Isle of Skye Scotland self catering accommodation Lon Dubh Cottage

Lon Dubh Cottage
Near Staffin
Island of Skye

Sleeping 5

Once you turn off the A855 at Staffin (shops, hotel) on the north east coast of Skye you will spot Lon Dubh among the scattered houses on the hillside. Detached and substantial, Lon Dubh is a newly whitewashed Highland croft house built in the traditional style. At the back of the house you can see the hills of Trotternish while the view to the front is over the fields to Staffin Bay. The simple and traditional interior is comfortable and welcoming. The kitchen is up-to-date and well-appointed, the snug sitting room has an open fire and there is a separate dining room. The accommodation is completed with three bedrooms capable of sleeping 6, and a bathroom. (Should any visitors have difficulty with stairs a sofa bed is available in the sitting room.)

Lon Dubh offers a type of freedom particularly suited to families. The house stands well away from the single track road and has plenty of space all around it making it an ideal and safe playground for children. There is also a sandy beach only three miles away. Staffin Bay is well-known for its fossils, in particular for the dinosaur bone found there which is now displayed in the Staffin Museum. Children could possibly 'hunt the fossil;/dinosaur' quite happily for hours! Visitors should keep on the look-out for sea eagles as well as trying to spot seals, porpoises and even the odd whale – all of which are to be seen in the surrounding seas.

Geologists will be fascinated by the famous Kilt Rock which you can find not far from the cottage. This is a dolerite cliff formation which strongly resembles the folds of a kilt. Further geological interest is to be found in the extraordinary rocky pinnacles of the Quiraing which you reach by taking the hill road just north of the village. Continuing on this road you will arrive at Uig where the ferries for the Outer Hebrides depart. On the road south to Portree, (17m) the capital of Skye, you will pass The Old Man of Storr, yet another geological marvel. It is well worth a closer look if only for the fantastic views all around it. And then there are, of course, the famous Cuillin mountains further south on the island, which always exert a strong attraction on all serious walkers and climbers.

Heating is by electric heaters and open fire (£10 electricity and initial supply of fuel included). Payphone. Bed linen and towels are included. Sorry, no pets.