Sarah could not have been a more kind and welcoming host. She was insistent on making sure that I had everything I wanted and that I should let her know immediately if I needed anything. Coming upon such a lush, rambling garden in the centre of town was quite magical and entering the dovecot a romantic leap into another era. This historic little stone tower is now a chic, ample, neatly designed and well-equipped dwelling space with immaculate attention to detail. Elegant wood fittings complete with original bark edging (from a tree in Sarah's garden) give the rooms an artistic flourish worthy of Gaudi. Skylights let in masses of light and warmth, which is also boosted by underfloor heating. The house is on two levels and the lower level actually covers a deep cavern (visible through glass) under the entrance hall. The upper level has a lovely sunny kitchen/eating/living room with a wood burning stove. The huge luxurious bathroom came as a complete surprise, as did the snug bed cunningly tucked up in the roost, where backlighting replace pigeons in the cubicles. A discreetly concealed TV can be lowered down from one of the rafters when you want to watch it. Looking out from every side of the building, one can see vistas over hilltops and rooftops. The west facing terrace and garden is a sun trap and a lovely spot to have breakfast or put your feet up on the slate tabletop. Old garden tools are attractively displayed along the garden wall facing the entrance to the house and the approaching path is lit if you come home after sundown.
There is an abundance of literature - on Scotland, Edinburgh and the history of the house and grounds, as well as useful guidelines for all the amenities in the house. Sarah is a fund of information and able to answer questions about making the best of one's stay. Having led a fascinating life, Sarah is quite likely to lead one into stimulating conversations about people, places and travel.
I had a heavenly time staying here and could not recommend it more highly. This charming house had an extraordinary sense of peace and tranquility, as well as a cosy grandeur.