunning views over the Sound of Mull. The Old Firestation Apartments are  located in the small coastal village of Lochaline on the Morvern Peninsula.

Hotels and B&Bs

Stay a while, rest up and dream of another day Ardnamurchan way...

Camping and Caravan Sites

pitch up and make time to relax and explore...

Self Catering Cottages

Make time for an unforgettable holiday in the West Highlands...

• Self Catering
• Caravan & Camp Sites
• Carsaig Jetty
• Millenium Cairn
• Tayvallich Bay
• Tayvallich Church
• Tayvallich Hall
• Tayvallich Primary School
• Tayvallich Sports Court
• The Tayvallich Inn
• Jura Sunset
• Single Track Roads
• Our Village History
• Commercial Fishing
• Food & Drink
• Forest Walks
• Local Artists
• Visiting Yachts
• Tidal Information

• Weekly Rate: Unknown
• Bedrooms: 2
• Bathrooms: 1
• Pets Allowed: Yes
• Smoking: No
• Parking Spaces: 2
• Start Day: Friday / Monday

Ar Deireadh

Ar Deireadh is a modern detached holiday cottage situated between the beautiful villages of Tayvallich and Carsaig Bay on the West Coast - new to the holiday cottage rental properties.

• Weekly Rate: £135-£215 - Nightly rate
• Bedrooms: 3
• Bathrooms: 2
• Parking Spaces: 3
• Start Day: Flexible

5 Creagan Dearg Torr Beag

Torr Beag is situated in a small, secluded development made up of a handful of properties in the centre of Tayvallich. It is a wonderful place to stay for friends and families exploring the Argyll and Bute region of Western Scotland.

Inside the cottage is a bright sitting room with a wood burning stove, where you can relax and put your feet up after a good, long walk exploring this stunning region

• Weekly Rate: P.O.A
• Bedrooms: 1
• Parking Spaces: 1
• Start Day: Saturday

Ardtornish is a one bedroomed flat attached to our property that enjoys uninterrupted views of Tayvallich Bay. There is a private slipway for the launching of small boats situated opposite the accommodation. A covered space can be provided to store bicycles. There is a terrace (accessed from the living area) where you can enjoy uninterrupted views of the bay and the hills beyond.

• Weekly Rate: £695-£1250
• Bedrooms: 4
• Bathrooms: 4
• Parking Spaces: 4

Auchenbeag, meaning “small field” in Gaelic, is a beautiful house, set in almost an acre of woodland, in the small fishing village of Tayvallich, on the West Coast of Scotland, in Argyll. The house was built in 2007 and designed to take full advantage of it’s elevated position, to provide stunning and unrivalled, costal views across Loch Sween. The location also means that you can walk from the house to enjoy everything that Tayvallich has to offer.

• Weekly Rate: £380-£710
• Parking Spaces: 6

Camus Nan Gaell

Located in the centre of the stunning village of Tayvallich, enjoying a seafront position, with completely uninterrupted views of the bay, Camus nan Geall delivers modern, well equipped and homely accommodation perfect for couples, individuals and families alike.

• Weekly Rate: £205-£610

Carrick House

Carrick House, with an enclosed garden (mainly lawns) and ample parking, is in a magnificent position on a rise overlooking Tayvallich Bay and is situated part-way between the pub and Village shop.

• Weekly Rate: POA

Carsaig Cottage

Enjoying a prime location in Tayvallich ,Carsaig Cottage comfortably sleeps six people . Situated opposite the village green it has an uninterrupted view over this beautiful bay and beyond to the hills. The cottage which is over one hundred years old has recently had a major upgrade.

• Weekly Rate: £450-£550
• Pets Allowed: No

Dun Eistein

Dun Eistein is situated in a quiet location on the south side of Tayvallich Bay, on the road signposted to the Taynish Nature Reserve and has beautiful views over the village and bay.

Tayvallich is a small village at the head of Loch Sween in Knapdale, Argyll.  It is ideal for water sports, walking, cycling or just chilling out. There is a lot of wildlife to see nearby e.g. otters, beavers, red squirrels, pine martens, deer and a variety of birds. The jura passenger ferry leaves from the jetty next to the shop to the Island of Jura during the summer months.

• Weekly Rate: £408-£689

Knap Cottage

Situated in the beautiful west-coast village of Tayvallich, 'Knap Cottage' offers high quality self catering accommodation with a spectacular waters edge view across Tayvallich bay and beyond to Loch Sween. Sleeping up to 4 people the property has been recently renovated and is exceptionally well appointed, the house has a spacious bright interior and offers an exceptional holiday home.

• Weekly Rate: £495-£950
• Start Day: Sunday

Mallard Cottage

Mallard Cottage is situated right on the water here in Tayvallich Bay, we do not exaggerate, for the decking area in front of it extends to within a few feet of the shoreline!  Stunningly situated then, and scarcely less stunning inside.

• Weekly Rate: £850-£995

Ideally situated in the beautiful village of Tayvallich sits Midwaters Cottage, aptly named as just a short stroll one way will take you to the picturesque bay of Loch Sween and all Tayvallich amenities, Café/Shop and the Tayvallich Inn. Then a stroll in the opposite direction is Carsaig Bay, with beautiful views over The Sound of Jura. This bay is perfect for many water activities or just sitting and taking in the scenery. Sunsets here can be beautiful. 

• Weekly Rate: £409.5 - £535.50
• Smoking: Yes

The Steadings

A luxury 4 star Scottish Tourist Board rated self-catering cottage midway between the remote picturesque village of Tayvallich which curves around a lagoon at the head of Loch Sween, and Carsaig Bay which commands breathtaking views of the Sound of Jura on the West of Mainland Scotland.

• Start Day: Friday

Tigh Na Croit

Tigh Na Croit or ‘The Croft House’ is one of the oldest dwellings in Tayvallich. Previously home to the local blacksmith the house has recently undergone a full renovation to high modern standards internally whilst maintaining the original external charm. Owned and managed by a local young family Tigh Na Croit now offers quality self-catering accommodation for guests to enjoy.

• Weekly Rate: £290-£465

Situated on the hidden jewel of Tayvallich Bay, the “Wee Barn' is a cottage of great character, in a magnificent setting. 'The Wee Barn' offers the very highest quality self catering accommodation, in an ideal location for you to explore the many attractions that surround the shores of Loch Sween.

Self Catering Holiday Homes

Copyright © 2021 www.tayvallich.com

Places to Stay on islay

With historic distilleries, coastal scenery and fascinating wildlife to fill your trip with, the only difficult thing to plan for your island escape is what Islay accommodation to stay in.

Islay E-Wheels bikes, Isle of Islay

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Types of Accommodation on islay

A Motorhome Parked By A Beach Near Port Ellen On The Isle Of Islay

© VisitScotland / Paul Tomkins

Explore accommodation options

Islay has plenty of choice, with a great variety of serviced and self catering accommodation across the island, including welcoming family-run B&Bs and guesthouses, charming traditional hotels and cosy cottages. 

Find Accommodation on Islay

For advice on where to stay once you're on the island, be sure to visit the  Bowmore iCentre .

Other things you might like

Isle of Jura

Argyll & The Isles

Scottish Islands & Island Hopping

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Isle of Skye Self Catering

Self Catering is a great option for those who want to have flexibility during their stay. No meals are provided, but facilities are available for you to cook if you wish. Eat in or eat out, come and go as you please, you have control of when and what you do. Allows you to stick to a budget if that is a concern.

Skye Self Catering Questions

Your Questions answered about Self Catering Homes on the Isle of Skye.

When should I book?

Some of the more popular locations will book up many months in advance, so booking early is essential.

Where on Skye should I book?

This is very much personal preference. As a guideline if you want a quiet holiday then choose a self catering house that is in one of the quieter corners of the island such as: Ord , Sleat , Elgol , Staffin , Glendale , Kylerhea or Waternish . For those that would like to be a bit closer to shops, restaurants and pubs then choosing somewhere near the larger villages such as: Portree , Uig , Broadford , Dunvegan or Kyleakin . If your not sure where to stay browse all self catering cottages.

Are self catering cottages graded or rated?

Self Catering business owners can apply to have their business graded by the Scottish Tourist Board. This is a rating out of 5 stars. To get 5 Stars the business must be ‘exceptional’, if a business has a rating of 3 or more you can be sure it will be very comfortable. This rating is not compulsory; there are many great unrated businesses to choose from.

What’s included with a typical self catering cottage?

You’ll get a full house to stay in, including bed rooms, a living room, Kitchen and Bathroom. Most cottages also include linen & towels and everything you will need to cook and serve meals.

How long can I stay at my chosen self catering house?

Most Self Catering businesses take bookings for 1 or more weeks, with the same turnaround day often a Saturday. Out of season, it can be arranged for shorter stays such as a weekend.

Will there be internet access?

Many of the properties do offer access to the internet.

How much is it likely to cost?

This depends on the location, the time of year, the rating of the business and the reputation of the business. Typically it will range from £300-£2000 per week.

What self catering homes offer disabled access?

Many businesses offering Self Catering are built as a family home, so as standard most do not offer this. There are a good few that do, simply check the business listing for details.

Skye is a large Island, to help you find some where to stay each accommodation type has been categorised by the different areas around the Island.

Holiday accommodation in Scotland

Scottish tourist board 5 star grading.

When self-catering cottages in Scotland are awarded 5 stars from Visit Scotland (formerly known as the Scottish Tourist Board) then they are classified as exceptional self-catering accommodation. The VisitScotland star grading is often criticised but if you want to stay in a Scottish holiday cottage with 5 stars then it does have their highest star grading possible so you can book with confidence that it offers top quality accommodation and facilities. The 5 star cottages in Scotland listed on www.scotland-holiday-cottage.com (and there are some in all areas) represent the top quality Scottish cottages and offer luxury self-catering. Many top quality cottages don't apply for the listing and so lots of the holiday homes on the site are of a 5-star quality and standard (or 6 star !) but don't have the logo from Visit Scotland. The difference between 4 stars and 5 stars can be just whether the glasses are crystal or there is a TV in every bedroom - and not all visitors would welcome or value these additional extras! Many of us looking for a vacation rental home would appreciate the charming holiday cottage set in an idyllic, peaceful location with an amazing view. All Which Cottage Scotland cottages offer fabulous self-catering holiday accommodation to rent whether they have the 5 stars awarded from the Scottish Tourist Board or not!

Exceptional, self-catering accommodation

4 star and other grading logos may be found at: Accommodation standards for Scottish self-caterers Many of the holiday cottages listed on Which Cottage Scotland belong to the ASSC ( Association of Scotland's Self-caterers ). Members of ASSC are Scottish self-catering owners who offer a very high standard of cleanliness and friendliness. The Association of Scottish Self-caterers ( ASSC ) is the self-catering trade association in Scotland for holiday cottage owners. The self-catering cottage owners who are members of ASSC often recommend the best websites to advertise holiday cottages in Scotland on so scotland-holiday-cottage.com has been highly recommended amongst their members to other ASSC self-catering cottage owners. ASSC is an excellent trade body for self-catering cottage owners in Scotland and provides a collective voice for Scottish holiday home owners and offers many other benefits.

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5 star Scottish Tourist Board approved luxury self-catering holiday accommodation in Scotland

Easter urray country cottage.

Beautiful dog-friendly rural retreat with 5 bedrooms, this large country cottage is set by tranquil countryside and is located on a working farm, could be ideal for a country holiday in the peaceful Highlands.

Inverallan Country House, Scottish Highlands

Impressive Scottish Country House with 7 bedrooms, with an elegant and spacious interior, ideal for large groups or special celebrations, close to the stunning Cairngorms National Park.

High quality 5 bedroom pet-friendly holiday house in Aberdeenshire with sauna.

South Milton Coastal Cottage

High quality 3 bedroom holiday cottage with exceptional countryside views out to the sea, a stunning location and an equally stunning interior from which to enjoy this fantastic location along the Machars peninsula, this area is excellent for wildlife watching and walking or cycling in the nearby Galloway Forest, plus star gazing in the Dark Sky Park at night.

Dungarthill House

Set in 28 acres of grounds, is this 11 bedroom, sleeps 21 , pet-friendly country house, half an hour’s drive from Perth and close to Tay Forest Park.

Glen Euchar Holiday House

Rural retreat with 4 bedrooms and a lovely bubbly private hot tub with some spectacular countryside views, close to the coast and just 10 miles from the charming seaside town of Oban.

Glen Prosen Cottage

Romantic one bedroom pet-friendly holiday cottage, set at Auchteralyth Steadings where you can soak up stunning panoramic views over the Vale of Strathmore.

Weiroch Lodge

5 star rated mill conversion in Speyside with fabulous country views, a secluded setting next to forest and hills and close proximity to the Speyside Way and River Spey.

Find a list of luxury self-catering cottages, houses, apartments and other accommodation for holidays in Scotland that is 5 star Scottish Tourist Board approved. Please click on any images shown to view details of the accommodation.

Additional cottages, large country houses, apartments, town houses, log cabins, and pine lodges in Scotland can be found by using the Feature Pages menu on the left.

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Self-Catering Cottages

The number of accommodation providers in our area indicates just how popular this part of the Solway Coast is as a holiday destination. Listed below are details of many of the holiday cottages available to let. Some participate in the Scottish Tourist Board grading scheme and have high listings with 3 stars or more. Others do not participate in the scheme, but this does not indicate any lesser quality or service.  For peak times you are advised to book early.

They are sorted into cottages in the town, and then cottages in the surrounding villages and countryside.

Please select from the choices below.

Click here for Self-Catering in Kirkcudbright

Click here for Self-Catering in the area

Privacy Overview

Scottish Tourist Board 4-Star Self-catering holiday accommodation in Dumfries & Galloway

Call 07391 804682

for information about our lodges

Scottish Tourist Board 4-star self-catering holiday lodges

 at Barend in Dumfries and Galloway

Discover your perfect self-catering holiday...

Explore scotland's colvend coast.

Sleeps 2-6 people

Red Kite Lodge

Sleeps 2-4 people

Kestrel Lodge

Sleeps 2-6 People

BOOK YOUR BREAK NOW!

Last minute availability. don't miss out., spring is here for a getaway with us., just book on line or email us., our guarantee to you.

For guests' reassurance, our Holiday Lodges are still being cleaned and disinfected using a Fogging Machine. Read more here ➡️.

Check availability below

View our Accessibility and Equality, diversity and inclusion policies here.

4-Star Self-catering Chalets at Barend, south-west Scotland

Galloway Lodges is a family-run staycation business offering 4-star self-catering holiday lodges within the hamlet of Barend, Sandyhills, on the beautiful Colvend Coast of the Solway Firth. Our rural Scandinavian-style holiday lodges are located close to pristine sandy beaches, forests, Colvend Golf Club, rugged coastline and a host of activities for the whole family to enjoy.  

Aside from the many miles of spectacular coastline and scenery, our Lodges in Dumfries and Galloway have so much to offer with numerous castles, monuments, forests, walking, fishing and world-class mountain biking trails, there’s so much else to see and do for the whole family. But don’t just take our word for it, book your staycation in Dumfries and Galloway in our self-catering holiday lets and see for yourself - come and explore!

The Barend site has its own pub and restaurant called The Beagle and, as you can imagine, it is dog-friendly.

The Colvend Coast

Known as the ‘natural place’, Dumfries and Galloway is steeped in history and has its own unique character with sandy beaches and coastal path walks thanks to a unique combination of the Solway Firth and its historic coastline. This includes coastal areas and the paths of Rockcliffe, Kippford and Sandyhills Bay, right on your doorstep. Galloway Lodges are located in the small hamlet of Barend at Sandyhills and offer properties enjoying the micro-climate from the Gulf Stream. 

If you're looking for holiday Lodges accommodation in Dumfries and Galloway - especially the freedom offered by self-catering lodges - with activities for all the family to enjoy, look no further than Galloway Lodges.

Three stunning lodges to choose from

We have three cosy 4-star Scandinavian-style self-catering holiday lodges in beautiful Dumfries and Galloway at Barend: Red Kite Lodge, Kestrel Lodge and Owl Lodge.

All are set in an elevated position and not only overlook the loch at Barend, but also offer visitors views out across the hills of Colvend Golf Course towards the Solway Firth. Sandyhills beach is only a short walk away and the bay has lovely coastal walks to the hamlet of Portling, with a coastal path stretching to neighbouring Rockcliffe and Kippford. All offer stunning views of the Lake District and Cumbria beyond.

Come and enjoy self-catering accommodation near to the Galloway forest with it's dark skies & splendid scenery.

Check availability and book now:

• Red Kite   Lodge sleeps 2-4 guests
• Kestrel Lodge and Owl Lodge both  sleep 2-6 guests.

Had a lovely time here. Kestrel Lodge is wonderful, clean & well equipped. Our first visit to Scotland and we could not have picked a better place to visit.

Jayne, Andy & Sue

Red Kite Lodge - What a lovely hidden gem. The lodge is fitted out excellently with all needs taken care of. Still can’t get over the welcome pack!!

Ian & Elizabeth

A lovely peaceful stay at Kestrel Lodge. Very well appointed, thought of lots of little details. Our first visit and will recommend to friends & family..

Mrs & Mrs Edwards

Another fantastic stay at Barend. Kestrel Lodge has everything you could want and is very homely and comfortable. The view is amazing. Such a peaceful place.

The Kelso family

“Had a wonderful time. The Lodge is beautiful and suited us to perfection. What a gorgeous part of the world!”

David - Wrexham

“Thanks to Jo & Mark for another great holiday. This is our fourth visit in the lodge & still enjoying it as much as the first time we came. Feels like home from home."”

Scott - Chesterfield

“Our first visit to Red Kite Lodge – definitely not our last, we fell in love as we opened the door. The welcome pack was amazing.”

Jenn - Northumberland

"What an awesome holiday Lodge, quite beautiful in every aspect. Great wildlife & that’s just from the balcony!"

Audrey – Yorkshire

"The Lodge was wonderful, everything we could wish for, such beautiful peaceful surroundings too."

"we have had a great time here at owl lodge and would thoroughly recommend it. sandyhills beach only 5 minutes walk away, great for little kids.".

Danny - Chesterfield

"Lodge is beautiful, homely & perfect."

Sam - Isle of Skye

"Owl Lodge had the ‘wow’ factor when we arrived. Great beach and pub nearby. Thanks for a lovely stay."

Reynolds family

Learn more about our green credentials here

Accreditations

Galloway Lodges have joined with the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) in meeting its international global standardised health and hygiene protocols so our guests can experience Safe Travels.

The protocols for the WTTC’s global Safe Travels stamp were designed with the World Health Organization and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines' and developed alongside leading industry associations and international organisations.

• Business Energy Scotland Green Champion
• Health and Safety in the Workplace Certificate
• Travel and Tourism Diploma
• Members of Visit Scotland's Pets Welcome Scheme
• Members of Ancestral Tourism Welcome Scheme
• Members  of Visit Scotland's Ancestral Tourism Welcome scheme

We are proud to have become a supporter of The Galloway and Southern Ayrshire Biosphere (UNESCO) , recognised internationally as a world-class environment for people and nature due to its fantastic array of landscapes, wildlife, cultural heritage and learning opportunities that south-west Scotland offers communities, businesses and visitors to experience and celebrate in a sustainable way.

Find out more on the Biosphere's website below or here .

Electric Vehicles

The Lodges do not have professionally installed electric charging points.

N.B. It is strictly prohibited for guests to charge their vehicles using the holiday home electricity.

Here are some charging point locations:

  Sandyhills Tide Tables

Click the link below for a 7-day tide table for nearby Sandyhills Beach

Galloway Lodges

We're close to Sandyhills Beach on Scotland's beautiful Colvend Coast in Dumfries and Galloway.

The solway firth awaits your visit..

Reaching our holiday lodges is easy! From the M6/M74 at the border with England, take the A75 heading towards Dumfries and Stranraer/Cairnryan (Stena line port). Continue on the A75 at Dumfries and take the Dalbeattie turning at Kilnford. Take the A711 to Dalbeattie and then follow the signs for the Colvend Coast Road A710. Barend is at Sandyhills, around 8 miles from Dalbeattie. Our post code for sat navs is: DG5 4NU.

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Dark skies festival, the award goes to……, jobhub – wester ross, gairloch self catering cottages.

Gairoch Self Catering Cottages offer luxury self catering accommodation to suit all budgets. Views over the sea to the Islands of Skye and Harris. Near Gairloch, Wester Ross, Scottish Highlands.

Nestling on the spectacularly beautiful Wester-Ross coastline near Gairloch, with breathtaking sea views over the Minch to the Isle of Skye and Outer Hebrides, Gairloch Self Catering Cottages offers luxury self catering accommodation to suit all budgets.

Kenland Cottage is a spacious detached well appointed property, comfortably sleeping six people plus baby (cot provided) throughout the three ample double bedrooms, all with their own individual ensuites.The family inspired open plan layout together with solid oak floors throughout gives a clean contemporary feel. Tir Aluinn Apartment is a surprisingly spacious well appointed detached one bedroom apartment for two people. The perfect Highland hideaway, ideal for romantic breaks and the cost conscious alike. Guests have the opportunity of countless walks from the front doors of both properties, whether it be a short stroll down to North Erradale beach where seals and otters can be seen, a stunning cliff top walk, or just exploring the local hills, making it the perfect destination in which to relax, unwind and escape the pressures of modern life.

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‘It’s a total nightmare’: The holiday let crackdown killing tourism in Scotland

S cottish holiday let owners feel as though they can’t catch a break . A new licensing regime and a potential loss of mortgage interest relief has led to higher costs for everyone – and tourism is suffering.

The businesses that made it through the pandemic were rewarded with an influx of visitors as restrictions were lifted. However, the impact of higher interest rates and inflation on families’ spending power has meant numbers are beginning to dwindle.

Spending linked to short-term lets was worth £3.8bn to the Scottish economy in 2021, according to research by Oxford Economics commissioned by Sykes Holiday Cottages, and supported 65,000 jobs.

It is a time when many expect governments – both in Holyrood and Westminster – to be looking at what they can do to help.

However, swathes of regulation is making it harder for owners of holiday rentals to turn a profit.

Last year the Scottish government introduced a licensing regime for the sector.

From October 2023, all short-term lets including self-catered accommodation and B&Bs are required to hold a licence in order to take bookings and receive guests . These are granted by the local authority which are allowed to set their own pricing for the permissions.

The average application fee for a three-year licence varies from around £260 for a double room to up to £520 for a short-term rental house with a maximum occupancy of 10, according official government figures.

This works out as an annual average of between £90 and £170 for these types of short-term lets. However, these vary based on location.

In addition, councils have been granted the power to designate “control areas” where there is a particularly high concentration of rental properties. If a property falls within a control area you need planning permission from the council to change its use.

This means property owners could be prevented from expanding or starting a holiday let business if the council feels there are already too many in the local area.

Edinburgh became Scotland’s first designated short-term let control area in September 2022.

The total number of licensing applications is around 26,000 according to a Freedom of Information request submitted by the Association of Scotland’s Self-Caterers in January.

It is below the 32,000 previously estimated by the Scottish government.

Furthermore, according to the Scottish Assessors Association, the number of self-catering units across Scotland on non-domestic rates has fallen to just over 17,000 by April 2024. In Edinburgh,  the number has fallen by 16pc over the past 11 months.

Fiona Campbell, chief executive of Association of Scotland’s Self-Caterers, said: “The fact that so few licences have been granted indicates how overburdened local authorities are and they are asking local authorities to make planning considerations. It is a total nightmare.”

Existing hosts that applied before October 1 2023 can continue to operate while their application is processed, the Scottish government confirmed.

Councils have up to 12 months to process these applications during the current transitional phase, which provides an additional three months to allow hosts to clarify their planning status if this is not already established.

“In Scotland we have had a whole licensing regime that has come in that has been difficult and it is a postcode lottery,” says David Smythe MBE, the owner of Cloag Farm Cottages in Perthshire.

Smythe, 66, says some holiday let owners have disappeared from the sector as it has become “too difficult”.

For those who want to continue there is also an element of uncertainty.

Andy Fenner, chief executive of the Short Term Accommodation Association, said: “We are sort of in a holding pattern at the moment because we have got that situation where people have applied for the licences and have the 12-month window to see if they have got them or not.”

Fenner agrees that business owners will leave the sector as a result of the change and that the regulation is misguided.

“We are talking about a couple down the road who have a house they rent out for years and years and they are now called an Airbnb. The cost is going to be passed on to the consumer and families who want to go on holiday.”

The feeling across the sector, he says, is that tourism from overseas is slowing due to increased costs.

Now owners face even further constraints on their businesses.

In the Budget , Chancellor Jeremy Hunt announced the removal of preferential treatment for furnished holiday lets (FHLs).

Currently FHL owners enjoy a more favourable tax regime than owners of long-term rental properties, including mortgage interest relief that allows borrowers to offset their interest payments against their profits. Landlords did enjoy the same relief but they can now only claim up to 20pc.

Income from holiday lets is classed as net relevant earnings for pension purposes, allowing you to make tax-advantaged pension contributions.

However, these allowances are set to be withdrawn, leaving short-term let owners £1,693 worse off on average, according to figures from Quilter based on the average house price in Scotland and a rental income of £13,500.

Smythe says that for those with mortgages it will impact the investment they can put into their properties and while it may not in itself cause owners to sell up, it will become more difficult to make ends meet.

The explanation given by the Government is that the changes will increase the housing supply of long-term rental properties, pushing down prices for tenants and reducing pressure on the system.

However, Campbell says this isn’t the case and instead the policy risks creating more second home owners who do not bring the same tourism and revenue to local areas.

“If you have a second home then the socially responsible thing to do is rent it out when you are not using it.

“But they are disincentivising people from doing that because of all of the changes. We are going to have many more second homes that really do hollow out communities.

“Those are the lights that don’t come on in winter whereas they do in self-catering properties This will shut down viable businesses and destroy people’s pensions.”

It is not only business owners who will suffer, but also those who rely on tourism to support their own income such as pub owners, gardeners and cleaners, says Campbell.

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While increased taxes on second homes are designed to discourage owners, Campbell argues many will just pay them and leave their properties empty.

“These regulations are failing every part of our communities, benefiting no one. It is time for a rethink and for industry and government to work together to amend the regulatory framework to benefit all stakeholders,” added Campbell.

Furthermore, in a bid to limit second homes, the Government announced the introduction of a register of short-term lets and a requirement for planning permission for any property rented out for 90 days or more a year.

However, critics say this will just act as a loophole allowing homeowners to rent out their properties at peak times while remaining vacant when there is a lull.

“This time now is the booking window for summer holidays and we need to start shouting that Scotland is open for business,” says Fenner.

“Tourism spreads wealth across rural areas, and drives jobs and investment. Platforms like Booking.com, Airbnb and Sykes Cottages should be welcomed with open arms by the Scottish government.”

A Scottish government spokesman said: “The introduction of licensing safeguards the important role short-term let accommodation plays in our economy by providing assurance to guests on safety and quality, such as gas certificate compliance and suitability of electrical equipment.

“Licensing authorities work with relevant bodies, such as planning authorities, to ensure hosts/operators have complied with relevant legal requirements and to ensure the accommodation can be used as a short-term let.

“The separate statutory requirement for planning permission to be granted for material changes of use is not new, it has been the legal position for decades and pre-dates licensing.”

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