Hawthorn Cottage, Fearnan, Aberfeldy

Close to the vast waters of Loch Tay and the towering mass of Ben Lawers, Hawthorn Cottage is a cosy and luxurious cycle-(and dog)-friendly cottage from which to enjoy the countryside in the Scottish Highlands. Conveniently close to Route 7 of the National Cycle Network (part of the famous Sea to Sea (C2C) cycle route to Inverness) and Glen Lyon, plus miles of tracks and paths close-by for exploring this beautiful area of the Highlands.

This crofter’s cottage - surrounded by Highland foothills - offers self-catering accommodation that combines character, comfort, and all modern conveniences. It’s been around since the 18th century and has the beams to prove it, but a sympathetic recent conversion ensures it’s got everything you need in a ’home from home’.

Set in its own private garden with views of the surrounding hills, this semi-detached holiday home sleeps up to four and is dog-friendly. It’s family-sized, but a steep stairway between floors means it won’t suit those with younger kids – in fact, under 12s aren’t allowed. Instead, it’s just right for a family with teens or perhaps a pair of couples or adult friends.

You can cook and eat together indoors or out, thanks to a barbecue and seating areas and a sociable cottage-style modern kitchen diner. The sitting room is more cottagey, with a log burner in a stone-surrounded fireplace and warm red walls under a beamed ceiling. It’s the perfect place to play games on cooler nights – but, of course, there’s a Smart TV and Bluetooth speaker too, not to mention surprisingly good WiFi.

The cottage’s modern conveniences extend to the bathrooms. There are two, which is a pleasant surprise in a crofter’s cottage, plus heated towel rails, tiles and modern bathroom suites. Bedrooms are light and airy, with softly coloured painted walls, bedding with carpets underfoot, and curtains framing the rural views outside.