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  • Kouloura - Scottish Lowlands - 7666 - photo 1
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Kouloura

(Ref. 7666)

Southerness, Ayrshire and Dumfries & Galloway Show on map

4.7

Sykes rating

  • 6 Guests

  • 2 Bedrooms

  • 1 Bathroom

  • Pets Yes

Features

  • Off road parking
  • Ground floor bedroom
  • Open fire
  • Garden / Patio
  • Cot available
  • Highchair available
  • Pub/shop < 1 mile
  • Washing machine
  • Seaside
  • Broadband / WiFi

Reviews & Ratings

Accuracy of the listing
Cleanliness
Comfort
Facilities and Maintenance
  • All reviews
  • garden (29)
  • beach (26)
  • great (25)
  • cottage (21)
  • lovely (21)
  • owner (21)

57 Customer Reviews

  • "A lovely stay and great owner."

    Reviewed by Claire5.0Oct 2023

  • "A wonderful welcome and guided tour with useful hints for locations to visit."

    Also a welcome visit at the end of the week to ensure that I was okay. The house was clean, tidy and well layed out with all facilities needed for a weeks stay. Even the starter bag of logs was a thoughtful touch. Dog absolutely loved the big garden, not often I can let her off lead but garden was doggy secure, though we did get the local bunny visiting each day. Within easy driving distance to some wonderful countryside and though the weather on the final few days restricted travelling, the nearby beaches made amends. I can definitely see myself returning time and time again. A definite home from home. Thank you.

    Reviewed by Gerda5.0Oct 2023

  • "Kouloura is an absolutely wonderful cottage in a fantastic place."

    It is clean, comfortable and spacious. Sandy, the owner, is incredibly welcoming and is generous with his time and advice, giving us lots of information and suggestions about places to go and eat, which were a great help and ensured we got the most out of the location and our holiday. Kouloura is a fantastic base for everything the local area has to offer; the beaches (all so different), woods and hills provide fantastic days out for all the family. The pubs, arcade, shop and fish and chip shop so close by were brilliant and great on an evening. Even with these so close by, Kouloura has its own, enclosed large garden and is incredibly peaceful, just a couple of minutes walk from the beach. We had an amazing time time at Kouloura and didn’t want to leave. Our 3 boys have already asked if we can return.

    Reviewed by Geraldine5.0Aug 2023

  • "Amazing place to stay!"

    Beach nearby. A lot space for dogs to run around! Definitely recommend for dog owners!

    Reviewed by Ewa5.0Jul 2023

  • "We had a lovely time and enjoyed the property, the dog loved the garden and the beach which is a very short walk away."

    You are only a short walk from the local pubs,shop and chip shop. I would recommend it to anyone and we are already planning to return.

    Reviewed by Barry5.0Jun 2023

  • "Great location for coastal walking."

    We really liked the large conservatory on the front of the cabin, it doubles the living space and is very well furnished. Plenty of outdoor space and car parking .

    Reviewed by Carole5.0Jun 2023

  • "Excellent holiday."

    Owner extremely helpful and the house and area to be recommended. Definitely one of the better places in which to stay. Only downside was our springer spaniel insisted on jumping over fence to chase rabbits and we had to keep her on extending lead in the garden. However this was no reflection on the owner as the height of the fence would have been more than adequate to restrain other dogs (second dog didn't attempt it). Our escapee tried accessing other gardens when out, just a determined diva!! Strong lead essential.

    Reviewed by Janette5.0May 2023

  • "The listing does not do Kouloura justice."

    Lovely place, warm welcome. Thoroughly recommended.

    Reviewed by Clive4.7May 2023

  • "We’ve had a beautiful week at Koloura-the property is as I expected it-the garden was fantastic for our collie and the conservatory was a great room which we practically lived in during our stay-proximity to the beach was great-and lots of helpful info provided."

    The owner contacted me on the morning we were travelling there and was really helpful-wouldn’t hesitate to return here

    Reviewed by Jennifer4.7Apr 2023

  • "Great cottage minutes walk to the beach and pub ."

    The owner sandy on hand if a problem occurred thankfully was not needed.

    Reviewed by Steve5.0Mar 2023

  • "Wee had a fantastic stay and the owner couldn’t have been more helpful in every way, that alone makes a difference."

    Nice and cozy to say the least.Jean Ventura

    Reviewed by Jean5.0Mar 2023

  • "Excellent peaceful break was just as described."

    Owner very helpful. Lovely long walks along a interesting beach. Would recommend .

    Reviewed by James4.7Jan 2023

  • "It is a lovely cosy place with very friendly and helpful owners."

    I would definitely recommend and would definitely stay there again. Thank you.

    Reviewed by Alexia5.0Jan 2023

  • "Great wee cottage."

    Clean and tidy but the plus for us was the big enclosed garden for the dogs. Will definitely be going back again at some point

    Reviewed by Mark3.8Dec 2022

  • "We received a wonderful welcome from Sandy Amazing advice on what to visit, were to go Very peaceful bungalow to stay."

    Beds were comfortable, the place was cosy. Only thing I would say, would of been good to have had a clock in house. We spent a lot of time in front conservatory. In evenings in lounge, with grate lite, very cosy Cooker was really good. All facilities that we required were at property. The local chip shop is amazing, We found people very friendly in all our travels Thank you sandy for our stay

    Reviewed by Stephen5.0Oct 2022

  • "Sandy has done everything to ensure maximum enjoyment at his holiday ..."

    Sandy has done everything to ensure maximum enjoyment at his holiday chalet Sykes,however, have portrayed the property as something it is NOT:- Sea view laughable Location overlooked on all sides and cheek to jowl to a caravan park Large but featureless garden Very expensive Saving grace -fabulous beach

    Reviewed by Nigel3.8Sep 2022

  • "Kouloura was a lovely bungalow with all accessories required and very comfortable, I would highly recommend."

    It was in a lovely position very close to the beach and the enclosed garden was perfect for our spaniel who had a great time chasing the rabbits that appeared each day. The local pub offered excellent food and the surrounding area had plenty to offer in terms of nice places to visit and beautiful scenery.

    Reviewed by Angela5.0Sep 2022

  • "This was a fantastic property clean and comfortable we had a fantastic welcome from our hosts who were very knowledgable about the local area and couldn’t be more helpful."

    Lovely wine and biscuits on arrival and lots to do and see if you want a nice relaxing time just taking in the lovely walks around the beaches a stones throw from the home or ideal as a base for exploring the many delightful places around Southerness. Home was well equipped and the beds lovely and comfortable and we hope to return soon. As so many lovely things to see and do.

    Reviewed by Donna5.0Jul 2022

  • "The bungalow had a lovely big garden & was in walking distance of pubs, takeaways & shops."

    The owner met us on arrival to show us around & provide information on the area. Always found it warm inside without having to put heating on as the conservatory’s to front & rear charged the property up through the day. The WiFi signal was great & had a lovely large screen TV.

    Reviewed by Samantha4.4Jun 2022

  • "Had a great stay, loved the cottage it was comfortable and clean and everything we needed with a large garden which our 2 dogs loved."

    Received a warm welcome from Sandy who was very helpful. Would definitely stay again. Only complaint was the price. Our stay was for 3 nights, of which we arrived at 3.30 on the first day as check-in wasn't until 3pm. Felt it was far too expensive at £680.

    Reviewed by Jacqueline5.0May 2022

  • "It was nice to be met by the owner Sandy on arrival."

    He was very friendly, helpful and informative. The cottage itself was very welcoming with the large conservatory at the front and a smaller to the rear. The kitchen and living area were smaller than expected but perfectly adequate for our needs. The large garden was perfect for our dog. Our stay was only bettered by the good weather we had. Five minute walk to the beach and a five minute walk to a dog friendly pub with lovely staff and good food. A great weeks holiday.

    Reviewed by Julie4.7Apr 2022

  • "Had a wonderful stay at Kouloura!"

    Going to start with the negatives to get them out of the way! The property is advertised as having a sea view, now whilst this is technically correct as you can just about see the sea from the big conservatory it’s not my idea of having a sea view. I think the advertising of the property needs tweaking a little with that. The property is also quite overlooked by another couple of properties & a few caravan’s from the adjoining caravan park. Now for the positives, the absolute gem for this property is the garden! It’s huge, secure & wrap’s around the entire property. We had 2 Labrador’s with us who have had the BEST time! Possibly worth noting if you have dog’s with you that due to the time of year there were lot’s of daffodils in the garden which are highly toxic to dog’s so just something to keep an eye on. The property was a good size, it was comfortable & had everything we needed. It was clean with absolutely spotless bedding & all pillow’s had pillow protectors on which was good to see. Great to have a washing machine which if you’ve got kid’s, dog’s or both with you is an added bonus! The owner of the property was very friendly & obliging, he doesn’t live far away so I suspect if there were any issues during your stay they would be quickly rectified. It was great to be so near to the beach, just go out of the little gate from the garden, turn right, walk past another 4 properties or so, turn right again & you’re there! Less than a 5 minute walk! We have all enjoyed our week’s stay at Kouloura & would definitely stay again!

    Reviewed by Catriona4.7Apr 2022

  • "Had a wonderful stay at Kouloura."

    The garden wraps the whole way around the property and as we arrived I spotted rabbits in the garden and was worried my dogs would escape given their rabbit frenzy ways! However the garden was so secure that they never escaped and had a wonderful time- rabbits all safe too. Cottage has everything you need and is cozy- we had wonderful weather but had to light the fire one night just to have a go- it was great, love an open fire. Beach 2 min walk away and great places to visit. Pub in Southerness friendly and decent food. Owner met us and pointed out features in cottage and suggested places to visit which was a lovely touch. We will definitely return one day.

    Reviewed by Gill4.4Mar 2022

  • "Great place, Great location 50 yards from the beach."

    Lovely big garden. Brilliant beach walks. Peaceful and a very nice owner too. Loved the place.

    Reviewed by Steven5.0Mar 2022

  • "We loved the cottage and recommend it whole heartedly."

    The owner is very kind and helpful, showed us around the property, and gave really good suggestions of places to visit. The cottage and its enclosed garden was perfect for us and our two 4-legged companions. We apologise we could not find the broom as we were leaving, so left the sunroom in need of a wee sweep - otherwise found everything was conveniently at hand. Cottage is thoughtfully stocked with books, games, and information about the surrounding area. Very comfortable. Less than a 5 minute walk to the beach. 10 out of 10!

    Reviewed by Ted5.0Dec 2021

  • "Brilliant place and so laid back it was what we both needed and a walk on the ..."

    Brilliant place and so laid back it was what we both needed and a walk on the beach every day was perfect, the weather was dry but chilly but wen could wrap up, two wonderful pubs in the vacinity

    Reviewed by Maureen5.0Nov 2021

  • "We enjoyed our stay at this cottage."

    It was great being so close to the beach. The dogs loved the garden and we all loved the fire. It was nice when we put the heating on and used the large conservatory, which was a pleasant space for the daytime. The property is has one step down from the house into each of the conservatories, and there are steps out from the front door into the garden (just in case you have little people or little dogs like we did). We really liked the Smart TV so we were able to watch some of our favourites on Netflix and Prime etc. Having broadband was great too for gaming and working.

    Reviewed by Melanie4.1Nov 2021

  • "We have had a great stay at Kouloura fantastic base to see the surrounding countryside and loads of great walks to take the dogs on ."

    The place was as described and plenty of garden to let the dogs loose in, loved sitting in the conservatory as very comfortable and warm.

    Reviewed by Dennis4.4Sep 2021

  • "Great location only a short walk to the beach, fully enclosed large garden ..."

    Great location only a short walk to the beach, fully enclosed large garden perfect for the dog, the layout of the property is well thought out, all hi-footfall areas are either vinyl or laminate coverings so easy to clean Great weeks stay

    Reviewed by Ian5.0Sep 2021

  • "Great holiday, and accommodation was great to, the garden was bigger than we expected ( larger than most gardens in the vicinity) which with grandchildren was a bonus!"

    !! So would happily come back again!! - - Ian, Karen, Laura and grandchildren!!

    Reviewed by Ian4.7Jul 2021

  • "The listing didn't give an accurate description of the place."

    The bathroom was NOT a family bathroom. Instead, it was quite small. The water pressure was horrendous in the shower as well. The 'adult bunk beds' were not adult in any way shape or form. They were quite small and cramped. The linens were still set up for winter, instead of switched over for summer. The TV room couldn't fit more than 4 adults, as there were only 2 two-seater sofas which were VERY uncomfortable. The photos definitely make the place look bigger than it actually is. The garden was nice, but not mowed. The conservatories were nice, however they became very warm very fast. There were no shades to help block the sun. Also,TWICE random strangers came to the door looking for someone that wasn't there. The area is cute, but not meant for a friends holiday. The wifi connection was awful and constantly dropped. The owner seemed nice, and gave us our space, which was good. But, other than that, it wasn't so great.

    As owners, we take pride in our property and its cleanliness, especially during today's Covid situation. In eleven years of letting our property it has never been left in the appaling state in which it was found after your stay. You showed a complete lack of consideration and respect for the lovely clean house left for you, nor for us as owners or the guests who stayed after you. We feel your review is just a cover for this. We have had many excellent guests who compliment our lovely cottage and return year after year. The description and pictures are accurate for our property. The bathroom is of a reasonable size with a full sized bath and shower and a sink. The shower has good water pressure. The 2 sofas in the living room are 3 seater Marks and Spencer sofas. There are, in addition and for guests comfort, 2 x two seater sofas and two comfortable chairs available in the large and small conservatories. The linen is always clean and fresh. The grass is mowed on a regular basis and was not overgrown during your stay. This should have made it easier to clean up your dog's mess, which was also left all over the garden. Your group were lucky and had a nice week of weather when the sun shone. It is unfortunate you did not go out to discover the beautiful local area with many fine beaches, forests, golf and other outdoor activities. We really do not understand why you chose to come to the area. The owners. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Steve2.8Jul 2021

  • "Couldn't recommend highly enough."

    Brilliant stay all round.

    Reviewed by Stephen5.0May 2021

  • "We had a fabulous stay, amazingly comfortable & relaxing."

    The owners were so friendly, welcoming & helpful. There were lovely gifts left for us & a lit open fire. Our dog loved the garden & the open view of the road/path, people & dogs passing were all very friendly & made a fuss of him. The beach is very close & lovely to visit, especially as we touched on some great weather for most of the week. Would recommend staying here to everyone & will definitely stay again.

    Reviewed by Samantha5.0May 2021

  • "The cottage is lovely but it really needs Wi-Fi because the 4G is very poor and we struggled to find out anything about local attractions."

    Thank you for your comments. We are pleased to say that we have taken your feedback on board and have now installed Wifi at Kouloura. With this in mind we hope that we can welcome you back in the future. However, we're sorry to hear about the impact to your stay. Please note that the owners are on hand on arrival and throughout our guest's stays to provide information on the local area or answer any questions. Kind Regards, The Customer Relations Team Property Owner

    Reviewed by Judi3.4Sep 2019

  • "We have just got back from a wonderful holiday at Kouluora, the cottage is ideal and very spacious, with a huge enclosed garden, we went as a family of six and three dogs, they enjoyed the space immensely, and their long walks along the beach every day, even though the weather was not so great, but if course that can't be helped."

    Looking forward to going back there sometime soon.

    Reviewed by Judith4.7Aug 2019

  • "As this is my second year at your cottage I wasn't dissapointed."

    My only small thing is it would benefit from some Wi-Fi for rainy days and nights

    Reviewed by Ann4.1Jul 2019

  • "An excellent place to holiday ,the beach is a short walk away and there is plenty of it about 8 miles, there is a shop in the village that sells necessities and a pub called the 19th hole with a hexanogal pool table , next door is the tea caddy cafe that does lovely food ."

    The house in its own grounds has everything required we spent most of our time in the conservatory , there is TV if you want but no WiFi but easily got around by bringing a portable router that was adequate for our own needs ,plenty of books and games at the property and near a links golf course ,the neighbors are friendly and helpful and there is plenty to do in the area .

    Reviewed by Eric5.0Jun 2019

  • "This was a lovely cottage with a nautical feel to it quite well equipped we were ..."

    This was a lovely cottage with a nautical feel to it quite well equipped we were greeted by the owner and his wife both very helpful pointing out places to go on the map this was truly a lovely area to visit and explore

    Reviewed by Raymond5.0May 2019

  • "The bungalow was clean and comfortable."

    Although it was next to a holiday park - we went just before Easter - it was a lovely quiet area and a very short walk from the beach. In one direction on the beach when the tide was out there were miles and miles of hard sand that is perfect for dogs to run free! The beds were lovely and comfortable. The coal fire was cosy in the evenings and the conservatory was s great place to sit and relax. The host was friendly and helpful.

    Reviewed by Kate5.0Apr 2019

  • "Sandy the Cottage owner was a great help in getting settled and guidance on the local area"

    Reviewed by Gavin3.8Feb 2019

  • "Very comfortable, well equipped cottage - loved the open fire."

    Great location being just a few minutes walk from the beach. Very helpful, hospitable owners.

    Reviewed by David5.0Jan 2019

  • "The cottage location was superb, a very short walk to the beach which was handy for walking our Labrador."

    The cottage facilities where of a very high standard, very clean and spacious and the open fire made for a very relaxing break. I would recommend anyone looking for accommodation for a relaxing break to consider this cottage. Both Sandy and Anne where very friendly and really helpful on where to go and there was plenty of information on the local features, all in all my wife and I had a very good, relaxing break.

    Reviewed by Gareth4.7Dec 2018

  • "The holiday chalet was extremely clean and tidy and well equipped."

    Owner very friendly and helpful. Ideally situated for quick access to beach and shore walks just couple minutes stroll away. Lovely big lawned garden enclosed with mainly 3foot high mesh fence ( not ideal if your dog is a jumper ) Our only criticism being the listing could have been a bit clearer about the close proximity of neighbouring properties and the large holiday caravan site directly behind the chalet. It didnt impact too much on us as we visited low season and we had a lovely holida but if you value your privacy it may be an issuey

    Reviewed by Ann3.8Nov 2018

  • "On arrival we were met by a very friendly and informative owner, so much nicer than a key safe."

    We had a lovely holiday very cold but sunny and dry. The open fire was lovely and kept us nice and toasty.

    Reviewed by Ron5.0Oct 2018

  • "Enjoyed the comfy cottage."

    Clean comfy beds. An amazing garden for my dogs and so near the beach. We had a lovely relaxing holiday.

    Reviewed by Audrey4.4Oct 2018

  • "Owner was quite happy for us to bring our 3 dogs and the place was absolutely great for them, large fenced garden and a beach at the end of the road."

    House is better in real life than on photos, and we were met by the owner with a lit real fire and a welcome gift of wine and chocolates.Would highly recommend and are likely to book again Thank you

    Reviewed by Chris5.0Sep 2018

  • "Very nice owners."

    Good information regarding local amenities and activities. Very enjoyable holiday.

    Reviewed by James5.0Aug 2018

  • "Brilliant cottage Brilliant weather Brilliant owners Brilliant beaches Brilliant holiday."

    Reviewed by Brian5.0Jul 2018

  • "From beginning to end our holiday was fab, beautiful clean house with everything u need."

    Huge garden for our dogs to play in. Overall a great holiday and will definitely be back.

    Reviewed by Ann5.0Jul 2018

  • "Enjoyed the open fire, quiet location, close to seafront."

    Had a lovely peaceful holiday. Cottage was very clean and comfortable.

    Reviewed by Joanie3.8Dec 2017

  • "The property would benefit by having Wifi."

    However, we had an extremely good time, the owners were very nice and friendly and explained everything when we arrived and made us very welcome. Definitely a thought for next year.

    Reviewed by David4.2Dec 2017

  • "Lovely break, garden totally secure for our two Leonbergers, which makes for a relaxing time."

    Sandy, the owner, was there to welcome us and passed on lots of information about the area. The cottage was exactly as described. The only slight negative the nearest shop was a distance away, as the local one shut for winter. We were fortunate to enjoy a lovely sunny albeit frosty week at the end of November, one day of rain!

    Reviewed by Jenni5.0Nov 2017

  • "Perfect retreat from busy life."

    The coal fire in the cottage and beach round the corner, the RSPB reserve a few miles away and the Steamboat Inn for tea in a nearby village add to the blessing that Kouloura is.

    Reviewed by Brenda5.0Oct 2017

  • "It was a very comfortable and warm cottage."

    The welcome we received was wonderful. The large enclosed garden was safe and secure for the dogs to run around. We visited the local area and my husband enjoyed his golfing at Colvend golf club.

    Reviewed by Joan5.0Feb 2017

  • "The owner is very warm and welcoming and very helpful"

    Reviewed by Andrew5.0Nov 2016

  • "Fantastic home from home, met all expectations and can highly recommend this property for a peaceful getaway"

    Reviewed by Jean5.0Sep 2016

  • "Had a brilliant time, the dogs really enjoyed the large garden."

    the weather was not the best, but hey it was Dec/Jan so no complaints.

    Reviewed by Peter4.4Dec 2015

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Summary

  • All ground floor
  • Two bedrooms: 1 x double, 1 x family room with 2 x adult bunks
  • Bathroom with bath, shower over, basin and WC
  • Fitted kitchen with dining area
  • Sitting room with open fire
  • Front and rear conservatories.
  • Electric heating with open fire in sitting room
  • Electric oven and hob, fridge, freezer, washing machine, TV, DVD, books/games/DVDs
  • Fuel, power and coal for open fire inc. in rent
  • Bed linen and towels inc. in rent
  • Cot and highchair on request
  • Off road parking for up to 3 cars
  • Enclosed lawned garden surrounding the property with garden furniture and children's play house
  • Two well-behaved dogs welcome
  • Sorry, no smoking.Note 3 pubs in village - one closes in winter, one open all the time, one with restricted hours in winter Note: There is a bar open all winter for food and drink within a 5 minute walk
  • Note: Local shop/Chip shop - closes in winter Note: Closest shop in winter is 7 miles away
  • Note: This property does not accept Hen/Stag parties or similar.

The property

A large, detached, well-presented cottage in the coastal village of Southerness, with its own extensive, enclosed garden, with sea views.

With the two-mile stretch of sandy beach just a short stroll away, this Southerness cottage is the ideal place to explore this beautiful area of Scotland's coast.

This Southerness cottage boasts two conservatories, one with a sea view, in which you can relax and enjoy the tranquil surroundings.

A double bedroom in this Southerness cottage is complemented by a second family bedroom with two sets of bunks, making the cottage ideal for families and groups of friends.

In addition to exploring the fascinating and beautiful coast, from this Southerness cottage you can venture inland to walk and cycle in the Galloway Hills and their forests.

Why not spend some time at the RSPB Mersehead Nature Reserve or the Barend Riding Centre, both close to this Southerness cottage.

With plenty of golf and fishing nearby, this Southerness cottage offers the perfect place to explore, be active or simply relax and enjoy the coastal atmosphere.

There are also three fabulous pubs nearby, two of which serve food.

EPC Rating: Band E

Short-term Holiday Let Licence No: DG-01129-F

View on map

About the location

SOUTHERNESS

Castle Douglas 19 miles; Dalbeattie 13 miles; Dumfries 16 miles.

Southerness is a small coastal village established in the late 18th century, which looks out over the Solway Firth, and forms part of the Colvend coast, one of the finest stretches of coastline on the 'Scottish Riviera'. Home to two pubs, a village store, a leisure centre with a pool and two miles of sandy beaches with sand dunes, rock pools and Gulf Stream warmed waters, and one of the oldest lighthouses in Scotland, built in 1748, it has everything you will need for a relaxing holiday. The nearby Criffel Hill rises to 569m, offers wonderful views of the farmland and the sands of the Nith Estuary below, and provides great walking opportunities. The Southerness Championship Golf Course adjoins the village and offers panoramic views of the Solway Firth, the Cumbrian Lake District to the south and the Galloway Hills to the west. A great location, with something to keep everybody occupied.

Note: this property does not accept Hen/Stag parties or similar.

This property offers the following short breaks:

  • Christmas