Breckan Cottage - Illustrated guide

Breckan nestles in the heart of Orkney's West mainland with stunning panoramic views over farmland, lochs and hills. This welcoming and peaceful stone built detached cottage retains it's character whilst offering the comfort and convenience of modern day life.

The charming and spacious sitting room is a place for relaxing by the fire or gazing through the window at the distant hills of Hoy. There is a plentiful supply of books, maps and music with fresh flowers and original paintings adding to the atmosphere.

The newly designed kitchen and shower room are bright, cheerful and well equipped.

With pleasant outlooks, the attractively furnished bedrooms have comfortable king sized and twin beds ready made-up with crisp cotton bed linen.

Drystone dykes surround much of the grounds which are mainly grassed with a walled flower garden within. Meals can be taken outside to the sound of curlews, lapwings and skylarks. The old crowstepped outbuilding provides ample storage for outdoor equipment. The freedom and space is ideal for children.

Breckan is perfectly situated for visiting Orkney's many diverse interests, being only a few minutes drive away from archaeological sites, galleries, museums and beaches.

Fishing lochs, good birdwatching country and fine walks are close by.

In the village of Dounby, which lies one mile west of Breckan, is a small Co-op supermarket and an excellent butcher's shop where locally supplied fish can also be purchased. Good meals are available in the vicinity. Various activities take place in the Dounby Community Centre, which has internet and e-mail facilities.

The attractive flagstoned town of Stromness is about 15 minutes away with the county town of Kirkwall only a few minutes longer. Both have busy harbours where ferries leave for the North and South Isles. Interesting buildings, galleries and museums, as well as a variety of shops, restaurants, pubs and cafés are to be found in these two historic towns.