This lovely cottage ticks all the boxes for a tranquil getaway. It looks totally charming, has breathtaking views and is extremely well equipped and furnished.

We booked online and Sue, the owner, was prompt and helpful with answering queries, and the information online is comprehensive. Directions were foolproof and keys easily accessible. The cottage was spotless and welcoming, with the log burner laid ready to welcome us. The sitting room has a deep squashy sofa on which to loll and admire the views across Loch Leven, which is just a step across the road. Kitchen is well equipped, with good appliances, and there is access to a washer in the shared laundry room. The double bedroom is spacious with a comfy bed and good linen. Bathroom is very good, with a vast tub, separate shower and excellent water pressure. The twin room, which we did not use, is on the ground floor, and a good size. No wardrobe in there, but plenty of drawer space.

The central heating gives no trouble, and keeps the cottage cosy in all areas, so that the woodburner is an added attraction on dark evenings. WiFi signal is strong and easy to log onto. Phone signal, too, and plenty of sockets for the inevitable recharging. There is plenty of parking behind the cottage.

The cottage is situated at the end of the village, within easy walking distance of a lovely craft cafe, a pub that serves food and a village shop for essentials. A longer (just over an hour) but not troublesome walk takes you to the Clachaig Inn, where there is good food to be had and entertainment at the weekends. After a walk down for Sunday lunch, we booked a taxi to take us to the open mic session in the evening. £7 each way, friendly and prompt service even on a filthy winter’s night. We left cards in the cottage.

We come to Scotland in November for the welcome rather than the weather. We had the proverbial four seasons in one day, everything from snow flurries as we arrived through driving rain and mountain mist to clear blue skies. Take appropriate clothing and embrace the weather without which the majestic scenery of this area would not exist.

A typical day for us on this kind of holiday would comprise a picturesque but not overly strenuous walk in forest or glen, late hearty lunch at a pub, then home to the cottage delights of books, jigsaws and a box set. Those who want more action, or who come in summer, would not be disappointed as many tourist attractions are within easy reach, and there is a file with leaflets in the cottage. Because this is a world famous tourist area, pubs, hotels and cafes are open even in the winter. The welcome is very warm and the prices reasonable.

All in all, Stone Cottage is a delightful place for a Highland break. We thank Sue for letting such a high quality holiday home and would recommend it warmly.