After last year’s lockdown birthday I wanted to something this year for my 31st. I decided to stick with Scotland, still wanting to explore, but most importantly, wanting somewhere with a hot tub.
An Airbnb search had me booking The Cottage as it had a lovely outside wood fired bath tub. You can book directly with Adam and Rosie here.
The booking includes enough wood for one night’s use of the outdoor bath and depending on how well you can stack a fire, 1-2 nights wood for the indoor log burner. I did bring an extra bag of kindling that I picked up from Tesco for a couple of quid.
The bed was really soft and comfortable and I didn’t want to get out of it in the morning with the toasty warm covers!
A full sized kitchen allowed me to create my haggis, neeps and tatties tower for Burns Night which was paired with a fantastic red wine from Australia. Fresh eggs, milk, butter, fresh local coffee and a loaf of bread is provided so I had lovely fresh eggs on toast with avocado for breakfast. For the muggles, Rosie bakes a fresh sourdough loaf. For me, I was provided with a Warbuton’s gluten free cob loaf – must say it was delicious!
The outdoor wood fired bathtub takes hours to heat up and gets to about 30-36 degrees. I wasn’t able to get in it till about 9-10pm and as it was a January evening this was still a bit cold for me (I like my showers/baths hot). So it didn’t seem all that warm… until I lifted my body out of the water and the cold hit me, back down I went!
Through airbnb The Cottage started at £90 per night, but with the cleaning fee (which was the most expensive I’ve ever seen on airbnb at £30!!!) and the service charge, the total cost was £245.58. I believe if you book it through the actual website and not airbnb it may be cheaper.
Adam and Rosie have tried to make it ‘accessible friendly’ which I think they’ve achieved. Flat level floors, accessible bathroom with a shower bench available. No cupboards under the hob or sink.
I spent my the full day I had exploring Tay Forest Park and the Hermitage at Dunkeld. Not entirely convinced I saw the Hermitage – wasn’t really sure what I was looking for – but I did come across Ossian’s Hall and an amazing view from Pine Cone Lookout.
It was a lovely little getaway and I got really lucky with the weather – not much rain and light wind for my bath night.
Where in Scotland should I explore next? Recommendations are always welcome!
Rattle's Ramblings 