A SHORT trip away from Glasgow was on the cards in a bid to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

JUST over four hours away, Grannie’s Heilan’ Hame Holiday Park offered up an ideal spot to visit for three nights.

Our excited four-year-old was looking forward to her trip to the park, which is located in Embo, just five minutes away from Dornoch, on the east coast of the north Highlands.

A lovely drive took in some spectacular scenery as we crossed the Kessock Bridge, over the Beauly Firth, and Cromarty Bridge, over the Cromarty Firth, en route to our destination.

When we arrived at the park, run by Parkdean Resorts, we we were warmly welcomed and given the key to our impressive three-bedroom caravan.

The accommodation provides a true home from home, with all the little comforts which you take for granted in your own house.

The caravan had more than enough room for my wife and our energetic daughter, who was delighted with the caravan and quickly chose which room she was going to sleep in, along with her dolls and cuddly toys – and optimistically, a bucket and spade.

The journey meant we were keen to grab something to eat and we paid a visit to the Coast Bar and Restaurant, which provided family favourites on the menu, and great service from the friendly staff.

We realised quickly that we weren’t going to be stuck for something to do, as activities for young guests were readily available, with kids’ clubs, evenining entertainment all easily accessible.

However, after our journey we were happy to call it a night and look forward to exploring the complex the following day.

The swimming pool was top of the list in our daughter’s mind as soon as she woke up the next day.

The heated indoor pool provided plenty of space for the three of us to make a big splash, while lots of other families made the most of the leisure facilities too, which also includes a spa bath and sauna.

After an enjoyable swim, we

had hoped to go for a wander on the beach, which our caravan looked on to, but unfortunately the weather was against us.

It did however, provide an eyecatching site from our window, with foam created from the sea, which was then blown by strong winds towards our caravan.

After a relaxing day in the caravan, we tried out Grannie’s Fish ‘n’ Chip shop for dinner, which gave us the chance to take a tasty takeway back to our holiday home.

The refuel gave our little one plenty of energy ahead of the kids’ disco, where she met the superb entertainment team, who made sure all the youngsters on the dancefloor had a ball.

We were impressed with the level of entertainment on offer for children, and despite it being the start of the season, they ensured everyone left the lounge area with a smile on their face.

The next day we decided to take the short drive to Dornoch.

Again, the weather spoiled our chances of going for a nice stroll but we opted to go for lunch at the Courthouse Cafe. It is based in the Carnegie Courthouse, in the historic Dornoch Court Room, and serves up amazing cakes, which were quickly spotted by our delighted daughter.

One more trip to enjoy the kids’ entertainment and a visit to the amusements helped wrap up our enjoyable stay.

Hopefully we have better luck with the weather on our next visit, so we can make use of the bucket and spade!

FACTFILE:

Parkdean Resorts’ Grannie’s Heilan’ Hame Holiday Park

Location: Dornoch, Sutherland, IV25 3QD

Facilities: This seaside holiday park offers holidaymakers stunning views of the Dornoch Firth and is home to an adventure playground, indoor swimming pool with water activities, sauna, amusement arcade, multi-sports court, tennis court, crazy golf course, a wildlife trail, a convenience store and laundrette. There’s also a fish ‘n’ chip shop, Coast Restaurant and Bar and Grannie Mac’s Bar with live family entertainment on an evening

What’s nearby: Make the most of direct access to the stunning Embo Beach; visit the cathedral town of Dornoch to enjoy a picnic on its beautiful Blue Flag beach; explore Dunrobin Castle – one of Scotland’s largest castles with stunning gardens; or head to Landmark Forest Adventure Park for a thrilling day for all ages

Prices:

Spring Peak Short Break – Arriving Monday 07 May for four nights, priced at £179

Spring Off Peak Short Break – Arriving Monday 30 April for four nights, priced at £119

Summer Off Peak Short Break – Arriving Friday 08 June for three nights, priced at £189

Summer Peak Short Break – Arriving Monday 27 August for four nights, priced at £289

To book: Visit www.parkdeanresorts.co.uk or call 0330 123 4850