Kellie Castle

Kellie Castle is a wee castle, as castles go, and it's just about 10 - 15 minutes from our cottage in Crail.  So when we had an afternoon empty we headed over to explore the abode and the gardens.  Since it looked like it might be raining soon we thought it might be smart to start in the gardens.  

For such a small garden, it was very well planned out.

They were committed to using plants to ward off bugs and critters that dine

on specific plants.  For instance, marigold are a natural bug deterrent!

Flowers and fruits and veg share garden space!

And there was a cute little door, sadly locked, but with a see-through into a secret garden.

Now onto the house!

Oh My!  And I believe I truly said that!  Or whispered it in the most awe-inspired voice!

Isn't this the most welcoming entry ever?!

This painting has an interesting story.  The artist, Phoebe Traquair, supposedly painted herself into this portrait, the lady in the yellow dress.  According to the guide, it is rumored that she had an affair with one of the married sons of the house whilst doing the painting.  Upon her leave, they didn't want to have to look at her face so they had it covered up.  And it remained hidden until the 1990's when work began to uncover and restore the painting.  I was completely smitten with this piece and hope to find more of her work.

There were so many cozy nooks and corners where I could see myself settling into!

Isn't that a lovely display of copper?!

This was my favorite bedroom and it's ensuite facilities.

This cute bookshelf is found in the children's nursery.

The spiral staircases that get you through from one level to another are optical delights.

This first shot is looking over the bannister to the level below.

Next we are just beginning our walk down with the window lending light to show us the way.

This last one is at the bottom looking back up at the underbelly of the stairs.  

Beautiful from that angle as well!!

We finish our visit with some tea and scones and an Empire Biscuit.

On the way in I hadn't paid too much attention to the view of the countryside since I was all castle, castle, castle!  Hahaha!  But on the way back to the car park it unfolded before me.

My camera doesn't do it justice but, please, imagine the sounds of birds singing and chirping, and wind rustling through the leaves - 

and feel that breeze upon your skin - 

and smell the sea salt in the air.

There - you've got it!