The Library is a large Scandinavian log chalet which stands amid woodland at the end of a private road from Carsaig Pier on the beautiful southern coast of Mull. Quite alone apart from nearby Pier Cottage, it is only yards from the rocky shore with splendid views out to sea to the islands of Jura, Islay and Colonsay on the horizon.
Inside, there is a large open plan living area, with a well-equipped pine kitchen , a central wood-burning stove and two sofa beds. (Part of the room can be curtained off to form a second double bedroom. The staircase leading to the double and twin bedrooms upstairs, is open, and therefore not suitable for young children. Outside, there is an enclosed garden.
This is a spectacular area, with a wild and varied coast, ranging from the dramatic Carsaig cliffs to the long, silver sands just quarter of a mile from the cottage. There is abundant wildlife, with otters, red deer and eagles often in evidence. Painters flock to this part of the world and you will soon see why. There are excellent walks to be had, or cycle the 5-odd miles over to the nearest shop and hotel at Pennyghael.
When on Mull, a visit to historic Iona, where Columba first brought Christianity to Scotland in 563, is an absolute must, and it is less than an hour's drive from the cottage. Leave the car at Fionnphort and go across on the little ferry which chugs back and forward every twenty minutes or so (no booking necessary). You can visit the Abbey and quarter the island in a few hours; its haunting atmosphere of peace and holiness will surely affect the most sceptical visitor.
From Fionnphort and Bunessan, you can also take boat trips in summer to famous Fingal's Cave on Staffa and the Treshnish Islands, with their seabird and seal colonies.
In the other direction, the historic castles of Duart and Torosay (miniature steam railway line and famous gardens) are well worth a visit. For serious shopping, Tobermory (50m) with its brightly coloured houses clustered round the harbour, is the only town on the island.
Heating is by electric convector and halogen heaters and wood burning stove. Bed linen and towels are available for hire for overseas guests only. Smoking is not permitted within the cottage. Water is from a private source. You may therefore prefer to bring bottled water for drinking.
