The location
A truly isolated spot for a peaceful getaway in natural surroundings. Enjoy being off grid, no internet or mobile, although a short walk up the hill gives you good reception.
The stunning beach of Achininver is ten minutes’ walk away;during low tide, views to the north are at their best, as the full isolated beauty of the beach is revealed with beautiful sand facing the North Pole. Good surf can be found here in the right conditions.
Up the Valley, the road ends into the wilderness of the Flow country, but there is a lovely walk over the hill to the Talmine Post Office, which is well equipped and has a fish van on Wednesday’s.
Wildlife includes both Golden and Sea Eagles for the sharp-eyed, Otters traversing the beach, Red Deer and Highland Cattle both free to roam.
Your journey here
A WILD AND BEAUTIFUL DRIVE
If travelling from Inverness:
If you have driven up from Perth, or you have flown into Inverness Airport and hire a vehicle you will you need to leave Inverness by taking the A9 over the Moray Firth to the Black Isle (not actually an Island !), then over the Cromarty Firth via the causeway. Drive 4 miles on the A9 and take the left turn on the B9176 signposted to Bonar Bridge. This route goes up over the hill, known locally as ‘the Struie’. When the B9176 starts to descend from its highest point, be sure to stop on the right at the viewpoint there which should provide a spectacular view.
Just as you join the A836 and travel towards Lairg look out for the yellow AA box in its shining colours!
"Revelation: It Doesn't get better than this"
Top Gear describe The A836 as 20 miles of stunning, and one of the best roads in Europe. We heartily agree!
Just as you leave Lairg with the loch on the left, look out for the ‘Pier’ café. A great place for a quick stop, nice food and great views.
The A836 passes through a fantastic and quite desolate countryside at times, but still an ‘A’ road with passing places.
You will pass Crask, basically one pub and nothing else in the wilderness (apart from the new wind farm). Well worth a stop; it is renowned among walkers, cyclists, fishermen and people doing the Lands End to John O’Groats walk. Nice snacks, beer from the Black Isle and great whiskys!
Drive on through the village of Altnaharra, which is in a small dip and is often the coldest place in the UK in winter. The spectacular road continues past Loch Loyal (Ospreys fish here in summer) before bringing you great views of the Kyle of Tongue. As you reach Tongue crossover the causeway and turn right towards Talmine.
As you go through Melness towards Skinnet, make sure to stop and look back at the spectacular views of the Kyle of Tongue, Ben Loyal and Ben Hope if clouds permit. The Cottage is located a few miles from Tongue and near to Achininver beach.
Detailed directions and check in instructions will be provided upon booking.