White Cottage is one of five simple (but modernised) original Estate cottages on Eilean Shona which is a tiny gem of an island, privately-owned, fabulously set at the entrance to Loch Moidart on the spectacular West Coast of Scotland between the Islands of Mull and Skye. Only 2 miles long x 1.5 miles wide, completely unspoilt, with no cars or bikes, it is a natural haven for wildlife, plants and many rare trees brought from distant parts of the world some 100 years ago. There are secluded footpaths through 300 acres of woodlands and rhododendrons, with glimpses of the sensational West Coast 'backdrop' scenery wherever you look, while from the high rocky slopes (highest point 860ft) there are unique and breathtaking views across the enchantment of little islands (said to have inspired J M Barrie to write 'Mary Rose') to the larger Hebridean islands of Muck, Eigg, Rhum and Skye.
Of the cottages on Eilean Shona, White Cottage is closest to the jetty, but is very secluded, tucked away up a short path through the rhododendrons. It has an enclosed grass garden and inside is surpisingly spacious, with a good size dining kitchen and a bright and cosy sitting room.
There are no roads on Eilean Shona, so cottage tenants leave their vehicles in a safe parking area on the mainland, near the romantic ruin of Castle Tioram and a private motor-launch then ferries them for ten minutes across Loch Moidart to the island - a tranquil retreat for those who would truly enjoy a different experience in a quiet island environment. It is NOT suitable for those who want organised entertainment or supermarket shopping. Walking, bird-watching, painting, reading, writing, just sitting enjoying the views - totally relaxing - is the order of the day, but on most weekdays the launch returns (FREE) to the mainland so that the famously-beautiful countryside roundabout of 'The Road to the Isles', Glenborrodale, Ardnamurchan - the whole Fort William area - can be explored and shops visited. It returns to Eilean Shona again (FREE) in the early evening. The ferry times on these days are at 9.30am and 5.00pm Ferries do NOT run on Wednesdays or Sundays although it may be possible to arrange crossings, for a small fee, with the owner.
There is a central 'hall' on the island where children can get together or play table-tennis.
Heating is by a coal-burning stove (one bag of coal INCLUDED) and night-store heaters (INCLUDED). Electricity and gas are INCLUDED. Bed-linen and towels are INCLUDED. Pets are welcome under control.
Other self catering holiday cottages on Eilean Shona -
Sawmill Cottage (slps 2)
Red Cottage (slps 2)
Timber Cottage (slps 4)
Tioram Cottage (slps 8)
South Shore Cottage (slps 2)
