'By Tummel and Loch Rannoch and Lochaber I will go..' so runs the old hiking song, but if the composer had seen the Factor's House on the shores of wild and beautiful Loch Rannoch, 25 miles from Pitlochry in Highland Perthshire, he would probably have forgotten Lochaber and been happy to stop right there!
This traditional, 200 year old, stone-built cottage, just a few hundred yards or so across the grass from the lochside, has a picturesque exterior which yet gives little indication of the sublime comfort you will find inside. Awarded the rare and coveted 5-star rating, this charming house will entrance you from the outset with its cosiness and character. The accommodation comprises an elegant open plan sitting/dining room with wood-burner, a state of the art kitchen area (though if the cook feels like a night off, a wide range of delicious fare can be ordered from the Loch Rannoch Smokery), a cosy double bedroom and bathroom, while a spiral staircase leads up to a delightful galleried sitting and writing area overlooking the downstairs sitting room, and a comfortable twin bedroom.
And all this in an area which has so much to offer. Apart from the temptation to just sit and do nothing in such glorious and peaceful surroundings, there is magnificent walking to be had on the surrounding mountains, or quieter strolls along the loch side. The road round the Loch is more or less flat, so excellent for cycling. (Bikes may be hired locally). At the far end of the Loch you can catch the West Highland Railway (at the second most remote station in Britain) which will take you up to Fort William. Boats may be hired on the loch, or you can learn to sail, kayak or raft. The Carie Estate has a mile of frontage on Loch Rannoch, so fishermen should bring their rods. Stalking can also be arranged in season, and the really energetic can try their hands at archery, orienteering, climbing or even an SAS survival night at the local outward bound centre at the head of the loch.
It goes without saying that the surrounding countryside abounds with wildlife. Curlews, oyster-catchers, falcons, owls, golden eagles, pine martens, otters, red squirrels, hares and deer may all be spotted.
There is an hotel and shop at Kinloch Rannoch (3m). Pitlochry has all facilities and in addition a distillery, fish ladder, and famous festival theatre, where the boast is that you can 'stay six days and see six plays'. From there, the Great North Road will whisk you north to the Cairngorms, ski-ing at Aviemore or the chairlift up Cairngorm all year round and beyond that, there is Inverness.
Bed linen, towels, heating and electricity are all INCLUDED. Sorry no smoking or pets within the cottage. Because of the proximity of the loch and a small burn, care may be required with young children. Wi-fi internet access is available. (subject to provider).
