We first visited Dumfries and Galloway in 2005, after having to cancel a holiday to Croatia at the last moment. We instantly fell in love with the area and the people, and ended up buying our own holiday cottage up here. Two years later found us moving up from Yorkshire, leaving behind stressful jobs in the Health Service and Social Care to set up our own small guesthouse and holiday rental business, welcoming others to share the beauties of this idyllic retreat.
Dumfries and Galloway is one of Scotland's forgotten treasures. While most tourists simply pass it by on their way to the better known Highlands, those in the know recognise it as a tranquil hideaway, full of natural beauty and historic interest. Free from the crowds which marr the more well-trodden pathways further North, the area offers something for everyone, where historic castles and abbeys, many dating from times when Lords of Galloway still asserted their independence from the Scottish throne, lie betwixt rolling coastal plains and rugged hillsides dotted with remote lochs, while beautiful coastlines beckon the visitor to stop and while away the hours. Thanks to the Gulf Stream, which washes the Western shores, the region enjoys one of the mildest climates in the UK, reflected in the sub-tropical plants flourishing in many of the area's gardens.
Since the Autumn of 2007, we have been offering self-catering accommodation at 'Forest Edge', a comfortable and well-equipped self-catering cottage for up to 4 people, on the edge of the small town of Dalbeattie. While local facilities are just a short walk away, the cottage enjoys a quiet location, bordering on miles of unspoilt woodland, with views to the surrounding hills, just 5 minutes drive from delightful seaside villages such as Kippford and Rockliffe (known to some as the Solway Riviera!), with the Galloway Hills only a short drive to the north-west. Following the popularity of 'Forest Edge' with visitors, we added a further property at the start of the 2010 season - a luxury two-bedroomed mews house on the harbour at Garlieston, about 10 miles from Wigtown in the Galloway Machars. 'Water's Edge' enjoys sea views and easy access to the beach and coastal pathways. Both properties offer an excellent base to explore the surrounding area, which is justly popular with cyclists and walkers, while anglers, birdwatchers and history lovers will all find plenty to interest them in the surrounding areas. Others may prefer just to relax and unwind amidst the beautiful scenery and enjoy the variety of local pubs, restaurants and tearooms.
Dogs are welcome at both locations at a small extra charge.
We regret we are currently unable to accept payment by Debit or Credit Card
Apologies if you were looking for B&B accommodation, but we are no longer able to offer this service.
Golfing Breaks!
Since the end of March 2011 we have been providing the catering for Dalbeattie Golf Course, offering quality 'home-cooked' meals at reasonable prices. Hot meals are available Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday evenings, with hot and cold snacks served from 11am to 2pm at weekends thoughout the season. If you are staying at one of our cottages, we will offer you free coffees with any meal or snack for two. Booking is always advisable for Saturday evenings. If you are organising a golfing party, we will be able to offer special deals on catering for groups of 6 or more, any day of the week. Private parties also catered for.
We are now also able to offer special rates for guests at 'Forest Edge' who wish to play golf at the Dalbeattie course - saving up to 50% on daily and weekly fees. Please ask for details when making your booking.
New Year Savings!
15% off for couples staying alone (5% for familes) until the end of March
10% off Summer holidays if booked by 31st January .
See 'Special Offers' for details of great late availability and early booking discounts