Sometimes when the sun comes out - and especially when the Fringe arrives - we just need to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
Although the default might be to flick through Skyscanner when we get a wee bit of time off work, sometimes you don't have too look too far away to get a much-needed bit of R&R.
Only a few years ago, the word 'staycation' wouldn't have even registered, yet with global travel having been curtailed by the pandemic, more and more people are likely to spend a long weekend in Bonnie Scotland than on a package holiday to Palma.
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And with a quick trawl through airbnb, we've realised you don't have to go too far if you're looking for a rural retreat.
Searching for 'unique stays' in and around the capital, which includes one-of-a-kind accommodation such as boats, castles, huts and 'tiny homes', we stumbled across the beautiful Ellswood Bothy, located on the outskirts of the capital, near Herriot Watt University, a short drive from the city centre.
Bursting with character, owners describe the bothy as 'a very cosy and rustic little place', which benefits from stunning views, wildlife visits and stargazing opportunities.
They say: "It's within our garden but once inside you could be anywhere. The long window to the rear of the property looks over the field where we often have deer very close.
"In the winter you catch the sunset from inside and once in the super king size bed gaze at the stars on a clear night through the roof window."
Of course, alongside those panoramic views, transporting you from the capital, there's the log burning stove to keep you warm if the nights get chilly, the perfect setting to cosy in with a book, while unwinding with a glass of wine. There's also a TV to enjoy within a setting that would take 'Netflix and chill' to the next level.
There's a king sized bed on a mezzanine level overlooking a neat, little kitchen, a modern bathroom and all the amenities you'd need to enjoy a relaxing stay.
And unsurprisingly, those lucky enough to have checked in have given the bothy rave reviews, with a 4.87 airbnb rating.
One guest said: "Perfect for a staycation and if you just need time away. The Bothy was just lovely with the view, atmosphere, fire, and practical amenities. We felt so 'cozy' and at-home. We definitely weren’t ready to leave!"
Another review says: "We loved our wee Bothy stay. Very cosy and romantic atmosphere. The Bothy is beautifully and thoughtfully decorated, making the most of the small space. High standard accommodation."
And one person who stayed was lucky enough to encounter wildlife roaming around outside. They said: "Rustic, cosy and sweet bothy!
"Had an amazing relaxing break, great location, peaceful and lucky to spot deer!"
And although not everyone in the capital might not be keen on a getaway so close to home, it seems the quaint bothy would be a good spot to recommend if you have friends or family visiting Edinburgh, given the bothy's proximity to the city.
One review said: "Had a fantastic stay at The Bothy! It’s well situated and can be found easily by Uber and similar schemes.
"The place itself is fantastic, cosy and private yet not too far from the city centre. We’ll be back!"
A further comment read: "A lovely quirky, little place located in an ideal location to access Edinburgh and the surrounding area.
"Plenty of walks through the woods, along the river and a short walk to the train station.
"Definitely an ideal place to chill and recharge. Would definitely return."
And one visitor summed up the thoughts of many when describing their stay, saying: "Looks like it's in the middle of nowhere, but train station is ten minutes brisk walk away.
"Beautiful, cosy bothy. Perfect for two, especially if you fancy shutting world out, lighting a fire, and chilling."
Understandably, the accommodation appears to be pretty well booked up for the coming weeks. With a three night minimum stay, we found dates later in the year for £100 a night, plus the airbnb service charge fee.
To find out more about the gorgeous Ellswood Bothy, you can view the airbnb listing here.
