Scotland Highland rental cottage, Beach Retreat

Beach Retreat,
St Combs

Sleeps 4

The north east corner of Scotland above Aberdeen, as a certain Mr Trump is aware, boasts long stretches of quiet beaches. The little village of St Combs, almost as far north as you can go before you have to turn west for the Moray Firth and Inverness, has one such stretch, and Beach Retreat is just across the quiet wee road from it.

This interesting and attractive detached cottage has been beautifully refurbished by the owner for his own use, and it's only because he is working abroad that holiday makers have been given the chance to enjoy it too!

It stands in its own small garden, just across from the shore, with lovely sea views. Inside it is very spacious, with two sitting areas, one with sea views and the other facing south west. Gas central heating and a stove in the sitting room (where there is also a piano) ensure its cosiness. There is smart modern kitchen and further utility room, two bedrooms and a bathroom with separate shower.

Apart from its obvious attractions as a base for a beach holiday (one shouldn't forget that this is the sunniest corner of Scotland!) there is much to do around and about. Peterhead (13m) and Fraserburgh (5m) are the largest towns for shopping. Both have a past linked closely to the once great Scottish fishery industry, and even today, an early morning visit to Peterhead fish market is quite an experience. Further westward from Fraserburgh along the coast are the picturesque villages of Pennan (featured in the film 'Local Hero'), Crovie and Gardenstown. To the south, the city of Aberdeen is less than 50 miles distant. Inland, between the two, there are many interesting stately homes and castles to visit, such as Haddo House, Fyvie Castle and the fine NTS gardens at Pitmedden.

When there is a big swell bearing down from the North Sea, the beach at nearby Fraserburgh will be full of surfers. If you are one yourself, join them, or watch in comfort from the car park.

Another claim to historical fame in Fraserburgh, and a good place for a 'chippie' is Glover's Chip Shop, next door to which Thomas Glover was born. Who? Almost unknown here, he is legendary in Japan, being a key figure in its modernization and founder of the Mitsubishi Company!

And whether or not Mr Trump gets his way, there are plenty of golf courses in the surrounding area, while the pleasant countryside of the hinterland provides many opportunities for walking.

For wildlife enthusiasts, in the very early morning, if you walk along the beach towards Rattray you may well come across seals sleeping on the beach.

Bed linen, towels, gas CH and electricity are all included in the rental. Pets are welcome by arrangement but should be confined to the kitchen. Smoking is not permitted in the cottage.