Guests say
Farr Cottage offers a peaceful and cosy retreat with stunning views over Helmsdale, making it an ideal base for exploring the surrounding area and enjoying local wildlife. Guests consistently praise the tranquil location, comfortable beds, and well-equipped kitchen. While some mention the need for updating and occasional cleanliness issues, most find the cottage homely and welcoming. The property is particularly appreciated by dog owners and those seeking relaxation in a quiet setting.
Most guests found the cottage clean and tidy, though a few noted issues such as pet hair and a stale smell. Some reviews mention the need for more thorough cleaning, but overall, the majority were satisfied.
The location is frequently described as fantastic, peaceful, and offering spectacular views. Its elevated position provides a tranquil atmosphere, though access is steep. Proximity to local amenities and nature is highly valued.
Guests generally found the cottage cosy and comfortable, with particular praise for the beds and living areas. A few mentioned minor discomforts such as a cold toilet or mattress preference, but overall comfort is rated highly.
The cottage is well-equipped for a self-catering stay, with most essentials provided. However, several guests noted that some appliances and furnishings are dated or in need of repair, and a few experienced issues with electrical items.
Guests appreciated touches like bird feed and dog-friendly amenities, but there is no mention of guaranteed gifts or welcome packs. Some noted the absence of a welcome pack and unclear recycling instructions.
About this property
Farr is a quintessential, traditional, stone croft cottage, perched on the hillside above the picturesque fishing village of Helmsdale.. All on the
Ground Floor:
Living/dining room: 30" Freeview TV, DVD Player, Open Fire
Kitchen: Electric Oven, Electric Hob, Microwave, Fridge/Freezer, Washing Machine
Bedroom 1: Double (4ft 6in) Bed
Bedroom 2: 2 x Single (3ft) Beds
Shower Room: Cubicle Shower, Heated Towel Rail, No Toilet
Separate Toilet..
Electric central heating, electricity, bed linen, towels, Wi-Fi and fuel for open fire included. . Enclosed front garden with sitting-out area and bench. Private parking for 2 cars. No smoking.. Set in its own grounds, and freshly decorated with comfort in mind, Farr provides peace and seclusion, coupled with incredible sea views. The front door leads into a small veranda with large picture windows and a comfortable sofa - an ideal spot to watch the ever-changing seascapes below. The living room has a warm welcoming open fire, as well as a folding dining table. The kitchen at the rear of the cottage is small but well-equipped, complete with modern units. There are two bedrooms, one with a double bed and the second with twin beds. The garden at the front of the cottage is fully enclosed with a small fence but is not necessarily secure for dogs and is mainly laid to grass with mature shrubs and a Spring flower border. Animals are welcome but any damage to the property done by them will require payment of a compensatory fee. The land at the rear goes straight up onto open hillside. Deer graze nearby and are likely to be inquisitive visitors at the window! The cottage has been owned by the same family for generations, and the current owners have modernised and improved the accommodation in recent years, now providing a warm, cosy, and secluded base in which to relax and to explore the best of this stunning Highland area.
Just a mile away, down the steep single-track road, is Helmsdale village and the renowned North Coast 500 route, which encompasses some of the most amazing and inspiring landscapes to be found anywhere in the British Isles. Helmsdale has a small, thriving harbour, with brightly coloured cottages straddling the shoreline. Here you will also find a selection of local shops and restaurants, as well as a fascinating museum detailing the area’s rich and varied past, including a famous 19th century gold rush. Fishing, cycling, hill walking, kayaking, and surfing are all enjoyed locally. This region is also renowned for its magnificent unspoilt beaches with a pebble beach just 1 mile away, wild rugged coastline, historic castles, and traditional fishing villages. Beach 12 miles. Shop, pub, and restaurant 1 mile.
Suitable for up to 2 pets
Nearby points of interest
- Brora Golf Club
- Brora Beach
- Brora Heritage Centre
Reviews (23)
-
Confirmed Guest
Farr cottage is a perfect retreat and ideal base to explore the surrounding area, different towns and villages and coastline of North East Scotland. The views to the front are to die for and no better way to start your day with coffee and breakfast looking at an amazing sunrise and views across the town and seascape. One of the highlights on my day! Keep the bird feeders topped up with the tub of feed provided, you will enjoy the wide array of birds that visit to feed right in front of your window while you start your day. Take binoculars..I also saw eagles soaring over mountain opposite above the town..fantastic. The cottage is perched high up so fairly steep access roads a short distance from the town, giving a perfect vantage point. The cottage is ideal for people with dogs (check on numbers) with a warm and comfortable porch to the front with seating so perfect after a walk or day out winter or summer. The cottage is clearly dog friendly with dishes and covers etc. My October visit was getting a bit chilly but always a warm and comfortable return indoors from the odd soggy day out so ideal. I would describe the cottage as traditional built, clean and tidy with free electric provided for water, heating and cooking. All the furnishings are clean and comfortable. Not high end decorations or facilities but a perfect price point for an ideal base to getaway from it all. There are a couple of pubs in the town centre and a bar/restaurant that does take away food. A local store and the local chippy is renowned far and wide..eat in take away. I wasn’t aware until I tried on last day, they were good! I would definitely stay a Farr cottage again.
-
Confirmed Guest
Having navigated very steep hills and very sharp bends to reach this cottage, you are rewarded with fantastic views. However, this "reward" is not enough to compensate for Farr Cottage not being up to expected standards. Many of the electrical appliances were not working, or faulty and some PAT testing dates were several months overdue. There was no Welcome Pack, but leftover food remained in the fridge. There is a constant stale/old smell throughout the property, which is alleviated by airing/heating through. The property is in need of urgent upgrading. Such a shame as this could be a lovely holiday home in an area where holiday homes are in short supply. Having travelled from another holiday property to this property, and having stayed in many holiday properties over many years, this is the first time I have sadly had to leave a negative review.
-
Evelyn Stirling
Lovely cottage and destination, high up on the hill with fantastic views. Perfect area to relax and unwind, not too far from village shop and walk along sea front. Cottage had everything we needed, although some things need to be updated. We would love to have a holiday at Farr again.