Booked New Year 2010/11

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Scottish west coast cottage for eight with loch and mountain views

Those who have already discovered Sutherland magic will know that no words can describe the sheer immensity of the landscape and the sparkling beauty of its beaches and lochs. The sea can be wild and stormy or calm and azure blue - and all in one day. The white sandy beaches, often only sparsely occupied, provide a haven for children and adults alike, and Sandwood Bay, with its legendary mermaid, is well worth the four mile walk for those more energetic days. Oldshoremore beach is a short walk from the road and is a wide expanse of sandy shore.

Far removed from the city and towns, this oasis of peace and tranquillity will be a welcome and refreshing tonic to those seeking a break from the normal push and shove of daily life. You will not be disappointed!

Ard na Mara, a house which has been in the same crofting family for over 80 years, is situated on an elevated grassy hill overlooking Loch Inchard and commanding spectacular mountain views. Foinaven to the east will be a constant temptation to the hill climber!

Still a traditional crofting community, Achriesgill is a small hamlet of just a few houses. There is a store a short drive away which is well stocked and open throughout the year, and about six miles away is the small fishing village of Kinlochbervie. Fourteen miles to the north is Durness, with its famous Smoo Cave and Balnakeil Beach, where, in recent years, the bones of a Viking were found by a young boy digging in the sand dunes.

Ard na Mara will surprise all who have only experienced the average holiday cottage, as this holiday home is something rather special. Retaining all the character and charm of a west coast croft house, with tongue and groove walls, pitch pine and panelled doors, coombed ceilings and original fireplaces, the cottage has benefitted from being substantially restored in recent years. Centrally heated, and with a roaring coal fire to boot, Ard na Mara just begs you to return from a day on the beach or the hills to make the most of all the comforts offered.

Every attention to detail has been made by the owner, who has thought of just about everything to ensure that you feel welcome and pampered, not only on arrival but throughout your stay.

The kitchen is small but spectacularly well equipped with culinary items not normally found in holiday cottages of this size, including smoothie maker, bread maker, food processor, cappuccino maker and much, much more. In addition to the 'day to day' tableware, the dining room is also equipped with silver, crystal and fine bone china, for that special meal.

You are even catered for if you plan a picnic away from the house, with everything you need from hamper to seats! Rarely do we find such a wealth of provisions in one cottage.

The views from the house are breathtaking, encompassing miles and miles of mountains and loch, and the surrounding 'garden' is set to grass and stock fenced so that your children and dogs are safely contained.