Larachan

Larachan works well for families or small groups wanting a complete retreat to themselves. The cottage is built on one level, with three bedrooms (a king, a double and a single), two bathrooms and a wet room, so there's space without unnecessary stairs. Everything you need for cooking and eating is there—oven, hob, dishwasher—and the lounge has large windows facing the sea. Wi-Fi, heating, bed linen and towels are all sorted. One well-behaved pet stays free.

The property sits in Scarfskerry on the Highland coast, with direct access down to a private rocky beach. An enclosed, lawned garden with patio and seating faces the water. Parking fits two cars. The area draws people interested in coastal walks, birdwatching and marine wildlife; puffins, otters, seals and dolphins are regularly spotted in these waters. Dunnet Bay nearby has paths through dunes to a wider sandy shore. The Castle of Mey is visible from the cottage and within walking distance. The Highland Tourist Trail passes through, connecting Wick in the east to Ullapool in the west and taking in some of Scotland's most dramatic inland and coastal terrain. No smoking inside.