The imposing Portpatrick Hotel stands like a guardian above the tiny fishing village of Portpatrick, Scotland's hidden gem on the west coast of the Rhins of Galloway.
It's probably as far west as you can go in southern Scotland, and nearly as far south as you can go in western Scotland - so involves a bit of a trek, but the first glimpse of pastel painted cottages wrapped around the intimate harbour make it well worth the trip.
The sandy crescent shaped beach and sheltered harbour remain the focal point of a village founded on fishing over 500 years ago. As the closest port to Northern Ireland, Portpatrick was once the main crossing to Donaghadee, but over time the ocean destroyed two piers and any future as a transport hub.
The roofless remains of St. Patrick's Church, along with a circular tower dating back to the 16th century, stand testament to Portpatrick's early reputation as the Gretna Green for Ireland.
The daily packet boat from Donaghadee would bring couples for a service conducted by the Church of Scotland minister in Portpatrick who overlooked rules about the publication of banns or required periods of residence. It's believed couples could disembark, get married and be back aboard within the hour.
Just south of the village are the cliff-top ruins of Dunskey Castle, and to the north, the starting point of the Southern Upland Way, a 212 mile long-distance walking route to Cockburnspath on the east coast.
With the Gulf Stream encouraging a generous climate, beaches to north and south, a village putting green, numerous golf clubs, bowls clubs, guesthouses and hotels, you'd imagine Portpatrick is overrun with tourists. "It can get busy in peak season" says the owner of The Crown, one of the most popular hostelries in the village, "But we're off the beaten track for many. The Americans love Scotland, but they do Edinburgh and the Whisky Trail, then go home. We're often overlooked by the travel guides, which is a great shame. We're a bit of a hidden gem".
Where To Stay: The Crown Hotel.
www.crownhotelportpatrick.co.uk
What To See: Life O'Reilly. Ceilidh band who regularly play live at The Crown Hotel