The island of Rona, (resident population 1!) situated to the north of Raasay off the north east coast of Skye is a truly magical place in which to escape from the cares of the world. You reach it from Portree, the 'capital' of Skye, where you may well spend the previous night and stock up on the provisions you will require for your week as a 'castaway'. -The hour-long trip by chartered launch from Portree, and the twenty minute tramp over the hill from the landing stage to reach it (the Resident Population will take your luggage and supplies on a quad bike after first fortifying you with tea and scones) will be a unique introduction to a unique and quite unforgettable holiday.
Its crofting population left in 1923, and its habitations fell into ruin. Now, however, under the inspired ownership of a Danish ecologist, it is being brought back to life, with a herd of Highland cattle, some deer and new plantings.
The Old Manse, now aptly renamed Escape, is one of three cottages around the old settlement of Dry Harbour, which have been painstakingly restored for holiday lets. It stands, detached, above the tidal bay with fantastic west-facing views across the Sound of Raasay towards Skye and the pinnacle of the Old Man of Storr. The legendary west coast sunsets can be enjoyed from the enclosed garden, or from the porch in front of the house, and about 50 metres away a pond has been created which attracts otters, and where the cattle and deer come to feed in the early morning and evening.
You are welcome to wander at will across this wonderful island, and Bill, the caretaker, will be on hand to show you good fishing spots, how to set a creel to catch your own lobsters or point out where best to see the wonderful wildlife both on the island and in the surrounding waters. Or he will leave you to be as private and secluded as you wish.
Inside, the cottage has been stunningly renovated and light, bright and cosy with under floor heating downstairs, radiators upstairs and open fires. The sitting room has an open fire and the well equipped kitchen dining room has a multi fuel stove. One bedroom has a double bed, the other has two single beds and both have en suite facilities. A cot can be provided.
Bed linen, towels and heating are all INCLUDED in the rental. The water supply is from a natural spring, so you may prefer to bring bottled water for drinking. With the cottage only 150 yards from the shore, care may be required with young children. Sorry, no pets or smoking within the cottage.
You can drive to the quayside at Portree and unload, then park your car for the week in the large public car park (free) just a couple of hundred yards away. There is an additional charge of £50 per booking for the private ferry to Rona. Discounts may apply for couples and for two week bookings. Please enquire.
