Heather Lodge Rosemarkie

Heather Lodge is in Rosemarkie, up in the Highlands. It's a detached wooden lodge, built on a slope in a bit of woodland. You get your own private patio out front. The main view is out over the sea.

It sleeps four. Two bedrooms upstairs, one double and one twin, and a family bathroom. It's got a 4 Star rating, so it's comfortable and well-equipped. The living area is all open plan, with patio doors. The stairs up to the bedrooms are inside, just a normal flight.

You're right by Chanonry Point, which is one of the best spots in Europe to see dolphins from the shore. We see them regularly. You get pine martens, deer, all sorts of wildlife around. The owner lives on-site and is usually about if you need any tips on local walks.

The villages of Fortrose and Rosemarkie are close by. You've got a few pubs that do food, some shops for basics. The beach is about two miles. For a longer stretch of sand, you can drive over to Nairn or the Black Isle beaches.

Inverness is about half an hour's drive north if you need a bigger town or the station. The whole coast here is good for walking or cycling. There's a golf course at Fortrose too.

Facilities: it's got a dishwasher, washing machine, WiFi, and parking right beside the lodge. Bedding and towels are included. You can bring up to two dogs. There's a cot and highchair if needed.

Useful links for planning: National Trust for Scotland at Fortrose and Walkhighlands for Black Isle walks.