The Old Post Office, Leverburgh

• Sleeps: 2
• Bedroom: 1
• Bathroom: 1
• Minimum stay: 3 nights

Situated in the Outer Hebrides Isle of Harris, The Old Post Office, Leverburgh is the perfect escape for comfort-seekers and lovers of unspoilt nature at its most spectacularly beautiful, all year round.  Think soaring mountains, deserted beaches, and abundant wildlife for starters.

Formerly a much-loved post office and gift shop (known as The Cauldron), this romantic, sustainably-transformed holiday cottage isn’t just striking, cosy and stylish, it showcases the spectacular local scenery to absolute perfection.  Carefully preserved with many original features, you’ll also find the retreat equipped with modern, high-quality appliances and handmade furnishings for a cosy sense of home.

Gaze across to the moon-like summit of Roineabhal, the most southerly of the Harris mountains, from your vast, private deck. Or on a gentle summer’s evening, simply look through the enormous lounge window to watch sea trout leaping from Leverburgh’s shimmering central mill pond, teeming with salmon and sea trout.

You’ll even make a scenic entrance: straight into the imposing double-height atrium, where a winding staircase will be waiting to lead you up to the sumptuous open-plan living area. Soothingly furnished in vintage mid-century style, crafted mostly by Scottish and British makers, there are subtle creative nods to the retreat’s former life as a post office.

Meanwhile, butter-soft furnishings come courtesy of the owners’ independently-produced Harris Tweed (weaving demonstrations can be arranged on the owners’ looms nearby), with carefully-curated pieces from classic British brands including Ercol, G-Plan, and Beaver and Tapley.

Boasting hand-made plywood cabinets, the kitchen is ably equipped for you to rustle up the most intricate of feasts from fresh local produce, with ample preparation space. There’s even a central island with seating… so the non-cook can preside over culinary proceedings, glass of wine in hand!

Wander through the terrace door, which leads seamlessly to that dreamy private deck, to catch the last of the blazing sun as it descends over the mountains (it’s the perfect spot for a lazy al fresco breakfast, too). Chat until the stars appear, then make your retreat to the elegant kingsize bedroom for a sound night’s sleep.

At a glance

• A romantic mid-century style cottage for two adults, creatively converted from a former post office in the village of Leverburgh, in the Outer Hebridean Isle of Harris.
• Enjoy sunset mountain views from the vast, private al fresco deck, or gaze across the water from the comfort of the open-plan living space.
• Delights include an energising walk-in rain shower and a separate Japanese-style soaking tub, strategically positioned under a window and big enough for two!
• The retreat is 300m from the local community shop. Bridge access is provided to the common grazing land behind the property, where you can walk to the South Harris hills and arrange fishing on the Obbe loch system.

Features

• Adults Only
• Seaside Breaks

More information

Fancy a soak before bed? Luxurious en-suite facilities include an indulgent Japanese-style soaking tub, superbly (and discreetly) positioned by a large window, and roomy enough for two!  There’s also a huge walk-in rain shower to help energise your mornings further, after enjoying that first coffee of the day on your deck to a stirring soundtrack of nature.

What to do with the rest of your day? A bridge will lead you to expansive grazing land behind your retreat, from which you can embark on mesmerising walks to the South Harris Hills, or access the Obbe loch system where fishing can be arranged.  On rainy days, in-cottage entertainment includes a Smart TV with Apple TV and a DVD player, a Bluetooth-enabled speaker, and a thoughtfully-chosen library of books and films.

If you’re going car-free, regular buses link Leverburgh with the rest of Harris and Lewis – including the idyllic white-sand beaches of the west.  If you’re feeling energetic, you could embark on an expedition to the summit of Roineabhal, or take a ferry trip from Leverburgh pier to the ‘must-visit’ brewery, tap room, and deli – managed by the owners’ friends and neighbours.

Perhaps most importantly, you’re only a short walk away from the local community shop, where you can stock up on holiday essentials and treats… ideal if you don’t feel like straying too far from your new-found island paradise!

Things to note

Regrettably, pets cannot be permitted. There is a 7 kW electric vehicle charger for the exclusive use of guests. Please note that the living accommodation is accessed via 16 steps, with an additional step at the entrance door.  Check-in is fully flexible, on any day of the week.  Minimum 3-night stay.