Scotland Skye self catering rental accommodation Wiay Cottage

Wiay Cottage
Near Portnalong
Isle of Skye

Betten 5

About half way up the Isle of Skye, under the dramatic slopes of the Red Cuillin, the road branches left for Dunvegan. Take that left fork and go left again round the head of Loch Harport. Pass the Talisker Whisky Distillery (yes, PASS it on this occasion - you can go back later in the week!), and a wee winding road will take you round to Wiay (pronounced Wye) Cottage which stands quite alone in an elevated position with wonderful views across the inlet to the scattered croft houses on the other side.

Wiay has it all; a peaceful setting - the road peters out past some more crofts about a mile further on), a lovely view, a bright, cosy interior which has been tastefully refurbished and comfortably refurnished by the owners with an eye to providing all the ingredients for a happy and relaxing holiday.

Wiay Cottage The surrounding 35 acres of hillside belong to the cottage. There is parking at the door and plenty of room for several cars. The kitchen/diner has floor-to- ceiling windows so you can relax and enjoy an evening drink while you take in the view. The sitting room has an open fire for chillier evenings and Sky TV/DVD/Video and hi-fi - they really have tried to think of everything!

There is a shop, a café and a pub serving meals at Portnalong (2m) and another hotel and shop at Carbost (5m). There is excellent fishing in the sea or lochans round about and golf at Sconser (14m) where you can also catch the ferry which plies back and forth over to Raasay (wonderful walks, wildlife, water sports, utter peace). Portree (21m) has the best range of shops and facilities on the island. Just past there you can climb up to the Old Man of Storr, a delightful walking experience for those who don't feel quite up to the challenges of the Cuillins.

Walking and climbing of course are two of the premier attractions of Skye; you can start in the hills around the cottage or take the road down to the beach at Glenbrittle, where there are fabulous views of the Black Cuillin and from where you can also start to 'walk in' to them. A visit to Dunvegan, with its famous castle, is another 'must'. At Wiay, you are also perfectly placed to explore the unspoilt north of the island, where you stand an excellent chance of seeing magnificent sea eagles and other wild life. From Uig (35m), you can also take the ferry across to Lewis and Benbecula.

There is a phone box and post box within a short distance of the cottage. Mobile reception is patchy.

Heating is by open fire (starter pack of fuel included) and modern electric storage/convector heaters (first £15 of electricity included). Bed linen and towels are available for hire . Sorry, no pets or smokers.