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  • Ferry Cottage - Balmacara - Scottish Highlands - 1060404 - photo 1
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Ferry Cottage - Balmacara

(Ref. 1060404)

Kyle Of Lochalsh, Northern Highlands & Cairngorms National Park Show on map

4.7

Sykes rating

  • 4 Guests

  • 2 Bedrooms

  • 1 Bathroom

  • Pets Yes

Features

  • Off road parking
  • Ground floor accommodation
  • Ground floor bedroom
  • Open fire
  • Cot available
  • Highchair available
  • Washing machine
  • Dishwasher
  • Seaside
  • Broadband / WiFi

Reviews & Ratings

Accuracy of the listing
Cleanliness
Comfort
Facilities and Maintenance
  • All reviews
  • cottage (15)
  • location (9)
  • beautiful (8)
  • lovely (7)
  • comfortable (7)
  • skye (7)

23 Customer Reviews

  • "Extremely well appointed and comfortable accommodation with a glorious coastal view."

    As returning guests we especially appreciated the refurbishment since our stay two years ago, beautifully done. The short walk along the lane to Balmacara Square is through the forest, where the mosses cover everything and are amazing (but be careful crossing the main road first). In the square the Cozy Corner Cafe serves excellent lunches and cakes, and the shop has a lovely range of gifts and clothes (but check opening hours, as in October the cafe didn’t open until 11am). The 13 minute train journey from Kyle of Lochalsh to Plockton hugs the coast for gorgeous views and it’s worth the walk from the station down to the village, where the Plockton Hotel serves good pub food, there are boat trips to see the seals, and attractive cottages and waterside gardens.

    Reviewed by Anne5.0Oct 2024

  • "Stayed here for a week in October."

    Cottage was lovely and in an amazing spot right on lochalsh. Fantastic views and very peaceful. Only 5 mins by car to town. Cottage itself was spotless and very comfortable with parking and plenty of room for two people and even 4 ! Only problem we had was shower wasn’t that powerful and couldn’t open any windows for some reason ? But on the whole a beautiful cottage in an amazing spot. Would definitely stay again if in the area.

    Reviewed by Sharon4.7Oct 2024

  • "Beautiful cottage in a stunning location."

    Warm, comfortable and very well equipped. The weather was dry but cool when we were there at the end of September. The heating kept us very warm and we did not need the fire, although I'm sure it would be very cosy in winter. The only thing we missed was a proper sitting-out area. There are two chairs either side of the front door facing the loch and that is all. It would be perfect if the two small sheds at the side of the property could be removed and a sitting area made there. However, it didn't detract from the enjoyment of our stay.

    Reviewed by Carolyn4.7Sep 2024

  • "Great cottage in a fantastic location!"

    Reviewed by Sarah5.0Jul 2024

  • "This cottage exceeded our expectations."

    A beautiful property - perfect for the 2 of us and the location, well, simply stunning. In a quiet location with a handful of other properties , right beside the edge of the Loch . We visited at the end of March and hit lucky with the weather although even if the weather hadn't been so great it would still have been a pleasure. Only 10 minutes or so's drive to the Skye Bridge so easy access to other interesting parts of the Highlands. Highly recommended.

    Reviewed by Beverly5.0Mar 2024

  • "This property was lovely, right on the waters edge, as we were staying in winter, so it was wet, windy, cold but sometimes sunny!"

    ! Usual four seasons in a day Scottish weather, fab location for exploring local area and Skye! Eilean Donan castle is a lovely place to visit. If u have dogs, on a visit to Portree we discovered the fabulous The Highland Cow cafe, dog friendly, excellent toasties and coffee. Lots of lovely wildlife and scenery to enjoy!

    Reviewed by Lucy5.0Feb 2024

  • "Ferry cottage is comfortable and very clean with a high standard of fixtures and fittings."

    It is in a wonderful location right next to the sea. The only slight criticism is that a tumble drier or washer/drier would be useful for wet Scottish weather rather than just the washing machine. Our second visit there.

    Reviewed by Marilyn4.7Jun 2023

  • "Great cottage but you need to make people with children and pets aware of the road outside - no question that it is a public road but 15-20 mph is far too fast."

    ..

    Reviewed by Leeve4.7Jun 2023

  • "We were delighted with Ferry Cottage , its situation and comfort, and we enjoyed a lovely holiday there."

    Thank you for your lovely comments and high scores. We have refurbished Ferry Cottage this year and good to read it was comfortable. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Helen5.0Jun 2023

  • "Excellent all round except no dvd has stated."

    Stayed here 20 years ago and it was still as beautiful inside and out this time.

    Reviewed by Judith4.4May 2023

  • "Superb location on the edge of loch Kyle."

    Views, wildlife, (including watching the otter!) convenient for Skye, Plockton, Eilean Donan castle, Applecross, Glenelb etc. Accurate description of property in listing. First Class holiday.

    Reviewed by Richard4.7Apr 2023

  • "As tv was poor a DVD player and CD player would have been useful."

    Reviewed by Janice4.7Mar 2023

  • "A beautiful setting for the property and a lovely aspect - with south facing views across the water from both the living/dining room and main bedroom."

    The road immediately outside, however, does have some traffic, though it only serves 4 or 5 houses and the NTS office. There are also occasional walkers passing by on the woodland walks - which are lovely, gentle routes to take right from the front door. Very clean and tidy with a comfortable bed. No WiFi. Mobile phone coverage did seem to drop off every so often. Freesat TV. Potentially a property that could be used by a non car user as the Citylink coaches from Glasgow and Inverness via Kyle and onwards to Skye stop at the lane end (but please check this with Citylink in advance as there's no bus stop flag). We took a day trip on Citylink (Scottish Bus Passes valid) from Kyle to Portree and Uig so that the driver could have a break and sit back and enjoy the scenery. The other public transport option for a day out is the very scenic rail line from Kyle of Lochalsh to Plockton or Attadale Gardens.

    Reviewed by Ian4.1Oct 2022

  • "Wonderful position on the loch at the end of a peaceful cul de sac."

    Ideal place to explore the mainland as well as Skye. The cottage has lots of character.

    Thank you for filling in the feedback form. Lovely to read that you enjoyed your stay. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Michael4.4Sep 2022

  • "Had a lovely stay here - amazing views from the property and handy to get to places (especially Skye)."

    Things to address: bedroom light in double bed room wasn’t working and it could do with a lick of paint in a few places throughout the property. Also the window in the second bedroom doesn’t lock.

    Many thanks for your feedback, Ferry cottage is in a great location for Skye and the Glenelg area. We have asked the property team to check the bedroom light and thank you very much for reporting the window lock. We have plans over the winter of 22/23 to work on some refurbishment and refreshing of the cottages at Balmacara. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Susan4.4Aug 2022

  • "Lovely little cottage."

    Well equipped, beautiful location right on the lochside. Seals in the bay one evening.

    Thank you for your positive comments. It is a great location for seeing the wildlife. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Carol Ann5.0Jun 2022

  • "Perfect location and beautiful little cottage."

    We loved sitting at the table on an evening and watching otters in the loch. Vert clean and comfortable. Thank you

    Thank you for your kind words, you are very lucky to have seen the otters. We hope to welcome you back to Ferry Cottage or one of our other NTS cottages. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Anthony4.7May 2022

  • "A warm cozy cottage in a beautiful position by the water side."

    Located in a position which is great for SKYE and he mainland. Well equipped and welcoming..

    Many thanks for your feedback about Ferry Cottage, it is in a great position with the lovely views across the Loch. We hope to welcome you back to Ferry Cottage or one of the other National Trust for Scotland cottages. Property Owner

    Reviewed by James5.0May 2022

  • "We visited Scotland for many times, but this visit has been our best one."

    Ferry Cottage is such a pretty cottage with a breathtaking view. It is located in a very calm area and we could make a daily walk through the nearby Wooldland Walks with our dogs. You mustn't take the car to reach all the pretty places around, because there are so many excellent walks in this area. We could even see some seals swimming past from our cottage window. We will definitely book Ferry Cottage again.

    Many thanks for your positive feedback, we are glad that you appreciated what we have at Balmacara. It is a great location on the edge of the sea loch, plenty to do in the area and lots of wildlife. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Barbara5.0Apr 2022

  • "We enjoyed our stay nice and quiet and the uninterrupted view over loch Alsh was outstanding"

    Thank you for your feedback, Ferry Cottage does have some wonderful views, great location and base for Skye and Lochalsh. We hope to welcome you back. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Ross5.0Apr 2022

  • "None. Though the Sykes organisation did not know where the cottage was and give guidance on getting there, though their staff tried there best to help."

    Reviewed by Iain5.0Mar 2022

  • "We loved the cottage and it’s situation."

    We appreciated that it was clean but didn’t have a pungent smell of deodoriser or fabric conditioner. We appreciated the plentiful supply of fuel for the fire. However, one light bulb was missing and the only pair of scissors was broken. A speed restriction on traffic on the minor road passing in front of the cottage would be good.

    Reviewed by Morag4.1Nov 2021

  • "Stunning location and really comfortable cottage."

    Very clean , but some upgrading needed. Damp in bathroom, rusty radiators and kitchen equipment sometimes faulty.

    Reviewed by Victoria4.7Jul 2021

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Summary

  • All ground floor
  • Two bedrooms: 1 x double, 1 x twin
  • Bathroom with bath, shower over, basin and WC
  • Open-plan living space with kitchen, dining area and sitting area with open fire
  • Night storage heaters and open fire
  • Oven and hob, microwave, fridge with small freezer compartment, dishwasher, washing machine, Smart TV
  • WiFi
  • Power inc. in rent
  • Starter pack of fuel supplied for the Open Fire, extra fuel can be purchased locally
  • Bed linen and towels inc. in rent
  • Travel cot and highchair available on request
  • Off-road parking available
  • Well-behaved dogs welcome
  • Sorry, no smoking
  • Shop 1.7 miles, pub 1.8 miles
  • The opening times, visitor facilities and entry prices of all National Trust for Scotland properties and attractions can be viewed on their website here

The property

Kyle of Lochalsh 1.9 miles.

Find a welcoming getaway at the National Trust for Scotland’s Ferry Cottage, a former waiting room for passengers travelling by sailing boat and steamer from Balmacara.

This cottage is steeped in rich history, offering a unique stay in Scotland for a couple, small family or group of friends at any time of the year.

This inviting ground floor cottage exudes historic charm through its characterful features, including original wall lamps and doors, while also benefiting from a peaceful country lane location and boasting exceptional coastal views.

Drop off your bags and enjoy a cosy evening in the open-plan living area; rustle up a hearty meal in the well-equipped kitchen, before heading over to the dining table to enjoy stunning views of the far-reaching coast as you delve into your culinary triumph.

A frosty evening can be spent in front of the open fire, cradling a warming hot chocolate as you relax on the plush sofa.

At the end of an evening, retreat to one of the beautiful bedrooms, consisting of a double and a twin, both featuring ample storage and decorated to a high standard in neutral hues.

Start your day right and take your pick from a quick shower or an indulgent morning bath before breakfast.

Nearby is a selection of shops in the centre of Kyle of Lochalsh, alongside country pubs and fantastic restaurants for your choosing.

Ferry Cottage awaits your arrival for the perfect stay in Scotland.

Note: This property can be booked with Ref. 1060403, together sleeping eight guests.

EPC Rating: Band G

Short-term Holiday Let Licence No: HI-10204-F

Balmacara Estate Cottages

Tucked away in the rural haven of the National Trust for Scotland’s Balmacara Estate are two character-filled cottages, boasting far-reaching coastal views over to the Isle of Skye, rolling hills and rustic lochs among saltmarshes. Situated in the heart of 2,550 hectares of Highland estate, there’s plenty of beauty to explore on your doorstep, amidst varied landscapes and a plethora of wildlife, making this a truly astounding holiday base. These cottages cater to a gathering of eight guests, hosting all the amenities needed for a week-long stay, as well as offering child and pet-friendly amenities throughout to suit a variety of group needs. The Balmacara Estate is home to a lovely café and helpful visitor centre, found just over a mile away from the properties, whilst the bustling Kyle of Lochalsh offers a wealth of shops for you to stock up on any essentials, as well as local pubs where you can enjoy a traditional pub lunch amongst the Scottish countryside. Other notable attractions nearby include the historic village of Plockton, dating back to the 19th century, and The Plock national reserve, boasting beautiful walking routes where you can breathe in the crisp coastal air as you stroll towards mature nature views. You are also within easy reach of the popular Isle of Skye, where you can enjoy sampling extravagant dining on locally-sourced seafood, tasting Talisker whisky and enjoying a day of retail therapy, or travel further afield to the striking Northern Isles. The Falls of Glomach waterfall, cared for by the National Trust for Scotland, is a must-see destination when visiting this area. Here you can experience unforgettable views of the Highlands & Western Isles, from dramatic snow-capped peaks, to serene lochs, to panoramic landscapes of The Hebrides. Relish in a getaway of true adventure at one of the Balmacara Estate Cottages.

View on map

About the location

KYLE OF LOCHALSH

Isle of Skye 1 mile; Inverness 80 miles.

A bustling town in Wester Ross, Kyle of Lochalsh lies on the shores of Loch Alsh and is best known as the gateway to the Isle of Skye. It offers a range of shops, hotels and restaurants and boasts a busy harbour that plays host to a variety of cargo, fishing and occasional passenger vessels. Nearby, is Eilean Donan Castle, one of Scotland's most famous and popular sights, perched at the end of a stone causeway on the shores of Loch Duich. Further south is the Glenelg peninsula - a tranquil backwater which is beautiful, remote and relatively undiscovered. Travelling north from Kyle is the picturesque village of Plockton, famous for its palm trees, cottages grouped around a yacht-filled bay, and Highland cattle which wander the streets! Finally, cross the Skye Bridge to Skye itself and explore all that the “mystical isle” has to offer.