As you turn off the A855 at Staffin (shops, hotel) on Skye's north east coast, among the scattering of houses on the hillside  you will see Lon Dubh, which  stands alone and imposing, a traditional, freshly whitewashed, substantial Highland croft house.  Behind it rise the hills of Trotternish, while to the front there are extensive views across the fields to Staffin Bay.

Inside, the cottage has a traditional, homely character and is cosy and comfortable. The kitchen is modern and well-equipped, the snug sitting room has an open fire, and there is a separate dining room.  Three bedrooms sleeping 6 in total, and bathroom complete the accommodation.  (If any of the party have difficulty with stairs, there is a sofa bed in the sitting room.)

Families in particular will relish the freedom that Lon Dubh has to offer.  Set well back from the little single track road, with lots of space around it, it is a perfect place for children to play in safety, and in addition there is a sandy beach just three miles away.  Staffin Bay is famous for its fossils, and especially for the dinosaur bone which was found there and which is now in the Staffin Museum.   A fossil/dinosaur hunting expedition could keep the kids amused for hours.  You should also keep an eye out for sea eagles, while seals, porpoises and even the occasional whale can sometimes be seen in the surrounding waters.

There is further geological interest just down the road at the famous Kilt Rock, a dolerite cliff formation which looks like the folds of a kilt.  And the hill road just to the north of the village will take you up to the fantastic rocky pinnacles of the Quiraing and thence over to the ferry to the Hebrides at Uig.

Portree, the 'capital' of Skye, is 17 miles to the south and on the way you will pass yet another geological phenomenon, The Old Man of Storr.  The walk up to it is well worthwhile for the magnificent views which it affords.  And of course, further south the mighty Cuillin Ranges are a magnet for all serious walkers and climbers. 
 
Heating is by electric heaters and open fire (£10 electricity and initial supply of fuel INCLUDED).  Payphone.  Bed linen and towels are INCLUDED.  Sorry, no pets.