For full functionality of this site it is necessary to enable JavaScript. Here are the instructions how to enable JavaScript in your web browser.

Thanks to a meticulous three-year renovation, this quadrangle of once-derelict farm buildings is now an upscale boutique hotel with five self-contained cottages (ranging from one to three-bedroom), four deluxe suites and an exciting  accessory – its very own grass airstrip. The property is part of a 400-hectare working farm on the Black Isle Peninsula in the Scottish Highlands, roughly 30 kilometres north of Inverness. Those lucky enough to own a plane can fly there from Inverness Airport in around 10 minutes; for the rest of us it's a 35-minute transfer by road.

With help from London-based interior specialist Kelling Designs, the owners have done a commendable job of creating a sophisticated, homely space that highlights many of the building's original features. Beyond the cosy reception area is an intimate wood-panelled bar that leads to a pared-back, high-ceilinged dining room with a soaring two-storey feature window and a ribbon of exposed sandstone. Inside the quadrangle is a manicured grass lawn and two firepits that encourage convivial mingling. Unusually, for a property in the Scottish Highlands, there's not a tartan rug or hunting trophy in sight.

My cottage is called Irene (one of four named after the owner's children) and it's a self-contained, two-bedroomed abode spread over two floors. Downstairs is a high-spec kitchen (think Bosch appliances and Riedel glassware) plus a spacious lounge with scented candles and a log burning stove. Upstairs there are two generous king-sized bedrooms with handcrafted Epoc mattresses and a striking red painted bathroom with underfloor heating and upmarket Bramley toiletries. Artfully placed Asian-themed ornaments create an upscale, elegant feel without detracting from the cottage's warm ambience. It's one of those rare places where you instantly feel comfortable kicking off your shoes, popping on the kettle and pottering around like it's your very own Scottish summer residence.

Included with the room rate is a hearty breakfast of pastries, cereals and fresh fruit, plus cooked options, including porridge, haggis and tattie scones (potato pancakes). Guests can also book in for dinner, a changing three-course menu that showcases in-season regional produce. I opt for the local langoustines to start, followed by an excellent Highland beef fillet with peppercorn sauce and an indulgent Eton mess for dessert. Whisky connoisseurs will enjoy the tasting flights curated by knowledgeable barman Rob Beaton, who even manages to win over this whisky sceptic with a dangerously drinkable cocktail made with a blended Japanese whisky called Nikka from the Barrel.

Despite its rural setting, the property is well-positioned for exploring the region's many highlights, which include several whisky distilleries, numerous golf courses (most notably the championship links at Royal Dornoch) and Fort George, an imposing 18th-century military fortress. Alternatively, you can go dolphin spotting on an eco-cruise in the Moray Firth, hike through dramatic Glen Affric or drive a section of the North Coast 500 touring route. Of course, given there's an airfield at your disposal, a sightseeing flight is a popular excursion, with Highland Aviation offering scenic trips over Loch Ness and Ben Nevis.

Get the latest news and updates emailed straight to your inbox.

By submitting your email you are agreeing to Nine Publishing's terms and conditions and privacy policy.

An impressive renovation that's given new life to a historic building in an under appreciated part of Scotland. Even if you never make use of the private runway, it's still a wonderfully welcoming place to stay.

Newhall Mains Boutique Hotel,  Balblair, by Dingwall, Ross-shire. Rates start at £240 ($400) per night, including breakfast. See newhall-mains.com

A pre-dinner "She's Electric" (barman Rob's take on a Singapore Sling), made with Achroous Gin, Benedictine, Angostura bitters, apricot liqueur and toasted rosemary.

Unless you want to rely on taxis, you'll need a car (or a plane) to explore.

Rob McFarland was a guest of Newhall Mains.