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Entire cabin

Secluded Rural Retreat with elevated deck and wonderful views

Photo gallery for Secluded Rural Retreat with elevated deck and wonderful views

Outdoor dining
Interior
Exterior detail
Exterior
Smart TV, DVD player, stereo
Immerse yourself in Scotland's glorious countryside at The Kist, a serene retreat set amidst 6.5 acres of gardens and grounds. Unwind on the expansive deck area or indulge in al fresco dining with a barbecue, as deer graze nearby.

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire cabin

2 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 4872 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Pet-friendly
  • Barbecue grill
  • Washer
  • Kitchen
  • Outdoor space

Add dates for prices

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire cabin to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

Secluded Rural Retreat with elevated deck and wonderful views

The Kist is an ideal way to get away from it all. It is set in 6.5 acres of garden and grounds and surrounded by fields. It is entirely self-contained and no-one will visit unless you invite them. Our house is 100m down the garden from The Kist. We work from home so will usually be around if you need us, but otherwise will leave you to enjoy your stay. It is 3.5 miles from the nearest village (Balfron).

The Kist - an historic term for a linen box or treasure chest - is a stunning contemporary lodge set in private grounds in a beautiful rural location. A large deck area and a panoramic window in the main room allow visitors to enjoy the country experience whatever the weather. You may well find deer grazing in the garden of a morning.

The Kist is set in glorious countryside, but is close enough to Glasgow to enjoy all the cultural and shopping attractions of a big city. Some of Scotland's most spectacular countryside, including Loch Lomond, the Trossachs and the West Highland Way, are nearby. Historic Stirling is within easy reach and the Castle is definitely worth a look. Both Edinburgh and Perth are about an hour away by car.

The stylish glass fronted open plan living area includes a fully fitted kitchen complete with integrated fridge freezer, dishwasher, wine chiller and washing machine.

The large decked area to the front is the perfect way to enjoy sunny evenings and yes, there is a barbecue if eating al fresco is your thing.

There are two double bedrooms, both en-suite, with one set up as a twin room. The master bedroom has a "P" shaped bath and Mira shower. The twin room has a Coram quad shower and roomy walk in wardrobe. It is set up with twin beds.

The modern lodge offers all the advantages of a new home, in a lovely setting. Practical, cosy and stylish, you'll love being 'Kist'.

Short-term licence number: ST00416F

Property amenities

Beach

  • Beach loungers

Internet

  • Available in the cabin: WiFi

Parking and transport

  • Limo/town car service
  • Car required
  • Parking on site

Kitchen

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dishwasher
  • Electric kettle
  • Freezer
  • Hob
  • Kitchen island
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Refrigerator
  • Toaster

Dining

  • Chef service
  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 2 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 2 bathrooms
  • Bathtub or shower
  • Hair dryer
  • Shower
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Dining table
  • Living room

Entertainment

  • DVD player
  • Games
  • Smart TV
  • Stereo

Outdoor areas

  • Barbecue grill
  • Deck
  • Garden

Laundry

  • Laundry facilities
  • Washing machine

Comfort

  • Heating

Pets

  • Pet friendly
  • Welcoming dogs only
  • 2 pets total

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Smoke-free property
  • Note from host: smoke outside only please

Services and conveniences

  • Iron/ironing board

Location highlights

  • In a rural location
  • In a village
  • Near an outlet shopping centre

Things to do

  • Bicycles
  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Fishing nearby
  • Golfing nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Horseback riding nearby
  • Jet skiing nearby
  • Mountain biking nearby
  • Sailing nearby
  • Swimming nearby
  • Water skiing nearby
  • Water tubing nearby
  • Windsurfing nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • First aid kit
  • Fire extinguisher

General

  • Bicycles
  • Garden
  • Unit size: 872 square feet

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Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 3:00 PM
Minimum check-in age - 18

Check-out

Check-out before 10:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Strip any used beds and gather used towels
Take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights, lock the doors and return the keys
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.

Pets

Pets are allowed
Service animals are welcome, and are exempt from fees
Welcoming dogs only
2 total pets
Restrictions apply; for more information contact the property on the number on the booking confirmation
Note from host: Must be kept on a lead when out and about

Children and extra beds

Children are welcome
Note from host: Supervision required around the pond

Events

No events allowed
£60 cleaning charge

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
Smoke outside only please

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Note from host: £60 cleaning charge
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation

We should mention

A car is required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Map
balfron, glasgow

What's nearby

  • Glengoyne Distillery - 18 min drive - 15.9 km
  • Blair Drummond Safari Park - 20 min drive - 23.6 km
  • Stirling Castle - 25 min drive - 29.6 km
  • Loch Lomond - 36 min drive - 37.1 km
  • OVO Hydro - 40 min drive - 42.0 km

Getting around

  • Stirling Station - 22 min drive
  • Glasgow International Airport (GLA) - 72 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Tir Na Nog - ‬17 min drive
  • ‪The Beech Tree Inn - ‬15 min drive
  • ‪Benview Coffee Shop - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪Oakwood - ‬14 min drive
  • ‪The Woodhouse - ‬10 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Secluded Rural Retreat with elevated deck and wonderful views pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 2 total). Some restrictions may apply, so please contact the property for more details.

What time is check-in at Secluded Rural Retreat with elevated deck and wonderful views?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Secluded Rural Retreat with elevated deck and wonderful views?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Secluded Rural Retreat with elevated deck and wonderful views located?

Located in a rural location, this family-friendly cabin is within 9 mi (15 km) of art4you Scotland, Flanders Moss National Nature Reserve and Glengoyne Distillery. Gargunnock House Gardens and Blair Drummond Safari Park are also within 12 miles (20 km).

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Secluded Rural Retreat with elevated deck and wonderful views Reviews

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 281 out of 311 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 25 out of 311 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 4 out of 311 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 311 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 311 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

9.0/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Wendy W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fantastic stay

Perfect holiday accommodation. Everything was there for a Perfect holiday. The accommodation was spotless and the grounds are amazing. We had a wonderful stay. I would highly recommend it
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Dr Bruce L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Always so peaceful

We’ve just enjoyed our third stay here and look forward to the next.
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Trevor R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wedding Weekend in Fintry

Wonderful accommodation for us to have during our wedding weekend to celebrate our sons wedding in Fintry. Everything could not have been more perfect. Beautiful views, wildlife in the garden and exquisite artwork from our host Iona. Very very highly recommended property
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Second go round staying at Iona’s.A true gem. Wish I could live there permanently!!The 4 of us purchased a number of her art items. Tea towels, prints, pillowcases. She is an amazing artist and super friendly.She went to great lengths to help us find on a paper map how to reach our special relatives we were to visit!!!
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Brigitte G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Rural location, friendly host, nice kist

We spend 12 wonderful days in the kist, perfect location to explore Loch Lomond and the Trossachs. Well equipped accomodation, very friendly host, everything was fine.
Stayed 12 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Michelle M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect get away

This is our 4th visit to The Kist. We always have a fabulous time away. It has everything we need. Cosy & secluded. Perfect get away place to stay.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Martin M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great getaway

Lovely quiet stay in the country. Iona is a very welcoming host and the Kist is very comfortable. Highly recommended.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Holger R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great stay

We spent a wonderful week in the kist. The cottage is very cosy and the location ideal - whether for walking/hiking or a visit to Edinburgh or Glasgow. We were also very lucky with the weather - a week of sunshine.
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Greg M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great stay

Property was excellent. Could just be doing with some bigger signs and some lighting especially when arriving at night time. Had an excellent stay and would highly recommend to anyone
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Denise B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Stay in the middle of the countryside

Very nice stay where everything is done to make it easy and agreeable. The fields with the sheep are only a few steps away. Within easy reach of Loch Lomond, Glasgow and Edinburgh.
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2024

8/10 Good

Kenneth R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Relaxing

We had a great relaxing week at the very well equipped Kist...nice to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

THOMAS m.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Weekend break

Wife and I and our wee dog stayed for a couple of nights and enjoyed it thoroughly. Bit off the beaten track but thats what we wanted, Would stay again no problem. The Kist is a very modern cottage.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Caroline B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lovely stay

Property is in beautiful part of Scotland with lots to do close by. But lots of board games if you fancy Staying in watching the world go by. Thank you for a nother lovely stay, only suggestion hot tub in the garden maybe.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Les G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect

Lovely short break. Cannot fault the property.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Isabel H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing stay!

The Kist is brilliant. Really modern accomodation in the most beautiful setting. The house has everything you could think of. Perfect location to access the surrounding countryside but also easy into Edinburgh. We will definitely be back!
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Abi M., Lancaster. England

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lovely place!

The Kist was the perfect spot to stop off at on our way home from Coll. We loved sitting on the deck, listening to the birds singing, and looking at the view. The kitchen was really well equipped, and beds comfy. Thank you!
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Simon P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great stay

Lovely relaxing couple of nights at the Kist. Everything was as described. Would definitely book again. Just be aware of the bumpy roads in the area but that's obviously that is nothing to do with the host! Thank you for a great place to stay.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2023

10/10 Excellent

Dr Bruce L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect

The Kist is a hidden gem. We stayed over Christmas, and with snow and ice outside it was warm and very comfortable. Iona made us very welcome and we hope to book our next stay very soon.
Stayed 6 nights in Dec 2022

10/10 Excellent

BONNIE S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great place to explore surrounding area....or just relax!

Hidden and quiet, the Kist is a two bedroom/two bathroom house situated in a rural area! We enjoyed our stay so much! Everything you need is here as a base to explore or just relax on a holiday. Iona was very helpful before our arrival with instructions and directions, and when we first arrived as I needed help to operate the washer. Thanks for a great stay Iona! Would not hesitate to stay at the Kist again!
Stayed 7 nights in May 2023

8/10 Good

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, listing accuracy

Our stay at The Kist

Could not fault the accommodation, very clean and comfortable, everything we needed was provided. Exterior decking in need of some TLC, the website photo is a bit out of date. Rough single tracks to get to the Kist, be aware. Enjoyed our stay.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Rustic but Luxurious

We enjoyed the bucolic scenery. The quiet. The nature. Amenities were everything we needed. Wall of glass with open doors & loved the breeze coming thru. Feel fortunate to have found such a gem!
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Dennis L., Noordwijk, The Netherlands

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lovely bungalow as central hub

The property is a fully equipped bungalow style home on a big piece of land. The only noise is the animals flying, crawling or walking around. So quite. The single track can be a challenge with oncoming traffic and the lack of indication that someone is approaching. Some nice conversations with the owner and additional supplies of towels or (bed / kitchen) linnen. Overall a nice starting point to explore the surrounding area from Fort William (with Ben Nevis mountain), Glencoe, Falkirk (Kelpies, the Wheel, SeaLife, Birds of prey) until Edinburgh (with its castle and the Royal Mile). A very large Tesco supermarked in Stirling is about 20min away. All in all money well spent.
Stayed 20 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jacqueline P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Heerlijk verblijf in alle rust

Het huisje is ruim en goed voorzien. Douche is lekker, bed slaapt goed. Keuken is groot. Loch Lomond en Glasgow zijn dichtbij. Het was fantastisch!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Dan H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great property ...great location

Our stay was exactly what my partner and I wanted . Complete quiet in the middle of nature With only the wildlife making a noise ..that matched with the stunning views was ideal .. Local shops,cafes, pubs only a short drive and endless beautiful walks such as loch lomand, conic hill, ben lomand ..if you dont mind driving your adventures are endless all the way through stunning glencoe, or some amzing beaches!Our host Iona was fantastic, really made us welcome and feel at home we will definatly be back for another escape.....
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Dianne K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great location

This beautiful property is within easy reach of Glasgow, Stirling, Perth and Loch Lomand. We used it as a base for visiting family in the area and took in a few tourist destinations too. The property is well equipped and very comfortable, a real home from home.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2025