Evas Howe Lodge

Eva's Howe Lodge sits alone in open farmland near Dounby, a curved-roof pod rising out of a meadow of long grass and buttercups. Approach it in summer and you wade through wildflowers to reach the door; come back at dusk and the arched roofline glows warmly against a pink-and-blue sky. It's a special little spot, miles from anywhere in the best way.

Inside

Step in and the interior is lined in honey-toned pine that curves up and over you. A wood-burning stove sits in a marble-tiled surround – perfect for cooler evenings – with a small dining table for two beside it. Two patio-style armchairs are drawn up to the full-height window, where you can sit with a coffee and watch the moorland stretch away. There's WiFi and a TV, but honestly the view does most of the entertaining.

Where you'll sleep

The lodge sleeps two, with a comfortable double in its own bedroom looking out over the fields through a wide window. There's a bathroom for the two of you. It's compact, warm and thoughtfully done.

Step outside

A wooden deck runs along the front, with a bench and chairs to take in the wide-open outlook across grazing and moor towards distant hills. With no near neighbours, the quiet and the dark skies here are something to savour.

The setting

You're deep in the rural West Mainland of Orkney, handy for the lochs, the Neolithic sites and the quiet back roads, yet within a drive of shops and supplies.

Perfect for

A couple wanting peace, big skies and a real sense of escape – stargazers and walkers especially.