The Crofter’s House

Camustianavaig, Isle of Skye, Scotland

From £175/night

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Romantic hideaway in an original crofter's cottage, surrounded by Skye's majestic landscapes

Close to a beach

Eco conscious

Parking

WiFi

Woodburner

The Isle of Skye is a photographer’s dream. Wild and rugged, its dramatic landscapes mix jagged mountains, heather-strewn heathland, lochs, glens and black-pebbled beaches. Drive over the bridge from the Scottish mainland and you’re in another world. This stunning cottage is a perfect counterbalance to the brooding surroundings, all light, modern and Scandi minimalism – whitewashed walls, pale-grey panelling and designer lighting. It’s remote yet a perfect base for the island, 10 mins’ drive from the capital Portree, and 150 yards from Camastianavig Bay where wild seals and otters pop up in the water.

Spend your days exploring on foot, by bike and in the car, stopping at foodie restaurants for an early supper, then return to this cosy home to light the wood-burner and open some red wine. Read books, listen to music. And later, the romantic little bedroom is perfectly angled so you can lie in bed and watch the flames flicker in the burner as you fall asleep.

Getting there: you’ll need to drive.

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Owner Sarah is a graphic designer who lives in Glasgow, but fell in love with Skye after visiting for work. She bought this original crofter’s cottage to transform into a tranquil retreat for her holidays.

She loves
“Taking an evening walk to the bay to see the resident otters and seals. Peaceful mornings and cosy evenings in front of the wood-burner.”

We love
The deep square window seats; perfect to sit and watch the ever-changing landscape, depending on the weather.

You may not love
Min 3-night stay unless there are gaps in the calendar; patchy mobile reception; no central heating but there are electric wall-heaters and a woodburner so it’s very cosy. Sorry, no dogs allowed.

Our stay at The Isle of Skye Retreat was absolutely divine. Tucked a stone's throw away from the calm and peaceful bay, the property invites you to leave all your stresses of city life at the door the moment you walk in. We spent our days sipping wine by fire light, playing chess and watching films curled up on the sofa in the evening; a cost retreat after days of sight-seeing and exploring the rest the Isle of Skye has to offer. The house itself is stylish yet soothing - neutral colour palettes, soft lighting, rugs and blankets. We stayed for 3 nights but could absolutely make a week of it here - next time we'll take our swimming costumes and attempt a dip in the bay!
Sophie Ralls, April
You can expect to close Isle of Skye Retreat's front gate feeling like a local, and wishing you actually were. The house is fitted with everything you need for a comfortable stay and cooking in the kitchen with a glass of wine gazing out the window, gives you a real sense of a country cottage. The bed and sofa are so comfortable, it would be difficult to go outside if Skye weren’t as spectacular as it is. Our host was wonderful - always reachable and helpful. All in all, 10/10 for Sarah and Isle of Skye Retreat. It is a beautifully run and put together space, whether you’re adventuring or relaxing on Skye. We’ll be back, 100%.
Ryan, October
I enjoyed a wonderful three nights at the Isle of Skye Retreat. The space is beautifully furnished, comfortable, light and feels very secluded despite only being a short drive into Portree. Sarah was great to communicate with prior to our stay and all the local recommendations were excellent. I wouldn't hesitate to book again or recommend the Isle of Skye Retreat to others.
Louise, Feb
Honestly awestruck at this wee place. A charming retreat, well positioned with all the hygge feels you could want. The interior is minimal and stylish, and resting in front of the log burner after a day of exploration was wonderful. The super comfy bed makes for a restful night sleep but waking up and heading out to see the winter sunrise was lovely. We will be back!
Robbie Baird, June

Sustainability.

The original croft house dates back to the 1830s and requires very little energy to heat and maintain – its walls are nearly a metre thick. Electricity is supplied by Bulb (the UK’s greenest energy supplier) and its usage is monitored to reduce consumption, as is water. The housekeeper lives nearby and laundry is done on-site or locally. Cleaning products are environmentally friendly and guests are encouraged to recycle. The business supports the John Muir Trust, a Scottish conservation charity dedicated to protecting and developing wild land.

Surrounds.

The Old Man of Storr
Local bay
Portree, Skye's capital
Road to the Cuillin by Emma-Bishop
The Quairig

Climb Ben Tianavaig just behind the house and drink in panoramas of the Sound of Raasay.
Take a trip to Coral Beach; a stunning white-sand beach that’s a complete contrast to the island’s brooding Hebrides landscapes. At low tide you can walk over to the island of Lampay.
Further afield, The Old Man of Storr, the Quiraing and the Cuillin are Skye’s other best-known sights.
Foodies will love the upmarket Three Chimneys (book ahead), Loch Bay and the laid-back Oyster Shed, whose Pacific oysters are grown in the crystal-clear waters of Loch Harport on the west coast.
Visit prehistoric sites and ancient castles; the island has a turbulent history.

Details.

Private 1830s cottage, with a contemporary interior
Bedroom with kingsize bed
Ensuite shower bathroom; BYO toiletries
Well-equipped kitchen with electric hob, oven, fridge/freezer and dishwasher
Beautiful lounge: woodburner and Bluetooth speaker
Free WiFi
Sorry, no dogs allowed
Bring bikes; there’s a woodshed to store them
You’ll need a car to get here
Drive to shops (10km), pubs and restaurants
Booking conditions: Min 3 nights except over Christmas when it rises to 5 nights. If there are shorter gaps in the calendar than 3 nights these may be allowed
Remember to pack: firewood and firelighters, good shoes for walking
*License number: HI-30049-F. EPC rating is: D*

Booking & cancellation policy

Strict

30% deposit on booking, with the balance due 12 weeks prior to stay.
Cancellations permitted 12+ weeks prior to stay, with deposit refunded minus a £40 processing fee.
No refunds if booking cancelled within 12 weeks of stay.
See our full booking Ts & Cs