Doesn't the name sound grand? But it's about as different from Westminster as you could imagine. Parliament House, beside the shore (it has its own stony beach) near Achiltibuie overlooking the Summer Isles, north Skye and the Hebrides on Scotland's fabulous north west coast, was named for the nearby rock where, historically, village elders met to discuss community matters.
This spacious, modern house faces south and is situated at the western end of the scattered little community of Reiff, 6 miles from Achiltibuie, (shop, petrol, famous Summer Isles Hotel), where the single track road comes to an end. It is only a few miles from some of Scotland's most famous mountains such as Coigach and Stac Pollaidh.
The house itself is as comfortable as its situation is spectacular, and fitted with all 21st century amenities. There is a superb sun/room dining room, a very large kitchen with a family/play area, a cosy sitting room and six bedrooms and three bathrooms, one en suite. Outside, there is a decking area (furniture) and the grass garden is bounded by a traditional dry stane dyke. Beyond that is the rocky foreshore (some sand at low tide) which is bound to delight children and keep them amused for hours. And if that palls on a rainy day, there is a table tennis table in the garage.
This really is the most wonderful area for a holiday, with the sea on your doorstep, the mountains behind, and lots of coastal and hill walks if you don't feel up to tackling the higher peaks. The cliffs at Reiff are also quite famous and offer excellent opportunities (mostly single-pitch climbs) for novice and experiences rock-climbers alike.
The 'wee mad road' over to Lochinver is an absolute must - the scenery is breathtaking and your camera will never be in its case. Stop off at the Kirkaig Falls on your way, and climb Suilven if you are feeling particularly energetic. If not, you can have coffee and browse in the remarkable bookshop in the middle of nowhere.
There is a pub at Polbain (4m) and the Summer Isles Hotel at Achilitibuie is internationally famous with excellent meals available either at the bar (all year) or in its award-winning restaurant (closed in winter). The nearest centre for further shopping is at Ullapool, which is about an hour's drive. From there, you may take the ferry to Stornoway on Lewis.
Bed linen, electricity and the first £20 of oil central heating are INCLUDED in the rental and towels are available for hire. Two well-behaved pets are welcome by arrangement, but should be kept downstairs. Smoking is not permitted within the property.
