The Lodge at Duffus Estate

This tranquil, rural, retreat surrounded by fields and trees, is a perfect getaway for couples or a small family. You'll arrive to find a traditional single storey, stone built gate house with its own garage and a fenced back garden. The interior has been beautifully decorated to a high standard with classic modern pieces.

The master south facing double bedroom has a comfy king sized bed for a restful night's sleep, and if you've brought a little one with you, there's a single west facing bedroom for them to get comfy in too.

The fully equipped kitchen has all the appliances you need to cook up tasty dinners and hearty breakfasts, and with Duffus village shop just a short drive away, you'll be able to stock up on local eggs, rolls and other goods for your stay.

Be sure to prepare a feast, open a bottle of wine, and settle into the big leather sofa or armchair for a cosy evening in front of the beautiful log burner. The wood is complimentary from the estate and there's also a TV, DVD player, and WiFi if you fancy watching a film. Before long you'll be ready to sink into your bed with its crisp Egyptian cotton linens and sleep deeply. In the morning have a shower and take advantage of the complimentary Highland Soap Company toiletries before enjoying a leisurely breakfast at the dining table or perhaps in the back garden on warm summer mornings.

After a day of fun, light the fire bowl and spend the evening in the garden enjoying a BBQ with your loved ones, or if you're feeling thoroughly Scottish by now, maybe a wee dram.

With lots to see and do nearby, guests are encouraged to take a short stroll up the tree lined lane beside the shop, signed towards Gordonstoun School, and explore the pretty ruins of St Peters Kirk. The roofless church is nestled in woodland and you can still see the 14th century tower and 16th century porch.

Duffus Estate is the ideal base from which to explore Moray and you're just five minutes away from miles of deserted sandy beaches, voted in the top 12 in the world by the National Geographic Society ‘Traveller’ magazine. Stroll along the beach or throw yourself in for some bracing wild swimming. You might even be lucky enough to spot a passing bottlenose dolphin or minke whale!

Other local beaches include Hopeman, Burghead, Covesea, Lossiemouth East and Roseisle. For lunch, hop in the car and head to Johnston’s Woollen Mill where you'll find a five star café serving gorgeous homemade snacks and lunches. There's also Kula Coffee Hut, a beautiful Shepherds Hut serving artisan barista coffee, speciality tea and artisan hot chocolate at iconic Duffus Castle.