A Toast to Toastiness

The higher up in Scotland you travel, the more Scandinavian it feels in climate, landscape and even culture in some regards. Case in point, this home in deepest Aberdeenshire wouldn't look out of place in one of the nearby Nordic nations.

For starters, the exterior has been finished with sustainably sourced Finnish logs and a whole host of eco-friendly measures have been incorporated during construction, including a renewable air source heat system. Inside, there's a Scandi influence in the interior design, whether that's with the preference for wooden finishes and the cosy throws or the emphasis on natural light.

What's more, it's so easy to get cosy here. Upstairs, the elegant clawfoot bathtub is another inviting option after spending an afternoon out in the bracing Scottish weather. Alternatively, if the forecast is actually pretty mild, you can take a seat out on the terrace and make the most of the peaceful locale.

When it comes to exploring these picturesque surroundings, there are woodland trails, the banks of the River Don and the ancient ruins of a 13th-century bishop's summer house to discover on the wider estate. Beyond that, there are a wealth of golf courses, whisky distilleries and mountains to take on in the Cairngorms National Park.

Home truths:
*Your host can provide a travel cot and high chair for free upon request
*There's free parking available on the premises
*The home is spread over two floors with no bedrooms on the ground floor
*The hosts – and their dogs – live in an attached farmhouse, although it's separated by a locked door
*This home can accommodate a maximum of three children
*Your host will provide slippers for you to wear, as no outdoor shoes are allowed in this home
*Your host kindly asks that you respect the quiet hours after 10pm