Elemental

Introduction

If it's off the beaten track you're after, this lochside self-catering retreat in ancient Viking woodland is the spot. A nature-lover's paradise, Elemental has two beaches and an acre of garden full of wildlife. The architect-designer owners have breathed new life into their stylish sixties home, overhauling the one-story build with natural finishes nodding to the environment. In summer, take a dip while a fish supper fries on the barbecue; in winter, cosy up by the log fire, where sandpipers and dippers can be spotted from the sofa. After sundowners are poured, line up the music system and dance in the sunset beams that stream across the wooden floors.

Inside

Each as inviting as the next, Elemental's light-filled bedrooms are tucked away from the main living area and have views of loch, garden or scudding clouds. Guests can lounge in the master four-poster or tuck into the twin, bare toes kept toasty by underfloor heating. The family bathroom has an overhead rainfall shower, while the shower room features a unique square rose; both are monochrome with an industrial edge, in-line with the solid wood floors and poured concrete counters found elsewhere in the house.

Outside

With big open skies and sparkling fresh water all around, there is much here to set families at one with the elements. Solace is the watchword of this once-Viking settlement, and there's plenty for adventurers to explore too. Ancient woodland is tracked through with hidden pathways, opening up to the sapphire blue waters of Loch ­Rannoch, diving down to a depth of 130m. The cottage's two lochside beaches are separated by a small headland; pull a chair onto the deck and keep an eye out for local wildlife, such as the baby deer known to frequent the acre of garden. Four kayaks are provided, for those who want a different perspective of the coast.

• PricingFrom £1,995 per week, £1,550 per short break for up to 4 guests
  An alternative group size of up to 2 guests is available during selected periods at a reflective rate
• FeaturesFour kayaks for the loch (available from March - October)
• PetsSorry, no pets
  
• FamilyChildren and babies are welcome
• PracticalitiesThe house has parking for up to four cars on the drive. The kitchen has a fridge-freezer, dishwasher, induction hob and on-hob kettle, plus a Magimix coffee machine. The water here is beautifully pure and perfectly safe to drink, however, water from the bathroom may appear orange in colour due to naturally high peat content. Due to Elemental´s windswept location, there is no permanent outdoor seating however chairs can be taken outside and placed on the deck whenever needed. The entrance path can be slippery when wet, and uneven access to the beach and a garden on several levels makes the grounds less suitable for those with limited mobility
• Private cateringWhether you're looking for a fully catered stay or a one-off meal for a special occasion, discover your bespoke catering options
  
  Explore private dining
• RestrictionsParties considered on prior permission from the owner

Loch Rannoch

Stretching nine miles from east to west this loch, north east of Perth, is one of Scotland´s most beautiful tracts of water. No major roads run here so car trips are peaceful and scenic, taking in picnic spots and viewing points.

View property location Destination guide

Getting there

• On the map Elemental is located on the north shores of Loch Rannoch, approximately 7.5 miles from Kinloch Rannoch and 25 miles from Pitlochry.
• By air Dundee airport on Scotland's south-east coast is a two hour drive away.
• By car Elemental is a 15 minute drive from Kinloch, one and a half hours from Perth and eight and a half from London.
• By train The train journey from London Euston to Pitlochry is seven and a half hours, followed by a one-hour bus journey. A sleeper service also operates to Pitlochry with a journey time of nine hours. A government-subsidised taxi service from Kinloch Rannoch then takes you right to the door.