Mar Lodge - Self catering holiday cottage in Knockespoch, Nr Huntly, Aberdeenshire, Scotland - Sleeps 2+2

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If you liked the films 'Mrs Brown' or 'Local Hero' you will warm to this special part of Scotland. Mar Lodge is well placed for access to Aberdeen, Speyside and the Grampian Highlands and the wealth of traditional Scottish culture, history, architecture, flavours, wildlife and sporting activities that are on offer all year round.

From June to September you will be spoilt for choice when the colourful and traditional Highland Games take place in 14 different locations in the region, some of which are enjoyed by Royals and celebrities. Even visitors can take part: at the Lonach gathering, famous for its march of the clans with pipes and drums, you can enter the hill race.

Furnished to 4 star standards this cosy secluded cottage sits on the edge of the private 300+ acre Knockespoch estate at the southern end of Strathbogie. From the romantic bedroom with king size bed and log fire you can enjoy spectacular views towards the Tap o' Noth, site of one of the highest hill forts in Scotland.

Follow the pretty estate walks by winding burns, ponds and clearings, and if you are feeling energetic you can climb up Suie Hill.

While away a couple of hours on a tour of your favourite Speyside whisky distillery or pop into Duncan Taylor's 'Whiskies of Scotland' shop in Huntly High Street for a choice of fine and rare malts. And if your vision of Scottish landscapes is dotted with castles you won't be disappointed. Join the castle trail and visit any of 13 castles and grounds, some of which are open to the public or host exhibitions and concerts.

History lovers will find ancient monuments, archaeological sites and battlefields, and on the estate, near to Mar Lodge, stands a pictish stone beside the entrance to Knockespoch House, former home to the Gordon Clan.

Visit the unspoilt quiet beaches and spectacular cliffs of the Aberdeenshire coastline and spot dolphins and seals or visit the brightly coloured fishing villages dotted along the coast, like Pennan where Local Hero was filmed, and make a phone call from the same phone box that Burt Lancaster used.

There are many sporting opportunities nearby from downhill and cross-country skiing, including a dry ski centre, to fabulous hill walking and mountain biking trails, with bike hire available. Donside, Deeside and Speyside are all well known for salmon fishing.