Depicted as a backdrop in faded photos of a happy Victorian era family playing with their dog, this stately country manor and grounds has served as a cherished family estate for over 150 years. Built by the prominent Sinclair family in the 18th century, this elegantly detailed luxury villa in Scotland is a throwback to genteel times, with enchanting walled gardens and woodlands, and lushly appointed interiors that immerse you into the atmospheric era. 

Throughout the years there were additions and alterations, most notably by famed 19th-century Edinburgh architect David Bryce. Passing through multiple owners in the intervening years, and surviving the wars, the estate ran into disrepair before it was finely restored in the 1990s to its present splendor. Take the time to wander the expansive grounds and experience the history of this classic beauty.

Oh, and bring your horse. There's a vacation rental for them too here, where you can canter through the highlands together while enjoying this landmark estate.

A 60-acre estate nestled into the verdant countryside, this luxury villa in Scotland is a graceful, 18th-century manor home, whose lovely original features and history have been carefully preserved and protected.

Once the home of a prominent Scottish family, it's a richly detailed and beautifully-preserved compound of dignified, classical style. Built in the Victorian era with subsequent additions, the property consists of the main house, a gate house cottage, and large stables that also include a one-bedroom apartment. 

The interiors are lush and intimate with fireplaces in every room, period antiques, and plush comforts. There is a dining and living room, separate breakfast room, a library and games room and a fully-equipped, eat-in kitchen. Each of the eight individual suites offer colorful themes and luxurious appointments. 

Situated at the main entrance, the gatehouse is a delightfully quirky space with a steep gabled roof and decorative details.

The grounds are lush, green and very private with gorgeous gardens, a pond with a boathouse and a large playfield with rounders and a football pitch.

Translating its history with a light touch and an eye for detail that respects its heritage, this lovely country home is a magical trip back in time.

ADDITIONAL FEATURES

Private check in and check out. Helipad. Housekeeping included with optional full time staff available including private chef, touring services. Optional shuttle and airport shuttle services (additional charges apply). Wifi throughout, TV, newspapers, Fax/photocopying, kitchen and bath amenities, laundry facilities. 

Complimentary bicycles available for guest use, skatepark ramps, board games/puzzles, books, DVDs, music for children with child care available at additional charge. There are also horses for guest use.

AROUND

Positioned in the farthest northern regions of Scotland, the highlands of Caithness and the coasts of Sutherland are some of the most majestic and unspoiled landscapes in the United Kingdom.  

Bordered by Moray Firth to the east and Pentland Firth to the north, Caithness' dramatic scenery includes low-lying shores, caves, and towering on- and offshore cliffs. The harbor and fishing port town of Thurso is just a few minutes drive to the north western coast. Further up is the lighthouse of Dunnett where you can stroll the atmospheric shorelines. The beautiful Castle Mey, with its gardens and tearoom is worth a visit, just up the coast at the headlands.

An hour inland are the wild and desolate moors of the Flow Country, a swath of sparsely populated wilderness that is home to many rare species of birds, peat bogs and plants. The southern shoreline is home to the fishing port town of Wick and the Trinkie pools, Lybster harbor and the Grey Cairns of Camster.

Don't miss the stunning beauty of the Orkney Islands offshore (the Gills Bay ferry is a quick ride and takes your car). A fascinating archipelago, there are many Neolithic sites, preserved villages and remnants and carvings from 12th-century Vikings.  

LOCATION

Castletown, Scotland. Nearest Airport: Wick Airport (22km), Kirkwall Airport (51 km) 

BEST TIME TO VISIT: May through October