Scotland Skye self catering holiday accommodation Ault Cottage

Ault Cottage
Near Staffin
Isle of Skye

Sleeping 4

In a lovely open situation on the Trotternish peninsula in the unspoilt north of Skye, arguably Scotland's most romantic island, is Ault Cottage, a traditional, whitewashed, crofter's house which has now been modernised and furnished to a high standard without any loss of character.

Ault Cottage Inside the thick old walls, it is cosy and comfortable, with an open fire in the sitting room for atmosphere and electric central heating for efficiency. The kitchen/diner is well-equipped; there is a downstairs double bedroom and, upstairs, two single bedrooms with coombed ceilings, which children in particular will love.

Outside, there is an enclosed garden (furniture) and ample parking for two cars. There are a shop and restaurant within half a mile of the cottage and a pub within 5 miles. and an award winning restaurant 3 miles up the coast at Flodigarry.

Sitting Room This is an ideal location for those wanting to relax in peace and tranquillity, yet there is much of interest in the area. Staffin itself is a picturesque community, with the croft houses scattered across the hillside. From there, a single track road gives access to the spectacular rock formations and pinnacles of the Quiraing. Staffin Bay is famous for the discovery of several dinosaur footprints in the mid 1990s, and it is a prime site for fossil remains (some of which are now collected in the Staffin Museum). Further south, towards the island's 'capital', Portree (17m, all facilities, leisure centre, riding), is the Old Man of Storr, a wonderful walk for those who perhaps do not feel up to the challenges of the mighty Cuillins! From Uig (9m) you can take a day trip across to Harris or Benbecula. Round Kilmuir (11m) there is also scope for fishing, archery and windsurfing.

Kitchen Those interested in history will enjoy a visit to the Museum of Island Life on the west of the peninsula, where you can also visit Flora MacDonald's grave. Dunvegan castle (38m) the seat of the Clan MacLeod, with its famous Fairy Flag, is another attraction.

For lovers of wild life and birds in particular, there is the nearby Kilt Rock, a favourite nesting place of fulmars and kittiwakes. And there is always the chance, too, of spotting a magnificent sea eagle.

Electric central heating and all electricity is included. Starter pack of fuel for the open fire is included. Bed linen and towels are included. Smoking should be confined to the sitting room. Sorry, no pets.