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Gualan Sands

(Ref. 1110843)

Iochdar, Western Isles Show on map

5.0

Sykes rating

  • 6 Guests

  • 3 Bedrooms

  • 2 Bathrooms

  • Pets: Yes

Features

  • Off road parking
  • Ground floor bedroom
  • Garden / Patio
  • Cot available
  • Washing machine
  • Dishwasher
  • Broadband / WiFi

Reviews & Ratings

Accuracy of the listing
Cleanliness
Comfort
Facilities and Maintenance
  • All reviews
  • views (10)
  • location (9)
  • property (9)
  • well (8)
  • comfortable (8)
  • house (8)

18 Customer Reviews

  • "Fabulous modern property with stunning views of South Uist’s lochs and beaches"

    Reviewed by Duncan5.0Aug 2024

  • "August 2024."

    Gualan Sands is an excellent self-catering property. The quality of the house and all the amenities are exceptional and practical for families and pets. The location offers access to many islands but also remains private. We enjoyed walks from the door over the sands to the beach (low tide only - do be mindful of this) as well as relaxing and enjoying the views from the house. We visited North Uist, Benbecula, South Uist and Eriskay. Sollas Beach was a favourite but there are many more on the islands. If you enjoy bird watching bring your binoculars, many can be spotted without leaving the house. We had a short-eared owl visit daily. If you wish to travel to other islands book your ferries in advance. Flying from Benbecula to Glasgow is straightforward and Lochmaddy port is more practical than Lochboisdale. Fiona was extremely kind and helpful throughout our stay. I would highly recommend this property, you won't be disappointed and we hope to return.

    Reviewed by Suzanne Louise5.0Aug 2024

  • "A beautiful, comfortable house with stunning views and well situated to see all the islands."

    Loved our week here

    Reviewed by Nicola5.0Jul 2024

  • "Our stay was nothing short of magical!"

    This hidden gem offered a truly unique and an unforgettable experience, panoramic views of the sparkling sea stretched out before us. The sense of peace and tranquillity that enveloped the area was simply breathtaking. The property was very well equipped and spacious, comfortable and beautifully decorated. The location is great for visiting both ends of the island.

    Reviewed by Joanne5.0Jun 2024

  • "Superb location and light into the building"

    Reviewed by Geoff5.0May 2024

  • "Well equipped, comfortable, bright and spacious."

    Central location, good for visiting both ends. Couple of handy local beaches. Suggest better suited to people with dogs rather than kids.

    Reviewed by Alex5.0Apr 2024

  • "The house is absolutely wonderful, beautifully decorated and furnished, everything you need for a relaxing holiday."

    Beautiful views over the sea and beyond. We were lucky enough to get snow on our visit, something we haven’t seen in a few years! Would highly recommend staying here. 10/10

    Reviewed by Daniel5.0Jan 2024

  • "This property was so well prepared for my arrival, it was warm so well equipped with tasteful décor throughout."

    The bed was comfortable, lovely linens, and such a well appointed kitchen. The view is amazing through the panoramic windows which even on a dreich November day was mesmerising. I highly recommend this property.

    Reviewed by Dawn5.0Nov 2023

  • "Absolutely amazing property in truly magnificent surroundings-get ready to make memories!"

    Reviewed by Debbie5.0Jul 2023

  • "Superb property in a fantastic location."

    Perfect for exploring north and south and close enough to shops and restaurants.

    Reviewed by Daniel5.0Jul 2023

  • "Fabulous property."

    Very well appointed and comfortable. The views and birdlife from the house were captivating. One of the best rentals we have ever stayed at. The owner was very helpful and we very much appreciated the surprises on arrival. Great location for exploring the islands. Can recommend Long Island Retreats for a machair trip and also the Lady Anne boat trips.

    Reviewed by Irene5.0Jun 2023

  • "The property met and exceeded expectations."

    The level of decor and furnishing was indeed luxurious and everything you need is provided for. The location is perfectly located to explore all of the Islands in this chain and I would definitely recommend Gaulan Sands.

    Reviewed by Charles5.0May 2023

  • "A beautiful light and spacious house in a peaceful place with wonderful views and a dream for bird-watching."

    Well-equipped house and very welcoming hosts who have really thought of everything to make for a comfortable and easy stay. Dog friendly and easy to keep clean. Loads of space. Can’t fault it in any way.

    Reviewed by Sara5.0May 2023

  • "A beautiful house with amazing views."

    Very comfortable with everything that you could possibly need for your stay. Communication with the owner with regard to directions/arrival procedures was good.

    Reviewed by Tracey5.0Apr 2023

  • "Beautiful home ,fantastic layout ,everthing you need"

    Reviewed by Ivor5.0Jan 2023

  • "Fantastic new property built to a very high standard in a lovely location."

    The owners Fiona and Roddy were really helpful and even offered to let us stay a further day as we were delayed by one day due to the ferry being off. We rent properties 2/3 times each year both at home and abroad and this property is one of the very best.

    Reviewed by Harry5.0Oct 2022

  • "Gualan Sands is a stunning accommodation on the North End of South Uist, well situated next to the beach, so the panoramic views are amazing."

    Next door is Hebridean Jewellery shop and cafe which serves amazing food and you can buy some stunning gifts. During our stay we saw plenty of wildlife having taken a long walk along the Gualan (watch the tide times though) we saw some seals on the beach. You can see a large variety of birds. The house itself is stunning, the finish is to a very high standard with lovely decor that is in keeping with the location. It is in a very central location, not far from the shops. Overall we had an amazing stay and would highly recommend it to anyone.

    Reviewed by Joan5.0Jul 2022

  • "This is a beautiful, well-presented, comfortable home in a stunning setting."

    Views in all directions. And what stunning views they are. Whatever the weather there is something to watch. Weather fronts coming in over the Atlantic or birds out hunting for their next meal. The house has everything you need. Well thought out. The owner is very happy to hear your thoughts if you feel anything is missing. With the underfloor heating the house is always warm and welcoming. Beds are extremely comfortable and showers that have proper water pressure. A wonderful home to explore Uist from.

    Carolyn RichmondJun 2022

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Summary

  • Three bedrooms: 1 x ground-floor king-size with en-suite with walk-in shower, basin, heated towel rail and WC, 2 x twins
  • Bathroom with feature copper bath, walk-in shower, basin, heated towel rails and WC
  • Open-plan living space with kitchen, dining area and sitting area and electric fire
  • Underfloor heating downstairs and radiators upstairs
  • Electric oven, electric hob, microwave, fridge/freezer, washing machine, tumble dryer, dishwasher, coffee maker, hairdryer
  • Smart TV, WiFi
  • Fuel and power inc. in rent
  • Bed linen and towels inc. in rent
  • Highchair and travel cot available on request
  • Ample off-road parking
  • Gardens to three sides, patio, gravelled area, furniture
  • Pet-friendly
  • Sorry, no smoking
  • Shop 2.2 miles, pub 3.5 miles
  • Note: Though electricity is included in the rent, electric for charging cars is not included in the rental
  • Note: Please bring own linen for travel cot
  • Note: This property only accepts week-long bookings between May - October
  • Travel advisory: Calmac is the ferry operator to the Outer Hebrides
  • Gualan is approximately a 30-minute drive from Lochboisdale, which has ferry links from Oban and Mallaig (please check timetables for more information)
  • Lochmaddy on North Uist is about a 40-minute drive from Uig on Skye
  • To travel north to Harris and Lewis, the ferry from Berneray to Leverburgh on Harris is approximately a 60-minute drive
  • To travel south to Barra, the ferry from Eriskay to Barra is about 45 mins drive. Ferry website Calmac.co.uk (Please note Sykes are not responsible for any ferry bookings)

The property

Gualan Sands is a stunning detached house providing a sublime setting overlooking the sands at Iochdar near Creagorry on the Isle of South Uist in the Outer Hebrides.

Ideal for large families or groups travelling together, the property has been designed to maximise the panoramic views which never fail to deliver whatever the weather or time of year.

Pull up and park the car outside this contemporary abode.

From the exterior, the expansive windows draw you in, offering a glimpse of the stunning seaside views that will leave you eager to experience them firsthand.

The open-plan living area is appealing, spacious and light.

Spend hours in this sociable sitting area, with huge windows framing the sandy beach, covered by the tide twice a day.

Snuggle up by the feature electric fire, offering an alternative focal point to the room, after a day of bird spotting.

Step into the sleek and contemporary kitchen which is fully fitted with everything needed to create some fantastic cuisine for your party, maybe using some of the wonderful local produce available on the doorstep.

Once you have prepared your meal why not wander over to the elegant dining area which is all set up ready for you to enjoy long, sociable meals with your holiday party?

This is a remarkable space which makes the most of the views and is perfect for entertaining.

If the weather allows then throw open the doors and step outside into the magnificent gardens which offer breathtaking views to all sides.

When night falls, guests can choose from any of the three bedrooms (a king-size and two twins); all boast impressive sea views and are luxuriously appointed.

There is simply nowhere more pleasurable to wake up to in the morning than here.

Step outside when the tide is low, and you'll be greeted by a variety of birds.

This is one of the best places in the UK to spot migrant waders.

Keep an eye on the skies, as White-tailed and Golden Eagles can also be seen soaring above.

This hamlet offers a great choice of shops, including a nearby Co-op, a selection of shops in Balivanich (Benbecula) and further South in Loch Boisdale, another Co-Op store.

There is a selection of butchers, a bank, fresh seafood outlets, and smoked Salar salmon, which is smoked locally and available at various outlets on the island.

For Kallin seafood, head to Grimsay.

You’ll also find honesty boxes by the roadside, where you can pick up fresh eggs for a delicious breakfast.

It’s a charming, scattered hamlet with everything you need to start your day off right.

Just a short walk away is the Hebridean Jewelry workshop, shop, and café, offering excellent homemade baking, fresh soup, coffee, tea, and more.

Grab a day or week permit and try your luck fishing in the freshwater lochs scattered across the island.

Popular catches include Wild Brown Trout and Sea Trout.

The island has various sites of archaeological interest, The Kildonan Museum has the ruins of the house Flora MacDonald was born in, among other fascinating artifacts, be sure to commemorate your visit with a purchase from the gift shop, or take a moment to relax and refresh at the on-site café.

Gather your provisions and head to one of the many beaches with continuous white sand.

Stretching nearly the entire length of the Western side of the island, the dunes are home to over 200 species of flowering plants, collectively known as the machair.

In full bloom from mid-May to August, the vibrant machair also provides a thriving habitat for many ground-nesting birds.

Rising 620 meters, Beinn Mhor is the island's highest mountain, offering a peaceful hike with breathtaking views from the summit.

Lastly, golf enthusiasts can take a swing at Askernish Golf course designed by Old Tom Morris.

For a memorable holiday escape, pay a visit to Gualan Sands.

Please note: This property only accepts week-long bookings between May - October

Note: This property has a Good Housekeeping bond of £400.

View on map

Where you’ll be staying

Iochdar

Creagorry 1.8 miles; Linaclate 3.1 miles; Askernish 17.1 miles.

Iochdar is a picturesque coastal hamlet resting on South Uist, near Creagorry. The hamlet is known for its scenic landscapes and Atlantic-facing beach that runs up to Ardivachar Point. Venture out to explore the stunning landscapes surrounding Iochdar, where you can immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Highlands. Spend a day fishing or kayaking on the tranquil waters of the loch, or take advantage of the numerous walking and cycling routes that wind through the picturesque scenery. Wildlife enthusiasts will enjoy the chance to spot local fauna, including red deer and elusive golden eagles. Dining options include The Stepping Stone Restaurant, while you can stock up on essentials at the nearby Lovats Supermarket. Take a short drive to uncover the beauty of Benbecula as you explore the stunning landscapes and rich history that surrounds Linaclate. Visit the sandy beach here or take a step back in time through the artifacts at the small Museum nan Eilean, Lionacleit. Alternatively, take a drive down to Askernish Golf Club, a great way for golf enthusiasts to spend a relaxing day.

Note: Though electricity is included in the rent, electric for charging cars is not included in the rental. Note: Please bear in mind that this property is located on an island and therefore only accessible by plane or ferry.

Please note: This property only accepts week-long bookings between May - October

This property offers the following short breaks:

  • Winter
  • Christmas