Self-catering cottage Sutherland, north of Scotland.
'Ceol-na-Mara' - Gaelic for music of the sea - is a beautifully restored former croft house in a stunning position overlooking the north Atlantic. Listen to the waves crashing on the dramatic coastline, smell the peat smoke, and absorb the peace and beauty of this magical crofting community.
The house was completely restored 10 years ago but it retains charming traditional features including pine panelling and a Caithness flag floor. Set in a large enclosed garden it is the perfect place to relax and unwind. Sutherland is one of Scotland's best-kept secrets. Situated in the far north of Scotland, it is a sparsely populated area of stunning scenery and tranquillity. Walk for hours in the rugged hills or along sandy beaches and craggy coastlines without meeting a soul.
Local walks from the cottage include the old Kirtomy harbour (good for spotting seals and otters), the peat road winding up into the hills behind the house and a longer walk to the fascinating deserted village of Poulouriscaig. Ben Hope, the most northerly munro, and Ben Loyal are within a half hour's drive. Kirtomy and the surrounding area is also popular with birdwatchers (resident greylag geese and curlews), walkers and even whale watchers! Fishing is available on the local lochs and rivers and horse riding is available in Bettyhill. Cyclists can enjoy the quiet roads and forestry tracks. Surfing has become popular on the lovely Farr Bay beach (3 miles). Step back in time and visit nearby clearance villages, Stone Age brochs, Prehistoric burial chambers, hut circles and standing stones.
This family holiday cottage has a large enclosed garden and charming accommodation. Enjoy the roaring open fires, the original Caithness flag floors, cosy pine panelled rooms and a fully modernised kitchen and bathroom.
The kitchen/living room has a large open fire, a breakfast bar and a table which can seat 6. The sitting room has a Victorian coal fire, Sky TV, two sofas and an armchair.
Upstairs the large double bedroom with a king-size bed also has an original fireplace and a sea view. Two smaller adjoining bedrooms have one single and one double bed.
From Inverness take the A9 north crossing the Kessock and Cromarty Firth bridges.
At Evanton turn left on the B9176 to Ardgay and Bonar Bridge.
Continue through Lairg and Altnaharra on the A836. Take the B873 (then B871) to Bettyhill. Continue past Bettyhill for about 2 miles and take the left turn at the junction signposted to Kirtomy. Pass through the hamlet, over the burn and the holiday cottage is on the right in an elevated position beside the road.
This is the most direct route and also the most scenic. The landscape is remote and wonderful and there is a good chance of spotting birds of prey and red deer. Don't forget to pack binoculars!
Electricity and heating are included in price but not fuel for the fires. Bed linen and towels are provided and there is also a hairdryer. Pets by arrangement. The cottage has local OS maps, books on the local area, books for adults and children and some games.
This wonderful Sutherland self-catering cottage is rented out year round - Saturday is the change over day with check out at 10 am and check in at 4pm.
To book this lovingly-restored former croft house in Sutherland, click the enquiry button below and see availability and prices.
Near Bettyhill, Sutherland KW14 7TB Scotland.