Hillview

Hillview suits couples, small families and groups of up to four who want a rural base with genuine comfort. The single-storey cottage stands on a working farm in North Ayrshire, a few miles from Dalry and Lochwinnoch. One dog stays free, though it must be kept on a lead in this sheep and dairy farming country. The property is yours alone, with private parking for two cars and an enclosed garden where you can use the hot tub year-round.

Ground-floor living means no stairs. The main bedroom has a king bed; the second has two singles that zip together into a super-king on request. A woodburner warms the living room, and the kitchen is properly equipped for cooking—oven, hob, dishwasher, air fryer and microwave all there. Bed linen, towels and wi-fi are included. Beyond the house, an external games room has a pool table and table tennis. The garden has a patio, barbecue and furniture, and there's a bike store if you've brought two wheels.

This corner of Ayrshire works well for walkers and cyclists. The Ayrshire Coastal Path begins at Skelmorlie, about 15 miles away, and Culzean Castle Country Park with its woodland trails is within reach. Lochwinnoch, five miles off, has mountain bike hire. Inland, there are gardens, castles and golf courses; water sports are available at Castle Semple. The farm itself has boot and dog washing facilities for when you come back muddy.