In one of Scotland's loveliest and most historic areas, on the west coast between Appin and Glencoe, is Achara Lodge. This fine old house, dating back to 1840, and with close historical ties to the Stuart royal line, stands in its own extensive grounds, laid to grass with mature trees and ornamental pools (care with children!), with fine open views to the hills of Kingairloch and Ardgour, beyond Loch Linnhe. One wing contains two further small properties, which can be booked together with, or separately from, the Lodge.
Linnhe, named for the nearby sea-loch of the same name, is one of these. A completely self-contained ground floor apartment, with its own front door, inside it is charming and full of character. There is an expansive living area with a very fine stone fireplace and double bed-settee, a galley kitchen, twin bedroom (which can be converted to double on request) and bathroom.
This is a truly lovely spot for a holiday and for exploring the beauties of the surrounding area. Nearby Cuil Bay has a sandy beach and is an SSSI, with interesting rock formations and a Stonehenge-type monolith nearby. There are excellent walks to be had in the immediate vicinity, though serious walkers, climbers and skiers in season will, no doubt, be heading straight for Glencoe! There is riding down the road at Lettershuna, where at low tide you can canter along the shore past the familiar landmark of Castle Stalker. Sailing, water ski-ing and boat hire are available locally at Linnhe Marine and there is an attractive 9 hole golf course just five minutes up the road at Ballachulish.
From Fort William (18m, all facilities, leisure centres etc.) you may wish to take the West Highland Steam Railway - its viaduct is featured with the Hogwarts Express in the Harry Potter films - by way of Glenfinnan, where Bonnie Prince Charlie raised his standard in the '45 rebellion, to Mallaig. Or, also from Fort William, take a boat trip on the loch to see the basking seals, or trot up to the top of Ben Nevis, Britain's highest mountain. Ski-ing is available there too at Aonach Mor. Heading south, you can be at Oban (30m) in well under an hour, from where you can take cruises to Mull, Staffa and historic Iona, or some of the other islands. You may wish to visit the Sealife Centre at Benderloch on the way, and the lovely beach there at Ardmucknish Bay. To the north east, the Caledonian Canal and Loch Ness are further accessible attractions.
Duror has a shop, and hotel, and there are many excellent places to eat locally. For a special treat, visit Aird's Hotel or the Pierhouse at Port Appin, both of which have more awards and rosettes than you can shake a stick at!
Bed linen and background central heating are INCLUDED in the rental and towels can be hired. One well-behaved pet is welcome by arrangement. Phone for incoming calls. Sorry, no smoking within the cottage. There is an extra charge of £50 per person for numbers over two.
