Portpatrick self catering

The Port House - sleeps 8, Port Cottage - sleeps 4

Portpatrick self catering in pretty Galloway coastal town

Dunskey Castle looks out over the cliffs above Portpatrick to the Irish sea. There is not much left these days - just a ruinous pile of stones clinging to the cliff edge. I have walked along the coastal path early to see the sun rise and I am now struck by the beauty of Scotland  and its rich history. I descend the path with a panoramic view of Portpatrick Harbour and see a small fishing boat returning after the night's work, the gentle "putt putt" sound of the lazy engine echoing around the empty village. The bakery is open and the rich, yeasty aroma draws me in. I have a chat with the lady behind the counter who tells me that the Southern Upland Way starts on the other side of the harbour. It is a coast to coast path that finishes in Cocksburnpath on the east coast beside Dunbar.

The Port House welcomes me back with style and charm. The rooms are all well proportioned with high ceilings, bright, large windows and real fireplaces with stacks of logs. I make the coffee in the well equipped kitchen which, like the whole house, is immaculate. Decorated in a white and black theme, the shiny white units are complemented by black granite worktops and a black ceramic tiled floor which extends to the adjacent dining room. There is plenty of room to seat eight comfortably.

Space for relaxing in the living room is split into two areas: the central seating area beside the real fire with a large modern flat panel TV with satellite, DVD, comfortable sofas and armchair and a further small reading snug area. There is a very useful utility room with washing machine and dryer that leads out to a small wooden patio area which catches the afternoon sun and is perfect for relaxing with coffee and a good book. I am currently reading 'Three Men in a Minor' - an easy read about old friends touring Dumfries and Galloway in an old Morris Minor which sums up the rich culture that makes this area fascinating to visit.

Not far from The Port House is the lovely Port Cottage, providing cosy, luxury accommodation for four. The cottage has been refurbished to the same immaculate standard as the larger house but on a smaller scale. The bright, open plan living area looks over the sea and harbour and opens onto a sheltered decking and garden area, just perfect for enjoying al fresco drinks.

The harbour has lots to keep you interested including a good selection of pubs and restaurants which offer a wide selection of locally produced food. On the hill is the imposing Portpatrick Hotel which in many ways seems too large for such a small village but reminds us that Portpatrick has attracted visitors for many generations, each returning to savour the unique charm that Portpatrick exudes. I amble through the unique art and craft shops that line the harbour and finally have a lovely supper at the waterfront hotel as the sun slowly sets crimson over the harbour.