Benmore Lodge

In the wild upper reaches of Northern Scotland sits this fantastic Highland retreat. Sleeping up to nine people, its envy-inducing position on the mirror-like banks of Loch Ailsh in one of Scotland’s ‘last great wildernesses’ is a hugely enticing proposition for nature lovers, wildlife watchers and walkers. Enrobed in untainted natural beauty, it offers the perfect escape for those looking to switch off their mobiles and fully embrace the freedom of just ‘being’.

Accessed via two steps and spread out across one level, this self-catering lodge in Lairg is a fantastic base for families and friends of all generations. Homely yet uncluttered and boasting jaw-dropping views from every window, it is as soothing for the soul as it is captivating for the eye. Topped off with welcoming additions such as the generous selection of books and magazines, toasty central heating and wonderful open fire (with fuel included) you are sure are to feel perfectly at home from the moment you arrive.

Loose boots, unzip coats and dry off soggy paws in the entrance hall and head to the kitchen to rummage through supplies and cook up a warming feast. Equipped with every amenity you could need and complete with a breakfast table too, you can gather around over cups of tea and mountains of scran or head into the dining room for a more formal sitting. Once plates have been emptied and popped in the dishwasher, make your way towards the lounge with the open fire blazing and nurse a local Scottish whisky as you share anecdotes.

As well as the living areas, you will also find five comfortable bedrooms across the ground floor ready to welcome all members of the family for a cosy night’s sleep. Take your pick of the master bedroom with king-size bed and en-suite bathroom with shower over bath, the twin bedroom with en-suite bathroom with shower over bath, two further twin bedrooms and the single bedroom, each as cosy as the next. To complete the picture, there is also a family bathroom with another shower over bath.

Tucked 3 miles down a private track and spoilt for choice with outside space, this lochside cottage in Lairg fulfils childhood dreams of Blyton-esque adventures. And, with ample parking for several cars adjacent to the house, you are encouraged to stay at home and enjoy the locale or explore further afield. Enjoy steaming cups of tea on the patio in the morning and dip your toes in the loch to wake up. With the gardens seamlessly blending with the surrounds, little kids, big kids and four-legged friends will be in their element discovering and rediscovering the best spots to sit, play and take in the views.

• 5 bedrooms - 1 king-size, 3 twins, 1 single
• 3 bathrooms - 1 shared bathroom with WC and bath with a handheld showerhead; 1 small WC room; 2 en-suites both with WC and bath with handheld showerhead
• Kitchen- gas hob and with 3 ovens and grill, 2 fridge, 2 freezers, 1 microwave, 1 dishwasher
• Freeview TV with DVD player, CD player and range of books and board games
• Utility room washing machine, tumble dryer, freezer and chest freezer
• Drying room
• Open fire (fuel supplied)
• Wi-Fi available
• Rowing boat, fly fishing and red deer stalking available by arrangement
• Ample parking for multiple cars
• Pub 2.5 miles, shop 25 miles
• Arrival: 16:00 onwards
• Departure: before 10:00, unless otherwise stated in your arrival details
• 2 dogs allowed. Dogs are charged at £20 each per full or part week
• There is an Accidental Damage Deposit of £350 when booking at this property, however this may be waived for £40. We’ll provide more details about this when booking your holiday.

With plenty to see and do without the need of a car, this is a brilliant choice for families. Set out on foot to explore the glorious Benmore Estate, starting with the quaint sandy beach at the bottom of the garden. Get closer to the water by taking a rowing boat out on the loch, which can be arranged in advance, or try your hand at fly fishing. Keen walkers should be sure to take on the twin peaks of Conival and Ben More, before stopping in for a refreshing drink at Benmore Lodge or a hearty meal at The Oykel Bridge Hotel (10.5 miles). For amenities, visit the nearby towns of Ullapool (24.5 miles) and Lochinver (26 miles), where you will find a good choice of shops, restaurants and cafes.