SELF-CATERING FACILITIES
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BERNICE FARMHOUSE AND COTTAGE
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Bernice is an isolated old farmhouse and outbuildings (built in 1778) four miles north of Benmore Centre in the Argyll Forest Park. It is owned by City of Edinburgh Council and run by Benmore Centre. It offers self catering accommodation of a good standard with hot and cold running water and electricity (generator). The accommodation is split into two units: the farmhouse with 20 beds in five rooms (6,6,3,3,2)and the Cottage which is self-contained and can sleep up to five people. The cottage is fully compliant with the Disabilities Discrimination Act as far as access is concerned. During 2005 the interiors of the house and cottage were completely refurbished.
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YOUR CHOICES AT BERNICE
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There are a variety of packages available at Bernice, from the accommodation alone, the accommodation plus a staffed activity or two, to a fully-serviced activity course with food provided by the main Centre although the latter option would need to be arranged well in advance. Contact the Centre to discuss these options.
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REMOTENESS
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There is no telephone at Bernice. The nearest habitation is at Benmore Farm four miles away. For many groups this is a major attraction. Some mobile phones operate in the area; Vodafone coverage is fine, others are marginal and some are non existent.
The approach road is a long forest track by the side of Loch Eck which is only suitable for 4 x 4 type vehicles or minibuses. Normal saloon cars are not recommended.
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BOOKINGS
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Bookings are accepted at any time on a ‘first-come, first-served,’ basis: either email us or just phone Benmore Centre (01369 706337). Bookings are normally for either weekends or Monday to Friday, but other periods can be considered.
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WHAT DOES IT COST?
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For self-catering and self-staffed courses at Bernice the current (2009 - 2010) prices per bed-night are £12.00 – £13.50 for children and £14.00 – 15.50 for adults with a minimum charge of £120.00 per night for the Farmhouse and a minimum charge of £60.00 per night for the Cottage.
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WHAT TO BRING
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Food and snacks for your group for the duration of your stay. Consider full breakfasts, packed lunches and larger quantities of foods overall to satisfy increased appetites due to sustained activity. Foods with complex carbohydrates and high protein content should feature heavily in your menus.
Matches
Tea Towels
Bin Liners
First Aid Kit
Washing up liquid
Sleeping bags
Torches
Toilet Paper
Pillow (if desired)
Cork Screw
DVDs. There is no television reception at Bernice. There is, however, a TV with DVD player.
The option to hire pillows, duvets plus linen is available on request.
Prices on application.
© BENMORE CENTRE FOR OUTDOOR EDUCATION 2005
