Stepping into this village home is like stepping onto the pages of a romantic novel. A moody medley of forest green and rust-red velvet sofas in the living room whisper of days gone by – the picture completed by a wood-burner set in an old fireplace carved with celtic twists. In the parlour, an upright piano awaits for someone to compose a song inspired by heather-bruised hills and craggy mountain passes. Or, perhaps choose something from the book collection and settle into a wing-backed armchair. Bedrooms are packed with paperbacks to find your next indulgent read, perhaps while soaking in the claw-footed tub of the master bathroom. Contrary to the rest of the home, the kitchen is bright and airy, but an exposed stone wall still suggests the building’s history. A welcome hamper of bubbly, tea, coffee and toiletries awaits your arrival. Spend the evening outside, gathered around the fire pit, or watching for shooting stars from the comfy sofas on the deck. The peaceful village of Carrbridge has a grocery shop and a handful of cosy pubs. You’re in the Cairngorms National Park here, so you may want to lace up those walking boots and bag some munros, or head to Speyside and sample some of the world-famous whisky distilleries.

Home truths:
*There is a double driveway for parking, but the garage is off-limits.
*Due to thick walls, noise inside is not an issue, but the hosts ask outdoor noise be kept to a minimum in the evening.
*There is newspaper, firewood and kindling to get you started and log top-ups can be bought locally.
*The host can provide cots, high chairs and fireplace guards for those with infants.
*Pets are welcome but let your host know before booking.
*This home lacks some basic kitchen crockery.
*We think some areas of this home could do with a refresh. In particular, the sofa and rugs look a little tired.