The island of Islay is home to 8 whisky distilleries, amazing scenery and an abundance of wildlife including Golden Eagle, Corncrake and thousands of geese in the winter. Smiddy Cottage is set at the heart of an RSPB reserve and due to its unique location you have a feeling of seclusion and isolation yet the beautiful Saligo Bay is only a 5 minute walk. Also within easy range are the Opera Rocks and the dramatic cliffs of the north west coastline. The RSPB Visitor Centre and Loch Gruinart are about a 10 minute drive away - this is a perfect cottage for a bird-watching holiday.
Horse riding is available nearby at Rockside Farm Trekking Centre which has a range of treks and horses to suit all abilities. For golfers there is an excellent course on the island and fishermen will not be disappointed with Loch Gorm, Islay's largest loch. Boats can be hired or fishing is available from the bank.
The nearest of the 8 distilleries is Kilchoman and Bruichladdich is only a 15 minute drive. All of the distilleries offer guided tours and, of course, the chance to sample the whisky. The town of Bridgend is a twenty minute drive and has a shop and fuel station as well as a restaurant. Port Charlotte, also a twenty minute drive, has a further choice of bars and restaurants.
The cottage is open plan with the kitchen, living and dining areas on the ground floor and a mezzanine style bedroom above. The bedroom has zip and link beds which can either be configured as a king sized double or 2 singles. A large Velux window to the east enables you to watch the sunrise whereas the west facing window gives a fabulous view of the sunset. The bathroom is bright and airy with views out over the hill. It has a power shower, WC, sink and heated towel rail.
Downstairs, the fully equipped kitchen has a dishwasher, washing machine, fridge freezer, gas hob and oven and the table comfortably seats four. The living room features a vaulted ceiling with exposed beams and is flooded with natural light. There are two comfortable leather sofas and a multi fuel stove, perfect for relaxing after a day's walking.
Outside the garden is surrounded by wild flowers and stunning views. There is a lawn with garden furniture and a clothes drying area.
To get to the cottage, follow signs to Bridgend from Port Askaig or Port Ellen ferry ports. Turn onto the A847 towards Portnahaven and follow this road for around 4.5 miles (7km). Turn right onto the B8018 towards Sanaigmore. After around 1 mile (1.6km), turn right to stay on the B8018. Follow road past Carnduncan on your right and at the red telephone box keep left. Stay on this road, you will cross a cattle grid and then take the next right through the gate at Saligo. Follow the track to the first house on the right and you have arrived.
Heating, electricity and fuel for the stove are included.
Use of mountain bikes included.
The cottage has a payphone.
Smiddy Cottage is rented out throughout the year. Change over day is Saturday. Arrive 3.30 pm, leave by 10am.
Short breaks available in the off peak season.
To see rental prices and availability for this romantic self catering cottage on Islay, click the enquiry button below.