Colmeallie Bothy

It’s just you, two other houses, some Neolithic standing stones (the most northerly in the country) plus oyster catchers, curlews, lapwings, partridges and pheasants. From the front door you can only see one other building in the far distance. There’s no formal garden as such, you step straight out into sheep-spotted countryside, but there’s a little table and two chairs out here for warmer days and magnificent nature gazing.

Inside is cosy: deep windowsills, a sitting room with lots of books and original art – oils and watercolours by Anna’s father – and a wood-burner to cheer (first basket of logs provided). The kitchen next door has the most lovely views from the window; you’ll find milk, tea and coffee but you need to bring everything else for food. Stock up in Edzell, seven miles away, which also has a good fish and chip shop and decent pubs for food.

Walking is sublime and the North Esk river runs nearby for a paddle.