Exploring the Pentlands with Eastside Cottages
When Eastside Cottages contacted me about staying in one of their gorgeous countryside retreats, I didn't hesitate. I've always wanted to see more of the Pentlands and this seemed like the perfect opportunity to explore some of the gorgeous countryside surrounding my beloved Edinburgh. {In the interest of full disclosure, please note that I was offered a complimentary stay in exchange for a blog post - but of course, all thoughts, words and opinions are my own.} Our weekend hideaway was the gorgeous Westside Woodshed, a perfect, Scandi-chic cabin nestled in the Pentland Hills. The Woodshed is located 10 miles outside of Edinburgh (just 35 minutes drive if the traffic is good to you!) but it manages to feel like the middle of nowhere. Driving up the dirt-track through the rolling hills, the bustle of the city drops away, replaced by the gentle melody of birdsong. Does it sound idyllic yet? Because trust me, it is.
Eastside Cottages: Exploring the Woodshed
After a lovely warm welcome, we were left to explore the Woodshed and, perhaps most importantly, the newly installed Scandinavian style wood fired hot tub. Our hosts had kindly fired up the hot tub before our arrival which really was the perfect welcome.
The cabin itself is beautifully decorated in a minimalist, yet cosy, style. It has everything you could possibly need in a home-from-home and everything seems to have been chosen with comfort and relaxation in mind, right down to the crisp white linen on the giant kingsize bed.
After thoroughly exploring every nook and crannie, it only seemed right to test out the hot tub - with a bottle of prosecco in hand, of course! It really was the perfect antidote to a hectic week at work. With all it's beautiful surroundings, and the quietness of the area, the Woodshed really does feel so remote - it's easy to forget you're only 10 miles from Edinburgh's city centre.
After a lovely long lie-in, we devoured a hearty breakfast and set off into the Pentland Hills. Nestled within the rolling heather-clad hills, the Woodshed is the perfect spot to explore the Pentlands from. A short walk from the front door takes you right into the middle of this gorgeous landscape.
Walking in the Pentland Hills
"Adventure is worthwhile." - Aesop
‘Give me adventure again, and again, until my legs ache and lungs burn, and I know every single road home.’ - Tyler Knott Gregson
As the weather started to turn, we made our way back to the cabin, just as the heavens opened. Thanks to our generous hosts, a tray of tea and scones were ready and waiting for us - the perfect sight for weary hillwalkers!
We spent the rest of the afternoon listening to the rain fall outside, pattering gently on the windows. We lit the wood-burning stove and spent a blissful few hours reading and snoozing...
...with the occasional friendly visitor at the door!
It was the perfect end to an idyllic weekend, and I'm already planning our next getaway with Eastside Cottages. For anyone visiting Scotland, or seeking some quiet time in the countryside, I would definitely recommend this little hideaway. It's the perfect bolthole and its location is ideal - so close to the city, but far enough away to feel like a different word.The only thing to bear in mind though is that you'd definitely need a car! The Woodshed is technically accessible by bus (ish) but the farm track leading up to the cabin really calls for a car. And that way you can explore more of the gorgeous surroundings too. We had intended to visit Roslyn Chapel and grab a slice of cake at the Secret Herb Garden during our time there, but all that relaxing got in the way...!Huge thanks again to Eastside Cottages for having me to stay. The Woodshed really was a dream!