Earlier this summer, we were invited to a private viewing of Stay Hush, a newly opened aparthotel tucked away just off Edinburgh’s Royal Mile. Hidden behind the historic Cooper’s Close, it feels like the kind of place you might easily walk past without knowing what lies beyond — which, in many ways, is exactly the point.

Described as Edinburgh’s ‘best-kept secret’, Stay Hush takes a slightly different approach to the traditional hotel stay. Rather than simply providing somewhere to sleep, the independent aparthotel has been designed to feel more like a considered city home, bringing together 21 apartments, a neighbourhood café-bar and an informal food concept, all within a stone's throw from Old Town.

The idea is to slow down and experience the Scottish capital from a different perspective. And while the Royal Mile is hardly an undiscovered part of the city, there is something appealing about being able to retreat from its bustle and find a quieter place to settle in.

Designed by Studio LBA, with interiors by S+Co, the spaces combine warm materials with playful details and a distinctly contemporary feel. Throughout Stay Hush, local and international creatives are given a platform, with work by street photographer Nathan Hinze, satirical artworks by David Shrigley and colourful pieces by Glasgow-based studio Risotto adding character to the interiors. Each apartment also includes Archie Worth’s Seek and You Shall Find photography book, while a curated selection of independent magazines from Stack Magazines encourages guests to take a little time to switch off and browse.

The apartments themselves have been designed with “staying” in mind. Studios, lofts, one-bedroom apartments, family-friendly spaces and a penthouse offer different ways to make Stay Hush your home away from home, with fully equipped kitchenettes and details intended to make longer stays feel just as comfortable as a weekend away. There are even dog-friendly options, making it a little easier to bring everyone along.

At the centre of the property is Mile Yard, a neighbourhood café-bar created to be enjoyed by both guests and locals. Mornings begin with breakfast trays centred around Scottish produce and speciality coffee from Obadiah Coffee Roasters, while the all-day café offering makes it somewhere to stop by even if you aren't staying upstairs. Later in the day, the space shifts into a bar serving local beers, cocktails, an international wine list and sharing plates.

Alongside it is Pocca, a Scottish-Italian street food concept centred around freshly baked focaccia pockets filled with seasonal ingredients.

There is a sense of history behind the name itself tpp. Cooper’s Close was once associated with Edinburgh’s brewing heritage and Younger's Brewery, which produced the city's famous Edinburgh Ale. Stay Hush takes inspiration from this past while creating something decidedly contemporary.

And perhaps that is what makes the concept particularly appealing. In a city that can sometimes feel full on, Stay Hush offers a different way of experiencing Edinburgh: less about ticking off the sights and more about having a comfortable place to stay from which to wander, eat, drink, read, explore and return.

For visitors, it offers a well-connected place to stay in the heart of the Old Town without necessarily feeling as though you are in the middle of it. For locals, Mile Yard and Pocca make the space accessible without requiring an overnight stay — and an ongoing repertoire of collaborations, events and music takeovers promises to give the property a life beyond its rooms.

We certainly had a heiter time at Stay Hush, and we hope you will too.

Stay Hush is now open, with bookings available via stayhush.com.

Stay Hush
Cooper’s Close, Royal Mile
Edinburgh EH8 8PA

Tucked above the Etschtal valley in Dorf Tirol, Farnhaus is more than a place to stay — it’s a home shaped by care, creativity, and a deep sense of welcome. Run by Franziska and Stefan, the space brings together two beautifully complementary worlds: Franziska’s eye as a freelance photographer and Stefan’s background in gastronomy. Together, they have created a place where guests from around the world are invited not just to visit, but to revive and blossom. In this interview, they share the story behind Farnhaus, the spirit that defines it, and the simple joys that make their work so meaningful.

heiter: The two of you run "Farnhaus", a beautiful holiday home housing two stylish individual apartments for guests. Overlooking "Adige Valley" in Northern Italy, you're close to nature and only a stone's throw away from picturesque Merano – which is an unbeatable combination. What else awaits your guests at Farnhaus, and what makes their stay unique and unforgettable?

F&S: At Farnhaus, our guests find a place to breathe, arrive, and truly feel at ease. Here, tranquility, nature, and a breathtaking view over the Etschtal valley come together with a modern, stylish atmosphere. We are far enough removed from everyday life to fully let go — yet close enough to reach everything with ease. This balance is something we cherish deeply.

heiter: You opened up "Farnhaus" back in 2022 but the building has existed and been part of your family way longer than that. Can you tell us a little bit more about its history and what led you to turning it into what it is today?

F&S: Where Farnhaus stands today, there used to be a large meadow filled with ferns. On this very spot, Stefan’s parents built a guesthouse that always remained in family hands and, for many years, was a place of gathering and connection. In 2021, we decided to rethink this place — without losing its history. This is how Farnhaus came to be: a place that still preserves our roots while continuing to bring people together.

heiter: Let's talk about the apartments. How many people can stay there and what do they offer? Also, what was important to you when choosing the interiors for them?

F&S: Farnhaus is home to two individual apartments, each accommodating two to three guests. In designing the spaces, we placed great emphasis on natural materials, clean lines, and timeless elegance. It was important to us that the rooms feel light and open, while still offering a sense of comfort and warmth. For us, design should feel inviting, convey warmth, and never feel distant. A particular highlight are the spacious terraces with stunning views across the entire valley. We have consciously chosen not to include a television — our view is the most beautiful cinema.

heiter: Why do you love what you do or in other words, what's the best part of running "Farnhaus"?

F&S: The most beautiful part of our work is witnessing how people find calm here, regain their energy, and enjoy this place just as much as we do. Every stay brings its own little story — and being allowed to be part of that fills us with joy.

heiter: Alto Adige is renowned for its stunning landscapes, traditions and cuisine. What are your top tips for anyone visiting the area?

F&S: South Tyrol is incredibly diverse. We especially recommend a hike along the Merano High Mountain Trail — the views there are incomparable. For food lovers, a visit to a traditional mountain hut to enjoy regional dishes is well worth it. And for those drawn to culture, a stroll through the old town of Merano, with its wide selection of museums and exhibitions, is an absolute highlight.

heiter: Last but not least, what are the things that make you feel heiter (joyful)?

F&S: There are many things that make us feel joyful. We feel happiest when spending time with family and friends, outdoors in nature or at home, sharing meals and celebrations together. And the many encounters with our guests are also what bring us great joy.

Discover more information on “Farnhaus” and how you can visit Franziska and Stefan here.

Interview: Katharina Geissler-Evans, heiter

A little hush in the heart of Edinburgh

A heiter getaway: meet the founders of "Farnhaus" in Northern Italy