The Tower Auchencar

The Tower is on the Dougarie Estate, near Auchencar on the Isle of Arran. It's a 19th century listed keep, part of the old estate buildings. They've done it up very well inside. It sleeps eight, has four bedrooms and, handily, four bathrooms. It's got a 5 Star rating.

The main thing is the roof terrace. The views from up there are the whole point. You can see right down the Kilbrannan Sound. Dougarie beach is just a few minutes' walk away. There's a beach hut there you can use.

The stairs inside are original and narrow in places. They're spiral and steep. Just so you know.

The estate is a working farm. They run activities you can book, like fishing on the River Iorsa, clay pigeon shooting, or golf at the 9-hole Machrie links course. You can arrange things like whisky tours or photography workshops if you want. It's all there if you're interested.

If you just want to do your own thing, the beach is there. There are good walks straight from the door, including along the river. For a shop or a pub, you'd drive to Machrie or Blackwaterfoot, about three miles.

Inside, it's got what you'd expect. Wood burning stove, dishwasher, washing machine, WiFi. Bedding and towels are included. It's pet friendly for up to two dogs. There's parking right there.

For finding out more about the area, VisitScotland's Arran page is useful, and the National Trust for Scotland looks after Brodick Castle and Garden, which is about a half hour drive away.