Scandi cool on the beautiful Black Isle: a romantic cocoon on a wild family croft, just 20 mins from Inverness (sleeps 2)
Space & setting.
*Brand new*
Tucked above a little shop on a remote Highland croft, this beautiful loft is the dreamiest escape for two. Hand-built by the owners with warmth and whimsy, it’s a love letter to the wild north – whisky barrel furniture, Scottish-made vintage textiles, tartan blankets and locally-sourced tweed curtains (handsewn by Ailsa). There’s no TV, just card games, books and the occasional moo from the shaggy Highland cows. Skylights flood the room by day; by night, copper pendants cast a golden glow.
With miles of forest walks on your doorstep and the Black Isle’s beaches, distilleries and foodie haunts a short drive away, this is the kind of place where you can completely immerse yourself in your surroundings and soak up the stillness. It’s a particularly soothing space for city dwellers looking for peace: swap sirens for birdsong, rush hour for a gentler rhythm. Gaze out at Ben Wyvis from the deep roll-top tub and stay up late chatting by the crackling fire; there’s no need to be governed by an early alarm clock here.
Getting here: train to Muir of Ord (5 min taxi) or to Inverness (20 min taxi)
“One of a few rentals on our croft, The Loft has a Highland outdoor theme inspired by our own adventures and travels. It’s a space very close to our hearts; we designed and handcrafted the whole interior ourselves.” Owners, Ailsa & Jonny
They love
“Looking out over the swaying treetops as we drink a morning coffee, planning the day ahead.”
We love
The love and care that’s gone into the interiors: a hand-made king size bed, a cleverly designed compact kitchen, vintage chairs and antique church pew seating.
You may not love
A 3-night minimum stay. Other rentals on site; you’re not totally secluded. Not much storage but purpose built space for suitcases/bags under the bed. No TV. Sorry, no pets.
Sustainability.
Insulated to a very high level. All natural materials used in build, plus reclaimed vintage and recycled furniture. Decor, soft furnishings and art all sourced from Scotland, locally where possible. Toiletries and products used are all natural and refillable.
Surrounds.
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Firth of Cromarty -
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Loch Ness
- Spittal Forest is on the doorstep, where red squirrels scamper and roe deer wander. Stock up on delicious groceries from the farm shop nearby and head out on stunning hikes with a picnic, then come home to cook dinner. Everything you need is right here if you just want to hole up.
- Explore the beautiful Black Isle, a remote peninsula of winding roads, sandy coves and wildlife-rich headlands. Spend a slow day pottering between Fortrose, Rosemarkie and Cromarty — all pretty seaside towns with antique shops, foodie spots, and long beaches (10–20 mins’ drive).
- Brunch at The Storehouse at Foulis Ferry, a waterside café and deli with sweeping views across the Cromarty Firth, serving seasonal dishes, Highland meats and locally roasted coffee (15 mins’ drive).
- Sip a pint at Black Isle Brewery, an organic microbrewery set on a working farm with a rustic taproom and garden. Sample their bold, biodynamic beers — a dark porter by the firepit, or the citrusy Blonde Ale in the sun (10 mins’ drive).
- Just 10 minutes down the road, you’ll find Glen Ord Distillery, one of Scotland’s oldest distilleries. Try a wee dram and learn how they make their rich Singleton whisky, then unwind in the stylish tasting room for a post-tour sip.
- Step back in time at Culloden Battlefield, a hauntingly beautiful moorland where the Jacobite rising came to a dramatic end. The visitor centre brings history vividly to life, and the windswept landscape is glorious for a walk (30 mins’ drive).
- Stroll the riverside, browse independent shops or dip into cosy cafés and excellent restaurants of Inverness, the capital of the Highlands. A great base for picking up local produce and artisan wares (30 mins’ drive).
- Check off one of Scotland’s most iconic spots off your bucket list with a scenic drive around Loch Ness. Wander the ruins of Urquhart Castle with sweeping views of the mysterious loch, and keep an eye out for Nessie as you cruise across the water (40 mins’ drive).
- Further afield, the Cairngorms, Western Isles, Isle of Skye, Glen Coe, Torridon and the famous North Coast 500 route are all within easy reach as are endless brilliant places to walk, cycle, climb, wild swim, kayak and ski. Jonny, a passionate hillwalker; mountain biker and climber, will point you to the best spots.
Details.
- Loft apartment above an honesty shop
- Kingsize bed
- One baby under 2 welcome. Cot, high chair and children’s crockery available
- Bathroom with rolltop bath and rainfall shower; Laura Thomas toiletries
- Fully equipped compact kitchen including fridge with freezer compartment, electric oven, induction hob, espresso percolator, dishwasher and toaster; basic supplies
- Welcome basket of local milk and whisky
- Open-plan living/dining area warmed by a woodburner
- Board games, books, binoculars, cards
- Free WiFi
- Private terrace with bistro table and chairs, bench, firepit and BBQ
- Sorry, no pets
- The owners are available by phone should you need anything
- Laundry facilities on request
- Walk to a farm shop (20 mins / 10 mins’ drive)
- Drive to supermarket, pubs, bakery and restaurants in Muir of Ord (5 mins)
- Bike hire available locally
- Booking conditions: 3-night minimum stay
- Remember to pack: walking boots and waterproofs
Book your stay.
Surprise gift on arrival when you book with Kip!
30% deposit, with the balance due 8 weeks prior to stay.
Cancellations permitted 8+ weeks prior to stay, with deposit refunded minus a £30 processing fee.
No refunds if booking cancelled within 8 weeks of stay.
FAQs.
In 4pm / out 10am
Yes – The Ord Arms in Muir of Ord or The Lovat Arms in Beauly are the closest (5/15 mins’ drive).
There are gifts, local treats like jam, chocolate and coffee, bbq charcoal and firelighters. They don’t sell fresh items but the Black Isle dairy have an
honesty shop which is only 5 mins’ drive with fresh milk, eggs, bread, meat, cheese, the best ice cream and lots of other treats. Black Isle Berries at Tore is
another incredible farm shop 10 mins’ drive away.
Still have a question?
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