Fochabers, Northern Scotland, self catering

This elegant Georgian home is the perfect destination for families, groups of friends or fishing parties seeking a secluded base from which to explore the Moray coast and Speyside countryside. Sleeping 14 guests across six bedrooms, this family owned house offers comfortable accommodation with a homely feel. Gather together for cocktails and parlour games in front of the open fire in the drawing room or practise your serve on the tennis court.

Keen fishermen will be delighted with the proximity to the famous River Spey, and in particular Brae Water and Gordon Castle Water. Follow the Speyside Whisky Trail and discover the heritage of Scotland’s famous tipple. Less than 2 miles away is the pretty village of Fochabers, where you will find welcoming pubs and eateries as well as the Baxters Highland Village for shopping.

Your rural retreat enjoys a secluded location next to a working farm, surrounded by extensive grounds and overlooking the River Spey. Step through the front door and into the hallway where a curving staircase rises to the upper floors. Unpack your provision in the spacious kitchen, a bright and airy room equipped with all you require for a home from home stay.

Sip a glass of wine at the central island as you chat to your nominated chef or enjoy your morning coffee at the breakfast bar. For leisurely evening meals, assemble around the polished table where you can converse late into the night. The open fire makes the drawing room a cosy and inviting space where you can sit and relax in one of the comfortable sofas, catching up on family news.

The TV room is ideal for younger guests to recharge their batteries in front of the latest blockbuster. Take the stairs to the mezzanine level where you will find a well-appointed twin bedroom and a double bedroom with open-plan screened bathroom. There is a spacious family bathroom on this level.

Stairs lead to the attic floor where the long and light bedroom homes four single beds and a separate bathroom. Due to the sloping ceilings and restricted head height, this room may be better suited to younger guests. The indulgent master double bedroom can be found on the first floor and benefits from an en-suite bathroom with free-standing bath looking out across the gardens.

A cosy double and a pretty twin bedroom are decorated in soothing restful tones. There is a further bathroom and shower room on this floor. Stepping outside there are extensive gardens for picnics and lawn games.

Stroll around the orchard or light the BBQ for a meal on the terrace. Serve an ace on the all-weather tennis court, just remember to bring your racquet with you.