We have found another amazing cottage which will be just right for those of you who really do like to get 'away from it all' to somewhere different with an added dash of adventure attached! And what's more, it's on the Applecross peninsula, one of the most beautiful and sought after parts of the West coast of Scotland, some 60 miles west of Inverness.
Coillegillie, which translates as The Wood of the Lads, was one of the abandoned coastal settlements here but two of the old croft houses have now been beautifully restored and modernised. One, your holiday destination, is the Cottage by the Shore which stands, as its name suggests, right on the rocky foreshore, while the other, a little up the hill, is occupied by the resident caretakers. Both are now accessed by a 2km long way-marked footpath. (Your luggage can be brought in by boat by negotiation with the caretakers, but the timing will, of course, be subject to weather conditions - see what we mean about a dash of adventure?)
With such a heavenly situation, the Cottage by the Shore is perfectly situated for watching the spectacular west coast sunsets as night falls over the majestic Cuillins of Skye across the water. It also affords the opportunity to watch a fascinating variety of local wildlife - seabirds of all kinds, seals, otters and even elusive pine martens, while deer come down to graze in the evenings and early mornings. There is a sheltered sandy beach nearby for bathing, playing and walking.
The cottage itself is cosy and comfortable, retaining such original features as the pine cladding on the walls. The inviting sitting room has a wood burner, as does the modern and well-equipped kitchen. Upstairs are one double and one twin bedroom, both with coombed ceilings, and bathroom. Outside, there is an enclosed (but not child or dog-proof!) rough grass garden with furniture.
Applecross is accessed by the breathtaking Bealach na Ba, the Pass of the Cattle, which rivals Alpine passes in its magnificence. The peninsula has its own microclimate and visitors will be amazed by the abundance of flowers which bloom along the peaceful lanes of Applecross village (4m) (known generally as 'The Street'). The Applecross Inn is well known for its excellent fare, as is the Potting Shed in the beautiful walled garden of Applecross House. There is also a good general store/PO a little to the south of The Street.
People come to Applecross, to walk, climb, kayak, watch the wildlife, enjoy the hills and shore and generally to unwind among some of Scotland's most glorious scenery. If you do feel like some touring while you are here, the very scenic old coastal road to the north will take you round to Gairloch and Badachro or on to the famous sub-tropical gardens at Poolewe. Retracing your way over the Pass, to the south you can reach Strathcarron, Plockton and go 'over the sea to Skye' via the Skye Bridge.
Whatever you choose to do and wherever you choose to explore, however, the Cottage by the Shore at Coillegillie offers the perfect base for an unforgettable holiday.
Bed linen, towels and electricity are INCLUDED. Water is from a private source and bottled water is recommended for drinking. Two well-behaved dogs are welcome but should remain downstairs and be kept under strict control (sheep all around!). Smoking is not permitted in the cottage.
