For sanctuary
In romantic cottages made for bare feet and late breakfasts, couples and solo sojourners pour cream into whiskey-spiked coffee, while dogs take up residence beneath frost-dusted windows.
Winter is for lovers. For the rib-tickling laughter that only happens when clouds burst above the hot tub and raindrops dilute homespun sloe gin cocktails that were months in the making. From bubbling backyard waters, dash indoors to the firelight where the smell of honey-glazed root veg wafts from the Aga and a handwoven basket makes an offering of woollen blankets. These hideaways are for couples in search of the Great British Snuggledown.
Once upon a time there was just one, a solo traveller who retreated to the seaside to paint in the window and dunk local shortbread into cups of cocoa. When quietude calls, going alone is sometimes the only thing that will cut the midwinter mustard. And so we make a case for luxury idleness: throw sticks for pups on beaches bare but for seagulls, set the table for a candlelit dinner for one, and sprawl out on velveteen sofas with the buttons to yourself.
Supernova
Loch Harport, Isle of Skye, Scotland, UK
An idyllic writers' retreat, this luxury chapel conversion on the Isle of Skye in Scotland is a mountainous sanctuary, offering a spa bath, sauna, and views over Loch Harport.
Sleeps Up to 2 guests
From £1,750 per week, £1,295 per short break
Pets Two well-behaved dogs are welcome
Features Sauna
Northlight
Dunvegan, Isle of Skye, Scotland, UK
This historic Scottish homestead turned luxury cottage on the shoreline of Skye's Uiginish peninsula balances rigorous eco credentials with curated interiors, waterside views and a sauna.
Sleeps Up to 4 guests
Alternative Up to 2 guests
From £2,295 per week, £1,695 per short break
Pets Sorry, no dogs are permitted
Features Outdoor sauna
Selkie
Carbost, Isle of Skye, Scotland, UK
Immersed in nature, this contemporary home on the Isle of Skye in Scotland offers panoramic views, a sauna overlooking the loch, and direct access to the island’s wild beauty.
Sleeps Up to 4 guests
Alternative Up to 2 guests
From £2,150 per week, £1,595 per short break
Pets Sorry, no dogs are permitted
Features Outdoor sauna, firepit and Big Green Egg Barbecue
Elemental
Pitlochry, Loch Rannoch, Scotland, UK
Quietly stylish and perched above a sparkling Scottish loch, Elemental's remote location promises hideaway magic for nature-lovers: just what faraway weekends are all about
Sleeps Up to 4 guests
Alternative Up to 2 guests
From £1,995 per week, £1,550 per short break
Pets Sorry, no pets
Features Four kayaks for the loch (available from March - October)
Little Eden
Perched on the quiet eastern shores of Loch Lomond and with glorious mountain views, this private and romantic self-catering cottage is perfectly romantic and wildly gorgeous.
Sleeps Up to 4 guests
Alternative Up to 2 guests
From £2,395 per week, £1,795 per short break
Pets Two well-behaved dogs are welcome
Features Two fire pits and secluded bay on Loch Lomond, perfect for launching kayaks and SUPs
Solas
Luskentyre Beach, The Isle of Harris, Scotland, UK
Settled above the paradisiacal shores of Luskentyre Beach on the Isle of Harris, Solas is a modern self-catering home seemingly perched on the edge of the world.
Sleeps Up to 6 guests
Alternative Up to 4 & Up to 2 guests
From £3,595 per week
Pets One small to medium well-behaved dog will be accepted. Two dogs will be considered on prior request
Features Wood-fired hot tub, spa area with sauna, shower and yoga deck
