Eilean Shona Cottages, Eilean Shona, Acharacle, Argyll

Eilean Shona – A Tranquil Car-Free Island Retreat on Scotland’s West Coast

Eilean Shona is a peaceful, car-free island sanctuary nestled in a loch along Scotland’s breathtaking west coast. Offering a complete escape from the noise and haste of modern life, this secluded haven invites visitors to reconnect with nature and savour life’s simple pleasures. Days on Eilean Shona unfold at a gentle rhythm – with time spent swimming in wild waters, gathering around a campfire, reading in cosy corners, exploring rugged trails, kayaking along the loch, or picnicking by the shoreline.

Holiday Cottages on Eilean Shona

A collection of charming holiday cottages is dotted around the island, each offering comfort, character, and a warm welcome. Whether planning a romantic escape or a family adventure, guests will find a cottage to suit their needs:

Red Cottage – Sleeps 2

Sawmill Cottage – Sleeps 2

Sail Loft – Sleeps 4 and includes a sauna

Shepherd’s Cottage – Sleeps 2

South Shore Cottage – Sleeps 2

Old Schoolhouse – Sleeps 4

Timber Cottage – Sleeps 2

Tioram Cottage – Sleeps 8

Five of the cottages are nestled in the island’s sheltered south-east corner, offering scenic views over the loch and towards the romantic ruins of Castle Tioram. South Shore Cottage is conveniently located along the path to Shoe Bay, while the Old Schoolhouse and Shepherd’s Cottage are set further north in more secluded spots near the North Channel. Every cottage is individually styled but all maintain a high standard of comfort and thoughtful interior design.

Inside each, guests will find a well-equipped kitchen, plush white towels, and beds dressed in fine Egyptian cotton linen. A welcome pack is provided, including kindling, firelighters, matches, bin bags, toilet roll, washing-up liquid, and essential cleaning supplies. Every cottage also features its own fire pit – ideal for unwinding under starry skies.

Eilean Shona House – For Larger Gatherings

For special occasions or group getaways, Eilean Shona House is available and sleeps up to 18 guests. This impressive property is well-suited to extended families, reunions, or celebratory events.

Getting to the Island

Access to the island enhances the feeling of retreat. Visitors leave their vehicles in a secure parking area near Castle Tioram. On arrival at Dorlin Pier, the Eilean Shona team provides a 15-minute boat transfer across Loch Moidart to the island’s pontoon. Luggage is transported by quad trailer, and guests are then guided on a tranquil walk to their cottage.

Once on the island, peace and privacy are respected. In addition to the arrival and departure crossings, a complimentary boat transfer is available on Wednesdays (departing at 9am and returning at 5pm). With no roads and few people, it’s not unusual to enjoy long stretches of solitude interrupted only by birdsong or the rustle of deer in the woods.

Island Amenities and Experiences

Although all accommodation is self-catered, guests have access to a thoughtfully stocked island shop offering pantry essentials, fresh bread, dairy items, wine, beer, and locally sourced treats. Pre-ordered frozen meals – such as fish pie and venison casserole – are lovingly prepared by Niamh, the island chef, and delivered to cottages ahead of arrival.

The Village Hall is the island’s social heart, equipped with Wi-Fi, wildlife books, table tennis, and board games. On Tuesday evenings, guests are invited to a cosy pub night from 6–8pm, where they can enjoy drinks by the fire. For artists and creatives, a peaceful studio space is also available to hire, offering inspiration drawn from the island’s raw natural beauty.

Booking Information

Guests are encouraged to quote The Holiday Cottages when booking directly.

For more information please visit our website:

https://www.theholidaycottages.co.uk/EileanShona/18149

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Artists House, Harrogate, North Yorkshire

Artists House, Harrogate, North Yorkshire

Artists House in High Harrogate has been meticulously refurbished to offer an exceptional standard of accommodation, perfectly blending the comforts of home with the luxury required for both business and leisure travel. This elegantly appointed house has been designed with a keen eye for detail, ensuring every aspect meets the needs of discerning guests.

At the heart of Artists House are two deluxe bedrooms, each furnished with king-size beds that can be converted into singles, providing flexibility depending on guest requirements. The living spaces are just as impressive, featuring a lounge with a log-burning stove that uses only kiln-dried logs to comply with the smokeless zone regulations, enhancing the atmosphere of the house.

The house is not just about comfort but also connectivity and entertainment. Guests can enjoy free, secure, and unrestricted WiFi with speeds up to 40 Mbps, alongside a SMART TV and a vinyl record player for a touch of nostalgia. A selection of books and board games are available for quieter moments, and a Bluetooth-enabled speaker allows guests to enjoy their music of choice.

Practicality is also a key feature of Artists House, with amenities designed to make stays effortless. The kitchen is equipped with everything needed to prepare and serve three-course meals. Appliances include a Krups Nespresso coffee machine, a Miele pyrolytic electric oven, a Neff induction hob, De'Longhi small appliances, and a microwave. The dining area is particularly notable for its large table, which extends to seat up to 10 people, with six chairs provided as standard and additional seating available upon request.

The luxury extends beyond the interior with a secluded and secure patio area in the large, fully enclosed backyard. Here, guests can find a BBQ and a chiminea, along with a dining table and chairs, making it an ideal spot for al fresco dining and relaxation during the summer months.

Every detail in Artists House is geared towards creating a seamless and luxurious living experience, from the high-quality linens and towels provided to the complimentary ID Aromatics toiletries and a good supply of dishwasher tablets and cleaning equipment, ensuring every aspect of your stay is catered for with the highest level of attention

For more information please visit our website:

https://www.theholidaycottages.co.uk/north-yorkshire/16461

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Cairns Cottage, Gairloch, Wester Ross

Cairns Cottage, Gairloch, Wester Ross

Situated in the serene hamlet of Port Henderson on the South shore of Gairloch in the North West of Scotland, Cairns Cottage stands as a retreat amidst breathtaking scenery, offering a true taste of Highland living. This self-catering haven, ideal for couples and small families, spans two storeys with a double and twin bedroom, a living room equipped with a TV, DVD player, Bose sound system, and Bluetooth speaker, and a fully fitted modern kitchen.

The holiday cottage is surrounded by an enclosed garden, providing captivating views of the surrounding landscapes. Cairns Cottage is located on a quiet country road tracing the coastline, revealing small bays, fishing harbours, sweeping sands, and culminating at the renowned beauty spot, Redpoint Bay, boasting a wide sandy beach.

Port Henderson, a small crofting hamlet near Gairloch in Wester Ross, offers tranquillity and a true escape to nature. While the best way to explore the Highlands is by car, given the limited public transportation options, the city of Inverness serves as the main access hub with a national airport, bus and rail links, and trunk roads connecting to Aberdeen in the East and Perth to the South.

For avid walkers, Gairloch lies on the Western fringe of the "Wilderness," with Torridon to the South and Coigach and Assynt by Ullapool to the North. These regions boast some of Scotland's best mountains, including numerous Munros (mountains over 3,000 feet), offering a playground for rock climbers and walkers alike. On lower ground, the area presents picturesque walks around lochs and glens, offering panoramic views to the hills and across the sea to Skye.

Beyond walking, the region offers various activities such as watersports at Badachrobay and Sheildaig bay, fishing in the rivers (Ewe, Badachro, and Kerry), or salmon fishing in the Lochs. Cairns Cottage, in its idyllic setting, becomes the perfect base for those seeking to explore the natural wonders and outdoor activities that define the North West of Scotland.

For more information please visit our website:

https://theholidaycottages.co.uk/wester-ross/10730

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Tregynon Cottages, Gwaun Valley, Fishgaurd, Pembrokeshire

Tregynon Cottages, Gwaun Valley, Fishgaurd, Pembrokeshire

Tregynon Cottages, nestled in the picturesque Gwaun Valley, invites guests to experience the charm and warmth of their self-catering accommodations. A perfect haven for a memorable walking or relaxing holiday, these cottages offer a tranquil escape near Fishguard and the renowned Pembrokeshire Coastal Path, making it an ideal location to explore the best of West Wales.

With both cottages rated at 4 Stars by Visit Wales, these splendid retreats are situated in the heart of the Pembrokeshire Coastal National Park, amidst the lower reaches of the Preseli Hills. Originally dating back to the 16th Century, the cottages have undergone tasteful renovations, blending modern amenities with their authentic character. Biomass heating ensures ample warmth and hot water, while the doorstep views of the hills and Gwaun Valley captivate the senses.

**Foxglove Cottage:**

This delightful cottage, accommodating 4 people, offers a spacious lounge/dining room with a coal-effect gas fire, TV, unlimited fibre broadband, and comfortable leather seating. The fully-equipped kitchen includes a cooker, dishwasher, microwave, fridge/freezer compartment, and washing machine. Two bedrooms, one double and one twin, each with private en-suite facilities, provide utmost comfort. The outdoor space features a garden, furniture, and a BBQ area for al fresco dining. Bed linen, towels, and welcome packs are standard.

**Honeysuckle Cottage:**

Similar in layout and facilities to Foxglove Cottage, this superb retreat also accommodates 4 people. The spacious lounge/dining room, fully-equipped kitchen, and two comfortable bedrooms (double and twin) with private en-suite facilities offer a tranquil escape. Outside, the garden, furniture, BBQ area, and a serene spot to enjoy the evening sun complete the experience. Bed linen, towels, and welcome packs are included. The main difference lies in Honeysuckle's main bedroom en-suite, which features a walk-in shower.

**Guest Review:**

"It is rare to find a place that genuinely feels so loved. We hope anyone who stays here enjoys the experience as much as us." - NL, one of our regular guests.

**Visiting The Gwaun Valley & Exploring Pembrokeshire:**

Beyond the cosy cottages, Tregynon offers guided walks, tours, and hill and moorland walking skills sessions. With a focus on North Pembrokeshire, guests enjoy discounted rates for these services. Alternatively, venture out on your own with friendly advice on where to go and what to see. Complimentary map and information rooms, along with drying room facilities, are available for guests' convenience. Discover the genuine love and tranquillity at Tregynon Cottages, where each stay is a cherished experience.

For more information please visit our website:

https://www.theholidaycottages.co.uk/pembrokeshire/17540

The Holiday Cottages is a user friendly online directory for self catering accommodation in the UK & Ireland. To keep up to date with properties on our website join us on our social media pages below:

         

Valhalla, Helmsdale, Sutherland, The Highlands

Valhalla, Helmsdale, Sutherland, The Highlands

Valhalla, nestled in the charming village of Helmsdale, Sutherland, beckons as an idyllic retreat, offering splendid self-catering accommodations. This haven serves as the perfect refuge for those seeking respite from the modern clamour, providing a serene base for exploring the natural wonders of North Scotland and the myriad attractions that grace the landscape of Sutherland.

The accommodations feature a welcoming lounge adorned with a 40" LCD TV, Freesat, a DVD player, a wood-burning stove, and an assortment of family games and DVDs. The kitchen, a culinary haven, is fully equipped with modern amenities, including a dishwasher, hob, oven, microwave, tumble dryer, washing machine, fridge, and freezer. A dining room table and a TV with Freeview complete the kitchen space.

The self-catering cottage accommodates up to nine people, with a versatile configuration of bedrooms. Downstairs, the first bedroom boasts a king-size bed, while the second bedroom offers a super king-size bed convertible into two single beds. Bedroom three presents a king-size bed with an additional pull-out mattress if needed, and the final bedroom houses two single beds. The three bathrooms cater to convenience, with a downstairs bathroom adjacent to the first bedroom, featuring a WC and washbasin. Another downstairs bathroom includes a shower, WC, and washbasin. Upstairs, a full-size bathroom awaits with an electric shower, WC, full-size bath, and washbasin.

Helmsdale and the surrounding areas invite guests to engage in a variety of activities, from fishing and hiking to golf. The landscape unfolds with breathtaking views, showcasing spectacular cliffs and beautiful beaches. Delve into the region's rich history with visits to archaeological sites, historic houses, and museums, making each exploration an enriching experience. Valhalla stands as a haven for those eager to unravel the beauty and history that define Helmsdale and Sutherland.

For more information please visit our website:

https://www.theholidaycottages.co.uk/sutherland/6365

The Holiday Cottages is a user friendly online directory for self catering accommodation in the UK & Ireland. To keep up to date with properties on our website join us on our social media pages below:

         

Coldingham Loch Holiday Cottages, Coldingham, Eyemouth, Scottish Borders

Coldingham Loch Holiday Cottages, Coldingham, Eyemouth, Scottish Borders 

Coldingham Loch Holiday Cottages, nestled in the peaceful village of Coldingham within walking distance of Eyemouth, offer an ideal retreat for families, couples, and groups seeking picturesque accommodation in the Scottish Borders.

The Lochside Cottage, a charming Victorian boat house at the loch shore, accommodates three to four people with an open-plan kitchen, wood-burning stove, and balcony overlooking the loch. The Lodge, a traditional cottage, sleeps up to six and features a warm ambience, light airy rooms, an open fire, and a newly fitted kitchen. The Hawthorn Chalet, a cosy private chalet, sleeps three and has an open-plan living space with a stove effect heater. The Sunnyside Chalet accommodates four with a well-equipped kitchen, TV, DVD player, and comfortable seating. The Elm Chalet, spacious with great views, sleeps four, and offers an open-plan living area with TV, DVD player, CD & Radio. The Stable Cottage, tastefully furnished, features two bedrooms, a well-equipped kitchen/diner, and a private patio for al fresco dining.

Exploring Coldingham and the Scottish Borders reveals a host of attractions such as St Abbs, St Head National Nature Reserve, Eyemouth Rib Trips, Number Four Gallery, and Paxton House. The village is an ideal base for fishing on the River Tweed, with opportunities for salmon and trout. The nearby beach is perfect for surfing, and rock pools await exploration. Short breaks are available, starting from £260 for a minimum 3-night stay. The region's beauty, diverse activities, and rich scenery make it a haven for those seeking an enriching holiday experience.

For more information please visit our website:

https://www.theholidaycottages.co.uk/scottish-borders/12455

The Holiday Cottages is a user friendly online directory for self catering accommodation in the UK & Ireland. To keep up to date with properties on our website join us on our social media pages below: