Whisky Month at Briar Cottages with a Bottle of The Famous....You Know Who - on World Whisky Day

I have re-launched our luxury and pet friendly cottages website with a new look and photos's. What do you think? www.stayatbriar.co.uk Do let us know.  

May means it is Whisky Month and we are celebrating by offering 2 special bottles of Famous Grouse Whisky. One for anyone booking 7 nights from 16th May 2015  - Also World Whisky Day - and the other during week 30th May 2015. 

See my new Lochearnhead holiday cottage blog here for more details. 

When you book either of these weeks you will be asked for one or two names to appear on the label.  Look at Fraser's bottle on the left.  What will yours say? The Famous Bob, The Famous Granny Jean, The Famous Clan McLaren?  Tel Kim 07917 416 497 or 01567 830 443 www.stayatbriar.co.uk

See The Scots Magazine map of distilleries plus food and drink events.

Glengoyne will be present at the MHOR food and drink festival May 23 and May 24 in Balquidder Glen. There will be so many things to do, eat and drink and this years raft race has a Whisky Galore Theme.  

Enjoy the rest of Whisky Month and slàinte mhath (good health)

16th May 2015

Briar Cottages, Lochearhead, FK19 8PU  www.stayatbriar.co.uk 01567 830 443 

Boule Court, Baby Ducklings, Boating and Briar Steading WIFi -Lochearnhead

Spring is well under way at Briar Cottages on Loch Earn and Lochearnhead has already had a taste of 20 degree sunny weather.  There is nothing like sitting out in the loch garden with a cold beer or glass of wine. 

Fraser The Smug Boule Champion of Briar Cottage on Loch Earn

Boule Court: Those of you who have met my husband Fraser probably can not picture him sitting around for long spells at a time as he always has a project or five on the go. His latest challenge has been a "Boule" or "Petanque" court.  

10 Tons of Granite Dust to be Shoveled

Not to be disturbed unless with a drink

Boule in the grass is not ideal here as the bowls just sink and leave big holes. Plus we need the grass for the putting flags! So, a proper area has been created to the right of the slipway and we are gradually raking and rolling to improve it.  (When I say we......!

Testing the Boule Course

Mallard Ducklings 2014: Crispy, our mummy mallard for 2014,  had 8 ducklings on the grounds of Briar Cottages.  She brings them several times a day to the loch garden to feed.  As of today 30th April 2014, there are only 5 left. See 8 swimming beside our jetty in the video below.  We swim here too in the summer.  Sorry no photos.   

So far one duckling has been killed by a speeding car.  The others have been taken by a big fat seagull with a smirk on its face.  

Ducklings Swim With Mum, Briar Cottage, Loch Earn

5 Mallard Babies and Mum. They Let Me Get Closer Each Day

 70+ year old activity,  Lochearnhead!

Boating On Loch Earn
Fraser took the rib out for an airing on 29th April 2014.  It was a beautiful Monday morning and the loch was flat calm with fish jumping and the ospreys combing up and down the loch.  Fraser says "this is what 70 year olds do in Lochearnhead". Won't be long before he takes it 6.5 miles to St Fillans to investigate how the new Loch Earn Brewery Hotel and Visitor Centre is coming along. 

Fraser Testing the Rib for the Season

Improved WiFi at Briar Steading: Another item on the continuous improvement agenda has been WiFi.  The WiFi reception at Briar Steading was becoming critical as more and more guests have been using iPad which does not receive a WiFi signal as well as phones and laptops. We tried adding a large antenna to the booster which helped but eventually decided to hard wire.  Fraser and I physically dug a 70 metre channel through concrete, mud and stone and crawled up and down buildings to secure the Ethernet cable at both ends before back filling. Quite satisfying. We now have a 100% perfect WiFi signal anywhere inside Briar Steading.   Little Briar next, but can I wait for my back to recover?

New Year is booked in both cottages. Looking forward to a busy season. There are a few short breaks and weeks left in the summer plus autumn winter. Please check our calendar here www.stayatbriar.co.uk or get in touch with me 07917 416 497 or Fraser 07876 212 505.  If we are booked on the dates that you want then check out our neighbouring villages accommodation  here -
http://robroycountry.com/accommodation/enquiry.html

Have a great Spring and keep in touch.

Loch Earn Beer, Fine Food and Film Lochearnhead

Happy New Year From Kim and Fraser 

In the Year of Homecoming Scotland 2014

Briar Cottages Loch Garden January Sunrise - Lochearnhead, Scotland

Both of our self catering cottages were full over Christmas and New Year. We had a busy week of parties, concerts, our village hall Hogmanay hop and Briar Cottages annual January 1st BBQ (with the help of our double garage for shelter and heat this year). Thankfully MHOR84 bar and restaurant kept open all winter. A welcoming lively stopping place offering tasty food all day. Under the guidance of famous chef Tom Lewis; fresh, reared, baked and grown ingredients are used in recipes. Thursday is folk night with an ever changing line up of musicians. 

The popular venue attracts walkers, country sports enthusiasts, holidaymakers, journalists plus a few famous faces. Last week Gordon Buchanan was spotted there, filming in the area. He is quite famous following his amazing TV serious "The Bear Family and Me".  I know many people who use his line "it's me bear" when trying to make peace with another human being! He also filmed polar bears as part of The BBC Frozen Planet series. I hope that he finds this section of The Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park and our amazing wildlife equally beautiful to film.  Another film maker and photographer Tom Walker has been in the area. I am more than impressed with his landscape photography and am curious to know when and where we can see the results of whatever he is working on. 

Mhor84 Motel, Restaurant and Bar, Balquhidder

MHOR84 displayed a magnificent 4ft long Christmas cake in a glass cabinet from mid December. Every time I popped in it was at least a foot shorter (not guilty, but what a lovely fantasy). We get our Christmas cake made every year by a local lady, Carol. Sorry mum but it is the best home made Christmas cake ever. Full of cherries and goodies and we are not sure if you are allowed to drive after eating a slice. Once opened it gets eaten very quickly in case the alcohol evaporates.

The Golden Larches Restaurant and Cafe A84

The Golden larches restaurant a couple of miles from Briar Cottages on the A84 at Balquhidder Station, stays open for long weekends in winter too. They also offer take away food and beverages which makes them our nearest chippie. So our guests had a lovely choice of places to eat, drink and hear live music near by. The Clachan Cottage Hotel is 150m from our door. Amanda and Robert in the Lochearnhead Hotel (200m) take a well earned break with the family in winter and will open up again in February. 

We are lucky having a taxi and tour service in the village.  The business Highland Glen Travel is run by Lochearnhead locals George and Helen (Cunningham). They can offer bespoke tours or a list of routes to choose. They also operate the local Demand Responsive Taxi service. This means that you can travel to local villages between 9am and 9pm in a private hire vehicle for the same price as the bus. You can also hire a coach or taxi via Kingshouse Travel who operate the local bus service too.

Shopping Deliveries: Tesco and Sainsbury's now deliver groceries to luxury Briar Steading and pet friendly Little Briar cottage in addition to ASDA. So if you are thinking of a break you can plan your shopping ahead of schedule and have your goods delivered on arrival. We can help out by putting fridge and freezer goods away in the event of any travel delays. 

The exciting buzz and news in the area is the opening of The Loch Earn Brewery.  Oh yes. We will have our own local micro brewery lovingly producing "Loch Earn Beer".  Arran Brewery has bought the Drummond Hotel looking over Loch Earn at the east end in St Fillans.  The owners are planning a micro brewery and visitor centre,  3 restaurants; including native chef made dishes that use Loch Earn Beer and 2 bars including a sushi bar.  Word has it that they will produce a Scottish Saki too.  The owners have the keys, the drinks licence and they have already employed a manager and some staff. They plan to open in April 2014. Fingers crossed that they meet their target. Can't wait to travel there by car, bus, taxi or our boat (They have a jetty in the loch garden too).

Creagan House Strathyre  owned by
Master Chef, Gordon Gunn and his wife Cherry

Master  Chef: Gordon Gunn owner of Creagan House restaurant (in Strathyre 3.5 miles from Lochearhead A84) became a Master Chef last year. Together with his wife Cherry, the couple secured a  "Taste our Best"  quality assurance accreditation too. The scheme recognises businesses that promote Scottish produce and offer first quality food and drink.  A minimum of 40% of the menu must be Scottish produce.  Guests dine in a Baronial style hall and the fixed price menu's are exceptional value. Creagan House also features in The Trenchermans Guide

Merida Doll at The Highland Games in Lochearnhead

Homecoming Scotland: 2014 is going to be a sensational year.  Nothing to do with politics whatsoever, purely the wonderful list of events that will take place. Homecoming Scotland 2014 lasts all year and consists of thousands of events all over Scotland.  The government has backed a TV commercial to promote Scotland's Homecoming and the opening scenes are of The Lochearnhead Highland Games. Seems like this is the region to film this year. Anyone else interested? Our thatched cottage on the banks of Loch Earn would look great on film. You can see footage of our games field and competitors in the Homecoming TV advert here but don't blink or you will miss Lochearnhead. This year the Balquhidder, Strathyre and Lochearnhead Highland games take place on July 26th 2014 from 12.00.

Bannockburn Live is one of the many Homecoming Scotland Events. It takes place 28-30th June.   A new visitor centre has been built in Bannockburn 2 miles south of Stirling. This promises 3D battle re-enactments, feasts and more. The result of the battle is the least interesting part.  The concept is to give visitors a real sense of what life was like, as though you have gone back to that era.  There will also be a parade with thousands of pipers and more. National Armed Forces Day takes place on the same weekend.  I am not sure if it is a wise decision to have two major events on the same weekend but it will certainly be busy and a challenge for tourism businesses. The Commonwealth Games will be under way in Glasgow July 23rd to August 3rd.  Fraser and I are delighted to have secured tickets for one of the athletics days and we have some guests taking a break up here in addition to visiting the games.  The Ryder Cup 2014 golf event is huge and the world will be watching. It take place 45 minutes from here in Gleneagles, Auchterarder. We are delighted to have had both self catering cottages booked for a while. A national crime writing festival and many other events information can be found here.

Rare pic of Fraser fishing in garden, Loch Earn!

Ducklings hatched at Briar Cottages 

bench near slipway, Briar Cottages

Much to look forward to. The fishing season starts March 15  Mallards will  pair and seek a place to hatch their ducklings on our grounds while we wait for the return of the Osprey pairs. 

Slipway Briar Cottages 

Wishing you all the best for the forthcoming seasons. Please get in touch 01567 030 443 if we can quote for holiday cottage availability or with any questions about the cottages and area. Dates are booking up earlier than usual due to the number of events in Scotland and demand for self catering holidays.

Front garden, jetty, summer house on Loch Earn, Briar Cottages

Kim and Fraser Proven

Briar Cottages

Lochearnhead

FK19 8PU

www.stayatbriar.co.uk

T: 01567 830 443

M: 07917 416 497

Twitter @Briarcottages

To celebrate Homecoming 2014 and Scotland's special events programme,  we are offering Briar Steading guests a bottle of Prosecco with chocolates for any 3 to 14 nights booked, before 31st January.  If you are thinking about a first or return visit, secure your preferred dates with a deposit before 1st February. This applies to any 3-14 nights throughout 2014 that are currently available.
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Summer Holiday Spotlight on Briar Cottages Lochearnhead

Fraser poses in guests Morgan outside Briar Cottages

What a summer at Briar Cottages on Loch Earn!

No.. Fraser has not bought a Classic Morgan he just fancies himself in one and a guest allowed him a few seconds of make believe.

School kids are back but summer is not over in Lochearnhead.  The Loch Earn 6.5 mile and 1 mile open water swimming championships take place on 24th and 25th August at The Lochearnhead Water Sports Centre. The Horticultural Show in the Lochearnhead Village Hall is on the 31st August and the Village Hall's 25th anniversary party is on the 7th September.

This summer the weather was hot and we had many weeks without rain. The stream running the length of Briar Cottages dried out. So, no doggy splash pool (other than Loch Earn of course).  Not a drop in the mini waterfall behind Briar Steading for a while either.  In fact Loch Earn has been so warm this year that Fraser and I have been swimming from the garden - sorry no pictures (at least I hope not).

The master boat for water skiiers has hardly stopped at The Lochearnhead Water Sports Centre.  Captain Martijn has had a steady stream from beginners to professionals, water skiing and wakeboarding, while Laura in the café has been making extra Panini's and cake  to keep locals and visitors happy.  Personal favourites are the chocolate chip shortbread and the toffee sponge.    Inside secret. Go to the water sports centre and ask Martijn or Laura  for  "one of Fraser Proven's special coffees".  Make sure that you are over 18, not driving and that you like whisky!


The BLS Highland Games in Lochearnhead were absolutely fantastic this year. The games take place on a Saturday in July every year  (Date for your diary 26th July 2014). This year we enjoyed a record turn out, blue skies, Visit Scotland filmed a kilted heavy weight competitor for TV and a stunt pilot spun and looped the loop over head for the finale. See my video snippet of this years parade by McNabs, McLarens and MacGregors .

Another date for your diary next year is the Sunday the day after the Highland Games.  If you are a McLaren,  you will be rallied by your chief to "Creag an Tuirc" - meaning The Boars Rock- behind Balqhuidder Church.  In the afternoon, however, you will spot chief Donald McLaren playing football in Lochearnhead for the married versus single men's local charity challenge.  I made my debut performance for the married ladies this year (no pics... phew!).  The married ladies scored all 4 goals.  Not bad,  however the result was 3 - 1 to the married ladies.  The first own goal was a tactic to let the singles think we were soft!

Fraser Proven as The Jester

Kim Proven as M'Lady

.   During Games week, Fraser and I attended a fancy dress in the village much to the hilarity of our guests who made us parade before them.  The theme was Medieval night.  I managed to turn a duvet cover and pillow case into a graceful M'lady outfit using a staple gun for hems.  Fraser was perfectly cast as the jester no less.

Last weeks fancy dress was a "School Dinners" theme at a neighbours garden on the loch. We were served up mince, dough balls and cabbage followed by jam sponge, toffee tart with chocolate bits on top and pink and chocolate custard. Much tastier than I remember.   I won best dressed as the school janitor in my dungarees and cap and Fraser picked up the prize for the naughtiest boy. If you remember Terry Scott in the Curly Wurly advert you can imagine Fraser in shorts, blazer, school tie, cap and also wearing a mischievous grin.

ThIs picture is of two of the ducklings that hatched in Briar Steading's garden this year. The photo is by 14 year old guest Corey Booker who kindly sent the image to me to share. I love this shot.

One footed duck "Peggy" (guests named her and her partner Peg and Greig) nested on the grass roof of our thatched cottage again but sadly no show from any ducklings rolling down the roof.

Next year promises to be eventful in Scotland.  We have a number of events lined up in Lochearnhead for 2014 and guests are already booking accommodation here in order to attend The Ryder Cup 2014 golf championships at Gleneagles, The Commonwealth Games 2014 in Glasgow,  Bannockburn and Homecoming Scotland 2014  and The Balquhidder, Strathyre and Lochearnhead Highland Games.  So, regular guests, please consider any special dates and term times that you would like to secure now and let us know. 

Thank you again to everyone who has sent photographs to me and to those of you who share them on TripAdvisor,   Facebook and Twitter.  

The summer is not over and we are looking forward to meeting many new visitors to the area.  We already have a booking for NewYear week in pet friendly Little Briar so have a think about Autumn, Winter, Christmas and New Year self catering breaks if you can stomach the thought. 

Have a great Autumn and keep in touch here as well as Briar Cottages Facebook page and via my Twitter address @Briarcottages.

NB: If you are into Twitter, look out for #Scotlandhour where Scotland's accommodation, hospitality attractions and events businesses share tourism information covering many subjects and sharing all that Scotland has to offer visitors.  Check it out on the last Wednesday of every month from 9pm-10pm
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A List Scottish Hollywood Actor and and other native species captured by Briar Cottages Guests

Deer spotted in the garden by R White

Double rainbow over Briar Cottage from Briar Steading- A Mackenzie

 
Fraser and I are always humbled by the magnificent photographs and helpful comments that guests take time to send to us and for TripAdvisor and Holiday Lettings review pages.  New guests often comment that reviews and pictures help them to match what they desire from a holiday and location.  Thank you to everyone who has given me permission to use their pictures on my blog and social media sites. Some guests use professional cameras that can capture the ospreys in flight, for example, however we are delighted to see all photos even if they are taken on a mobile phone.

Briar Steading guests meet Gerard Butler at The Four Seasons Hotel, Loch Earn by Fareshta

Guests have captured deer, ospreys and other birds. Last weeks guests managed to photograph a native species that was very special indeed. Having journeyed from Bahrain for their first family holiday in Scotland, they asked where they should go locally to experience Scottish salmon that was "beautifully cooked with a nice recipe"  They had already been wowed by the tasty food at MHOR84 in Balquhidder so I suggested The Four Seasons Hotel at St Fillans overlooking Loch Earn.  They were pleased with the recommendation and enjoyed their meal, however there was a bonus surprise.  The sons in the family spotted a familiar face in the restaurant.  They told their parents that an A list Hollywood actor was in the restaurant.  The parents were sure that they must be mistaken, however the waitress confirmed that it was indeed Gerard Butler.  He was made aware of their presence and invited them to have a chat after dinner.  Even better, he kindly posed with them for the photograph shown. This was their first family holiday in Scotland. They feel very lucky to have met one of Scotland's most successful actors who was approachable and generous with his time in the true spirit of Scottish hospitality.

Some more wonderful guest pics!

Osprey fishing Loch Earn -Merediths

Panoramic View from Briar Steading by S Paton

View from west gable, Briar Steading- Meridiths

Meridith family enjoy Loch Earn from garden

TripAdvisor Comments:

25 May 2013	Utterly perfect	5 of 5 stars
18 May 2013	Little Briar Cottage	5 of 5 stars
19-Apr-13	The best cottage view in Scotland	5 of 5 stars
05-Feb-13	Excellent, Cannot Fault It	5 of 5 stars
11 Dec 2012	Great wee cottage in perfect location	5 of 5 stars
10 Dec 2012	5-star accommodation and hosts	5 of 5 stars
19 Nov 2012	Will take your breath away!	5 of 5 stars
27-Oct-12	Cosy cottage, picturesque views and...	5 of 5 stars
05-Sep-12	Beautiful setting, lovely accommodation...	5 of 5 stars
29-Jul-12	Just what the doctor ordered	5 of 5 stars
24-Jul-12	Wonderful holiday at Briar Cottages	5 of 5 stars
20-Jul-12	Marvellous place!	5 of 5 stars
20-Jul-12	What a place!	5 of 5 stars
27 May 2012	Bliss!	5 of 5 stars
21 Mar 2012	Simply the best!	5 of 5 stars
17 Nov 2011	Superb Accommodation, location and Hosts	5 of 5 stars
05-Nov-11	It's the real deal	5 of 5 stars
26-Sep-11	Can't wait to go back	5 of 5 stars
25-Sep-11	Excellent holiday	5 of 5 stars
08-Sep-11	Lovely place high quality accommodation	5 of 5 stars
06-Sep-11	Can't wait to be back!	5 of 5 stars
27 Aug 2011	We wish we were still there.	5 of 5 stars
07-Aug-11	Plan to return!	5 of 5 stars
03-Aug-11	Yet again superb ready to book for the...	5 of 5 stars
11-Jul-11	Absolutely stunning - could not be...	5 of 5 stars
04-Jul-11	A truly wonderful wee break	5 of 5 stars
06-Jun-11	The best	5 of 5 stars
05-Jun-11	I don't want to go home	5 of 5 stars
05-Jun-11	What an amazing place! Kim and Frazer...	5 of 5 stars
04-Jun-11	I don't want to go home	5 of 5 stars
17-Apr-11	Perfect holiday	5 of 5 stars
29 Mar 2011	Perfect weekend away!	5 of 5 stars
27-Feb-11	perfect	5 of 5 stars
05-Jan-11	Fabulous cottage with beautiful...	5 of 5 stars
05-Jan-11	I wish I was there now	5 of 5 stars
13 Nov 2010	Ideal break	5 of 5 stars
19-Oct-10	Everything just right and better	5 of 5 stars
19-Sep-10	An unforgettable experience	5 of 5 stars
30 Aug 2010	Too good to miss	5 of 5 stars
01-Aug-10	So relaxing, can I come again	5 of 5 stars
22-Jul-10	Lovely wee cottage in beautiful location	5 of 5 stars
03-Jul-10	Simply the best cottage, hosts and...	5 of 5 stars
19-Jun-10	Chance travellers	5 of 5 stars
29-Apr-10	An exceptional holiday for the whole...	5 of 5 stars
05-Apr-10	Great break [Again!!!]	5 of 5 stars
03-Mar-10	a wee piece of heaven	5 of 5 stars
25-Oct-09	Great location at any time	5 of 5 stars
02-Sep-09	Best of the best.	5 of 5 stars
05-May-09	THE PERFECT GETAWAY	5 of 5 stars
16 Mar 2009	A wonderful view - the best of hosts too	5 of 5 stars
27-Feb-09	What holidays are meant to be...	5 of 5 stars
22-Feb-09	A perfect retreat in a postcard...	5 of 5 stars
04-Jan-09	Better than advertised	5 of 5 stars
28-Sep-08	A Taste Of Scotland	5 of 5 stars
23-Sep-08	Fantastic accommodation in a stunning...	5 of 5 stars
15-Sep-08	Loved our stay	4 of 5 stars
22-Jun-08	Lovely Cottages On Loch Erin.	5 of 5 stars

“Location, Location, Location!!” My wife and I and two friends have just returned from a long, bank holiday weekend at Briar Stedding (the larger of the two cottages) under the Briar Cottage banner. Hosts Kim and Fraser... more

08 May 2013

“Fantastically welcoming and with a view” This is a brilliant place to stay, the view over the loch, and the comfort of the cottage plus the friendly welcome and help received. A stag was a regular visitor, along with many birds including an... more Response: Fraser and I are delighted that you enjoyed the comfort and scenery that Briar Steading offers and it was a pleasure to have you here. We are lucky to offer an all year round scenic destination... more

26 Jan 2013

“If you look up tranquillity in the dictionary you will see a picture of Briar Cottages” 2 couples stayed for the weekend in mid January and loved everything about the place. A modern well equipped cottage that was immaculately clean. What can I say about the views, just loved sitting... more Response: Thank you very much. We are delighted that you enjoyed the experience and comforts of Briar Steading on your short break. We loved your dictionary reference. Look forward to welcoming you back to... more

25 May 2013 

Utterly perfect

5 of 5 stars 

18 May 2013 

Little Briar Cottage

5 of 5 stars 

19-Apr-13

The best cottage view in Scotland

5 of 5 stars 

05-Feb-13

Excellent, Cannot Fault It

5 of 5 stars 

11 Dec 2012 

Great wee cottage in perfect location

5 of 5 stars 

10 Dec 2012 

5-star accommodation and hosts

5 of 5 stars 

19 Nov 2012 

Will take your breath away!

5 of 5 stars 

27-Oct-12

Cosy cottage, picturesque views and...

5 of 5 stars 

05-Sep-12

Beautiful setting, lovely accommodation...

5 of 5 stars 

29-Jul-12

Just what the doctor ordered

5 of 5 stars 

24-Jul-12

Wonderful holiday at Briar Cottages

5 of 5 stars 

20-Jul-12

Marvellous place!

5 of 5 stars 

20-Jul-12

What a place!

5 of 5 stars 

27 May 2012 

Bliss!

5 of 5 stars 

21 Mar 2012 

Simply the best!

5 of 5 stars 

17 Nov 2011 

Superb Accommodation, location and Hosts 

5 of 5 stars 

05-Nov-11

It's the real deal

5 of 5 stars 

26-Sep-11

Can't wait to go back

5 of 5 stars 

25-Sep-11

Excellent holiday

5 of 5 stars 

08-Sep-11

Lovely place high quality accommodation

5 of 5 stars 

06-Sep-11

Can't wait to be back!

5 of 5 stars 

27 Aug 2011 

We wish we were still there.

5 of 5 stars 

07-Aug-11

Plan to return!

5 of 5 stars 

03-Aug-11

Yet again superb ready to book for the...

5 of 5 stars 

11-Jul-11

Absolutely stunning - could not be...

5 of 5 stars 

04-Jul-11

A truly wonderful wee break

5 of 5 stars 

06-Jun-11

The best

5 of 5 stars 

05-Jun-11

I don't want to go home

5 of 5 stars 

05-Jun-11

What an amazing place! Kim and Frazer... 

5 of 5 stars 

04-Jun-11

I don't want to go home

5 of 5 stars 

17-Apr-11

Perfect holiday

5 of 5 stars 

29 Mar 2011 

Perfect weekend away!

5 of 5 stars 

27-Feb-11

perfect

5 of 5 stars 

05-Jan-11

Fabulous cottage with beautiful...

5 of 5 stars 

05-Jan-11

I wish I was there now

5 of 5 stars 

13 Nov 2010 

Ideal break

5 of 5 stars 

19-Oct-10

Everything just right and better

5 of 5 stars 

19-Sep-10

An unforgettable experience

5 of 5 stars 

30 Aug 2010 

Too good to miss

5 of 5 stars 

01-Aug-10

So relaxing, can I come again

5 of 5 stars 

22-Jul-10

Lovely wee cottage in beautiful location

5 of 5 stars 

03-Jul-10

Simply the best cottage, hosts and...

5 of 5 stars 

19-Jun-10

Chance travellers

5 of 5 stars 

29-Apr-10

An exceptional holiday for the whole...

5 of 5 stars 

05-Apr-10

Great break [Again!!!]

5 of 5 stars 

03-Mar-10

a wee piece of heaven

5 of 5 stars 

25-Oct-09

Great location at any time

5 of 5 stars 

02-Sep-09

Best of the best.

5 of 5 stars 

05-May-09

THE PERFECT GETAWAY

5 of 5 stars 

16 Mar 2009 

A wonderful view - the best of hosts too

5 of 5 stars 

27-Feb-09

What holidays are meant to be...

5 of 5 stars 

22-Feb-09

A perfect retreat in a postcard...

5 of 5 stars 

04-Jan-09

Better than advertised

5 of 5 stars 

28-Sep-08

A Taste Of Scotland

5 of 5 stars 

23-Sep-08

Fantastic accommodation in a stunning...

5 of 5 stars 

15-Sep-08

Loved our stay

4 of 5 stars 

22-Jun-08

Lovely Cottages On Loch Erin.

5 of 5 stars 

“Location, Location, Location!!”

My wife and I and two friends have just returned from a long, bank holiday weekend at Briar Stedding (the larger of the two cottages) under the Briar Cottage banner.

Hosts Kim and Fraser... more

“Location, Location, Location!!”

08 May 2013

“Fantastically welcoming and with a view”

This is a brilliant place to stay, the view over the loch, and the comfort of the cottage plus the friendly welcome and help received. A stag was a regular visitor, along with many birds including an... more

Response:
Fraser and I are delighted that you enjoyed the comfort and scenery that Briar Steading offers and it was a pleasure to have you here. We are lucky to offer an all year round scenic destination... more

“Fantastically welcoming and with a view”

26 Jan 2013

“If you look up tranquillity in the dictionary you will see a picture of Briar Cottages”

2 couples stayed for the weekend in mid January and loved everything about the place. A modern well equipped cottage that was immaculately clean. What can I say about the views, just loved sitting... more

Response:
Thank you very much. We are delighted that you enjoyed the experience and comforts of Briar Steading on your short break. We loved your dictionary reference. Look forward to welcoming you back to... more

“If you look up tranquillity in the dictionary you will see a picture of Briar Cottages”

Lochearnhead Events, Wildlife On Our Doorstep and Frasers latest construction



What on earth is Fraser Proven up to now?

Any ideas?

Did you guess?

Frasers Couch! Can you spot the red squirrel?

Check the close up below

Anyone else would call this a garden bench but Frasers says its a "couch".  Four people can sit here.  Of course it's not a real red squirrel. We don't have to glue resin animals to our garden as there really are red squirrels in the area.  Be careful if you spot them on the road though as they are slow to cross. 

Our friend Tony runs the local wildlife watch centre in Strathyre.  If you don't want to leave wildlife spotting to chance,  book a  session with him for around £15 and he will take you to camera hides focused on red squirrels, pine martins and badgers. He knows where the otters are too! You can also book a "birding weekend" to get familiar with the sight and sound of seasonal birds. Natural Trossachs is an eco friendly wildlife watch business where they run special activity weekends like, birding and bushcraft skills (handy outdoor survival skills). See more here http://www.naturaltrossachs.co.uk   

If you prefer to go off road in a Land Rover, then check out Hidden Glen Safaris.  Owner Alan will pick you up from Briar Cottages and take you to well known parts of Balquhidder Glen to look for eagles, deer, foxes and more. The picturesque terrain was the final stomping grounds of Rob Roy McGregor http://www.hiddenglensafaris.co.uk from £28 per person.
 
The deer have been spotted around Lochearnhead all winter and they leave evidence every night in our gardens.  Normally they go back up the hills however this lot are enjoying local pickings.  Briar Cottages offers a lovely grassy paddock to the rear. The deer and stags love our flowers and laurel bushes appeal to their taste too.  They are in our garden most nights and sometimes during the day much to the delight of guests that report sightings.

Deer visit Lochearnhead regularly

We are extremely lucky to have ospreys fishing all summer. They come back from Africa at the beginning of May and will be here throughout the summer.  Briar Cottages offers a 250 foot loch garden and both cottages face south over Loch Earn so our guests have front row seats.  Watch ospreys fishing all summer. It is useful to have a camera around here at all times.  The swallows are back too and the mallards have had their first ducklings.  One mother has been feeding here all winter. She only has 2 ducklings left however she brings them to the garden every day several times so that we can help to feed them.   We can't look out for them all the time. They are  under threat from other creatures and the trunk roads if drivers don't see them. Our mother duck has an extra challenge.  She only has one foot. We call her "hoppy".  I hope that is not duckist or mallardist as she is named with affection.

Fraser celebrating the 1st day of the fishing season
 

 The fishing season is well under way however we could do with temperatures rising a bit for more trout to surface.  This picture was taken on 15th March when Fraser decided to celebrate the start of the fishing season. He celebrates most days to be fair!


In a week or two the sea plane will be a familiar sight on Loch Earn, based at The Lochearnhead Water Sports Centre. Guests can enjoy the regular take off and landings by qualified pilots who are learning or improving sea plane and mountain flying skills.


 

Photo by Lochearnhead photographer
 Alistair Barclay of Alba virtual tours

 

Power Skiing Event: On the 24th May we see the return of the formula one power boat ski race. Witness all ages of people skiing  at up to 110 miles per hour. No mistake, they really go that fast.See www.skirace.net and http://www.lochearnhead-watersports-centre.com/activities-to-make-you-feel-alive/C

 

Food and Drink?   Great news.  MHOR84 has opened up 3 miles down the A84 from Lochearnhead.  Chef Tom Lewis has woven his magic once again along with his wife Lisa and siblings Dick and Melanie.  They have taken over the old Kingshouse Hotel, whitewashed it and created a Motel with fresh, very tasty and great value food.  You can eat most of the day.  Drop in for breakfast, snacks, soups, Illy coffee and home made cakes and main meals too.  A great place for ramblers and walkers to gather for tea and well behaved dogs can sit on the wooden floors under your table. The Golden Larches restaurant on the A84 has been taken over by husband and wife team Alistair and Alida.  In addition to all day food, snacks and beverages in the restaurant or conservatory, you can now order takeaway fish or scampi and chips.

 

Next  years events: Briar Steading has already been booked for The Ryder Cup 2014 and The Highland Games 2014 however Little Briar is still available.  We are hoping that some Commonwealth Games enthusiasts will take a short break up this way while they are in Scotland.  After all, we are only an hour and 15 minutes from Glasgow.  Give us a call if your need luxury and pet friendly accommodation for a week or short break 01567 830 443 throughout the year in any season.

  

Catch up with more of my news on Twitter @Briarcottages 

 

For other Whats On events in the area:

May 16th

Event: Golf Senior Men's Open. Venue: St Fillans Golf Club St Fillans

Contact : TEL:01764 685312 Email : Stfillansgolf@aol.com, http://www.st-fillans-golf.com,

Time : All Day

To enter please send your details along with a cheque to the club: St Fillans Golf Club, South Loch, Earn Road, St Fillans, Perthshire, PH6 2NJ. Visitors are welcome at St Fillans Golf Club which is situated in one of the most beautiful parts of Scotland surrounded by magnificent lochs and towering mountains. The terrain is quite level in spite of the imposing hills that surround the course. It is popular with beginners yet proves to be a difficult course to score well on for the more experienced player.

 

May 24th-26th

Event:   Birding Weekend

Venue: Strathyre Outdoor Centre

Event: Learn about the call of birds.  Watchbirds from a distance in the various habitats; woodland, marshes &  moorland,  Identify birds by sight with visual ID,  bat detection, Pre breakfast bird walks

Price £205 with food and accommodation £150 without. 

Contact: http://www.naturaltrossachs.co.uk

 

 

May 25^th and 26^th

Event: British Power Boat Water Skiing, Loch Earn

Venue: The Lochearnhead Water Sports Centre, Lochearnhead.

Price: Free to spectate

Contact Laura and Martin http://www.lochearnhead-watersports-centre.com and http://www.skirace.net/british-racing-calender2013 Time: 12.00

Witness up to 30 power boats pulling brave water skiers at speeds of 70 to 110 miles per hour.

JUNE

June 1^st/2^nd

Event: Strathyre Music Festival

Venue: Various including The Inn at Strathyre, Creagan House, Strathyre Village Hall

Price (TBA)

Contact Ken Higgens http://balvaig.co.uk/index.html

Time: All Day

Strathyre's 1st Music Festival, hosted by local group Balvaig who have invited another 100 entertainers to join them in creating a memorable music festival. Showcasing an eclectic mix of local and international musicians to suit a variety of musical tastes.

June 8^th

Even

Venue: St Fillans Golf Club

Price: See website

Time: All Day from 8.00

please send your details along with a cheque to the club: St Fillans Golf Club, South Loch, Earn Road, St Fillans, Perthshire, PH6 2NJ Visitors are welcome at St Fillans Golf Club which is situated in one of the most beautiful parts of Scotland surrounded by magnificent lochs and towering mountains. The terrain is quite level in spite of the imposing hills that surround the course. It is popular with beginners yet proves to be a difficult course to score well on for the more experienced player.

June 12th

Event: Ben Sheann Hill Race

Venue: Strathyre register at The Inn

Contact: : http://stucachroin5000.org.uk/bensheann/the_ben_sheann_race.html

Time 7.30 -9.30pm

The 4km course climbs steeply through forest looping around the summit of An Sidhean before descending back through the forest. The climb is 426m.

June 22nd

Event The Martin Currie Rob Roy Challenge (All Day)

Venue: Starts at Drymen

Price: Charity Event

Contact: WildFox Events on 01567 820409

The Rob Roy Challenge is one of the most successful fundraising events in Scotland. 55 miles of the Rob Roy Way are covered by teams and individuals. A 16 mile walk from Drymen through the Trossachs to Callander is follwoed by a 39 mile cycle to Kenmore via Strathyre, Balquhidder, Lochearnhead.

June 29^th and 30th

Event: Lochearnhead Shears, Scotlands Premier Sheep Shearing Competition

Venue: Lochearnhead Games Field, Lochearnhead

Price: £6

Time: Saturday 4pm, Sunday- Heats 9am, hand shears 12 noon, Finals 5.00pm + Crook makingCeilidh Dance 30th June 9.00pm -1.00am

Contact: Colin McGregor Tel:01567 830236 Email :carstraancroft@btinternet.com Url: http://www.lochearnheadshears

This annual event is one of the larger sheep shearing competitions in the UK. Now in its 20th year. International sheep shearers will arrive in Lochearnhead with the aim of taking the revered "Scottish Blackface Shearing Champion" title. Blackface sheep are predominant in this region. The flighty nature and coarse wool of this mountain breed can be very challenging requiring extra skills. Expect a strong representation from Europe this year for a preliminary European Championship . A lively dance ends the weekend. Licensed Bar and Food all Day

JULY

July 3^rd

Event: Golf, Ladies Open, St Fillans

Venue: St Fillans Golf Club, St Fillans

Contact: Managing Secretary: 01764 685312 email :Stfillansgolf@aol.com Url: http://www.st-fillans-golf.com

Time 8.30am (All Day)

To enter please send your details along with a cheque to the club: St Fillans Golf Club, South Loch, Earn Road, St Fillans, Perthshire, PH6 2NJ. Visitors are welcome at St Fillans Golf Club which is situated in one of the most beautiful parts of Scotland surrounded by magnificent lochs and towering mountains. The terrain is quite level in spite of the imposing hills that surround the course. It is popular with beginners yet proves to be a difficult course to score well on for the more experienced player.

July 14^th -18^th August (Sundays weekly )

Event: Balquhidder Summer Classical Music Programme, Balquhidder

Venue: Balquhidder Parish Church, Balquhidder.

Event: Summer Music concerts throughout the summer celebrating classical music through the talents of a number of young, up and coming musicians. Parking available around the church.

Time: 7pm

Contact Wouter Van Doom Email :bsm.chairman@gmail.com http://www.balquhiddersummermusic.org.uk

July 20^th

Event: BLS Highland Games Lochearnhead ( Balquhidder, Lochearnhead, & Strathyre Highland Games)

Venue: Lochearnhead Games Field, Lochearnhead

Price: £5 entrance ticket on the day

Time: 12.30

Contact Alex Gargolinski. Tel: 01567 830 231 Email :gus.dundhu@btinternet.com http://www.lochearnheadhighlandgames.co.uk

A thrilling and traditional Highland Games in the magnificent setting of Lochearnhead beside Loch Earn in the lands of MacGregor, McLaren, MacNab, Stewart and Campbell. The traditional events often attract world champions though visitors and locals can take part in the open events. This is a terrific day out for all the family whether you want to watch the caber being tossed, listen to the bagpipes, enjoy the highland dancers or take part in the married ladies sprint!

AUGUST

August 31^st

Event: BLS Horticultural Society Annual Show - Lochearnhead

Venue: The Village Hall, Lochearnhead

Price: Adults £1 (includes tea and cake/biscuits), children go FREE

Time: 2-4pm

Contact: Pauline Perkins 01877 384228 email:pollyp1@btinternet.com

Come along and experience the (BLS) Balquhidder, Lochearnhead and Strathyre annual Horticultural Show where locals showcase their growing and craft skills. A number of classes are judged by an external panel including pot plants, flowers, fruit and veg, floral art,

kindred activities (also know locally as "industrial engineering" but good old fashioned baking to most of us!), handy craft and an art section. The presentation of trophies will be at 3.30.

SEPTEMBER

September 14^th

Event: Gents Open St Fillans Golf Club, St Fillans

Venue: St Fillans Golf Club

Time: All Day

Contact Managing Secretary, Tel:01764 685312 Email :Stfillansgolf@aol.com Url: http://www.st-fillans-golf.com

To enter please send your details along with a cheque to the club: St Fillans Golf Club, South Loch, Earn Road, St Fillans, Perthshire, PH6 2NJ Visitors are welcome at St Fillans Golf Club which is situated in one of the most beautiful parts of Scotland surrounded by magnificent lochs and towering mountains. The terrain is quite level in spite of the imposing hills that surround the course. It is popular with beginners yet proves to be a difficult course to score well on for the more experienced player.

OCTOBER

October 12^th/13th

Event: Scottish Aeromodellers "Splash In" (Radio Controlled Water Planes) - Lochearnhead

Venue: Loch Earn - (Lochearnhead Watersports and Activities Centre)

Price: Free to spectate

Time: 10.00-16.00

Contact: Colin McLean, Tel:01592 569981 Email :cmacvulcan@blueyonder.co.uk Url: http://www.saaweb.org.uk

Free to spectate. This is a very impressive event that is suitable for all ages. The setting is the shores of Loch Earn in Lochearnhead against a backdrop of Glenample, Edinample castle and an island that was once a Crannog (dwelling house in the water at the time of the Picts).Come along and be amazed by the enthusiastic flying skills of Aeromodellers Association members. This event is run under the auspices of the Scottish Aeromodellers Association as a "Fly in". SAA members attend and fly a wide variety of radio controlled model water planes, large and small, over two days. This is not just boys and there toys. It takes a great deal of skill and training to do what this team does. You will love the variety of planes. In the interests of safety, the public is asked to remain in the "roped off" viewing area.

October 19^th/20th

Event: Tracking and Wildlife Weekend

Venue: Strathyre Outdoor Centre, Strathyre

Price: £150 per weekend or £75 per day (£10 discount if full weekend booked for)

Time: 2 full days: starts 19.00 on Friday night and ends 16:00 Sunday afternoon.
Main lessons will be from 09:00 - 17:00 on Saturday and 09:00-16:00 on Sunday

Contact: http://www.naturaltrossachs.co.uk/page4.htm

Instructor Leon is a qualified and experienced wildlife biologist with a BSc (hons) in Ecology and a PhD based on otter research in Scotland. He has over 13 years field experience, studying badgers, foxes, grouse & otters. In 2004, Leon formalised his bushcraft interests and achieved a nationally accredited qualification (with distinction)to teach the subject. This year long NCFE course covered all aspects of leading groups, including bushcraft skills, understanding of the natural environment, teaching ability, knowledge of legislation, health and safety.