Helen R
July 2022
Mixed review. There are many great things about this house. It is ideally situated in the most beautiful area and there is lots to explore but a car is essential.
We loved the warm, cosy, homely decor, lots of tartan, the wood burner and the candles so you can cosy up in the evenings. Everything was very clean upon arrival and the kitchen is amazing. Everything you need is there and this includes extras you wouldn't expect, such as cast iron cookware, an awesome double oven range with a plate warmer and a dishwasher means no washing up.
We did feel a little let down with the garden however. Although there is loads of space and a fort for the kids, additional maintenance is needed here. Grass was about a foot high when we arrived and all the seating was covered up and in need of painting. A Gardener turned up unexpectedly two days before we were due to leave, which was a bit irritating since we had the whole of our holiday with a messy garden which we didn't really want to sit out in. It would be easy enough to get some hardy perennials such as lavender so there are low maintenance flowers in the three raised beds which are currently overgrown with grass and weeds.
There are also some safety issues outside which concerned us. The worst of these is a sunken bin in the grass being used to cover a drain near the play fort. This was covered by a rubber bin lid which my son jumped on whilst playing. It didn't support his weight and he got a suprise when he fell into the drain hole which is about two foot deep. He wasn't hurt but it could have been dangerous. Rotting wood on the hot tub decking also needs to be attended to before somebody has an accident.
The hot tub is a great addition and is spacious with strong jets. It's in a perfect secluded position so great for the body conscious who don't want to be over looked. However we found it to be overwhelmingly chlorinated during our stay. We have had many hot tub holidays over the years but this has been the first where the chemicals were so strong it stung our eyes to the extent that we could often not even manage a full cycle. Luckily we were able to add more water with the hose provided but I suggest that whoever maintains this, should double check the chlorine that is added and perhaps lower the amount or change brands.
If these things are addressed this would easily be a five star property.