About Blackside Retreats

Our Story

When we decided to open our cottage to guests, we wanted to share what makes this place special - not just the stunning views and peaceful setting, but the authentic experience of rural Scottish life.

We've restored Blackside Cottage to create a space that honours its heritage while providing all the modern comforts you'd expect from luxury accommodation. Every detail has been carefully considered, from the log burner for cosy evenings to the fully equipped kitchen for those who love to cook.

We know this area inside out - the best walks, the hidden gems, the local producers. We're always happy to share recommendations to help you make the most of your stay in Ayrshire.

The Farm and Surrounding Land

Blackside Farm is surrounded by working farms spanning over 1000 acres of Ayrshire moorland. Our guests have exclusive access to 9 acres of this beautiful landscape and can explore the surrounding countryside while respecting the sheep and cattle who live there (close gates and dogs on leads).

All around Blackside is home to an incredible variety of wildlife. You'll likely see roe deer at dawn and dusk, red squirrels in the woods, and buzzards soaring overhead. Pheasants rustle through the undergrowth, and if you're lucky, you might spot a barn owl hunting at twilight.

When night falls, the lack of light pollution reveals some of the best stargazing in central Scotland. On clear nights, the Milky Way stretches across the sky, and you can see constellations in detail that's impossible in towns and cities.

Our Approach to Hospitality

We believe luxury is about more than thread count and fixtures. It's about the whole experience - arriving to a cottage that's been carefully prepared for you, finding local produce in your welcome hamper, having the space and privacy to truly relax.

We've earned our reputation by focusing on what matters: a spotlessly clean cottage, exceptional comfort, thoughtful touches that make you feel welcomed, and genuine Scottish hospitality. Our perfect guest reviews reflect our commitment to getting every detail right.

We're dog-friendly because we understand that for many, a holiday isn't complete without their four-legged members. Your dogs have a 2.5 acre enclosed field, and the cottage welcomes them as warmly as we welcome you.

Whether you're here to explore Ayrshire's attractions or simply to escape and unwind, we want your stay at Blackside to be memorable for all the right reasons.