Taigh nam Braithrean self catering rental cottage Isle of Skye, Scotland

Taigh nam Braithrean
nr Staffin
Isle of Skye
West Coast of Scotland

Sleeping 6

Taigh nam Braithrean (pronounced Tie nam Brahren) is Gaelic for 'House of the Brothers'. It has a lovely situation just a short walk from the scenic headland, Rubha nam Braithrean, on the east coast of Skye's Trotternish peninsula, about 15 miles north of the 'capital', Portree (all facilities, restaurants, hotels, supermarket etc), with wonderful views across the Sound of Raasay to the island of Rona and the mountains of Torridon on the mainland beyond. To the west. there are stunning views of the Trotternish Ridge with the amazing rock formations of the Quiraing in the distance.

The house is detached and surrounded by its own well-tended and landscaped gardens and pleasant patio with barbecue and garden furniture, perfect for children and for relaxing on long hot summer days (Yes, you do get them on Skye!). The house itself has been completely refurbished and extended and its whitewashed, traditional exterior belies the modern comforts within. The cosy sitting room has a solid fuel stove, which supplements the LPG central heating; there is a well fitted kitchen-diner, a downstairs double bedroom with en suite bathroom, a further bathroom and two twin bedrooms upstairs.

The nearby village of Staffin has a couple of shops and the Columba 1400 centre has a café/restaurant with internet access. There is also a hotel offering evening meals just a short walk from the house. Just a little way further up the peninsula there is the famous Flodigarry Hotel. It now incorporates the erstwhile house of Flora McDonald, who assisted the escape of Bonnie Prince Charlie after his defeat at Culloden. Her grave is to be found just up the road at Kilmuir near Duntulm Castle, ancient seat of the chiefs of Clan Donald.

The Quiraing has long been a mecca for walkers and climbers. Take the spectacular road through it over to Uig, on the west coast, where the ferry plies to and from the Outer Islands. On your way to the cottage, you will pass the Old Man of Storr, another striking rock formation. There is an excellent path up to the foot of the rock, suitable for all (reasonably fit) members of the family and very popular on a summer's day. This is a good coast for viewing sea eagles and Staffin has another claim to fame as the site of some fossilised dinosaur footprints which were found on the shore there in 1996.

There is riding at Portree, where the Aros centre, featuring the island's history, makes an interesting visit for a wet day. (You get them on Skye too!) From Portree harbour you can take various boat trips around the coast. There is a 9 hole links course at Sconser. While there, take the little ferry which plies back and forth to the island of Raasay, which boast many fine walks and is a whole different world.

From Portree, you can take the road over to historic Dunvegan, home of the Chief of Clan MacLeod, with its castle and Fairy Flag. You could climb the curious flat-topped hills, MacLeod's Tables, while you are in the area, though those who take their climbing really seriously will be making a bee-line for the mighty Cuillins.

Heating is by LPG central heating (included) and solid fuel stove. Bed linen and towels are included. Up to two well-behaved pets are welcome by arrangement.