Cruinn Leum Round House

• Sleeps: 2
• Bedroom: 1
• Bathroom: 1
• Minimum stay: 5-7 nights

Originally intended to be an artist’s retreat with a built-in recording studio, Cruinn Leum is a stunning eco-retreat for two, beautifully located on the Applecross peninsula in the North West Highlands.

Elevated above the pier at Toscaig, you can enjoy spectacular views over the loch to Crowlin and the Isle of Skye…. just the thing for stirring up that long lost creative spirit! And although you’ll feel gorgeously removed from civilisation, you won’t have to travel too far for shopping and dining.

Your circular, dog-friendly accommodation is generously set across two levels, with the relaxing living space upstairs to make the most of those views. Thanks to its huge windows, the room also floods with natural light during the day, creating a bright and cheerful atmosphere.

There’s a well-equipped kitchen for whipping up romantic suppers, and a surround-sound entertainment system to keep you occupied by evening. Meanwhile, the wood-burning stove in the entrance hallway will keep the whole round house lovely and toasty.

Follow the solid oak staircase to the ground floor, where you’ll discover a spacious double bedroom with access to the soothing outdoor sitting area – an ideal spot for morning coffee. You might spot a few hints to Cruinn Leum’s ‘recording studio’ identity, too – with a ‘studio console desk’ doubling as a dressing table!

Freshen up in the luxurious, cedar-panelled shower room, complete with slate floor and underfloor heating, and then it’s on to planning the day ahead.

To start with, there’s plenty of wildlife to spot in the local area, from red deer to golden eagles (and if you fancy a visit from the rare pine martens, simply leave out some strawberry jam sandwiches for them to peck at for an evening snack!) You could also watch out for sea birds and basking seals, perhaps as you fish for mackerel from Toscaig pier.

At a glance

• A unique round house for two, formerly an artist’s retreat and recording studio, elevated above the pier at Toscaig on the Applecross peninsula in the Scottish Highlands.
• Surrounded by wilderness and with beautiful views across the loch, this is an ideal location for keen wildlife watchers, and couples who want to fire their creative spirit.
• Two well-behaved dogs are permitted, for a small additional cost.
• Accommodation is generously spaced across two levels, with the light-filled living and dining area upstairs.
• There are shopping and dining spots close by, and plenty of opportunities for walking, cycling, and watersports. On clear nights, you may be able to view the Northern Lights in the dark night sky.

Features

• Dog Friendly
• Seaside Breaks

More information

Water babies will enjoy taking a dip in the Gulf stream-warmed water here, with activities including sailing and kayaking readily available. If you’re more of a beach bum, nearby Applecross Bay boasts sparkling aquamarine seas, and awe-inspiring 70-foot sand dunes.

Head to Applecross House and its stunning walled garden for an exquisite day out, perhaps stopping in the Potting Shed restaurant for a bite to eat before making your way back to Cruinn Leum.

Fed, watered, and entertained, all that’s left to do now is to gaze up at that amazing night sky. With next to no light pollution here, the Milky Way shines clear and bright, while it’s even been known to view the Northern Lights on occasion. Simply grab a warming drink, and settle in for Nature’s greatest show.

Things to note

There are only two roads to access this location, which contributes to its unspoilt charm. Take the infamous ‘Bealach na Ba’ if you don’t mind hairpin bends and a high ascent (with truly exceptional views to reward you), or approach from Shieldaig along the coastline for a less intense drive. Short breaks may be possible – please enquire for details.