One of my favourite places to spend the weekend is Crathes Castle – I never get tired of the beautiful woodland walks or fairytale castle dominating the skyline.
And if, like me, you are in love with this area of Deeside, here’s your chance to experience it all year long.
Nestling in the hillside in the lower Deeside Valley, you will find this four-bedroom granite steading conversion.
South Waters, Crathes, is one of a two-house development and has been sympathetically converted to create the perfect blend of modern and traditional.
For me, the living room is by far the most impressive area in this house, with its coombed ceilings and exposed beams, it is rich in character as well as style.
An impressive central island with granite fire surround housing a wood-burning stove takes centre stage in this room while the galleried area on the mezzanine level is also worth a look.
A wooden spiral staircase takes you upstairs to a room which is currently used as a hobby room but has the flexibility to be transformed into one that suits your needs.
On the first floor you will find the master bedroom with a built-in wardrobe and en-suite shower room. There are also three further double bedrooms and a family bathroom.
Another interesting feature of this house, on the market for offers over £575,000, is that it has an annexe, accessed from the master bedroom or external staircase.
There are a host of possibilities for this area, which contains a large bedroom or sitting room, kitchen and shower room.
It could be used as a “granny flat” or even holiday accommodation.
Outside, the gardens have been beautifully landscaped and also include a large decking area with a delightful summer house at the back of the home.
From most rooms, you can enjoy the amazing views that come with living in the Deeside countryside.
Crathes offers an ideal rural location with easy access to Banchory and Aberdeen, along with Stonehaven to the south.
Banchory is a town with lots to offer and something for everyone; from its wide and varied range of shops to both primary and secondary school provision.
Contact: Mackinnons on 01224 868687.