Booking.com ranks the most welcoming places on earth – and Perthshire tops the list

Looking for your next move? Booking.com has revealed a full list of the most welcoming places in the world – and Perthshire in Scotland takes first place.

The ranking by the popular online travel agency placed the county first, with Penghu, Taiwan in second place, followed by Boyacá, Colombia, in third.

The list was identified based on the share of accommodation providers receiving a Traveller Review Award 2024* from Booking.com.

Perthshire Property Expert Carl Warden, Bell Ingram’s Head of Estate Agency, says: “There are so many attractive features that make Perthshire such a draw for purchasers, many of whom are coming from across the border. The recent lockdown has focussed so much attention on quiet and peaceful locations, with open space and the ability to work remotely. Perth and the surrounding areas are perfect for this and I am delighted to offer so many lovely properties to the market.”

But it’s not just friendly locals that makes the region worth visiting, Perthshire offers several appealing factors that make it an attractive location for homebuyers looking for property for sale in Perthshire. Here are five reasons to consider buying a home in what locals call “the Big County”:

Natural Beauty and Tranquil Lifestyle:

Perthshire is known for its stunning natural landscapes, featuring rolling hills, picturesque lochs, and lush greenery. If you value a tranquil lifestyle and appreciate the beauty of the outdoors, buying a home in Perthshire provides the opportunity to enjoy these scenic surroundings daily. The region offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life.

Outdoor Recreation Opportunities:

Perthshire is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you enjoy hiking, golfing, fishing, or water sports, the region provides a plethora of recreational opportunities. Having a home in Perthshire means easy access to nature reserves, walking trails, and various outdoor activities, contributing to a healthy and active lifestyle.

Rich Cultural Heritage and History:

Perthshire has a rich historical and cultural heritage, with landmarks, castles, and museums that showcase its fascinating past. Owning a home in Perthshire means being surrounded by history, giving you the chance to explore and appreciate the region’s heritage. Scone Palace, Blair Castle, and the historic town of Dunkeld are just a few examples of the cultural gems in Perthshire.

Community Atmosphere:

Many towns and villages in Perthshire offer a strong sense of community. Buying a home in such an area can provide a supportive and welcoming environment. Local events, festivals, and community activities foster a sense of belonging, making it easier to connect with neighbours and build lasting relationships.

Quality of Life and Amenities:

Perthshire provides a high quality of life with a good balance of modern amenities and a peaceful atmosphere. Cities like Perth offer shopping centres, schools, healthcare facilities, and other essential services, ensuring that residents have access to everything they need. Additionally, the region’s well-maintained infrastructure contributes to a comfortable living experience.

Before making a decision to buy a home, it’s crucial to consider factors such as your personal preferences, lifestyle, and long-term goals. Conducting thorough research and potentially visiting the area can help you make an informed choice that aligns with your needs and aspirations.

The 10 most welcoming regions on Earth

Perthshire, Scotland

Penghu, Taiwan

Boyacá, Colombia

Trentino – Alto Adige, Italy

Los Lagos, Chile

Erongo, Namibia

Otago, New Zealand

Lapland, Finland

Asturias, Spain

Friesland, Netherlands

*Source: Booking.com

To arrange your no obligation market appraisal, contact Carl Warden on 01738 621 121.

Our people

Carl Warden

Carl Warden

Partner
Estate Agency
Tel: 01738 621 121

About: Carl heads up the Residential Estate Agency division for the company and has a proven track record within the Scottish property sector. He has been marketing property in the Perth and Kinross area for over 35 years and has vast and detailed practical experience and knowledge of selling prime residential property: from period homes to contemporary developments. Carl is well known in the local area, having developed excellent relationships with buyers and sellers. His wider role involves looking after and supporting our Agency teams and colleagues in Oban, Beauly, Ayr and Forfar. Interests: Estate Agency, Market Valuation, Negotiation.

Get in touch

We'd love to hear from you, use the form below to email me direct

    City and countryside top of the list for Perthshire buyers

    Perthshire’s property is witnessing a rising trend of buyers seeking a balance between urban conveniences and rural tranquillity. Properties that offer proximity to city amenities while being surrounded by the region’s stunning landscapes are in high demand. The market also shows an inclination towards eco-friendly and sustainable homes, as buyers prioritize energy efficiency and green living.

    In this blog our Perthshire Estate Agents take a look back at some of the highlights of the 2023 market.

    1 Ladeside, Kinross

    No. 1 Ladeside is part of a courtyard development of four homes on the edge of Kinross, with attractive views out to the Ochil Hills. It has a private walled garden and a paddock to the east side of the property which extends to about two acres. The extensive accommodation, including five bedrooms, totals 280mand is spread over two floors. The fixtures and finishes are of exceptional quality and include oak facings and doors, limestone flooring throughout the ground level, and a large conservatory at the rear.  

    2 Castle Hill View, Rumbling Bridge

    Fixed price £650,000.

    Sold from plan, this family home is set within a small development of four detached homes in a semi-rural location with magnificent uninterrupted views, yet with easy access to local amenities and well respected schools. The appeal of high quality build and eco credentials meant interest in this property was in high demand.

    Grange of Errol Development, Errol

    Prices from £539,000.

    Our estate agents witnessed huge demand for the Grange of Errol a development of luxury eco homes built by The Good House Company, with all houses reserved in the first week on being on the market. The Good House Company was founded in 2006 and is renowned for producing homes that are A-rated for energy efficiency, vital to compensate for the ever-increasing cost of fuel bills. They are super insulated and are heated by low-carbon technology. Their future aim is to build homes that are carbon-neutral and they are passionate about not sacrificing quality of finishes in order to be an ‘eco’ home – you can have both.

    Maryfield, Meigle

    Offers over £360,000.

    Period properties will always be in high demand and Maryfield in the Perthshire village of Meigle is a great example. A handsome period property dating from the late Victorian era, with a later extension to the rear with well-proportioned rooms retaining many of the typical features expected in a house of this period.

    Our Perthshire Estate Agents are looking for similar properties to sell across the Perth and Kinross area. If you are thinking of moving, discuss our market appraisal contact Carl Warden on 01738 621121 or email carl.warden@bellingram.co.uk.

    Our people

    Carl Warden

    Carl Warden

    Partner
    Estate Agency
    Tel: 01738 621 121

    About: Carl heads up the Residential Estate Agency division for the company and has a proven track record within the Scottish property sector. He has been marketing property in the Perth and Kinross area for over 35 years and has vast and detailed practical experience and knowledge of selling prime residential property: from period homes to contemporary developments. Carl is well known in the local area, having developed excellent relationships with buyers and sellers. His wider role involves looking after and supporting our Agency teams and colleagues in Oban, Beauly, Ayr and Forfar. Interests: Estate Agency, Market Valuation, Negotiation.

    Get in touch

    We'd love to hear from you, use the form below to email me direct

      Busy year of transactions for our Oban Estate Agents

      It has been a busy year of transactions for our Oban Estate Agency. Operating across Argyll & Bute and the Inner Hebrides our west coast property experts have continued to witness a surge in the demand for second homes and holiday retreats. Buyers are looking properties that offer an escape from urban life, with a focus on outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing and water sports. The region’s rice history and cultural attractions further enhance its appeal, making it a popular choice for both domestic and international and buyers.

      There is an increasing interest in reviving old properties while preserving their original charm. This trend aligns with a growing appreciation for sustainable and eco-conscious living, as restoration often involves repurposing existing materials.

      Here is a selection what our Oban Estate Agents have sold in 2023.

      Craighrannoch, Ballachulish

      Guide Price £800,000.

      Set in a picturesque, secluded coastal location on the shores of Loch Leven and on the fringe of the coastal village of Ballachulish, Craighrannoch is a traditional stone villa, perfectly positioned to enjoy the panoramic views.

      Cuilcheanna & Cuilcheanna Cottages, Onich

      Guide Price £1,045,000.

      Cuilcheanna presented a wonderful lifestyle opportunity for the right buyer with a five-bedroom family home and four well established holiday cottages, located within the ever-popular coastal village of Onich. This property offered an excellent opportunity to escape city life with an established holiday business and substantial income potential.

      Achavaich, Connel

      Guide price £495,000.

      This beautifully presented traditional farmhouse with converted barn, set in a much sought-after location on the fringe of the coastal village of Connel and benefitting from far reaching views across the local countryside. This beloved family home offered buyers idyllic family life and carefree rural living coupled with easy access to the thriving coastal hub at Oban.

      Our Oban Estate Agents are looking for similar properties to sell across Argyll & Bute and the Islands. If you are thinking of moving, discuss our market appraisal contact Andrew Fuller on 01631 566122 or email andrew.fuller@bellingram.co.uk.

      Our people

      Andrew Fuller

      Andrew Fuller

      Senior Associate
      Estate Agency
      Tel: 01631 566 122

      About: Andrew heads up the Estate Agency team in our Oban office and is focused on ensuring his clients have a first-class experience when they list their property with Bell Ingram. A resident of the Isle of Mull, Andrew is very well known across the West Coast of Scotland and has developed an excellent reputation for marketing prime residential property, including plots, crofts, island homes and lifestyle opportunities. Andrew joined Bell Ingram following almost 15 years managing several high-level private and commercial development projects in the United Arab Emirates. Interests: Residential Estate Agency, Rural Property Sales.

      Get in touch

      We'd love to hear from you, use the form below to email me direct

        High quality of life still drawing buyers to the Highlands & Islands

        Bell Ingram’s Highland Estate Agency team reflect on 2023 as the Highlands & Islands region continues to experience high demand caused by the rise of remote work. As more professionals embrace flexible work arrangements, there is a growing interest in properties that offer a high quality of life in a remote setting. Waterfront homes, cottages with sea views, and properties nestled in nature are becoming coveted choices for those seeking a quieter and more serene lifestyle.

        Here is a selection of what our Highland Estate Agents have sold in 2023.

        7B Drimisdale, Isle of South Uist

        Offers over £525,000.

        7B Drimisdale presented buyers a beautiful four-bedroom architect-designed house with studio annexe and approximately 14.17ha (34acres) of croftland in a peaceful lochside location on the Isle of South Uist. Perfect for wildlife enthusiasts this property’s idyllic location overlooked Loch Stilligarry which hosts a variety of rare and beautiful species.

        Burnside of Enzie, Buckie

        Offers over £335,000.

        Burnside of Enzie offered buyers an immaculate steading conversion with four en-suite bedrooms set in the tranquil, rural location of Clochan near Buckie. The steading was built to the highest standard with quality oak finishing throughout.

        Cuil Breac, Elphin

        Offers over £300,000.

        Nestled in the dramatic landscape of Elphin in the Scottish Highlands, this former croft house is a mountain lover’s dream home. Packed with character, the cottage included a recently completed extension which has wonderful living space where one could sit back and enjoy the views of the surrounding mountains and lochs.

        Ty Cymro, Isle of Berneray

        Offers over £180,000.

        This unique property was one of a handful of traditional thatched black houses remaining on the islands. Rare to market this property was brimming with charming features and breath-taking views. Ty Cymro presented the perfect island home filled with charm and a great opportunity for buyers looking to enjoy an idyllic rural lifestyle.

        Bay Cottage, Carinish

        Offers over £325,000.

        Bay Cottage is an exceptional modern and stylish design-led two bedroom waterside eco house located on the island of North Uist. Completely renovated and extended to the highest standards with unique, high-quality features and finishings throughout.

        Our Beauly Estate Agents are looking for similar properties to sell across the Scottish Highlands and Islands. If you are thinking of moving, discuss our market appraisal contact Joanne Stennett on 01463 717799 or email joanne.stennett@bellingram.co.uk.

        Our people

        Joanne Stennett

        Joanne Stennett

        Associate
        Estate Agency
        Tel: 01463 717 799

        About: Joanne heads up the Estate Agency team in our Beauly office and is focused on ensuring her clients have a positive experience when they list their property with Bell Ingram. From country houses to farms and estates, she has been marketing prime residential property in the Highlands and Islands for over 17 years. Joanne is well known in the local area, having developed excellent relationships with buyers and sellers. Interests: Residential Estate Agency, Rural Property Sales.

        Get in touch

        We'd love to hear from you, use the form below to email me direct

          Three coastal properties for sale in prestigious island locations

          Three stunning costal properties in the Inner Hebrides have entered the market at under £600,000.

          Located on the ever-popular islands of Tiree, Islay and Mull respectively, Hynish House, Beth Shean and Redburn all benefit from wonderful waterfront locations and are ideally suited to lovers of the great outdoors.

          Andrew Fuller from Bell Ingram’s Oban Office says: “These three very special properties offer exciting opportunities for buyers looking for family homes and lifestyle opportunities on the islands.

          “All three are close to local amenities while being surrounded by the stunning landscape and outdoor opportunities which make Scotland’s islands so attractive to those seeking a quieter and more serene lifestyle.”

          On the market at o/o £575,000, Hynish House is a five-bedroom family home in an elevated location above Hynish Heritage Village in Tiree with far-reaching views across to Mull and Iona.

          The white-washed detached property, set over two levels, features lovely reception rooms with period features, a large kitchen, utility room, family bathroom and five bedrooms on the upper floor. There is also a mature garden with a lovely sitting area at the front of the house to make the most of the spectacular views.

          Perched on the picturesque Oa Peninsula on the Isle of Islay, Beth Shean is an ideal family home with holiday let potential.

          For sale at o/o £395,000, this architect-designed property has a combined lounge/dining room, kitchen, utility room and an accessible bedroom on the ground floor, with two further bedrooms, dressing room and stylish shower room on the first floor. There is also an attached conservatory which makes the most of the far-reaching views.

          Set in the sleepy community of Lochdon on the Isle of Mull, Redburn is an extensive croft house offering buyers an opportunity to acquire a traditional four-bedroom property benefitting from a tranquil waterfront location.

          On the market at o/o £375,000, this wonderful family home is currently operating as a bed and breakfast. The accommodation is set over two floors, with a dining, lounge, kitchen, utility and two bedrooms on the ground floor and two en-suite bedrooms on the first floor.

          To the left of the house, a separate area of the garden has been granted planning permission for the erection of a 1 ½ story property, offering scope for those looking to develop a holiday let business.

          For more information about any of these properties or to request a viewing, please contact Andrew Fuller on 01631 567 791 or email andrew.fuller@bellingram.co.uk

          Our people

          Andrew Fuller

          Andrew Fuller

          Senior Associate
          Estate Agency
          Tel: 01631 566 122

          About: Andrew heads up the Estate Agency team in our Oban office and is focused on ensuring his clients have a first-class experience when they list their property with Bell Ingram. A resident of the Isle of Mull, Andrew is very well known across the West Coast of Scotland and has developed an excellent reputation for marketing prime residential property, including plots, crofts, island homes and lifestyle opportunities. Andrew joined Bell Ingram following almost 15 years managing several high-level private and commercial development projects in the United Arab Emirates. Interests: Residential Estate Agency, Rural Property Sales.

          Get in touch

          We'd love to hear from you, use the form below to email me direct

            Substantial home with views over the Firth of Forth estuary

            A detached family home in an elevated position overlooking Ravenscraig Park, with far reaching views over the Firth of Forth with over 400 m2 spread over four floors has come to market.

            New to the market with Scottish estate agents Bell Ingram is Park View House for offers over £600,000.

            Built about 1970, Park View House was substantially extended and upgraded in 2010 and now has plentiful accommodation, offering a great amount of flexibility for a growing family. 

            There are a number of areas in the house that take advantage of its stunning location views over Ravenscraig Park and the Firth of Forth. These include a seating balcony accessed from the dining area, and the complete top floor which serves as a public room with glazed doors opening to a balcony with a glazed balustrade. There are great entertaining spaces both internally, with a games room and a bar on the lower floor, and externally with a covered area which also has a wood burning stove.

            It has very high-quality fixtures and fittings including oak flooring, doors, skirtings and facings throughout. The welcoming reception hall has an oak floor with additional feature detailing, and two oak staircases to the upper and lower levels. The kitchen, in open plan with the dining/living area, has a mix of black and white gloss and glazed base and wall units with white Corian work surfaces.

            In addition to the six bedrooms, the master en suite bedroom has an adjacent well fitted dressing room. 

            The grounds extend to about 0.2 acres. The north facing garden is laid to lawn and the south is a terraced garden. The front driveway has ample parking for three vehicles and leads to a garage with a workshop and store on the floor below.

            Commenting on the property, Estate Agent, Carl Warden says: “The wonderful location of Park View House combined with the wealth of accommodation and the quality of the fixtures and fittings makes this a must-see property. It offers so much flexibility for a growing family”.

            For more information, or to arrange a viewing contact Carl Warden on 01738 621121 or email carl.warden@bellingram.co.uk 

            Our people

            Carl Warden

            Carl Warden

            Partner
            Estate Agency
            Tel: 01738 621 121

            About: Carl heads up the Residential Estate Agency division for the company and has a proven track record within the Scottish property sector. He has been marketing property in the Perth and Kinross area for over 35 years and has vast and detailed practical experience and knowledge of selling prime residential property: from period homes to contemporary developments. Carl is well known in the local area, having developed excellent relationships with buyers and sellers. His wider role involves looking after and supporting our Agency teams and colleagues in Oban, Beauly, Ayr and Forfar. Interests: Estate Agency, Market Valuation, Negotiation.

            Get in touch

            We'd love to hear from you, use the form below to email me direct

              Waterside home for sale in idyllic Ross-shire village

              An immaculate three-bedroom cottage with shore access and set in the idyllic, waterside location of Rockfield near Portmohomack has come to market.

              Bell Ingram is delighted to bring the delightfully named Seashells to the market for Offers over £265,000.

              Seashells offers a rarely available opportunity to acquire a delightful, south facing, cottage which enjoys far reaching sea views. The cottage has been sympathetically extended to the rear to offer excellent living space.

              Seashells is situated in the quiet seaboard hamlet of Rockfield, close to Portmohomack in Ross-shire. Rockfield is a peaceful location which has no through road and so traffic is limited. The hamlet is on the side of the Cromarty Firth and has a small harbour. The village of Portmohomack is only 1.5 miles away and has shops, a primary school, a hotel and two restaurants.

              The land to the front property is laid to lawn and runs down to the seashore. 

              A path runs down the side of the property to the rear garden which is accessed by steps to a tiered lawn area with a path which meanders through areas planted with mature trees, bushes and fruit trees. There is also a small patio, and the rear garden is bounded by stock and wooden fencing.

              There is one public room and three bedrooms, one which is on the ground floor. The kitchen has a good range of base and wall units and there are a number of integrated appliances which are included in the sale. Windows on the side and the back offer plenty of natural light and there is a large picture window with views over the garden.

              Seashells has mains water and electricity, oil fired central heating and drainage is to a septic tank.

              Commenting on the property, Estate Agent, Joanne Stennett says: “This immaculate cottage is in a beautiful setting and its direct access to the shoreline makes it a very attractive property either as a family home or an idyllic holiday retreat”.

              For more information, or to arrange a viewing contact Joanne Stennett on 01463 717799 or email joanne.stennett@bellingram.co.uk 

              Our people

              Joanne Stennett

              Joanne Stennett

              Associate
              Estate Agency
              Tel: 01463 717 799

              About: Joanne heads up the Estate Agency team in our Beauly office and is focused on ensuring her clients have a positive experience when they list their property with Bell Ingram. From country houses to farms and estates, she has been marketing prime residential property in the Highlands and Islands for over 17 years. Joanne is well known in the local area, having developed excellent relationships with buyers and sellers. Interests: Residential Estate Agency, Rural Property Sales.

              Get in touch

              We'd love to hear from you, use the form below to email me direct

                Farm Machinery Dispersal Sale

                SATURDAY 28TH OCTOBER 2023 AT 11AM

                AT CLAXTON FARM, HARTLEPOOL, TS22 5PT

                On behalf of R D Dryden (retiring)

                To include: New Holland TX36 20’ cut combine K Reg, 4,040 hrs, self-levelling shoe, chopper & trolley; Clayton Bugge 24m Sprayer c/w Chafer tank; Maschio Power Harrow/Accord drill combination; 2 x Dowdeswell 5F Ploughs; Vaderstad Rapid 30 S mounted drill; Parmiter 12’6” Discs; Howard 100” Rotaspike; Lely 3 ½ m P. Harrow; Kuhn 4m & 3 ½ m P. Harrows; Twin leg sub soiler; Blench Packer; Simba 4m trailed press; Edlington 6m Rollers; N-H 286 Baler; Ritchie 56 Bale Carrier; Browns Flat 8 Sledge; 5 Round Bale Carrier; 14T Trailer; JCB 3C.

                Included by permission: Ford Ranger 19 Reg c. 26,000 miles 3.2 6 speed manual, tow bar.

                On behalf of Mrs M J Dryden: Deutz DX 450 4wd c/w Alo loader; John Deere 2650 2wd; MAN 8-163 7 ½ t Truck (no test); N-H 1530 12’ cut combine; Petbow FC48 60Kva generator; Kuhn 3m P. Harrow/Accord drill combi; J-D 359 small baler; J-D 550 R Baler; Dowdeswell 4+1 Rev Plough; Ransomes 4F Plough; 2 Sets Cambridge Rolls; Small trailed sprayer; 2 Sets Discs; P-Z Haybob; 56 Bale Carrier; Bale squeezer; Parmiter Post Knocker; Slurry Tanker; Drainage pipes; Various Dual Wheels; Rice Trailer; Manitou (scrap).

                Produce: 75 R Bales Haylage. No small tools. Refreshments available.

                Our people

                Derek Tyson

                Derek Tyson

                Partner, MRICS FAAV
                Utilities & Renewables
                Tel: 01845 522 095

                About: With over 40 years’ experience in rural land agency, Derek has responsibility for the Thirsk office providing valuation sale and management advice for our ever expanding private client base and our existing portfolio of pipeline and utility clients. Interests: Pipelines & Utilities, Rural Land Management, Valuations, Estate Agency

                Get in touch

                We'd love to hear from you, use the form below to email me direct

                  Oban Estate Agent answers the Coastguard call

                  Bell Ingram is proud to support the local communities where we live and work, and our colleagues take this commitment extremely seriously.

                  None more so than Senior Associate Estate Agent Andrew Fuller from our Oban office, who has joined HM Coastguard as a volunteer coastguard after completing weeks of intensive training.

                  He is now part of the team on Mull which helps people who run into difficulty along the coastline as well as assisting with other land-based emergencies.

                  Andrew, who lives on Mull, says: “Ironically my first call-out didn’t involve a sea rescue. My team attended an incident at Ben More after reports of torches seen on the summit around midnight. It turned out to be a group of lads who decided to climb up to get a view of the aurora borealis. No injuries and they got down safe and sound without our help!”

                  Our people

                  Andrew Fuller

                  Andrew Fuller

                  Senior Associate
                  Estate Agency
                  Tel: 01631 566 122

                  About: Andrew heads up the Estate Agency team in our Oban office and is focused on ensuring his clients have a first-class experience when they list their property with Bell Ingram. A resident of the Isle of Mull, Andrew is very well known across the West Coast of Scotland and has developed an excellent reputation for marketing prime residential property, including plots, crofts, island homes and lifestyle opportunities. Andrew joined Bell Ingram following almost 15 years managing several high-level private and commercial development projects in the United Arab Emirates. Interests: Residential Estate Agency, Rural Property Sales.

                  Get in touch

                  We'd love to hear from you, use the form below to email me direct