One of three cottages at Mid Fearn, an area of 17 acres of tranquil countryside which leads right down to the sandy seashore where magnificent views over the Dornoch Firth await. Ducks, geese, swans and widgeon (amongst others) regularly visit the shoreline just a short walk from the cottage and the passionate new proprietor of Mid Fearn is working to create a sanctuary for these welcome visitors. 45 minutes from Inverness, this private peninsula a peaceful, secluded retreat within easy travelling distance of the bustling highland capital, and for essential facilities (shops, hotel and railway station) the villages of Bonar Bridge and Ardgay are only 3 miles away.
Struan Cottage is a 200-year-old cottage which has the most fantastic view looking straight down the Kyle of Sutherland - from the bedroom window you can watch the sun rise glinting on the sea. It is a homely, cosy cottage, self-contained and semi-detached, at right angles to the main house, with the woods and the shore just a short stroll across the field, a perfect refuge for couples wanting to 'get away from it all'. There is a typically Highland wood-panelled ceiling in the sitting room which also has a wood-burning stove and a bed settee for an extra guest. A whisky in front of the peat fire has been described as a 'must!'
Sutherland and Easter Ross is a largely undiscovered corner of north-east Scotland, with some of the most spectacular scenery in the country. The Dornoch Firth claims a micro-climate with the least rainfall and most prolonged sunshine in Scotland. Within 15 miles are some wonderful sandy beaches, golf courses such as the world-renowned Royal Dornoch Championship links course and other excellent courses at Bonar Bridge and Tain. Highland rivers, the Oykel, Cassely, Carron and Shin, just ask to be fished and there is a salmon leap at the spectacular Falls of Shin. Birdwatchers can visit Loch Fleet, a few miles east of Dornoch, where large numbers of geese, ducks and waders can be seen, while seals can often be spotted basking on the sand-bar in the middle of the bay.
There are wildlife cruises in the Cromarty Firth while Lochinver and Ullapool, the glorious beaches round the Kyle of Durness and the Smoo Cave (a firm favourite with children), are just 1.5 hours away.
For whisky lovers, the area boasts some of the most prestigious distilleries which you can visit and sample the wares, such as the famously elusive Clynelish at Brora, Glenmorangie at Tain, or the area's own Balblair Distillery (visits by appointment only).
Heating is by the gas CH (£15 INCLUDED) and wood-burning stove. Bed linen and towels are and electricity are INCLUDED. Pets are welcome by arrangement. No smoking within the cottage.
As in many places in the Highlands, the local water supply comes from the peaty hills and can appear slightly brown. 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. Mobile phone reception is good for most networks.
Other cottages at Mid Fearn:
