Utterly unique studio-for-2 overlooking a loch, on a peninsula near Fort William and Glen Nevis
Space & setting.
We’re booking in for our own version of summer camp at this modernist studio, the annexe of an old school built for the influx of workers’ children in the Sixties. Set on the Ardgour peninsula opposite Fort William, it once supported the local community as industrial practises boomed in the Highlands; left derelict in 2010 the owners revamped it into their home and a rental, and the building now overlooks mountains and a glassy loch on one side, and a working shipping dock on the other.
The studio also hosts regular creative residencies which are inspired by the old barter system, whereby artists can stay in exchange for creating a piece for the house’s collection. Even the coffee pouch features a specially commissioned artwork, and guests will also find a painting by Vivien McDermid, a still life by Susan Castillo, a landscape by Jonathan Lloyd, and lovely tactile ceramics handmade in Edinburgh. Elemental, remote and modular, the studio offers a unique experience for those in need of a quiet space. Bring your walking boots and waterproofs to stroll among the glens, then settle in for a game of Bananagrams, or with the binoculars – golden eagles can be seen swooping overhead whilst seals, otters and porpoises can be spotted in the water.
Getting here: drive to Corran (near Fort William) then take the car ferry to Ardgour (20 mins’ drive from here)
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Sustainability.
The building and interiors were designed using vintage, recycled, natural materials and trace VOC, and decorated with water based paints. All the products supplied were chosen with the environment in mind, mostly from independent makers within Scotland. The bathroom and cleaning products are chemical-free. Electricity comes from Octopus Energy who supply 100% of their electrical supplies from renewable sources.
Surrounds.
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Achaphubuil -
Achaphubuil looking to Fort William -
Ardnamurchan -
Glen Nevis -
Achaphubuil -
Achaphubuil -
Achaphubuil -
Glencoe
- River to Sea Scotland can deliver canoes and kayaks to the house – sunrise and sunset from the water are particularly special.
- Head to Conaglen for a wild, wonderful dip in its crystal-clear river, then return to warm up by the logburner and spend an afternoon reading.
- Pack a picnic and spend a day at the white sands of Camusdarach (1 hours’ drive). On the way home pick up an authentic Thai takeaway from Sunset Morar.
- The pedestrian ferry is a mile away on foot, providing access to Fort William for restaurants and bars – Susie and Ziggy recommend Black Isle Brewery, Rain Bakery and The Wild Cat.
- Or zip to the mainland on the car ferry for a day climbing Ben Nevis — or Glencoe, which offers wild beauty without the gradient! We love the Glen Nevis gorge, which leads to the spectacular Steall Falls, the 2nd-highest waterfall in the UK.
- Afterwards, cross back over the loch to the Ardgour peninsula and stop for a well-deserved pint at Ardgour Ales on the way home; on Fridays, they do a mean pizza, too.
Specifics.
- Self-contained studio attached to the owners’ home
- Set in Camusnagaul, a village on the Ardgour peninsula opposite Fort William; you can drive around the loch to it (40 mins) or take the car ferry over (5-10 mins)
- Bed nook with kingsize bed
- Bathroom with giant copper rainfall shower over bath; eco-friendly toiletries
- Small but well-equipped kitchen including compact Baby Belling oven, induction hob, cafetière and milk frother; basics provided
- Pre-order local produce for your arrival
- Living/dining area warmed by a woodburner; boardgames, binoculars and books (note no TV)
- WiFi
- The owners are available by phone should you need anything
- Drive 20 mins to Ardgour Ales for pizza on a Friday night
- Walk to pedestrian ferry in 20 mins, which takes you to shops and restaurants in Fort William
- Sorry, no children (possibility for a babe-in-arms, enquire in advance)
- Dog-friendly
- Booking conditions: a 3-night minimum stay
- Remember to pack: walking boots, waterproof clothing and food supplies
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