Fyne View 'does exactly what it says on the tin!' It has a spectacular situation in a little cluster of houses right on the shore of Loch Fyne, about four miles south of Strachur and within an hour's drive of Glasgow, with wonderful views across the loch to the hills of Knapdale south of Inveraray on the other side.
The semi-detached cottage, once a near derelict shell belonging to the present owner's grandfather, has been equally spectacularly renovated to provide a light, bright and modern holiday home. The spacious open plan dining area has floor to ceiling windows overlooking the loch, the kitchen is state-of-the-art with all appliances and equipment and the sitting room, with its raised wood-burning stove, is cosiness itself. Upstairs, there are two most attractive bedrooms with coombed ceilings, and a modern shower room.
The grass garden goes right on to the shore, and there is furniture for lazy days and evenings relaxing and looking out across the water. The single track access road to 'The hidden village' finishes at the pier just beyond the cottage so there is very little in the way of passing traffic.
The nearest town for major supermarket shopping is at Dunoon (22m) but for immediate needs, Strachur (4m) has an excellent general store with an equally excellent café attached. The famous Creggans Inn is just half a mile of so further up the road from there, or heading south to Dunoon the Coylet Inn on Loch Eck is also well known. Obviously, while you are in the area you will want to sample the produce of the world famous Loch Fyne Oyster Bar at Cairndow (14m) at the head of the loch.
Inver Cottage Restaurant (2m) is nearby for lunch or dinner. While there why not enjoy a pleasant walk along the constructed path to the ruins of Castle Lachlan and soak up the view of the Island of Arran.
Or perhaps you could walk off lunch at the Ardkinglas Gardens near Cairndow. In fact garden enthusiasts will be spoiled for choice here. Towards Dunoon, there are the Benmore Botanic Gardens, while on the other side of the loch, beyond Inveraray, you will find the famous Crarae Gardens owned by the National Trust. For something more rustic, right opposite Benmore, take a stroll up the evocatively named Puck's Glen. The shady path follows a tumbling stream and you really can believe that at any moment you might catch a glimpse of the mischievous sprite.
For a rainy day, Inveraray (24m), with its castle and jail, is always a good bet. Or you could drive up to Loch Awe and visit the Cruachan Power Station (40m) built right inside the mountain, Ben Cruachan. Then on, perhaps, to Oban and the seaside. It's all perfectly feasible for a day trip.
For something more energetic, there is excellent hill walking, while those who enjoy sailing and riding will also find their needs well catered for in the area.
Heating is by electric underfloor central heating downstairs and electric panel heaters in the bedrooms. Electricity, a starter pack of logs, and bed linen are INCLUDED in the rental and towels may be hired. Up to two well behaved pets are welcome by arrangement. Sorry, no smoking in the cottage. Wi-fi is available, subject to provider. (No charge.)
