Travel: Culross

A few days spent in the East Neuk of Fife, staying at the beautifully considered 'The Dundonald' guest house and exploring the winding lanes of Culross & Culross Palace.

I was amazed to find this little gem only 40 mins drive from my own front door. It is like stepping back in time. Such a well preserved example of a 16th century town that it has been used as multiple film locations, most notably for the TV series 'Outlander'.

I really loved wandering the streets with my sister and discovering all the beautiful colours of the houses and their special little architectural details.

 

The stunning ochre-coloured Culross Palace, built by wealthy coal merchant George Bruce in the late 16th century, is in fact not a palace but a large and impressive house. You can explore the interior and connecting passageways, with stunning painted ceilings, timber panelling and antique furniture. The garden is planted with grasses, herbs and vegetables that reflect what would have been planted in the 16th century. The teasels were amazing when we visited and the garden was alive with bees and butterflies.  Bessie's Cafe is a must for an afternoon tea stop just beside the Palace and The Red Lion Inn is a good spot for a traditional pub lunch or dinner. 

It was through the powers of instagram that I discovered 'The Dundonald' guest house which has recently opened its doors in Culross. Originally a circa 1850 Coach House Inn, it has been lovingly restored to offer beautiful accommodation as a cottage and guest house. We were staying in the cottage which had a charming calm and welcoming atmosphere. If you are anything like me you want your holidays to be a stylish affair. Laura has a great eye for interiors and has curated the space with an effortless balance of design and relaxed comfort. 

The breakfasts were delivered in a picnic style basket and were an absolute feast. One of the pleasures of taking a break is not rushing out the door in the morning, so taking your time over a beautifully prepared breakfast of natural yoghurt and granola with fresh berries, smoked salmon, cream cheese, bagels, fresh fruit and coffee, that's a holiday in my book. 

The bedlinen was great quality and a fine yarn count and my mattress was so comfortable I had to ask where it was from- Heals who started life as mattress makers and still make fabulous quality mattresses to this day. 

Perhaps you've noticed my obsession with golden hues and that my current collection features lots of golds and ochres. as does my home. After my visit to Culross this has now sealed my love of this warm tone and I can see many more 'Culross Ochre' inspired designs coming.