Skip to main content
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
Smart TV, DVD player, stereo
Interior
Exterior detail
Exterior
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
  • Barbecue grill
  • Pet friendly
  • Washer
  • Outdoor Space
  • Kitchen

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 transportation

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

Kitchen

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dishwasher
  • Electric kettle
  • Freezer
  • Kitchen island
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Refrigerator
  • Stovetop
  • 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/patio
  • Garden

Laundry

  • Laundry facilities
  • Washing machine

Comfort

  • Heating

Pets

  • Pet friendly
  • Welcoming dogs only
  • 2 pets total

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Smoking not allowed
  • 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 mall

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

Similar properties

Fridge, microwave, oven, stovetop
The Wee Hoose: Probably Scotland's Smallest Holiday Home
  • Kitchen
  • Washer
  • Pet friendly
  • Free WiFi
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, 97 reviews
The Wee Hoose: Probably Scotland's Smallest Holiday Home

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 complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Strip any used beds and gather used towels
Take out the trash
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 allowed
Service animals are welcome, and are exempt from fees
Welcoming dogs only
2 total pets
Restrictions apply; for more information contact the property at 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
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Note from host: £60 cleaning charge
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated 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, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm 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 transportation to and from this property

Property is also known as

Secluded Stylish Rural Retreat Hills Bright Lights House balfron
Secluded Stylish Rural Retreat Hills Bright Lights House
Secluded Stylish Rural Retreat Hills Bright Lights balfron
Secluded Stylish Rural Retreat Hills Bright Lights
Secluded Stylish Rural Retreat Hills Bright Lights House balfron
Secluded Stylish Rural Retreat Hills Bright Lights House
Secluded Stylish Rural Retreat Hills Bright Lights balfron
Secluded Stylish Rural Retreat Hills Bright Lights House balfron
Secluded Stylish Rural Retreat Hills Bright Lights House
Secluded Stylish Rural Retreat Hills Bright Lights balfron

About the neighborhood

Map
balfron, glasgow

What's nearby

  • art4you Scotland - 13 min drive - 4.1 miles
  • Glengoyne Distillery - 18 min drive - 9.9 miles
  • Nick Nairn Cook School - 19 min drive - 11.9 miles
  • Blair Drummond Safari Park - 20 min drive - 14.7 miles
  • Stirling Castle - 25 min drive - 18.4 miles

Getting around

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

Restaurants

  • ‪Benview Coffee Shop - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪The Beech Tree Inn - ‬15 min drive
  • ‪Oakwood - ‬14 min drive
  • ‪Tir Na Nog - ‬17 min drive
  • ‪Turnip The Beet - ‬14 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.

How much is parking?

Onsite parking is available at the property.

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?

Check-out 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 mi (20 km).

Have a question?

AI iconBeta

Get instant answers with AI powered search of property information and reviews.

Reviews

Secluded Rural Retreat with elevated deck and wonderful views Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

9.8

Cleanliness

9.6

Location

9.0

Property conditions & facilities
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

Reviews

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

8/10 Good

Caroline Helen W.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Peaceful

Great location
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Aimee N.

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

Lovely little lodge

Had a lovely weekend here, lodge was lovely and surrounding area is beautiful. Well equipped and comfy.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

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

Lesley M.

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

Lovely and secluded

Very peaceful
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

sharon c.

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

Amazing relaxing time

Wonderful place to stay , quiet , relaxing and beautiful setting Iona was very nice and helpful and her place is amazing to stay in Spotlessly clean with super comfy beds and a large decking which was great for our weekend of sunshine We will be back very soon to spend some time chilling in this wonderful place
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Caroline H.

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

Cosy Retreat

We stayed with another couple and our 2 dogs. The lodge was perfect in terms of layout, facilities and the location. Described accurately and we just loved our stay in a gorogeous setting. Would love to return for another stay!
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Iain T.

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

Amazing place

What a truly wonderful place a real privilege to stay at The Kist
Stayed 7 nights in May 2024

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

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

Simon J.

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

Lovely quite location

Really enjoyed our stay, quite location, property had everything that you needed, host was friendly
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

angela f.

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

Great short break

Had a great time ,place was beautiful.will need to come back in summer when it’s warmer .could probably do with a lean to out the back and a fire pit that would have been the icing on the cake for me
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 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 traveler

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

Keith A.

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

Great place in beautiful surroundings

Lovely place to stay.The layout is really well thought out and felt comfortable. Beautiful setting.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2024

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

Gail S.

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

Happy wee break

Wrather wasnt great .but didnt stop us having nice relaxed break
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2025

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

Matt C.

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

Wonderful Christmas Stay

We had a lovely stay at The Kist over Christmas. The Kist was spotless and in a great location. Iona made the stay extra special by decorating The Kist with tree and lights and also leaving stockings for our boys. We definitely plan on going back.
Stayed 8 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Gerald L.

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

Gerry

Great stay lovely surroundings and location central for sightseeing, lovely hosts.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Michelle M.

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

Break away

We come often to the Kist.It’s perfect for a get away.We have another date booked already to return.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2025

8/10 Good

JEAN R.

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

So Tranquil, beautiful location!

If you are looking for peace and tranquillity but still only 3 miles away from Bakers, small Supermarket etc this is the place for you. Iona the host was lovely. Very comfy beds with en-suites. My grandchildren were delighted to see the sheep in the grounds early morning. We will definitely book again.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Mhairi C.

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

Short Stay at the Kist

We had a wonderful time here! The place was spotless and we had everything we needed during our stay. It was so quiet and comfortable, I would definitely be back. Some lovely towns and scenery around aswell.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2024

10/10 Excellent

Frances L.

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

Lovely stay

We had a lovely stay! Warm and cosy cabin in beautiful surroundings. Thanks
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2022