Dog friendly holiday cottage, sleeps 8 - Taynuilt, Central Scotland

This countryside retreat offers blissful solitude. Roam your own mature, romantic gardens, which sit surrounded by uninterrupted views of Loch Etive and the hills that bank it. The house is a handsome Victorian property, full of inspiring period character, and cosy and spacious rooms.

Step back in time and host a good old-fashioned family reunion, with chats around the dining table rather than slob-out sessions in front of the TV, and walks in the hills rather than dashes to the bus stop. The house itself is a large, Victorian property, surrounded by spacious grounds, making it feel secluded and special. Inside, begin with the basics — a handy entrance vestibule and utility room, great for stowing and washing your muddy belongings after a day in the hills.

Head to the heart of the home, the warm, restful lounge, complete with wood burner for cosier evenings together. The kitchen is another bright and welcoming space, with a family table so you can chill out while one of you cooks. Or, for a more formal occasion, take your meal through to the spacious dining room which is filled with light from the garden, perfect for long, leisurely, catch-up feasts.

The bedrooms — four in total — sit up on the first floor. Each is dressed sumptuously, in an individual colour theme, and enjoys its own unique slant on the countryside views. Looking out over the garden in the morning will make you want to get straight out there.

Explore the pretty nooks and crannies of these lovely grounds or sit at the picnic table for an al fresco coffee.