Stroma Cottage

A homely but spacious 19th Century granite cottage 2 minutes walk from Gardenstown’s picturesque harbour, Stroma offers relaxed comfortable accommodation with 4 generous bedrooms that sleep 9-10, and a large open plan living/dining/kitchen.

“We don’t want to leave! The cottage is so comfortable and a real pleasure to stay in. Stroma and Gardenstown have been an oasis of beauty, refreshing to mind and body. We long to be back.” Bill, Diana and family

Gardenstown is rich in history and steeped in atmosphere. At one time Stroma was a wealthy fisherman’s house with its own net drying room that doubled as the village schoolroom. Now the house provides accommodation on 3 floors – the living areas are on the ground and first floor, with a complementary art studio on the lower ground, its large windows only visible from the rear of the building.

Recently refurbished, Stroma is simply decorated in whites and blues, inspired by the coastal location and hung with original artworks by Scottish artists. There are painted wooden floors scattered with rugs on the ground floor, carpets upstairs, and the house is centrally heated. There is a wood burning stove for relaxing cosy evenings,with a starter pack of logs provided.

As you enter through the front door you find the open plan living/dining/kitchen area on your left, a welcoming spacious room with windows front and back, two large plump sofas and an armchair, large dining table and chairs. There is also a TV/DVD player, portable CD/radio, board games and a collection of books to read or swap for your own. The kitchen area is also large and well equipped with electric oven, dishwasher, fridge freezer, microwave, toaster, plenty of cooking equipment and ample storage for your stay. Enjoy our complementary tea & coffee while you plan your day’s activities or as a warm welcome as you sink into the sofa at the end of the day. Also on the ground floor you’ll find 2 large and bright twin bedrooms, and a shower room with wc.

Upstairs on the 1st floor there is another twin room, a generous space with ample room for luggage. This room also has a sofa bed that can sleep an additional guest if needed. Across the hall on the same floor is the large family room with 1 double bed and 1 single bed. Both the upstairs bedrooms have combed ceilings and sea views over the rooftops. Look out for the Aurora Borealis/Northern Lights, a truly fantastic natural light display sometimes visible between March and October. Also upstairs you’ll find another shower room with electric shower and wc.

All bedding and towels are provided, just ask if you need extra during your stay. Our beds are piled with fluffy pillows, warm duvets and quilted bedcovers, with extra blankets provided for our winter guests. We can also provide a cot, highchair and baby bath. There are retractable stair-gates fitted to enclose the ground floor.

On the lower ground floor you'll find the studio, accessed by a separate side entrance that means wet wellies and treasured beach finds can be left to dry, golf, walking and cycling kit can be stored with no fear of making a mess. Whether you’re a novice or professional artist, the studio is nothing fancy but does offer a great workshop space with bare wooden floor, sink, chairs, tables and basic tools. If you’re looking for some help or particular equipment let us know and we’ll do our very best to provide what you need. We also run full art holiday weeks in our main teaching studio space if you’re really keen.

Step outside the door and the delights of Gardenstown are a short stroll away – walks along the beach nestling below wonderful red sandstone cliffs, friendly local pub and deli/general store, authentic village heritage centre, and the sense of being in a special peaceful place framed by a huge sweep of sea and sky. Stroma offers a wonderful home from home for families and groups, a great base for exploring, relaxing and spending time together. A short drive from Gardenstown brings you to woods, hidden coves, whisky, heritage and art trails, golf, horse riding and surfing clubs, and miles and miles of clear fresh Scottish air to recharge your batteries.

Get in touch if you have a large group as we have another self catering property in Gardenstown called Bankhead that sleeps 6, than can be let alongside this one. We also offer reduced rates for couples and singles – our aim is to help you enjoy your holiday as much as possible so please don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions you have