Escape to the western highlands in search of adventure, just 3.5 miles from Fort William, also known as the gate to Ben Nevis. Sleeping 14 guests across seven bedrooms, this is the perfect retreat for large parties who love the outdoors. Fill your itinerary with scenic walks, mountain biking, water sports and during the winter there’s even skiing and snowboarding opportunities if the weather is favourable. After a busy day, return to bask in the glow of a roaring open fire, wee dram in hand as you unwind in the comfort of this beautifully renovated property.
The house is wonderfully spacious and full of natural light from large bay windows, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Each room is decorated in rich colours and elegantly furnished, warmed throughout by four open fires and cosy central heating. Details such as a vast mahogany dining table and antique-style furniture add to the historic feel of the property, which was built in 1870 as the primary fishing lodge of the River Lochy.
The kitchen is finished in a true farmhouse-style, complete with a magnificent Aga for rustling up hearty meals. A useful larder, utility room, and a butler’s pantry make catering for large parties a breeze, especially with the addition of a grand dining room fit for a feast. Post-dinner drinks and relaxed conversation flow in the drawing-room, or perhaps you would prefer to curl up in the peaceful morning room with a warming brew. The sitting room is an excellent spot to relax, watch television or play games. There’s also a neighbouring study with a TV to settle any disagreements of what to watch.
Upstairs, the bedrooms are bursting with character and traditional touches, many of which have unique details such as sloped ceilings and cosy nooks. The master bedroom has an en-suite bathroom and boasts a bed older than the house itself; a magnificent Jacobean four-poster. Two king-size rooms have their own en-suites, each featuring a bath for long soaks after a day of adventuring. The remaining rooms are all twins, dressed in crisp linen and sharing two family-sized bathrooms.
The house is shrouded by ancient trees and surrounded by five acres of spectacular informal grounds and open farmland as far as the eye can see. Perch outside on the paved terrace with a pot of fresh coffee, marvelling at the breathtaking views across the river to the mountains beyond. The river is home to a variety of wildlife and is well known for its large salmon, so keep your eyes peeled when dipping your toes in the water!