100 BEST luxury self catering Edinburgh

Elegant Georgian apartment in Edinburgh's historic New Town

If you don't already know the city, you might expect Edinburgh's New Town to be a modern quarter, but you couldn't be more mistaken. Planned and built in the 18th and 19th centuries in an open grid system, the New Town is full of wide, leafy streets graced with beautiful Georgian and neo Classical architecture and enjoying lovely views around the city. It's an easy and pleasant walk from here to the city centre, the Botanic Gardens or Calton Hill and local shops, restaurants and bars can be found in nearby Broughton Street.

On the east side of the New Town, No 1 Bellevue Terrace looks out from the middle of a striking, curved Georgian block over a broad, tree lined street. On the ground floor and with no stairs up from the street, it's great for families or those a little unsteady on their feet - a rare find in such an historic building. Once through the door, I find a stylish, attractive and very spacious apartment filled with light from tall sash windows - beautiful right through from the warm, welcoming hallway to the pleasant kitchen which overlooks the lovely gardens at the back.

The whole apartment has recently been completely refurbished and redecorated; colours are fresh and relaxing, an interesting collection of art adorns the walls and furniture to complement the period has been well picked out. I love the marble fireplace in the sitting room - simple in design yet stunning in effect - and the wooden shutters on the lovely tall windows.

The two gorgeous bedrooms are just as lovely, with beautifully made curtains, luxurious bedlinen, more than enough storage space and again, art work on the walls that draws the eye. The large double room, in warm pinks and creams, overlooks the private gardens at the back of the building while the delightful twin room, done out in fresh, pale blue and cream, looks out on trees, gardens and an attractive neo Classical church to the front.

An easy walk from the New Town takes me into the hustle and bustle of Edinburgh's Old Town where it's fascinating to explore the ancient cobbled streets, narrow alleyways and hidden squares and courtyards. There's something interesting around every corner and even underneath the city, where long ago Edinburgh's poor took refuge in the city vaults. The grand, busy Royal Mile takes me from the castle down to Holyrood Palace past shops, pubs and cafes below old tenement apartments, tiny wynds leading down to hidden places, impressive churches and smart squares punctuating the route.

Stroll a pleasant mile along Leith Walk and I'm in a vibrant waterside world of culture, chic shops and cafes, ships and yachts on the dock. I'll have to put aside some more time - there's so much to explore in this wonderful city - and of course I'll have the perfect excuse to stay in the luxurious comfort of this wonderful self catering apartment!