Holiday Cottages for the Christmas Week
Looking for a holiday cottage for Christmas? Well, we have an up to date list of properties available for the festive season. If you are looking for a large property do try and book up at least 8 months ahead, as these are very popular - most of the big properties get booked very early for Christmas. The holiday cottage period for Christmas is normally a week, starting from the Saturday. This year the week starts on 22nd December 2017 and lasts until the morning of 29th December
We've tried to make it as easy as possible to find properties available for Christmas. If you click the button below it will show you on a map where the cottages are, which are available. You will also see detailed information, rates and a on-line form to fill out to book the cottage.
Christmas 2017 Cottage Availability
Booking for Christmas could not be simpler; fill out the secure online form including your card details at the bottom of the page of your chosen cottage. You will normally receive a confirmation email within 24 hours. Please be aware that sometimes a property may not be available if the owner of the cottage has already booked it. The agents do try to keep the availability calendar up to date.
If you are looking for a property for New Year try here.
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Holiday Cottages in Scotland for New Year
Looking for a holiday cottage for New Year? Well, we have an up-to-date list of properties available for the festive season. If you are looking for a large property try and book up at least 8 months ahead, as bigger properties get booked very early for Hogmanay, as the New Year holiday is known in Scotland. The holiday cottage period for New Year is normally a week, starting from the Saturday. 2017's New Year week starts on the 29th for property rental. You can click on button below to see what is available now
NEW YEAR AVAILABILITY
We've tried to make it as easy as possible to find properties available for New Year. If you follow the links below it will show you on a map where the cottages are, which are available. You will also see detailed information, rates and an online form to fill out to book the cottage.
Booking a Cottage for New Year could not be simpler; simply fill out the secure online form including your card details at the bottom of the page of your chosen cottage. You will normally receive a confirmation email within 24 hours. Please be aware that sometimes a property may not be available if the owner of the cottage has already booked it. Some of the properties are privately owned, but you'll be able to email them your enquiry. The agents do try to keep the availability calendar up to date.
If you're looking for Cottages for Christmas, try here.
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Christmas, no doubt is a time for celebrations and what fun would it be without family and friends? Spending time with your loved ones for Christmas might sound like a great idea but getting them together is the difficult part. However, you can think of making it easy by planning a family Christmas holiday away from home. Booking a large holiday cottage with lots of space and privacy not only means that your entire family can get together but it is also one of the best ways by which you can make merry, relax and enjoy the festive revelry.
Holiday cottages for the Christmas period can be a great value for money since the cost per head is comparatively low. You can get all the family or your entire set of friends under one roof without shattering your budget. Tastefully decorative Christmas cottages help spread the Christmas fervour right inside your home. Pet friendly cottages are available to put your pet worries aside while holidaying on Christmas! You can find secluded holiday cottages tucked away in the hills which gift beautiful views or find others right on the edge of the beach. There are also luxury Christmas holiday cottages which come with extras like gardens, swimming pools and al fresco social eating areas.
We have tried to make it as easy as possible for you to find holiday cottages that are available for Christmas. Given below is a list of great places you can choose to spend your Christmas holiday.
A few of our favourites that are still available for the Christmas week
1. Cliff Cottage
Location: Port Appin, Argyll
The skilfully renovated Cliff Cottage is within close proximity to the crystal clear waters of the Lyne of Lorne. The area is great for walking, fishing and boat trips. This pet friendly cottage with 8 sleeps is ideal for a large family.
2. Laundry Cottage
Location: Dunkeld, Perthshire
This detached holiday cottage nestles on a private 1200-acre estate, in the heart of Perthshire. The luxury cottage with 4-6 sleep comes equipped with all modern amenities. If you can’t spend the holiday without all of your pets, then this is probably the best one you can choose. The Laundry cottage allows as many as 3 pets!
3. Victoria House
Location: Newburgh
Contemporary apartment with a games room near St Andrews, Perth and Dundee. Victoria House offers fantastic views of the River Tay from the first floor living rooms. The cottage also offers a lot of space which makes it an ideal base for families and friends to holiday together.
4. Tynron Cottage
Location: Tynron, Thornhill, Dumfriesshire
Tynron Cottage comes with 10 sleeps and has wheelchair access as well. Nestling in the heart of the Dumfriesshire countryside, this cottage offers fantastic views of Tynron Doon.
5.Helm’s Deep
Location: Sandyhills, nr. Colvend
The Scandinavian style log cabin is just a short walk from one of the finest beaches along the unspoilt coast at Sandyhills Bay. The shared indoor heated swimming pool and sauna is another highlight of this cottage.
6. White Cottage
Location: Lower Largo, nr. Leven
Enjoy uninterrupted sea views from this pet friendly holiday cottage with 6 sleeps. Overlooking the Largo Bay, this delightful cottage is sited only 12 miles from St Andrews and offers the perfect seaside holiday with swimming, beach walks and endless rock pools to explore.
7. Carry Farm – Sandpiper
Location: Tighnabruaich
Scandinavian style and pet friendly holiday lodge near to the sea with 6 sleeps. You and your family can enjoy coastal walks direct from this property which overlooks the Kyles of Bute.
8. Ardanaiseig Cottage
Location: Kilchrenan, nr. Taynuilt
This spacious detached property enjoys a stunning setting with direct access to Loch Awe (one of Scotland’s most picturesque lochs). A great family holiday cottage with 10 sleeps. The games room with Playstation is another highlight of the cottage.
In addition to our favourites, there ae loads of other holiday cottages which are still available fo the Christmas season. You can find them here.
Factors to consider when choosing a holiday cottage
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Location: The location of a holiday cottage plays a huge role in determining the success of your holiday. Its proximity to local attractions, the views it offers and the accessibility of the area are a few criteria by which you can judge the suitability of the cottage. The nearness of the cottage to local amenities also plays a great role in the overall enjoyment of your Christmas holiday. Having to drive a long distance to the nearest shop can often turn out to be a nuisance on a holiday in which you want to enjoy the peace of Christmas.
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Facilities: Make sure that the cottage you choose has all the facilities that is required for your large family. In fact the price of the cottage depends very much on what facilities they have. Ones with, for example, a hot tub tend to be more expensive while you can find numerous reasonably cheap ones with adequate (not luxurious) facilities as well. The joy of staying in a cottage is that it gives you the feeling you are in a real home. Book one that provides all the facilities you and your family are used to in your daily life.
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Kitchen facilities: If your family prefers a home-cooked meal during the stay, check out if the cottages you book have full kitchen facilities which include a toaster, microwave, oven and a grill. However, you need not pay much attention to this factor if you are planning to eat out in restaurants or stay outdoors most of the time.
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Rooms: The number of rooms and also the room sizes is another important factor to consider. This of course depends on the number of members who will be staying at the cottage. Plan accordingly!
To share the spirit of Xmas here are a few great ideas on things you can do this Christmas season:
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A Christmas holiday film together with your family in a holiday cottage will be just right for some Yuletide rejuvenation. You can think of relaxing along with your family during the festive afternoons by watching a flick that soundly captures the spirit of Christmas. “A Christmas story”, “It's a Wonderful life”, “The Muppet Christmas Carol” and “National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation” are a few of the perennial holiday favourites which represent a merry tradition. Here is a list of the top 25 Christmas movies ever.
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Staying at a holiday cottage naturally means that you will be having a lot of helping hands and so why not think about preparing a grand holiday feast. Turkey, roasts,ham, cheese, baked macaroni, noodles, cakes and pies can make your holiday a tasty one. Check out the various recipes and dishes you can try during Christmas.
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For a cold comfort and to do something different, you can try a sea swim. Scotland has a lovely coastline and it will be fun to unwind at its beaches. If your idea of having fun is this, then book a holiday cottage near a beach.
Winter festivals in Scotland
If you are preparing yourself to visit Scotland during Christmas, you can very well plan your holiday around the numerous exciting winter festivals here that kick off on November 30th with St. Andrew’s day. As many as 60 events are celebrated around the country during the winter season. They include the well-known Hogmanay celebrations on December 31 and culminate with the Burns Night on January 25th.
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City delights: Be a part of the Christmas bustle in Scotland’ most popular cities-Edinburgh and Glasgow! Right from the month of November through to January, the beautiful Princes Street gardens are transformed to an open air ice rink offering nothing but festive fun. Delicious food, the thirty-three metre high Edinburgh Wheel and the Santas Igloo Village renew the Christmas spirit. Coupled with lots of fun children's activities, jazz concerts, free film screenings and Celtic Connections Taste Sessions, Scotland offers a wide array of attractions for tourists to savour.
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Pantomimes: Community centres, city theatres and village halls host traditional pantomimes including Babes in the Wood, Cindrella and Peter Pan. Truly a family event which provides entertainment and amusement, Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without them!
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Hogmanay: One of the best times to be around in Scotland. Watch the Scots celebrate Hogmanay and you will agree no one does it better. There are torchlight processions, traditional fire festivals, fireworks, street parties and live music to keep every member of your family entertained.
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Find out more details on how you can be a part of the winter festivals in Scotland.
Winter sports in Scotland
Scotland is great during her winter months and serves as a great playground for those who visit the country during the Christmas season.
Outdoor ice skating rinks appear in Scotland from Mid-November to Mid-January. With these rinks kept open till late in the evening, skaters can enjoy the winter experience to its best.
The country’s five winter sports centres – Cairngorms, Glenshee, Glencoe, The Lecht and The Nevis Range offer great facilities for skiing and boarding. While Cairngorms is often tagged the “ski paradise”, Glenshee boasts of an extensive boarding and skiing experience and Glencoe is known for its thrilling terrain. The Nevis range is famous for its fantastic scenery. The Nevis range also offers great mountain biking opportunities.
If you are interested in knowing more about Winter Sports in Scotland, click here.
Packing list, helpful hints and tips for your holiday
One of the many benefits of staying at a holiday cottage is that you can pack and take along whatever and how much ever you want. The art of packing is definitely an easy one to get right if you know how. And, the tip to make sure you were right is when you return from a holiday having used the things you took with you more than once!
Packing essentials:
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Entertainment: A selection of books, movies, toys and games (including things for an outdoor games if you are planning to have them) along with a portable DVD player or laptop guarantees entertainment during your stay. If you are on a family holiday and have room for more things, you can even think of the larger items like a paddling pool or beach gear.
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Clothing: Its winter and so you will definitely have to take along clothes which are appropriate for the season. Shawls, woolen sweaters, cheaters, winter jackets or mufflers will keep you warm for sure. Pack sufficient changes of clothes for your holiday in addition to a few spare. Also pack shoes or boots that are comfy enough for walks and the outdoors. Tip: Wear your bulkiest pair during the travel as it will save you the trouble of having to carry them around.
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Toiletries: When it comes to toiletries, always take a minimum. Travel-sized items are a great way of saving space. A first aid kit with plasters, antiseptic creams and painkillers are a great addition. You can buy almost anything anywhere these days but if you are keen about a particular brand or want to save money make sure you have packed your Comb, Paste and Toothbrush, Mouthwash, Soap, Sunscreen, Shampoo/Conditioner, Shaving Cream, Razor and extra razor blades (or electric razor), Towels, Earplugs, Cologne and Deodorant.
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Make sure you take along your Passport and visa(s), Personal ID (Drivers license), foreign currency of your destination country, tickets, itinerary, cottage reservation and printout of emergency contacts.
Things you will have to keep arranged back at home
- Arrange for a plant and pet (in case you are not taking your pet with you for the holiday) care.
- Empty the refrigerator and also stop routine deliveries.
- Make sure you lock your garage, windows and doors.
- Consider a timer to turn lights on/off as it gives an impression that the house is occupied for the sake of your home’s security.
- Leave your itinerary with a friend.
Weather in Scotland:
It is always better that you have a clear-cut idea about the weather of Scotland before you set out on your holiday. Scotland has a very varied weather owing to its position - surrounded by sea on three sides and situated on the edge of the European continent.
Areas like Ayshire, Angus, Lothians and Fife get the best of sunshine while places in the highland region receive the least. Sunshine hours are the least during the months of December and January with the winter days during these months being very short. The windy weather is Scotland (with a mean monthly wind speed of 16 knots) is beautiful too.
Though it snows in the north of Scotland you can never be guaranteed of snowfall. However, if you are very particular about enjoying a white Christmas, you will have to head towards the North West coast, inland and higher.
If your idea of a perfect Christmas is making a snowman, throwing snowballs at one another or going for sledding, snow-tubing and ice-skating, you can think of booking holiday cottages that are situated in the north of Scotland. Your best bet is to stay around the Ullapool, Aviemore or Braemar areas as they are likely to receive more snowfall.
What makes winter holidays in Scotland special?
As an end note, take a look at the Winter campaign initiated by the Scottish Government!
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Luxury cottages come in a variety of configurations and settings. We've included some that have a 4 star as well as 5 star rating, offering the highest levels of luxury. Our cottages are ideal for any occasion: be it a family holiday, romantic getaway, a reunion or just a special break from daily routine. So why not treat yourself to a little luxury...
Windyhill cottage is located on the North West of Scotland close to Achiltibuie and Ullapool. The cottage has dreamy views of the ocean and Summer Isles.
The cottage sleeps 6 and is furnished to a very high standard; it now has a hot tub! More on this Luxury Holiday Cottage.
Stac Polly Cottage
New for 2011! Stac Polly Cottage is also located on the North West of Scotland in a stunning location close to Achiltibuie and Ullapool. The house will sleep 6 adults and 2 children (bunk beds), also dogs are welcomed. The house will include the essentials like sauna and hot tub. The view from the main lounge has unspoilt views of the Summer Isles and on a clear day the Cuillins on the Isle of Skye. See more on Stac Polly Cottage.
Locholly Lodge
New for 2011! Locholly Lodge is also located in a stunning location on the far north west coast of Scotland, close to Achiltibuie. The closest city is Inverness which is about 1hr 20mins away. This self catering lodge which sleeps 6 adults and 2 children is ideal if you want to get away from it all for a break. Great for romantic breaks and family holidays, and enjoy probably some of the best views of Scotland from the lounge window. Will also include luxury features such as sauna and hot tub. Expected to be ready from February 2011, but bookable now - see more on Locholly Lodge.
Truly luxury in every sense, these cottages provide everything you would want from a luxury holiday cottage. With sauna, Jacuzzi bath double poster beds, it's no wonder that these cottages get booked up.
Oh and of course the magnificent views of Loch Ness. More on Loch Ness Cottages. These Luxury cottages sleep 2.
Hillview is located in stunning Glenlivet region which is part of the Cairngorm Park. The cottage has fantastic facilities with a lounge and a den, and now with the added luxury of a hot tub! It's perfect for people who want a bit of space but still have that cosy feeling.
The cottage sleeps 12 but it is still ideal for smaller groups as the rooms are well designed and don't make you feel like you are in a massive house. More on Hillview Cottage.
Situated within a development on the prestigious Turnberry Links estate and furnished to a very good standard, this first floor apartment enjoys a quiet, secluded location in extensive garden grounds. For golf enthusiasts, Turnberry represents one of the finest destinations in the world with other championship courses nearby. Culzean Castle, the scenic coast, country and seaside walks all close by. Sleeps 4.
Find out more about the Luxury Apartment at Turnberry.
Lands of Turnberry,
The Lands of Turnberry are a 800-acre playground located on the scenic west coast of Scotland and the perfect starting point to discover the local area. Here you can enjoy luxurious self-catering in one of the spacious two bedroom apartments. Sleeps 6. Lands of Turnberry, Ayrshire.
In the beautiful and very scenic location of Duror, just a mile from the shore of Loch Linnhe, this 18th Century barn has been sympathetically converted into a charming holiday cottage with unique character. The cottage nestles amongst trees adjacent to the owner's home but with its own private access and landscaped garden with patio area and garden furniture to sit out and relax in tranquil surroundings. Finished to a very high standard and retaining period features , the cottage is extremely well-appointed and guests will leave this treasured property with wonderful memories . As all rooms are on the level, the property may suit some visitors with walking difficulties.
Find out more about the Luxury Holiday Cottage at Duror of Appin .
The beautiful area of Loch Awe epitomises tranquility and serenity and this stunning timber lodge commands unrivalled views over the majestic loch from its elevated hillside position within the landscaped grounds of Sonachan House. The lodge is finished to a very high specification and is bright and spacious with a most attractive, contemporary interior and lovely finishing touches. French doors from the lounge open onto a lovely sun deck with patio furniture to fully appreciate the spectacular surroundings. The lodge is cosy and welcoming, ideal for a romantic get-away at any time of the year. There is ramp access for guests with walking difficulties.
Find out more about the Luxury Holiday Cottages at Portsonachan.
In an idyllic rural setting, enjoying open views over the rolling farmland and native woodlands, this traditional stone-built farm building has been beautifully converted by local craftsman. This stunning semi detached property is highly specified and very well furnished with lovely features such as the cathedral ceiling and gallery over the lounge and all rooms are spacious, bright and welcoming. There is a sheltered garden with large patio and outdoor furniture for outdoor living in beautiful surroundings.
Find out more about the Luxury Holiday Cottage at Alford.
NETHYBRIDGE - Osprey House - Inverness-shire, sleeps 9
These two excellent houses are available for 'quality of life' holidays and short breaks all year round. They each offer the highest standard and the owner has won the Visit Scotland Thistle Award for "Self-Catering Operator of the Year".
Nestling on the north side of the Cairngorm Mountains, the properties are in the village of Nethybridge at the edge of the Abernethy Forest with its distinctive Scots pine trees. Close at hand is the River Spey and its tributary, the River Nethy, providing a wealth of riverside walks and fishing. The locality offers a wide range of other outdoor activities including golf, watersports and winter skiing.
Find out more about the Luxury Holiday Cottage at Nethybridge.
Glenloy is an idyllic secluded valley in the Locheil mountains and these two excellent properties enjoy a tranquil location at the head of the glen commanding wonderful views over hills and forests to Ben Nevis. Each house is bright, spacious and very comfortable with exceptional features such as marble bath rooms and Egyptian fabrics. The semi-detached properties are linked by secure double doors which can be opened for a party of up to 12. Ramp access. There are extensive landscaped grounds with play and seating areas and access to the hills.
Find out more about the Luxury Holiday Cottage at Glenloy.
Designed and constructed to the highest standard, this very elegant, individual property incorporates many exclusive and luxurious features making it a perfect choice for discerning families or groups of friends. The ambience of the house is matched by its stunning location in an elevated position amidst the fertile farmland of the Black Isle peninsula bounded by the picturesque Moray and Cromarty Firths where the resident dolphins can often be seen at play. There are magnificent views over the water to Ben Wyvis and the distant mountains of Easter Ross. The house is extremely spacious, each room is tastefully and stylishly decorated and very comfortably furnished with many exquisite personal touches. All rooms are on ground level except for one twin bedroom and a bathroom.
Find out more about the Luxury Holiday Cottage at Culbokie.
Holyrood - Edinburgh, sleeps 4.
Stunning apartment, 2 minutes walk from the Royal Mile. Sleeps 4, Great location, very central, ideal for visiting the Castle, Palace and Scottish Parliament. Parking & WiFi available
More on Holyrood, Edinburgh Edinburgh Scotland.
This unique property is a former boathouse in a spectacular position on the banks of Loch Linnhe with wondrous views over the loch to the 'Dragon's Tooth' mountain. The surrounding landscape is simply breathtaking and this is the perfect romantic retreat for a honeymoon or a very special break. Watch the resident seals and otters frolic in the water by day or the stars by night from the beautiful deck as the waves lap beneath. The boathouse is a luxurious and enchanting destination. From April to September, guests have the use of facilities in the owners' nearby guest house including a sauna and hot tub, extensive library and cocktail bar with 'honesty box'.
Find out more about the Luxury Holiday Cottage - the Boathouse at Onich.
In a magnificent location high above the River Devon on the edge of the village which nestles in the beautiful Ochil Hills, this charming and unusual property offers exceptionally comfortable and stylish accommodation. There is fishing on a half mile stretch of the river and other outdoor activities available include walking, wildlife and off-road driving while the world famous Gleneagles complex offers top class golf, riding and shooting. The attractive and historic towns of Perth and Stirling are within a half hour drive and both offer quality shops and restaurants as well as leisure facilities, theatre and attractions such as Scone Palace, Perth Racecourse, Stirling Castle and the Wallace monument. Local shop 2 miles, excellent inn serving good food 100m.
Find out more about the Luxury Holiday Cottages - Lavender Cottage.
Exuding character and with a lovely romantic atmosphere, this charming cottage is on an elevated south-facing site with beautiful views over the Perthshire countryside to the hills of Glen Lyon. The quaint traditional exterior has been retained whilst inside, the cottage is fitted to the highest specification and provides exceptional accommodation for a couple, warm, welcoming and very comfortable. There is a lovely landscaped garden with furnished patio areas and a barbecue. The owner's adjacent outdoor centre offers a range of activities including 4x4 safaris into the surrounding hills, water sports, discounted local golf and even gold panning. Excellent farm shop and restaurant 100m.
Find out more about the Luxury Holiday Cottage at Aberfeldy.
3 Bedroom, 3 Bathroom house within a 17acre garden in Beautiful Highland Perthshire... more info
In a beautiful, peaceful location looking across the Cromarty Firth to Ben Wyvis, these two semi-detached cottages are well-furnished, warm, welcoming and very comfortable. Each has a private furnished patio and there is a large, enclosed shared garden.
The pretty little county town of Dingwall is 4 miles away, local shops and pubs in Conon Bridge, 2 miles. The Highland Capital of Inverness is 12 miles. A wealth of activities include coastal and hill walks, climbing, trekking, sailing, cruises, angling and links golf. The picturesque old fishing villages of the Black Isle peninsula are a short drive and all along the beautiful coastline there are sandy beaches and secluded coves.
Find out more about the Luxury Holiday Cottage at Alcaig.
Salt Herrings is a luxury conversion of an old Cooperage set in a spectacular waterfront location. This stunning and immaculate self catering property, newly renovated to the highest possible standard, is an ideal holiday home for those who wish to spend time by the sea in a beautiful setting. The large open plan living area has breathtaking uninterrupted panoramic sea views across the Firth of forth towards the May island and beyond.This cottage is perfectly located for the lovely award winning beaches, coastal walks and many golf courses in this wonderful part of Scotland... more info
Aird Hill offer award winning bed & breakfast acommodation and a new self catering holiday cottage with views over Badachro Bay and the mountains beyond. The B&B has 2 double / twin room and the holiday cottage, 'Little Aird Hill' sleeps 2. All accommodation is of a high quality.... more info
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Turnberry Links - Ayrshire, sleeps 4
Holyrood - Edinburgh, sleeps 4. 
