Dun Aluinn

Dun Aluinn is a luxury private-hire estate house nestled in over five acres of painterly misted Perthshire countryside, a quintessential beauty spot of Scotland on the doorstep of the Cairngorms National Park – 4,500km² of wilderness. An exclusive abode of tailored style, Dun Aluinn is an über comfy boutique lodge peppered by salvaged Scottish heritage married to a layering of smart contemporary design. Overlooking the Tay Valley, mountains and the charmingly old market town of Aberfeldy, this escape offers the grandeur of a country estate paired with the intimacy of a modern villa. Steeped in history and reimagined for today’s discerning traveller, Dun Aluinn is a sophisticated melange of historic architecture, curated interiors and natural beauty.

Originally built in 1909 in the ornate Queen Anne style by esteemed architects Sydney Mitchell and Wilson, Dun Aluinn – ‘beautiful hillside house’ in Gaelic – has undergone a meticulous transformation. The house was stripped back to its architectural bones, revealing original pitch-pine floors, fireplaces and intricate period details. This painstaking restoration was spearheaded by John Burke and Susie Whyte, whose passion for preservation and design is evident in every detail. John actively scouts for intriguing builds and heritage properties that can be salvaged and restored, bringing new life to historic structures. Co-owner Susie Whyte, an accomplished interior designer and architect, brought her expertise to every facet of the project, ensuring that Dun Aluinn embodies the elegant fusion of historical charm and contemporary luxury.

Urquiola, Black Isle Bronze and Honest Simplicity

Peeling back the layers of Victoriana history and exposing original features once buried under paint set the cast for the style of Dun Aluinn, its generous ground floor of salons, which span off from the hallway decked in Farrow & Ball’s inked noirs, set the perfect canvas for gatherings. The interiors celebrate a fusion of honest Scottish craftsmanship and global design. Think oversized Patricia Urquiola sofas for B&B Italia, Belgian XVL furnishings, Linie Design rugs, vintage Danish lighting and a striking Black Isle bronze dining table – a centrepiece at 5.5 metres long, with an oak top seating 20 guests. Each room is infused with subtle inky tones, warm textures and contemporary art, creating a modern sanctuary. As a well-travelled couple, John and Susie hauled in a worldly collection of artworks, antiques and curiosities, and it is this patina of interior that lends a feeling of a home, albeit one of a very stylish friend. 

Upstairs in the main house, Dun Aluinn boasts nine individually styled bedroom suites, each named after local trees, adorned with fine linens by Josephine Home, and featuring modern amenities. Select rooms offer indulgent freestanding bathtubs, including a square Japanese soaking tub, while others house luxurious steam rooms. 

Within the grounds, there’s Dun Aluinn’s sibling, The Lodge - a cedar-clad, minimalist retreat with a further four ensuite bedrooms, a stunning open-plan dining area and panoramic views of the Tay Valley. Cool contemporary chalked white interiors narrate the modern chalet style set to the canvas of timbers, rugs and a playful design nod. The Lodge can be ‘annexed’ to the main house, catering for larger groups in residence, or as a standalone concept to be rented independently, coming with its own entrance and parking.  

Gourmet on Call, or be Picnic Basket Ready

At Dun Aluinn, the kitchen is more than a space – it’s the heart of the lodge. Crafted by Braco Design in walnut and brass, it opens into the dining room, where the iconic bronze table awaits. Whether you choose to self-cater or indulge in tailored culinary experiences, the house serves all tastes. Collaborating with Michelin-recognized Ballintaggart Farm, guests can enjoy farm-to-table feasts, posh dinner parties, BBQ’s, gourmet ready meals or picnics filled with Scottish delicacies like wild salmon, local game and seasonal produce.

The Ancient Fortingall Yew Tree

Dun Aluinn offers an unparalleled gateway to the great outdoors. Explore the surrounding juniper woodlands, cycle through rugged trails or take a refreshing dip in the lochs. Winter brings skiing adventures, while year-round activities include white-water rafting, conservation projects or even learning a Highland craft. After a day of exploration, relax in the wood-fired hot tub overlooking the valley or gather around the fire pit for cosy, late-night conversations and star-gazing. The estate’s 5.5-acre grounds are a serene retreat, featuring wildflower meadows, woodland trails and terraces with breathtaking views of the River Tay. The Lodge’s deck provides an idyllic setting for al fresco dining and stargazing. Inside, roaring fires, sheepskin-strewn sofas and handcrafted details ensure that Dun Aluinn feels as much a home as it does a haven.

Located in Scotland’s first Fairtrade town, Aberfeldy, Dun Aluinn is surrounded by history, culture and natural wonders. From Robert Burns’ The Birks of Aberfeldy to the ancient Fortingall Yew Tree, this area is steeped in stories. Aberfeldy also offers a vibrant arts scene, ethical shops, and the renowned Dewar’s Whisky Distillery – a nod to Scotland’s rich traditions. Another location advantage of Dun Aluinn, is its close proximity to the wild ancient forests and peaks of the Cairngorms National Park and gateway to the Highlands.

Immerse in Scotland’s untamed beauty with exclusive stays, Highland safaris, private dining, falconry, and golf at iconic courses. Adventure awaits at Dun Aluinn's curated experiences.

The Clan’s Reclusive Slumber

Dun Aluinn is more than a holiday home; it’s an experience. Whether celebrating a wedding, hosting a corporate retreat, on travels with the whole clan in tow or gathering with loved ones, this private estate of discretion is tailored for unforgettable moments away from prying eyes. A true labour of love, this house has been transformed into a sanctuary of luxury and style, awaiting its next chapter as your home.

Dun Aluinn House is located next to the town of Aberfeldy in the Scottish county of Perthshire, made famous by "The Birks of Aberfeldy" a song lyric written for a pre-existing melody in 1787 by Robert Burns. He was inspired to write it by the Falls of Moness and the birch trees of Aberfeldy during a tour of the Scottish Highlands.

Surrounded by arresting forest landscapes, babbling rivers and natural beauties - Loch Tay, Glen Lyon, ancient monasteries, churches and royal relics. Not forgetting the oldest tree in the UK – the famous Fortingall Yew Tree - said to be the last descendant of Shakespeare's Birnam Wood.

Apart from finding here several arts, book and craft shops, Aberfeldy is Scotland’s first Fairtrade town – where local producers and suppliers have worked together to ensure that local produce, crafted products and skills are not only ethical and organic but are being preserved. It is also home to Dewars whisky Distillery. 

Dun Aluinn has been a true labour of love restoring the once neglected house into the modern private holiday home it is today – fit for purpose filled with people. It was bought by John Burke and his wife Susie Whyte in 2017 who have painstakingly renovated and refurbished the house. Susie is also the architect and designer behind the project. 

John and Susie have a passion for renovating and refurbishing properties. John is Managing Director of award-winning builders Corryard, who specialise in bringing old properties back to life. Susie is an architect with a keen eye for the detail required for a renovation of this scale and standard.