Covesea Cottage ref: 511239

About the local area

Kyleakin is just across the water from Gavin Maxwell's island of Eilean Ban. Famed for his writings about his beloved otters, in particular his autobiography Ring of Bright Water, Kyleakin is home to the Bright Water museum, and otters are regularly spotted from the cottage garden on the shoreline, and sometimes even venture into the garden. There is a wonderful array of other  wildlife in the area with frequent sightings of seals and pine martin, as well as occasional dolphins, porpoises, basking sharks and Minke whales; together with  numerous seabirds. It is just a short walk from the cottage to the centre of Kyleakin village. This charming traditional fishing village has an excellent selection of pubs, cafes and restaurants, together with small shops and post office. There is a lovely working harbour where small craft and canoes can be launched. The surrounding area offers a wealth of activities, places of interest and historic sites. Just a  short drive away is Armadale Castle, seat of the Clan Donald, with its superb gardens and grounds set in 20,000 acres. It also houses a fascinating museum. Boat trips to see the seals, dolphins and whales run from Armadale harbour. The ferry also sails from here across to Malliag on the mainland. This part of island is known as the garden of Skye and is renowned for its superb walking, climbing, bird watching and beautiful fauna and flora. Just across the Skye bridge is the fairy tale castle of Eilean Donan, enchantingly situated on a promontory in the loch and accessed by a small causeway, is right on the doorstep. A spectacular route takes you past this famous castle and through the amazing mountain range known as the Five Sisters of Kintail and beautiful Glen Shiel, before reaching the shores of Loch Ness. The charming sea port of Kyle of Lochalsh, gateway to the Isle of Skye, is just 2 miles away.

Things to do nearby