Welcome to the cottage at what is arguably the dolphin-watching centre of the world!
Chanonry Point Cottage is situated a few yards from the lighthouse of the same name on the Moray Firth coast of the Black Isle, just north of Inverness (all facilities). The pods of dolphins making for the inner waters of the Firth all have to pass through these narrows and it is very seldom that there are not some to be seen from the windows of the cottage. It is just a mile from the pretty villages of Rosemarkie (shops, pubs, restaurants, hotels, leisure centre) and Fortrose (ruined 13th century cathedral. The area is also famous for its Pictish remains). The road from the villages to the cottage runs past the renowned but fiendish 18-hole links golf course designed by James Braid - for between a rock and a hard place, read the gorse and the sea!
In addition to its wonderful location, Chanonry Point is a snug and delightful cottage. It is double-glazed for additional warmth, though the afternoon and evening sun beating through the west-facing windows of the sitting and dining rooms also does a very efficient job!
The road stops at the cottage, where it joins an old stone jetty going along to the lighthouse. Just over the wall, there is a shingle beach. There is ample parking, and an enclosed grass garden at the side.
The area has some wonderful walks, one of the nearest of which is from Rosemarkie to the Fairy Glen. There are water sports in the Firth, quite apart from boat trips to see the ubiquitous dolphins, and a wildlife park to the south of Munlochy (7m).
Inverness, capital of the Highlands, is only 14 miles distant. If, as a change from dolphins, you fancy some monster watching, Loch Ness is 20 miles away. The Black Isle Brewery near Cromarty (10m) produces organic beers and lagers, or, if you prefer a drop of the hard stuff, you can join the Whisky Trail at Tomatin (27m). The west is also easily accessible. Torridon, with its famous mountain ranges, is within two hours' drive; even Kyle of Lochalsh and Skye (80m) can be visited in a day.
The Battlefield at Culloden (19m), which still retains its haunting atmosphere on even the brightest days, should not be missed. Further up the coast from there is Fort George (26m or barely a mile if you swim!) and Findhorn (43m) with fine sandy beaches. This coast has been recorded as having the most clear days per year in the whole of Scotland, perhaps the reason why the RAF chose Lossiemouth for their base!
Heating is by gas central heating ( first £15 INCLUDED). Bed-linen, towels and £10 of electricity are INCLUDED. Up to two well-behaved pets welcome by arrangement. Sorry, no smoking.
