“The estate sits on land inhabited since the Stone Age, once home to one of the UK’s largest stone circles and the sacred May Day festival. Over centuries it evolved to the elegant 18thC Mayen House, birthplace of renowned astronomer James Ferguson. Today, its history, modern additions and star-filled skies offer guests a rare blend of heritage, beauty, and celestial charm.” Host, Ross
He loves
“The undisturbed views and hot tub underneath the stars.“
We love
The artist-painted box beds and original artworks throughout.
You may not love
You’ll need a car to get here and around. In winter, WiFi can be patchy. No check ins on Thurs or Sun.
Sustainability.
Environmentally friendly cleaning products and detergents; recycling points in each rental. No single-use plastic used. Blankets are 100% wool and made in Scotland. Timber from estate used to supply wood-burning stoves. They practice regenerative countryside management, including the planting of diverse woodlands, plants loved by bees and butterfly meadows to increase biodiversity. All angling on the River Deveron is 100% catch and release. They support campaigns to regenerate and improve the cleanliness of the waterways and do not use chemicals or pesticides. They grow fruit and vegetables in walled gardens and keep free-range hens for their eggs.
Surrounds.
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Cullykhan Bay -
Craigievar Castle and Gardens -
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- Roam the 900-acre estate, spotting wild deer, red squirrels, otters and osprey. The Highland Coos are also very photogenic!
- There’s an incredible walled garden, exclusively for estate guests. Book a handmade picnic to enjoy amongst the blooms.
- The river Deveron winds through the estate. Book a fishing experience with your own dedicated ghillie.
- Go paddleboarding and swimming in Banffshire’s historic harbours.
- Aberdeenshire has over 260 castles, stately homes and ruins scattered through its valleys. We love Huntly Castle’s inscribed stone friezes and Fyvie’s colourful history, having played host to Mary Queen of Scots and Robert the Bruce over the years…
- Take a wildlife cruise along the Moray Firth; dolphins dive past in the waves, killer whales spout in the distance and puffins populate the stunning coastal clifflines. You can also sea kayak here.
- There are 30 miles of Moray Coast. The crescent-shaped Cullykhan Bay is both secluded and stunning; a perfect place for a beach picnic and swim.
- Visit whisky distilleries for tours and tastings, and local restaurants for beautiful farm-to-plate dining.
Details.
- Cottage on a 900-acre estate (there are also 4 other properties on-site)
- Underfloor heating
- 2 double bedrooms (cannot be twinned), one with a single bunk above the bed
- Bathroom with shower/tub
- Fully equipped kitchen with electric range cooker with hobs and oven, fridge/freezer, dishwasher, washing machine/dryer
- Lounge area with woodburner, Smart TV, WiFi (Starlink), books, board games and local guides
- Private garden with wood-fired hot tub, BBQ, firepit and pizza oven, and alfresco furniture
- Highchair, travel cot and fireguard available (request when booking)
- Dog friendly (1 large or 2 small-medium dogs, see FAQ)
- Buy fresh fruit and veg from the Walled Garden in season, plus there’s an on-site shop with essential items and treats
- The family live on-site, available by email
- Walk/drive to a pub (4 miles); drive to other pubs, farm shops and recommended restaurants (7-15 miles)
- Booking conditions: Min 3 nights (plus 2-night exceptions if calendar gaps). No check ins on Thurs or Sunday. A 7-night minimum over the festive period
- Remember to pack: all groceries including basics, flipflops to pad out to your hot tub, walking boots and waterproofs
Non-Refundable
50% deposit, with the balance due 4 weeks prior to stay. All payments are non-refundable.
These terms also apply to any booking amendments or date changes.
See our full booking Ts & Cs
FAQs.
In: 4-6pm / out 10am
No check ins on Thurs or Sunday
Yes, Butlers can accommodate one large or 2 small-medium sized dogs – no extra cost. The garden is secure. Please note dogs must be kept on a lead when walking around the estate as there are free-ranging animals and wildlife.
Still have a question?
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