NEW for 2010 - see also
The Wee House (sleeps 4)
This must surely be one of the most remarkable and unforgettable holiday destinations imaginable. There are plenty of clichés to cover it: 'castaway in comfort', 'get away from it all' 'step back in time' - all are relevant. As a honeymoon destination it would be quite unique, but would be equally attractive to anyone seeking peace and retreat from the cares of the modern world.
Accessible only by boat, Kylesmorar lies east of Mallaig on the west coast of Scotland, on the shores of lonely Loch Nevis, the 'Loch of Heaven', round which no roads run. Once a thriving crofting community, its original inhabitants are long gone and it is now home only to a small community of estate workers. From the ruins of the former crofting township, 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.
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 mussels for lunch as you go, while the resolutely active can tackle some of the Munros in the area. Weather permitting, the Estate boat can take you across to Inverie on the Knoydart peninsula for an exhilarating walk and/or lunch at Britain's most remote pub, before getting the afternoon ferry back to Kylesmorar (In the peak season, the ferry calls in to Kylesmorar once a day from Mallaig Monday-Friday and the fare at the beginning and end of your stay is included in the rental. Tenants are also welcome to bring their own boats and make use of the jetty and visitor mooring at Kylesmorar at their own risk.
Small estate boats (with outboard motor) may be available by arrangement on site to take you creeling or explore the upper reaches of the loch.
Understandably, The Old Post Office was once the hub of village life in Kylesmorar. Whitewashed in traditional style, it has now been completely renovated and refurbished and, just a few yards from the water's edge, has uninterrupted views over Loch Nevis to the Skye Cuillins. Inside, the spacious sitting room has exposed beams, stone walls and a cosy log-burning stove. This room opens on to a farmhouse-style dining kitchen with a large pine table and oil-fired stove, while upstairs there are double and twin bedrooms, both of which face the water. A shower room with power shower completes the accommodation.
Please note that there are no shops on Kylesmorar and provisions should be brought in with you. Seasonal produce including meat and vegetables may be available with the compliments of the Estate for one of your meals - Estate staff will be pleased to discuss availability and also give advice on what you should bring with you prior to your arrival.
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.
Other holiday cottages on the Kylesmorar Estate -
The Bothy/Old Schoolhouse (Sleeps 2/4)
The Wee House (sleeps 4)
