Leac Cottage is a traditional old drover's cottage standing detached, in the countryside. a half-mile by private track from the Aberchalder Swing-bridge on the far side of the A83 Inverness/Fort William road from Aberchalder Highland Lodge. Secluded, with tempting rock and bracken-strewn hills at the back, it is facing south to the Monadliath Hills and just a field away from the River Oich where salmon/trout fishing can be arranged.
The cottage is situated on Aberchalder Estate which encompasses some 16,000 acres of beautiful woodlands, mountains, lochs and rivers, along the south side of Loch Oich in the heart of 'The Great Glen' - that 65-mile long rift-valley that cuts across Scotland from Inverness in the north-east to Fort William on the west. The magnificent mountain scenery of The Great Glen shelters the waters of famous Loch Ness, Loch Oich and Loch Lochy - all linked together by Thomas Telford's amazing Caledonian Canal which allows small boats to cross northern Scotland by the shortest route - and Aberchalder, some 37 miles south of Inverness and 27 miles north of Fort William, overlooks the River Oich, Loch Oich and The Caledonian Canal.
The estate is almost midway between the two main access roads to the stunning north-west coast and Skye and with Fort Augustus (hotels/shops) four miles north and Invergarry (pub/hotel) 3 miles south, this is a great location for fishermen, walkers, 'Nessie' watchers, and for those wishing to drive or train along 'The Road to the Isles' and/or explore the 'Monarch of the Glen' country. The prestigious Glengarry Castle Hotel (where the previous Laird was born) is within the confines of the Estate - as are the ruins of ancient Glengarry Castle where Bonnie Prince Charlie stayed en route to Culloden.
There is wonderful walking with the chance to espy red and roe-deer, pine martens, golden eagles and grouse and there is skiing at Aonach Mhor (20 miles) in winter. Take the chair-lift up Ben Nevis, while watching the boats pass along Thomas Telford's 'Caledonian Canal' is another fascination - all in all a great place for a relaxing Highland holiday.
Fresh garden produce, free-range chicken and duck eggs can be purchased when available.
As in many places in the Highlands, the local water supply runs through peat soil and can appear very brown, particularly after heavy rain. While its quality is still probably better than many places in the south, if you are concerned about the colour you may prefer to bring bottled water to drink.
Refundable damage deposits are requested.
Heating by night-store and electric heaters. Bedlinen and towels are INCLUDED. Dogs by arrangement.
