Those of us who have experienced the joys of a coastal holiday will know how relaxed you feel when you wake up knowing you have the pleasure of ever changing views, sandy beaches and the sound of waves crashing on to the shore to look forward to.
It’s a feeling that generally lasts two weeks, but for the past seven years, it’s something Graham and Doreen Brain from Hopeman have enjoyed on a daily basis.
Their stunning coastal house, The Sheans on Lodge Road, Hopeman, enjoys breathtaking, unspoilt views of the Moray Coast and its from here they regularly see pods of dolphins frolicking in the clear waters.
“I used to walk past the house and wonder what it was like inside and what the views from here were like,” said Graham, 68. “We lived nearby but were on holiday when the bungalow went on sale. We found out on our return, three days before the closing date, so had to act quickly to ensure we got it.”
Their offer was successful, but before moving in they spent time upgrading the property which Graham said required a fair bit of TLC.
“We spent about three months making changes before moving in using Tulloch of Cummingston to do the work.
“We’d used the firm previously and they carried out the work in a very sympathetic way. We added a sun lounge to the west side and a double garage to the east to make it a much bigger property.
“Other changes made include replacing many of the older windows and doors with uPVC products, up-grading the kitchen and en-suite bathrooms, adding stylish interior decor and having the large gardens landscaped.
Immaculate throughout, the accommodation in the house, on the market at offers over £485,000, now comprises a large front porch which doubles up as a study/office; a welcoming hallway, formal sitting/dining with magnificent bay window offering wonderful views.
Another nice feature here is a raised fireplace with inset wood-burning stove. From here, there’s access to the cleverly designed sun room with large picture windows and French doors which give direct access to the gardens.
The contemporary dining kitchen comes with a range of white wall and base storage units and De Dietrich integrated appliances.
There is a seating area with ample space for a large table and chairs and a set of French doors.
The bungalow also has a handy utility room, and two large double bedrooms, each with en-suite facilities and mirrored wardrobes.
A passageway links the house and garage and this area is used for storing wood. The garage has remote-controlled double doors and plenty of space as well as power and lighting. There’s also a workshop area to the rear and a tractor shed.
Outside there’s a tarred drive with ample parking space for several vehicles and pristine gardens filled with colourful, established plants and lovely ornamental ponds.
A path has been installed down the front sloping gardens which allows you to walk around the house and admire the views and surroundings.
“We think we have the best views in Hopeman,” said Graham.
“There’s beach huts in front of us and Daisy Rock to the side, but other than that there’s nothing in front of us. There’s always something to see whether it’s families enjoying the beach, walkers or dolphins splashing about.
“Unlike a lot of English people who live in Moray, we didn’t move here because of the RAF. My wife Doreen and I both worked for a malting company in Suffolk and years ago the company built a new maltings in Buckie. Within the grounds was an old cottage which the firm offered to staff as holiday accommodation.
“Doreen and I holidayed in the cottage for several years before the firm decided to put it to another use, but we continued to holiday here for the next 20 years.
“When we retired we decided to relocate to Moray and have enjoyed our 12 years in Hopeman, especially as this part of the world is a great place for golf which we both love,” said the father of three.
“But of late, increasing family commitments has meant spending more time in England so we’re rather reluctantly moving to Norfolk.” And while Norfolk has its beautiful Broads, one can’t help but think these won’t hold a candle to the beautiful views this charming couple are leaving behind.”
Contact: Strutt and Parker on 01463 719171.
