We noticed that you're using an unsupported browser. The Tripadvisor website may not display properly.We support the following browsers:
Windows: Internet Explorer, Mozilla Firefox, Google Chrome. Mac: Safari.

The Shack (Cosyholidaycottages)

Save
Want exclusive deal alerts, booking reminders, and quicker checkout?
Log in now
→

Overview
2 bedrooms
2 bathrooms
4 guests
7 nights minimum 
Cottage
The property was formerly a Forestry Commission Office and has been tastefully converted to a very attractive, cosy two double bed-roomed holiday home. This high standard innovative convertion was completed in August 2008. The main bedroom has en-suite bathroom with king size bed and the efficient underfloor heating throughout the property provides all year round comfort. The property is extremely light and airy as it benifits from south and west facing patio doors, with feature light shafts in the kitchen and living room. There is a modern well fitted kitchen with slate floor, where you can sit at the breakfast bar enjoying a wonderful view through the trees to the Galloway Hills or maybe spot a red squirrel leaping from tree to tree. As well as Red Squirrels there are Roe Deer and an abu...The property was formerly a Forestry Commission Office and has been tastefully converted to a very attractive, cosy two double bed-roomed holiday home. This high standard innovative convertion was completed in August 2008. The main bedroom has en-suite bathroom with king size bed and the efficient underfloor heating throughout the property provides all year round comfort. The property is extremely light and airy as it benifits from south and west facing patio doors, with feature light shafts in the kitchen and living room. There is a modern well fitted kitchen with slate floor, where you can sit at the breakfast bar enjoying a wonderful view through the trees to the Galloway Hills or maybe spot a red squirrel leaping from tree to tree. As well as Red Squirrels there are Roe Deer and an abundance of bird life surrounding The Shack. During your stay we will provide a bag of feed for children (or adults) to feed the birds and squirrels. In January and february the woods surrounding the Shack are covered with a carpet of snowdrops, making this a particular beautiful time of year to visit. We have just returned this week, the snowdrops are wonderful and the wildlife is extremely busy. I have downloaded 2 short videos one of a woodpecker feeding with finches flying around behind and a red squirrel running down the tree next to the feeding table. This is on our own site.
House Rules
Pets not allowedKid friendlyNo smoking
Bedrooms
1 King1 Double
Bathrooms
1 Full bath1 Attached (ensuite)

Meet the host
Brian D
Hosting since August 2008
Languages spoken: English
Response Rate: 100%
Response Time: Within a few hours

Contribute
Reviews (26)
We perform checks on reviews.
Tripadvisor’s approach to reviews
Before posting, each Tripadvisor review goes through an automated tracking system, which collects information, answering the following questions: how, what, where and when. If the system detects something that potentially contradicts our community guidelines, the review is not published.
When the system detects a problem, a review may be automatically rejected, sent to the reviewer for validation, or manually reviewed by our team of content specialists, who work 24/7 to maintain the quality of the reviews on our site.
Our team checks each review posted on the site disputed by our community as not meeting our community guidelines.
If you have submitted a review for a holiday rental property, we may also ask that you provide us with proof of your stay to ensure that your review is attached to the correct rental property.
Holiday rental reviews collected via the VRBO website (formerly Homeaway) and syndicated to the Tripadvisor website are not currently subject to Tripadvisor’s standard moderation processes.
Learn more about our review moderation.
spudd_uk
spudd_uk
74 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Relaxing week in a terrific location
We had a really enjoyable, peaceful, relaxing break at The Shack. The property is all on one level so great for those who struggle with stairs. All the rooms are spacious and would comfortably fit four people, there was only the two of us. The bed in the main bedroom was extremely comfortable and piping hot water was constantly available. All the rooms have independent under floor heating controls, leaving the entire house toastie warm. The kitchen contains all the kit you will need, there are though a couple of decent restaurants just a short walk away. The Masonic Arms have a great carvery on a Sunday which you can go back to for more delicious food. A big USP is the local wildlife; you can spend hours watching the birds come and go all day. Bring plenty of bird food with you, some is provided but we realised this would not last the week. A small added expense that bought so much joy. We only saw a red squirrel on our last morning……other previous guests comments suggest we were unlucky. Sit patiently on the chairs outside or the settee inside and you’ll be entertained for hours.
Visited September 2021
Written 6 October 2021. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

mark m
mark m
Bourne, United Kingdom8 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Fabulous fun in the forest
We spent a fabulous week in the Shack with our 7 month old daughter, she loved the heated floors! The Shack has everything you need and is extremely warm and cozy. Plenty of wildlife in the vicinity and a lovely walk to the local pub in town. Gatehouse of Fleet is also a great little town and basecamp for exploring this part of the world. Brian the owner was very helpful and communicated updates well during the booking process, a great experience from start to finish. We shall return again and highly recommend a stay at this lovely forest hideaway.
Visited October 2019
Written 11 November 2019. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

Companion748131
Companion748131
1 contribution
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Best accommodation in over fifty years of visiting the area.
Visiting The Shack for the first time, along with my ninety year old mother, we found that the location, facilities and contents made it the best self-catering accommodation that we had used in more than fifty years of coming to Galloway. Red squirrels visited daily and there was a wealth of birdlife and other animals. The cabin's location made local shops and sights easy to get to and there were plenty of local walks to avoid using the car. Having turned-up with a box of household goods that we have needed for previous cottages at the same price we were delighted to find that The Shack already had these items and our box went home unused. I hope that it won't be long before we can revisit The Shack.
Visited July 2018
Written 9 August 2018. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

Debsie
Debsie
3 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
A beautiful cabin.
This cabin is in a perfect location. It has everything you need and more, it's quiet and close for beeches or woods. You can watch the wildlife in the cabin from birds to red squirrels and badgers at night. I would love to go back.
Visited June 2018
Written 10 July 2018. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

Naomi P
Naomi P
11 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Nature lovers dream
We just got home after a 5 day stay at the shack. It surpassed all our expectations, the house was much bigger and modern than we expected, very comfortable, very clean and fully stocked with kitchen and bathroom supplies plus some very welcome welcome goodies. We stayed here for two main reasons- firstly the wonderful wildlife all around and secondly because it had a baby friendly layout. We got close to the red squirrels on a daily basis as they ate the supplied peanuts off the decking; we also had daily views of bank voles, nuthatches, tree creepers and jays amongst all the other garden birds. It was fabulous. Our baby also loved spotting all the animals from the big patio door. The owners kindly made sure a highchair (same as ours at home!) was provided though we took our own travel cot for familiarity. There was plenty of space in the living room which allowed us to set up her playmat and toys and she could safely roam about. It was also great for us to get some quiet time in the evenings, the kitchen sits between the living room and the bedrooms so with our baby monitor on, we could shut the door and not need to worry about disturbing her while we watched a film. Finally, while Gatehouse is a sleepy place, it is very central to the whole D&G area; giving easy access to the forest park, seashore, other towns and the A75. Gatehouse does have reasonable supplies (Spar shop) and a few good pubs ten mins walk away through the woods and has lovely walks all around; Up to the Rutherford memorial being particularly nice. Thanks again for a brilliant stay :)
Visited March 2018
Written 8 March 2018. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

Flick201
Flick201
9 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Highly Recommend
Just returned from our 3rd stay at The Shack! Very comfortable and spacious with a well equipped kitchen and everything you would need. Excellent location being private but within walking distance of Gatehouse of Fleet where there’s a range of pubs, local shops and cafes. Lots of walks on the doorstep and exploring to do. Also we went for a swim at Cally Palace indoor pool which our 7 month old son loved! Would highly recommend The Shack to anyone looking, especially any wildlife lovers....we fed red squirrels from the decking!
Visited November 2017
Written 13 November 2017. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

lsmigs
lsmigs
Mansfield, United Kingdom8 contributions
4.0 of 5 bubbles
enjoyable,quiet cosy lodge
my wife, my son and myself stayed here for a week (24/6/16 to 2/7/16). the last 20 mins of our journey it rained, heavily! so when we arrived we just dived into the shack!! didnt get to look around properly till following day. the whole shack was comfy, cosy place.apart from traffic going down the lane, it was quiet, especially at night when dark, very quiet, lovely. the beds were lovely to sleep in, very relaxing. on a personal level, we found several "things" that we wouldve liked but thats just for us! the owner,helen, left a lovely welcome basket, nice touch. the whole lodge is designed around watching the view, looking at the birds and feeding them. feed them regular and you get an abundance of birds!! saw one red squirrel, only the one! but was worth it. there are plenty of places to visit round and about the area, good food where ever you go, if you ever in dumfrees, visit mrs greens tearoom, its a 50s set up, excellent!!
Visited June 2016 Travelled with family
Written 3 July 2016. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

SavvyScot
SavvyScot
1 contribution
5.0 of 5 bubbles
We love the Shack!
This was our third visit to The Shack and we seem to enjoy it even more each time. Great location for walks through the woods or exploring further afield by car. A cosy home from home. Our two children were crying when we had to leave this time.
Visited March 2016
Written 4 April 2016. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

Chris F
Chris F
Lancaster, United Kingdom7 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Great holiday
Just returned from a great four day break. Lovely comfortable cottage with everything you could possibly want included. Very warm and cozy due to underfloor heating. Close to the village just make sure you take a torch with you, it is very dark. Vast array of visiting birds and of course the stars of the show, the squirrels. There is food provided but worth taking your own. Kept us amused for a couple of hours every day. Set up a camara trap in the garden and got some good pics of a stoat eating with the squirrels. Probably won't be going back but that is purely because it doesn't take pets.
Visited January 2016
Written 13 January 2016. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

Helen P
Helen P
West Yorkshire, United Kingdom2 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Cosy & comfortable 'cabin' in beautiful woods
Such a lovely place to stay in an wonderful area, The Shack is warm, comfortable and very well equipped. Helen and Brian have made this a home from home and are very helpful and easy to deal with. If you love wildlife and the woods then this is heaven - red squirrels will visit you for breakfast! (as well as a thoughtful welcome basket of wine and shortbread for you, there is also a tin of bird food and nuts !) A short walk through the woods takes you to Gatehouse, and further afield there are beaches, forests and nature reserves. We spent our days in the amazing scenery of the area watching the wildlife, but loved coming home to the Shack for a cosy evening relaxing. Bliss!
Visited November 2015 Travelled as a couple
Written 15 November 2015. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

Showing results 1-10 of 26

What this rental offers
Entertainment
  • DVD player
  • Stereo system
  • Television
Outdoor amenities
  • Balcony
  • Deck
  • Patio
  • Private yard
  • Terrace
Bathroom and laundry
  • Dryer
  • Iron
  • Linens provided
  • Towels provided
  • Washer
Scenic views
  • Mountain views
Wi-fi and internet
  • Wi-fi
Kitchen and dining
  • Dishwasher
  • Freezer
  • Refrigerator
  • Kettle
  • Microwave
  • Cooker
  • Toaster
Things to do
  • Fishing spots available
  • Watersports
  • Cycling areas
Location info
  • Kid friendly
  • Beachfront/Lakeside
Parking
  • Secure parking available
Nearby
  • Golf course (within 30 mins drive)
  • Golf course (within 15 min walk)
  • Horse riding facilities
  • Tennis court
  • Hiking areas
  • Countryside area
Indoor amenities
  • Central heating
  • Internet access
  • Cable television
Living spaces
  • Highchair

Availability
M.
Tu.
W.
Th.
F.
Sa.
Su.

March 2024

M.
Tu.
W.
Th.
F.
Sa.
Su.
26
27
28
29
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29

April 2024

M.
Tu.
W.
Th.
F.
Sa.
Su.
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
1
2
3
4
5

Map
About the neighbourhood
The area is a golfer’s paradise with several courses within a ½ hours drive. These include the beautiful 9 hole Gatehouse course 5mins away and 18 hole courses at Castle Douglas, Kirkcudbright, Newton Stewart and New Galloway and of course Turnberry is only an 1 ½ hour away. Kirkcudbright (Scotland's art town)with its art galleries, castle and harbour is only 15mins away and Castle Douglas ( food town) with it interesting shops, Thrieve Castle and gardens, is 20mins away. If you head away from the coast into the Galloway Hills there is sailing and fishing on Loch Ken and walking and cycling in the Forest and hills. Being washed by the Gulf Stream the area is home to some stunning gardens the most well known being the Logan Botannical Gardens. The well known Galloway ice cream farm is a 5min drive away and the many other local attractions include the Chocolate Factory/Workshop and Kirkcudbright Wildlife Park. The Laurieston Red Kite feeding station is only a short scenic drive away. WHAT'S ON Sept 4th to 19th, Dumfries & Galloway's first region-wide celebration of food. Wigton Book Festival: Sept. 24th - 3rd Oct. 2010. Appearances by Martin Bell and Barbara Dickson plus many others.
Access
Car advised
How to get there
The property is situated on the outskirts of Gatehouse of fleet. It is 5 minutes off the A75 Greta green to Stranraer road, approximately 1 hour drive from both Carlisle and Stranrear. Glasgow and Edinburgh airports are within a 2 hour drive. Glasgow Prestwick, Ryan air, & others Glasgow Internatin,- Easy jet, BA etc Belfast City, Stranraer / Belfast Ferry Belfast International- Stranraer / Belfast ferry
Activities nearby
Fishing spots availableGolf course (within 30 mins drive)Golf course (within 15 min walk)Horse riding facilitiesTennis courtWatersports

Things to know
Check in / out timings
Check in after 3 pm • Check out by 10 am
Cancellation policy
  • 100% refund within 24 hours after booking (provided the stay is at least 60 days away).
  • 50% refund* if you cancel at least 4 weeks before check-in
  • No refund available once booking is confirmed
Notes from owner
Christmas and New Year rates include special festive.welcome pack.with christmas tree and decorations (but not compulsory)If we can assist with any arrangements to help make your stay more enjoyable please let us know.

About this property

First, check the Availability tab on this page to see if your dates are available. If they are, contact the owner via the Tripadvisor Rental Inbox to confirm availability.

Initially, you may contact the owner via the Tripadvisor Rental Inbox. This inbox is created after you send your first message or booking request to the owner. After you've made your first payment, you'll be able to see the owner's contact information.

This owner will contact you via the Tripadvisor Rental Inbox.

You can send another message via the Tripadvisor Rental Inbox to ask if the property is still available.

For this property, please use a credit card to pay via the Tripadvisor Rental Inbox. Once the owner approves your stay, he or she will send you a quote, which will include payment instructions.

Yes. Payments made via the Tripadvisor inbox are covered by our Peace of Mind Protection.


Still can't find what you're looking for?

Do you own a holiday rental? List it here.
Earn extra income
Earn money by renting out your home. With no up-front fees and no contract, you keep more for yourself.
Manage booking easily
Confirm bookings in one click and track everything from enquiry to checkout, even while you’re on the go.
Be trusted by travellers
With millions of reviews and protected online payments, Tripadvisor helps travellers book your home with confidence.

This property is affiliated with   /img2/vacationrentals/brand_refresh/HL_Supplier_Logo.svg   All bookings are direct with the owner
Property #HL22267904

Frequently Asked Questions about The Shack (Cosyholidaycottages)

The Shack (Cosyholidaycottages) is able to accommodate up to 4 guests. See all property details.

The Shack (Cosyholidaycottages) has 2 bathrooms available. See all property details.

The Shack (Cosyholidaycottages) has 2 bedrooms available. See all property details.

Stays at The Shack (Cosyholidaycottages) must last at least 7 nights. See all property details.

The Shack (Cosyholidaycottages) - Tripadvisor - Holiday Rental in Gatehouse of Fleet