Lobster Ponds

Lobster Ponds sits on its own stretch of shoreline in the Highlands, with direct access onto a rocky beach and seashore. The house works for large groups or extended families: five bedrooms split between a king and four doubles (two of which are twins), three bathrooms, and spaces to spread out across two living rooms. One of these is built as an observation room with a balcony, positioned to take in views across the bay and watch for sea life and birds. The ground floor opens onto a terrace and garden, where there's furniture and a barbecue.

The kitchen comes equipped for self-catering—electric cooker, dishwasher, fridge and freezer—and the utility room has a washing machine and tumble dryer. A games room gives children and groups somewhere separate to occupy themselves. Parking is on site and one well-behaved pet stays free of charge. Essentials like electricity, heating, bed linen, towels and wi-fi are included. No smoking indoors.

The setting opens onto miles of shoreline walks and rocky ground where fossils regularly surface. Helmsdale village, about 500 yards away, has a shop, post office, restaurants and a harbour. The area supports golf, fishing, cycling, hill-walking and surfing. Dunrobin Castle and the Castle of Mey lie within reach for day trips, as does panning for gold in the Helmsdale river.