Scarista House

In a ‘remarkable’ setting on the remote west coast of Harris, this ‘peaceful’ whitewashed manse soothes frazzled souls with the ‘wonderfully laid-back, professional’ hospitality within. It is owned by Neil King and Patricia and Tim Martin. Guide correspondents praise its ‘characterful simplicity’. The house has rugs on wooden floors, comfortable sofas, art on the walls; log fires burn in cosy public rooms. Peruse ‘the wealth of books’ in the downstairs library (joined, perhaps, by the resident dog and cat); in the pet-free drawing room, find the quiet writing desk with an inspiring view of the ocean. Take in the sea views, too, from any of the bedrooms spread out between the main house and adjacent Glebe House, each thoughtfully decorated with furniture and fabrics that reflect the history of the place. Come dinnertime, the ‘fantastic’ no-choice menus can be adapted for most dietary needs with notice. Wild, organic and home-produced ingredients are used as much as possible; fish and game feature – Stornoway halibut, Harris Minch langoustines, Lewis quail’s eggs, garden-fresh vegetables. ‘Superb’ breakfasts.