Knoydart Cottage
Inverie
Near Mallaig
Inverness-shire

Sleeping 4

They call it one of the last wildernesses in Britain. The Knoydart peninsula can only be reached by boat from Mallaig or walked into over a couple of days through the hills from Kinloch Hourn. To the south there is Loch Nevis (the 'Loch of Heaven') and to the north rugged-edged Loch Hourn (the 'Loch of Hell'). In its midst are three Monros which rear out of the sea. In the 18th century it was home to around a thousand people, but then the Clearances and subsequent depopulation as the estate was run for shooting and fishing reduced the population to around 70 today. And there is no point in taking the car, as there is really nowhere to drive it! It is, in short, as far removed from the M25 as the earth is from the moon, and the perfect place to forget for a while all one's 21st century cares.

The main settlement is at Inverie (pub, PO), and it is here that you will find Knoydart Cottage, a traditional stone-built cottage which once housed the estate gardener (hence its local name of Gardener's Cottage). It stands in its own quarter-acre of wild garden, and is cosy and comfortable with full central heating. The sitting room is particularly light and bright and its wood burning stove completes the inviting effect. While there is no direct view of the sea, the rocky shore is within 200 metres of the cottage.

For all its remoteness, there is no shortage of activity and things to do. There are organised boat trips, where you have an excellent chance of spotting Minke whales, orcas, otters and eagles. Knoydart also has its own ranger, who leads walks of all degrees of difficulty. The Post Office is handy for essentials, and while it is best to stock up with major provisions before you go, the supermarket in Mallaig will make up orders and ship them across against credit card payment.

Bed linen and towels are included. Heating is by oil fired central heating (£20 included) and open fire (starter pack of logs included). The first £10 of electricity is included.

There is satellite TV with basic channels and a collection of Videos and DVDs. Up to two well-behaved pets are welcome by arrangement. Sorry, no smoking. Wi-fi internet access is available. (subject to provider).

Accommodation (sleeps 4):

Single storey:

• Sitting room with stereo and TV/VCR/DVD and open fire.
• Kitchen/Dining room with electric cooker, microwave, washing-machine, tumble-drier and fridge-freezer, etc.
• Double-bed room.
• Twin-bed room.
• Bathroom with bath, shower, wc and basin.

Accommodation availability:

Knoydart Cottage: