According to Norman, (of whom more later) grown men have been known to cry when they have to leave Kylesmorar at the end of their stay here. And it's not beyond belief, for Loch Nevis, the 'Loch of Heaven' in Gaelic, must surely be one of the most remarkable and unforgettable holiday destinations imaginable.
Accessible only by boat, the estate lies east of Mallaig on the west coast of Scotland, on the remote shores of Loch Nevis, round which no roads run. Once a thriving crofting community, the original inhabitants are long gone but from the former crofting township at Kylesmorar, three principal buildings, however, The Bothy/Schoolhouse and the Old Post Office, have been spectacularly converted into holiday homes using local craftsmen and materials. They now offer most comfortable and beautifully appointed accommodation furnished with great style and originality. Each stands just a few yards from the water's edge, nestling right at the foot of some on Scotland's most majestic mountains.
You reach Kylesmorar via the friendly little ferry from Mallaig. It will drop you at Tarbet (over the side into an estate boat, so you have to be fairly nimble!) and you'll then be taken onward for the 5 minute passage round the headland to Kylesmorar itself. Tenants are also welcome to bring their own boats and make use of the jetty and visitor mooring at Kylesmorar at their own risk.
This is the ultimate place to chill. You can curl up in front of a roaring log fire, take leisurely strolls along the beach, perhaps picking up a few shellfish for lunch as you go, while the resolutely active can tackle some of the Munros in the area. Weather permitting there will be the chance of a scheduled lift with the Estate boat to one of three spots that serve as the starting points of some lovely walks, or to Inverie on the Knoydart peninsula, where you can have lunch at the local pub or tearoom before getting the afternoon ferry back to Tarbet.
The Bothy has a remarkable open plan living area, with stone floor, exposed wood beams and an oil-fired stove, which opens out into the garden area (barbecue). The spacious bedroom has twin beds (which can be pushed together) and an excellent bathroom with bath and separate shower. It can be rented alone or in conjunction with the extra bedroom provided by Old Schoolhouse, (situated about 20ft from the Bothy) if four are to be accommodated or, for the ultimate romantic experience, just for two. This beautifully furnished double bedroom has timber lined walls and a real log fire at the end of the bed, - you can lie and watch the sun set over the Cuillins of Skye or the dawn break. What could be more idyllic?
Please note that there are no shops on Kylesmorar and provisions should be brought in with you. Mobile reception is very patchy indeed; however you will be provided with a two-way radio receiver, so that you can contact your hosts at any time with any queries or problems.
The friendly crew on the ferry which brings you over from Mallaig set the tone for the people you will encounter during your stay, and it only gets better. On arrival, you will be greeted by Deoné, who looks after your comfort here and tends the thriving vegetable gardens, or Norman, who just seems to know everything and do everything that needs doing in terms of repairs, upkeep of boats and matters mechanical. Having spent two summers helping Deoné and Norman, Tom now also works on the estate full-time. All are based round the headland at Tarbet, but are happy to help at any time. Your other neighbours will be Babe and Mac a magnificent porcine couple who live on the lochside. Babe usually has a litter of enchanting piglets in tow and is the friendliest animal imaginable, always ready for a chat - yes, really! - and to have her back and ears scratched. Mac spends a lot of time asleep (sound familiar, ladies?).
Bed linen, towels, heating and electricity are all INCLUDED in the rental. Water is from a private supply which is UV filtered and tested annually. Pets are welcome by arrangement but should be kept under control on the surrounding croft.
The Old Post Office (Sleeps 2/4)
