ISLE OF MULL

Gowanbrae is the cosiest little cottage imaginable and has a superb location right on the shores of the inlet Loch na Lathaich in the south west corner of the wonderful island of Mull. The cottage looks across the bay to the village of Bunessan (with shop/PO) which is just a stroll away. It is a typical wee Highland croft house, whitewashed, detached and traditional, but inside it has been thoroughly modernised without any sacrifice of its character. Gowanbrae really does tick all of the boxes! The spectacular exposed stone wall around the wood-burning stove (that supplements the electric heating) in the L-shaped main living area confers tremendous character and there is plenty of comfortable seating. The dining table spans the arch between what were once two separate rooms that are now splendidly combined. The kitchen area is well-equipped with all appliances and leads through to the other sitting/TV room, which has a lovely relaxed atmosphere and patio doors out to the grassed garden. All on one level there are two bedrooms, a double and a twin, that are both cosy and well furnished. The double room has a handy en suite shower room and there is also a separate family bathroom that completes the accommodation. Outside, the shore is just across the tiny road from the cottage and provides a constant source of interest with birds aplenty and even the occasional seal. The interplay of light and water is one of the delights of this most atmospheric of Scottish islands. The coastline here is full of quiet little coves, which you may well have all to yourself, but the highlight is surely the magical island of Iona, which is just a few miles down the road with its ancient Abbey and silver sands. Accessible by a little foot ferry (no booking necessary) from Fionnphort (with hotel and shop) it is a place which will draw you back again and again. From Fionnphort you can take boat trips to Staffa too, with its amazing hexagonal rock formations and the site of Fingal's Cave and to the Treshnish isles to see the equally amazing bird colonies. Mull itself has also much to offer - there are great coastal and hill walks to be enjoyed. Back along the road towards Craignure, you will pass the road off to Carsaig (spectacular bay cliffs and beloved of artists) or continue on to Torosay and Duart Castles. Torosay has lovely gardens and a miniature railway while Duart, the ancient seat of the Clan MacLean, occupies a commanding position above the Sound of Mull. The west coast of the island is well worth exploring - there is riding at Gruline and a glorious beach at Calgary. At that end of the island too is the Mull Little Theatre at Dervaig and, of course, the picturesque capital Tobermory with its brightly coloured houses clustering round the harbour. However you choose to spend your time, relaxation is the rule of the day at Gowanbrae and this comfortable cottage is just the place to enjoy it.