Description: If a B&B experience on a traditional Scottish farm appeals to you, then you’ll likely enjoy a stay at Clynelish Farmhouse near Brora, on the east coast of the Scottish Highlands. The large 19th-century listed farmhouse, along with the nearby distillery, was once owned by the Dukes of Sutherland. Now it serves as the hub of a 300-acre, family-run farm located off the beaten path on a quiet lane--complete with sheep, a beautiful country garden, easy access to the sea, and a short stroll to some of the best scotch in Scotland.
Himself and Yours Truly stayed at Clynelish for four days in August 2008, and we were absolutely charmed by our hosts, their home, and the overall ambience of life in rural Scotland. The hospitality we encountered was genuine and simple. We were welcomed as guests and treated as friends. We happily shared evening conversation and wee drams with our hosts, and we met various family members as we moved through the rooms of an active and clearly hard-working household.
Lodging at Clynelish includes four guestrooms (one single, four doubles, and one triple) and an attached self-catering cottage. Each room is unique in terms of size and furnishings, though the two we saw were very similar in their amenities. Our room was comfortable rather than luxurious, a double containing two twin beds. The room was small, though not cramped, and included a closet for our belongings, a dressing table, a bedside table between the two beds, a dresser, and a television. Our view from the window took our eyes across the garden hedge, over the nearby field, and on to the hills beyond. The triple guestroom next door was used by our traveling companions. It was significantly larger, but aside from the fact that it contained a double bed as well as a twin, it was similarly appointed.
The many-gabled farmhouse itself is a virtual treasure trove in which family history over general generations is tastefully displayed. Showing interest in a particular heirloom is likely to evoke a brief account about one or another great uncle who saw service abroad in Britain’s far-flung empire. Information about the house and its contents is freely given by the hosts, but always on the basis of what the guest is interested in hearing. The hosts at Clynelish have learned the fine art of giving guests the lead in such exchanges, engaging in conversation without dominating either the subject or the discussion.
Our hosts provided a variety of brochures for nearly attractions, and personal recommendations were happily given for restaurants and pubs. Guests are invited to use the lounge at their leisure, including a large flat-screen television. The dining room, where an excellent farm breakfast is served, is also available for guest use. Our party of four enjoyed a tasty evening carryout from a nearby chippy while relaxing around the dining room table. The garden is large, informal, beautiful, and made for exploring. Antique stone troughs have been transformed into planters, and natural lichens mix beautifully with plantings and stone walls to provide visual interest.
Leaving Clynelish felt like leaving the home of friends after a satisfying visit. Is there better testimony for a successful B&B experience?
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