Mains of Taymouth, Perthshire
Kenmore, near Aberfeldy, Perthshire
Fabulous contemporary accommodation, perfect for the kids and adults too!
Scotland's majestic Highlands with their beautiful peaks, forests and sand-fringed lochs form the backdrop for the wonderful Mains Of Taymouth cottages. Part of the Menzies 120 acre estate, this luxurious complex of contemporary new build and converted traditional cottages are a conveniently short stroll from the picturesque village of Kenmore and the beautiful Loch Tay.
Based around an 18th century courtyard cottages vary from cosy 2 bedroom to extensive 5 bedroom contemporary homes with en-suite facilities, secluded garden, sauna and hot tub; the cottages are perfect for couples with new-born babies or large family get-togethers and any combination in between.
Set in a quiet, private setting the cottages have been awarded either four or five stars by the Scottish Tourist Board. The cottages have all mod-cons with central heating, some with open log fires, huge tvs, DVDs, music systems, wi-fi, dishwashers, washing machines, dryers and kitchen equipment, galore as well as black-out blinds, cots, highchairs and stair-gates which are provided free of charge, together with all bed linen and logs.
We took the girls bikes and they cycled on the car park outside our fabulous home whilst we sat on the balcony watching and enjoying some rays. Between the cycling and the oh so decadent hot tub and visiting friends around the corner they had a really low key, non-stop effortless holiday. The huge sofa and enviable tv and sound system provided the perfect chill out zone for tired out little ones. The huge powerful showers and huge comfy beds did the same for Mum!
The on-site Courtyard Restaurant is a friendly and contemporary Brasserie and Bar right on your doorstep and is open throughout the day. Choose from indoor relaxed dining in the bar, the more formal restaurant or the outside patio which provides a good spot for al fresco dining or a coffee whilst the kids make new friends on the small play area conveniently next to it. The Courtyard is probably less than 3 minutes from any of the cottages (don't worry there is no noise pollution). Food is modern, ‘back to basics' Scottish cuisine food served by very friendly and welcoming staff. You will enjoy a relaxed and delicious meal, as will the kids! Children are welcome in both the bar and restaurant and can choose from their own menu.
The fabulous delicatessen most definitely deserves a mention - you will no doubt spend a mighty sum on delicious local and international produce including meats, cheese, breads, preserves, beer and ice-cream, as well as fantastic pre-prepared meals waiting in the freezer. The girls couldn't wait to get their pennies and ‘go shopping' in the gift shop providing perfect things for pocket money spends, foodie gifts and very tasteful "thanks for looking after the cat etc" gifts.
The trekking and riding centre is situated on site with some of the most spectacular views and scenery around. The very friendly and professional staff are there to make sure you get all you want from your riding experiences and are geared up to accommodate both adults and children alike - with tiny ponies to huge big horses waiting for their mount!
Loch Tay is a walk across the road - a perfect skimming and dam-building lake as well as a wading and getting soaked lake! Don't forget your midge spray!
Kenmore Golf Course is also on your doorstep and extends reduced fees to residents - juniors are most welcome. It's a testing 9-hole golf course set in the heart of Highland Perthshire and is worth the challenge.
Numerous activities can be found within a stone's throw of Mains Of Taymouth. The water sports centre is an easy 20 minute walk though the road side can disappear, as is the fabulous Crannog Centre where you can find out how our ancestors lived. Kayaking, canoeing and water-skiing make for a fabulously energetic afternoon - and hilarious - mountain biking, quad biking and Highland Adventure safaris are a short drive away - as is gold-panning which killed a lovely sunny afternoon looking for gems!
There are heaps of walks from the door-step - we took a gentle circuitous walk into the village down to the stunning but needing TLC Taymouth Castle and back again along the River Tay via the rickety Chinese Bridge (Eve really freaked out!) through the woodland and back alongside the golf course. It is glorious and easy going (though it was dry - could be tricky after rain with a push-chair).
A little further afield visit the stunning Blair Castle where there always seems to be something going on, the lovely town of Pitlochry has shops, a theatre and the salmon ladder, take in the House of Bruar, Killiecrankie, Dewars World of Whisky and the Queens View.