When it all gets too much, we all like to have a place of escapism and sanctuary. Apart from going to the spa, mine is going to Scotland. When my husband told me 3 years ago that he was buying some land in Scotland, I thought he had taken leave of his senses! Little did I know what a great decision that would turn out to be. From escaping the crowds, to the breath-taking scenery of the mountains to the silvery blue loch and the verdant greens of nature. Not forgetting the fresh lobsters and oysters, and of course the friendly locals. Notice I didn’t include haggis I’m afraid.
Rockhill Farm Estate extends over 130 acres of verdant undulating ground which forms a headland on the southern shore of Loch Awe from which there are stunning views of the loch, several of its islands and the Ben Cruachan massif. It is accessed by over a half mile stretch of sweeping private track. It is a completely private and beautifully secluded location.
Commercial activities at Rockhill have included livestock rearing and equestrian activities, the latter notably in 1967 with the establishment of a renowned stud, specialising in British Hanoverians. Now we have beautiful highland cows roaming the land which help keep the grass at a manageable level. It is quite a sight watching them make their way down to the loch every evening to take a drink before retiring for the night. There are also deer, rabbits, sheep and geese to name but a few. We have even spotted an eagle roaming above the land. It’s a good job my husband studied Zoology for his first degree and has an interest in sustainability and ecology so that we can be committed to enhance the wilding of the non-commercial areas of the estate.
The buildings of Rockhill comprised of a main house, a barn, a stone cottage and various other outbuildings. The buildings were quite dilapidated and were not fit for living. Knowing that this was going to be an immense project, it was imperative to us to keep the original buildings and restore them to their former glory. We also wanted to build several other loch cabins in order to share this spectacular place with others.
Ordering furniture and soft furnishing remotely, and during a pandemic, proved somewhat tricky. Although this was rather challenging, I’m pleased with how everything has turned out so far. We have gone for contemporary Scandi–style designs in the loch cabins and kept more of a traditional style in the stone cottage with paisley prints and dark wood features. I wanted everything to have a homely feel and it certainly has that. We have plans for the original farmhouse, the barn and the original stables… so watch this space!
Conveniently, en-route from Glasgow airport, you have to pass Loch Fyne Oyster Bar which serves some of the most delicious freshly caught seafood you have ever tasted. Around 30 minutes from the estate you also have Inveraray, which is a small town which houses the historical George Pub and of course Inveraray Castle. Fans of Netflix would have seen this on the series of ‘A Very British Scandal’. The George Pub is our favourite place to go for some home cooked pub grub. My favourite is the beef cheeks which just melt off the bone. Samphire restaurant is famous for its fish but we are yet to try it. That’s for next time.
One of the loch cabins is now available to rent out. So if stunning views, your own private jetty and an island to explore sounds up your street – then please do check it out. Follow us on Instagram @rockhillfarmscotland. Just watch out for the Loch Ness Monster!
