Guest Book Self Catering

I had a lovely relaxing break thank you

2008-02-20T01:24:00.001-08:00

Hi Mark

John and I had a lovely relaxing break thank you. Your property is truly great in terms of its location and the attention to detail - we'll certainly be back!

Kind regards

Linda & John Rattray

We had a great week at Windyhill

2008-02-05T09:45:00.000-08:00

Hi Mark & Sadie
Thanks for your e mail, we had a great week at Windy Hill. We loved the house the living room was everything we had hoped for. We spent hours just staring at the view! Fantastic position and the house is designed to make the best of it. I'm afraid I would have to live there! We switched the storage heaters off and just used the stove,more than adequate in January! You are obviously upgrading and the new sofa is superbly comfortable, like the decor and prints got that right for us. Didn't need all the high tech stuff but I'm fifty so I guess a thirty year old would expect it. I would have been happy with the view and a book!

The new bathrooms are quality and tasteful. I am impressed you can manage the place at such a distance it must have it's problems. Mandy worked out that you can't be making big profits with the expenses and upgrading that's going on but we are grateful that you are sticking with it!

We enjoyed the walk from the house to achnahaird bay and to reiff the weather was everything from blue skies to severe storms which was great. We think the views and quality of light is just as good as anything we have seen in New Zealand. The pub was shut but we knew that would probably be the case, the well equipped kitchen meant that we were able to cook some tasty meals.
What added to our enjoyment was that we were able to take our dogs so a very big thank you for letting them stay.
I will send you a few photos and we are already recommending windy hill to our friends.

Best wishes
Tim & Mandy Freer

We had a brilliant week at Windyhill

2008-02-05T09:41:00.000-08:00

We had a brilliant week at Windyhill - the weather was unexpectedly good for
late January!  Every day was very windy but dry so we able to be out walking
every day, albeit mostly at lower levels, apart from one calm day when we
got up Cul Mor.  There are so many options in Assynst for walking even in
stormy weather - Ullapool Hill tracks were a new find for us, Achmelvich
beach and coastal tracks were as good as ever, while we had a great couple
of hours around Stac Polly, with alternate bright sunshine, blue lochs and
sparkling white mountains, followed by total white-outs in blizzards that
lasted only 10 minutes!  Achnahaird beach, where we usually camp in the
summer months, was gloriously deserted, and on Saturday morning was toatlly
covered by snow - kids sledging on the dunes - beautiful, and hard to leave!

The house is every bit as good as we remember from our last visit in 1995 -
well equipped, very cosy, and in such a fabulous setting.  We did miss the
old wondeful wet room, but do understand the needs of young families to have
a bath - you've done a good job there.

fantastic, relaxing holiday at Windyhill

2008-01-22T01:33:00.000-08:00

Dear Mark,

Just to let you know we had a fantastic, relaxing holiday at Windyhill (very appropriately named as it happens!) Whilst the weather was a little mixed, the views and scenery were always outstanding. We found the quality of accommodation excellent and very comfotable and homely and reading previous guest's comments, we would agree that the bath will have been a welcome addition. We found walking both around the Summer Isles and slightly further afield was excellent. The local pub very friendly and the food exceedingly good value. (Despite the current restricted opening hours). Loved the chairs in the window for dozing etc. A first class holiday therefore, and we would not hesitate to recommend Windyhill to others (or maybe we should keep it our secret).

Once again the accommodation is a credit to you and Sadie and we shall look forward to a return visit to the Summer Isles and Windyhill.

Kind Regards,

David & Susan James

2007-05-24T08:46:00.001-07:00

Hello Mark,

we had a wonderful holiday in Windyhill and we really managed to relax!

Your house is a real "home from home", like other guests already wrote.

The service by Kate was also very nice.

The weather was quite mixed, but surely we did expect this in April.

We did many nice trips like Kylesku Bridge, Loch Ness, Inverewe Gardens, Achnahaird Beach and a boat trip to Tanera Mor on the Summer Queen from Ullapool (we also saw seals!!!).

We also loved the pies (espially chicken supreme) of Lochinver Pie Shop.

Many regards

Anja + Dietmar

wonderful stay at Windyhill

2007-05-24T08:45:00.000-07:00

Hi Mark,
We had a wonderful stay at Windyhill. The weather was a bit dodgy but we expected that given the time of year.
We would reccomend the Pub at the end of the road thats run by the brother and sister. They do the best take away fish and chips that I have ever had.
You have a lovely property in Windyhill.

Regards, Nick & Emma Phillips.

thought life couldn't get any better

2007-05-24T08:44:00.000-07:00

Mark
We had a wonderful time at Windyhill. The house is very comfortable, the views spectacular and the weather we had was amazing for March in Scotland. My 6 month old grandson was fascinated by the view from the window and my husband and son-in-law thought life couldn't get any better when they discovered the Classic Cars video. We shall definitely be back. Thank you
Rosemary

draw attention to the local store

2007-04-05T08:37:00.000-07:00

Hi Mark and Sadie,

Yes, sorry not to give feedback before now. we had a really nice time and
the place is great. Especially on very wet windy days which we had a lot
of.

I would really draw attention to the local store if you can because I
think they are really trying hard to make a go of things. We didn't get
our act together to book beforehand and then stocked up in Ullapool on the
way through, which meant we didn't give them as much custom as we would
have liked to.

I am not sure what you could really do to improve things, though the
possibility of prebooking a decent amount of peat or wood would be nice.

I expect we will be back sometime!

Best wishes

Tim

Pics For Windyhill

2007-04-05T08:27:00.000-07:00

Hi,please find attached some pics,of the view from the main window.

Feeback,house was grand everything youd really need in it,very well equiped.Customer care from yourselfs was great too,very prompt,and informtaive/helpful.

Cheers,

Sharrie&Ger.

Enjoyable and Relaxing week at Windyhill Feb 07

2007-02-18T07:19:00.000-08:00

Hello,

We have just returned from a very enjoyable and relaxing week at Windyhill.
We had great family time and we were able to keep the kids of all ages (3,
10, 13 and older!!!) entertained during our week. We find that life is so
busy, socially and at work, that sometimes we don't take the time out to
chill - we certainly managed that during the last week.

We even managed to sort out the potty training during the week - no accidents
at all. It is amazing what the bribe of a new steam train can do!!!

We enjoyed the walks, the sea views and the peace and quiet - we are already
planning for our return.

With Thanks,

Dave & Jane Main

Wow Another Fantastic Entry - May 2006

2006-06-02T10:58:00.000-07:00

May 11th > May 20th 2006

See Visitor Book Entry

Please Place Alongside Everyone’s Wonderful Experiences! Thank you

Hi & Hello from the Heron’s ~ Swarland ~ Nr. Alnwick ~ Northumberland.

What a spectacular week spent at “Windyhill” amongst this amazing everchanging, enchanting environment, the terrain of which is truly special to us, quite majestic and memorable in global terms. We hope you will agree at the end of your stay.

The weather > What a surprise when all were having cooler wetter weather countrywide, this little oasis provided us with the most idealic bright, often sunny days for walking, exploring, embracing this fabulous countryside with only minor periods of light drizzly rain ……remarkable!

We had toured these parts most recently, 2 years ago over a 4 day Easter break weekend in a family convoy of three motorhomes……. travelling North from Inverness to Tongue, then West following all Western coastal routes > Summer Isles > Gairloch > Applecross > Lochcarron > Shiel Bridge > Spean Bridge and back towards Pitlochry and A9. Challenging driving in this most awe inspiring of landscapes through the most incredible time warp > 500million years of majestic mountain ranges all of which are on the doorstep of “Windyhill”

Watch the everchanging views from Windyhill’s panoramic windows, the light, the shade, the shadows, the sometimes lake-like sea, sometimes tempestuous with howling wind, often serenely still and quite majical…… often adding incredible drama to this special corner, this gem of our planet!

DAYS OUT

A must drive whether sunny or just bright spectacuar cloudy skies > do it!

1/ Altandhu to Achnahaird heading towards A835 > take 1st left to Lochinver via Inverkirkaig. Some 70>80 miles of driving that will take you approx: three and half hours at a restfull 20-30miles per hour > single track roads with adequate passing places > take you time > every corner providing an ever more spectacular view than the last! A stunning drive

As you come down the hill towards Lochinver look out for “Culagwoods” walk down to Lady Constance Bay > White Shore path & Billy’s path to Lochinver Bay Do both you won’t regret it. Access the walk from main road taking the rough road / pathway up to your left opposite a beautiful waterfall across the other side

Page 2

of the road > a must see! > Drive to parking / view point and take access to walk up to your left > the windy magical pathway through to the woods > not the rough

road ahead of you! Great for all ages and dogs too! All embracing terrain allowing approx: 60>90mins to really enjoy. Have put brochure in tourist file.

Lunch if you wish at the “Award Winning” Lochinver Larder on left going North leaving town, just before bridge by Post Office/paper shop. Renounced for their wonderful pies with delicious fillings, great for fish of course, all good whatever you have, not forgetting their desserts > with daily specials blackboard > Bon Appetite!

Highland Stoneware just around the corner over the bridge 1st left is 2 mins away by car on other side of bay > see the process > hand painting > buy if you like or just watch, interesting both inside and out!

Drive on from Lochinver North taking the B869 single track road > go down to “Achmelvich” great beach and views > then return and continue on to Clachtoll & Stoer. We didn’t have time for the Stoer peninsula > suggest left for another day/visit and continue the drive to Clasonessie > Drumbeg viewpoint and onwards after viewing towards junction of A894. The road goes North to Kylesku > you’ll see the bridge [in distance] at the sea loch end before junction.

Take right South to the awe inspiring Assynt district making for Ardveck & Inchnadamph after joining the A837 > a right turn to Elphin / Ullapool A835 & aim for Knockan Crag leaflet in file. Around this area you also have the caves walk which again we hadn’t the time to do. Knockan Crag is where you’ll discover the Planet! Truly amazing interactive visitor point > hands on models > touch screen computer [don’t miss] > Bridge 500million years > great for adults and children alike. A must do!

Your on the home route A835 till you see right turn for Achiltibuie > Althandhu > Polbain via Loch Lurgainn …………..you should have had a very special memorable day, as we did……….the dogs were more exhausted than us!

2/

Achiltibuie & Polbain The walk along the front by the stony beach and up over the heath peninsula to the village, can be special as are the views > Perhaps a pub lunch or evening meal at the Summer Isles Hotel Bar > The food and service was great, every bit as good as the 5 course Hotel Dinner which will set you back £70 per couple + drinks! They have won recent awards for Scotland’s Hotel of the Year.
Page 3

3/

At these villages Ach: & Pol: you can also supplement your food stocks at the stores one of which is also a post office, otherwise a trip to Ullapool provides an interesting trip/venue for stocking up at Somerfields with interesting shopping in the town and a good local Pub / Restaurant.

4/
Take time out for walk, on your door step turning right out of Windyhill access track onto road heading for Reiff. Lovely walk on a clear day, wonderful views and a bird sanctuary at Reiff > a dead end with remains of 18th century pier. About one & half > 2 hours.

5/ Walk left onto road from Windyhill 5 >10mins and your at the Smokehouse, worth a visit and may be even a purchase for fish lovers and 50 yds further the local Pub /Restaurant. You will be surprised > local family with all the crofters history > Grandparents > Parents > to offspring who now run the show. The whole Lobster we had hear was superb, as the soup. We had watched one of the four fishing boats you see from Windyhill, earlier in the day land our catch…. Go for it!

6/ Another day’s leisurely walk > by the sea overlooking the Summer Isles. Take car well past Achiltibuie & Polglass towards the eventual dead end turning point of Culnacraig until you come to Hostel on the right hand side further down by the water front.> Park on right and follow the stream down to sea > delightful terrain with view of Summer Isles in distance. At stony beach follow the coast around to your right till you come to the burial ground / old crofts both on the hill above and the peninsula. Once an active crofting/fishing community, you don’t need much imagination, the derelict crofts and boat wreck/remnants telling the tale! Some interesting tales on the grave stones confirm hard times early to mid 18th/19th century….one in particular stood out > Death of Mother and her 5 children! > Turn away from the sea up the track back to main road and turn right at top back along to your car > a leisurely 1.5 > 2 hours. To finish > may be drive along to Culnacraig and enjoy the panorama of the summer isles on way back > it’s a wow!

Page 4

7/ There’s so much more to do and see BUT > if you did just these few trips and outings you would undoubtedly leave with a true flavour of this wonderful region and might even leave inspired to return again ………as we will.

Finally, for those of you who love photography > looking at stars > watching time go by with binoculars or telescope > do use the scope……. it’s great!

VIEWS from Hillview

Hillview ~ Althandhu faces almost due South West overlooking on your right Eilean Mullagrach [Island] and in front of you Isle Restol > behind this Glas-leach Mor and the Summer Isles. Watch out for the Ullapool to Tarbert Isle of Harris [Lewis] Ferry which passes the “sound” beyond the bay of the fishing boats , way in distance > the glimpse will be brief! ……then pause ,wait and see it North West past Eillean Mullagrath Island.

Beyond the Summer Isles in the more immediate foreground, you look over Gruinard Bay some 15miles South West > Loch Ewe > Gairloch and onwards on a really spectacularly clear day you can easily see the three humps of the Cuillin Hills on the Isle of Skye > approx 65 miles distant!

Step up the back of Windyhill garden > mount the style and climb to top of the hill to your left for the ultimate panorama of Windyhill or stop at view point in/out of Althandhu to see the Western Isles landscape > grand style.

This place > this area has proved so very special for us > we hope you will also cherish every moment of this unique > world class heritage land/seascape.

Here’s to a great unwind, to enjoying time out and slowing down, to a chilled laid back time, time for contemplation & ultimate relaxation from life’s crazy pace of living.

Best of wishes to all future guests and hope this has helped those new to Scotland and this area just a little, ENJOY!

Lindsay & and Carol Heron

March 2005 to November 2005

2006-06-02T10:51:00.000-07:00

March 2005

Couldn’t have chosen a better place to celebrate my 40th birthday. A walk to Cantharid beach in a blizzard, a picnic (yes we are quite mad!) and then back to put our feet up on the windowsill and watch the Altandu world go by. It will be hard to leave it all behind today but we plan to come back in the autumn and do it all again. Windyhill should be available on prescription from your doctor – who needs prozac!

Barbara & Jim Brent. Bolton.

March 2005

Who needs prozac indeed!!

We’ve had to best week here - 3rd time to Windyhill and it’s as lovely as always.
The weather has been lovely all week, only started drizzling tonight on the way home from the pub! We have spent the days playing Frisbee and catch on the nearby each, going for little walks to the nearby harbour and the rocks near Reiff.

The nearest pub must be sick of seeing us; we’ve been every night having pool tournaments and drinking the Tenants! The house has been lovely – can’t fault it, we all love sitting in the chairs with our feet up on the windowsill watching the world go by – bliss.

Ann, Caroline, Steve, Ryan, Bobby & Kev. Nottingham

March 2005

This is our fourth visit to Windyhill and we have enjoyed it as much as on any of the previous occasions. We started the week with the circular road walk (area 8.5miles) Altandu to Achnahaird then past Loch Raa and Loch Vatachan through Polbain and back to Windyhill. We walked to the beach on day two and one lazy day watching the swirling masses on water below the house. On day four we drove to the bookshop at Inverkirkaig and did the walk up to the falls of Kirkay. This takes a little bit longer than is indicated by looking at the map. On our final day, we walked to the headland at Old Donnie (just past the second jetty). The weather was glorious and the view magnificent. We haven’t been fortunate enough to see any eagles this time but say a heron at Loch Camas , plenty of Wheatears, a few oystercatchers, skylarks aplenty, twits and assorted tits.

One tip to pass on is that Polbain stores will deliver provisions in advance of your arrival. You can lock them up on goggle.

Terry & Mary.

April 2005

We arrived a couple of days late with our two small babies. Sitting here writing this the waves are quite high on the beach. The views from Windyhill and its surrounding areas are breathtaking and very picturesque. We didn’t end up doing much but we did go to Durness for the beaches for Ben which he loves bless him. Durness beach is quite a long drive but the views made up for the drive. Ben also loved the “Baas” as he called them which occupied him on the drive back to Windyhill. There is a supermarket in Ullapool which has a wide selection. We plan to come back when the boys are older so we can do some of the walks and they can appreciate e the scenery.

The Walton’s West Yorkshire.
space

April 2005
Sitting here, looking at the magnificent view it seems to have changed again this evening – you can’t help but feel calm and peace here – away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Even with our beautiful four month old daughter we have had a perfect week – she has even slept better! Must be the fresh air. She met the two pigs today across the road and was quite bemused.

The accommodation has been wonderful, a fantastic living space, we have had everything we needed for a week away. Having to walk to the nearest shop wasn’t a chore, worth it for the views. We never managed a trip to the local pub as 9 o clock us our daughter’s curfew – but I’m sure it’s worth the visit. We managed to but some local smoked cheese and salmon (and even got two lots thrown in for free!

Hopefully my husband might surprise me with another trip to this little bit f heaven.

The Tyrell’s – Edinburgh.

April 2005

We’ve had a lovely relaxing few days in your beautiful cottage. Much of our time has been spent enjoying the amazing views fro the picture window. Weather has been kind to us and we are returning to the city refreshed and full of the healthy country air!

Zoe, Andy, Mark & Wilf London & Inverness.
space

April 2005

We have had a fantastic week
The first 3 days we had glorious sun and then Windyhill lived up to its name with storms and gales!! However the views are amazing and set a perfect scene whatever the weather. We have visited Scotland many times but have never come this far north – this is a gorgeous part of the country with dramatic and wild landscapes and Windyhill is a gorgeous cottage in that setting.
The walk to the waterfall Eas a Chual Aluinn is stunning and the effort is worth it.. The Kirkaid waterfall is also a pleasant walk and we recommend walking the extra mile to have a picnic beside the picturesque Fionn loch below Sulven. Stac Pollaidh is a fantastic walk even if you don’t make it to the top. The low cloud cover beat us off the summit path though the views were worth the effort. We went to John O’ Groats. We recommend that if you want a great drive then just go as far as the Kyle of Tongue on the north west coast tourist route. The drive beyond the point is no comparison the first half. A walk around the point of Stuerr in high winds was electrifying and terrifying all at once – great.

We had luck with the wildlife and watched a school of dolphins swimming right by the bay at Achiltibuie and followed them down the road into Polbain. The lady at the smokehouse says that this is common. We also watched seals although this was in a bay about 9 miles beyond the point of Stoler.

All in all it was a wonderful week that will love with us for a long, long time. Thank you for sharing Windyhill.

Gareth & Tessa O’Mana. Surrey.

April-May 2005
Had a wonderful relaxing week. Absolutely love this part of Scotland having spent many an Easter week on the summer isles as a child. Weather very changeable but didn’t stop us exploring , managed 6 our of 7 of the walks round Achiltibuie leaflet. Can definitely recommend walk to Garvie bay watching seals basking on the rocks and also the Dubhroach Choire Round – spectacular vies over Stac Pollaidh at the start and then over the summer isles at the end. The house is excellent and many and hour was spent sitting at the windows reading a gazing at the wonderful view. Wish we could sty another week.

Tamsin & Julie – Glasgow
Mr & Mrs Pike Dumfriesshire & Rosie the dog.

May 2005

We have had the most wonderful week. The house and views were fantastic. We love this corner of Scotland away from it all. Life is busy and such a lot of change, it was good for the soul.
Katie got a new front tooth and learned to stand up in the cot.
The Assynt hills are spectacular, the beach at Lochinver, the clean air, don’t want to go back!!!

Victor, Marie & Katie Reynolds

May 2005

Our first holiday in Scotland and what an introduction to the country. We have had a marvellous week at Windyhill, with day time temperatures ranging for 6 to 16 degrees. The weather was changeable but not very rainy. We had none of the persistent rain we had feared. Stac Pollaidh was climbed in glorious sunshine in 40 minutes from car park to 10 metres from the top, when continuing the climb with a young energetic dog on a lead would have been risky to say the least! Great trips were had, including Durness, where the walk to Caraidh point and lunch at the Balkenfiel Croft centre are to be highly recommended. Also not to be missed are the delight of the Achiltibuie smokehouse in Altandu. We will certainly return!.

de Kleine family, Germany

June 2005

Misty mountains and islands and the bluest of seas – you couldn’t ask for a better view than the one from the sitting room in Windyhill! It’s simply the best! We have spent many hours during our week here just sitting and watching how the scene changes with the liger, and how the colour change through blues, grey and silver. We’ve watched cuckoos, robins, blackbirds and thrushes and enjoyed the antics of the 2 collies in the house below. Our beagle, Chloe, was festinated by the 2 pigs just across the road.

The weather has been good (for Scotland) – sunny and warm for a few days, then cloudy and showers. There was only one downpour and that was while we were still in bed one morning.

The cottage is fantastic – we love the light and warmth of the upper floor. We have eaten well every night at the am Fuaran bar in Altandhu (we recommend the haddock!), and had a couple of very fresh seafood lunches at the Summer Isles Hotels. Not to mention kippers from the smokehouse for breakfast.

The only disappointment has been the lack of dolphins! Walks not to be missed – Rieff, Culnacraid, Old Dornie and Fox Point and Achnahaird Bay – and don’t miss the viewing point up the hill directly behind the cottage. It will be hard to leave tomorrow but there’s always next year!

Sue & Daryl Hayler - Hertfordshire.

June 2005

Another memorable trip. Each time we come we find new walks. Watching seals at Garvie Bay was probably the highlight. Also just sitting at the window watching the view is just so relaxing. A lovely well equipped cottage – we will definitely be back!

Helen Rose & roger Salmons- London

June 2005

Lovely relaxing, if energetic stay. The cottage was all we had hoped for. We love this area and the only change which we could see is that more and more people have found it! Our trip to Tanera Mhar yesterday just ended the holiday in a quiet and tranquil setting. We hope to be back in the not to distant future. We ate well at the Am Fuaran bar and the Summer Isles hotel – both are recommended

Gina & Ian Coupar – Oxfordshire

June 2005

First time to Scotland, long journey but worth the trip. We can only agree with past comments that the cottage and its facilities are excellent. Surrounding scenery superb. Weather was good. Local good was good. The highlight was a 4 hour cruise around the Summer Isles. Enjoy exploring..

Tricia & David – Middlesex

July 2005

The MacDonald of Ayr say:-

Duncan (aged 7) - I went up a hill called Canis. The view was great! I liked everything about this cottage. I went on a speedboat, it was fast and great fun.

Rosalind (age 11) - The view from the cottage is great and the view of the islands on the speedboat were even better. I enjoyed going for walks and going to the beaches but we didn’t manage to get to the beach on Ristol across the water. We did try but the tide was not low enough at the time.

Lynda ( age ??) – I have had a lovely week. We have had all sorts of weather from wind the day after we arrived to beautiful sunny calm days. Today we went along to Reiff. I walked the others took their bikes and the views were stunning. The beach at Reiff is rocky and further up past the cliffs you will come to a lovely little beach with beautiful clean white sand. It was a lovely way to spend the last day of our holidays.

Billy ( ) – We chose to walk past Reiff on our last day. If we had more time we would have explored further instead of packing. I you like mountains, cycling, boat trips (fast or slow), good food and beaches you have come to the right place. |if not, just stare out the window - its enough.

The Macdonald’s of Ayr.

July 2005

Chill out factor +++. Love the area, views, walks, food etc. A thoroughly enjoyable stay at Windyhill

David Salby & Paddy – Edinburgh

July 2005

75 mackerel, 2 salmon, 2 finnan, winkles, mussels, 3 lobsters, a coalie and lots of crabs were caught and cooked during over wonderful week at Windyhill. Fantastic fun and great views. Children all loved it. Out of all the places that we have stayed over the years that we have been coming up here this cottage is the best - Harry

We cooked mussels on the beach, the mussels were delicious – Sam & Chrisp
Thank you – jack
This house really makes you relax, with the wonderful vies and open plan rood – we will be back - Carolina

Harry, Carolina & Children – Northumberland.

August 2005

We had a great time, spacious airy cottage and fabulous views. Climbed Stac Pollaidh, Ben Mor Coigach and Sgarr an Fhidhleir and would have done more if the beach hadn’t called. Through misty weather we went to Sandwood Bay and after a 5 mile walk we were greeted by white sand, crashing waves and an awe inspiring sea stack that made the walk worthwhile. The fitter ones of us did long cycle rides to Lochinver among other places. All in all the best holiday we’ve had for years and hope to e back before too long.

The Morris’s – Suffolk.

August 2005

We all had a lovely holiday.. We enjoyed the gorgeous scenery and all the wee craft shops – the locals are so friendly. Food at the pub up the road is great (esp. haddock, prawns) All in all a great holiday – hope to come back

Gordon Diane & family – N. Ireland

August 2005

What a wonderful place. Stunning views and scenery, excellent walking, good beaches and great food – the Summer isles bar is particularly child friendly. Hydroponicum is a good way of keeping dry on a particularly wet aftermost – tour very informative and such an enthusiastic guide that even the most ardent lover of concrete gardens might be tempted to try growing plants. All this and then to view to relax in front of at the end of a packed day.

Helen, Jeremy & children - Berkshire.

August 2005

Our 12th stay in Scotland, we simple love this country. The second visit to the summer Isles and the first stay at Windyhill. It’s a spacious, well equipped cottage with magnificent views over the sea! Also a wonderful base for the mountains, lochs, tours around the area and hill climbing. A wonderful holiday here and not the last.

F & W Neuuann - Germany

September 2005

Even though it was raining at times we have had a wonderful holiday. Like everybody else who has stayed here we found the cottage fantastic. You walk through the front door and the ‘calm’ takes over. We have sat for hours and enjoyed the changing scenery – the rainbows have been amazing!

Our chocolate Labrador (Murphy) has had the best time; especially playing with the two collies down the path and swimming at the beach. All in, this week has been one of the most relaxing we have ever spent. We always wanted to visit this part of the country, and we will be back (summer I think next time!) the local food has been great and the locals most friendly and generous. It is with regret that we leave.

Jane &7 John Parter. & Murphy – East Lothian

Oct 2005

The rainy weather left us at the start of the week, and we were fortunate to have some very nice sunny days. Fantastic scenery, everywhere you go, but for us one of the best views is just from up on the hill at the back of the cottage, 360 degrees panoramic. Never really had time to visit the pubs, but enjoyed 7 cosy nights in cooking nice meals. Ullapool was lovely the day we visited. It is refreshing to find it has an Indian restaurant. Looking forward to the Achiltibuie Mahal opening in 2010! Seriously, we have had a fantastic, relaxing holiday and the cottage is impressive, not o mention the outstanding views.
Spotted 3 staggs, a couple of otters and seals too, lots of sheepdogs. The sheepdog who lives in the cottage below is really friendly – he’s a canny pooch. We recommend the scenic drive from here to the main road, turn left up to Inchnadamph, along Loch Assynt, turn right onto the A894 up to the Kylesku bridge. Return along the coastal route via Nedd, Oldany, Clashnessie, Achmelvich beach, Lockinver, Strathan, Enard Bay and back home. Awesome!!! We want to move up here, cast our “city jobs” to the dustbin and chill out our remaining days (years) The people here are all very friendly, so thank you all of you , for that. We leave with very fond memories.

Phil & Sonia – Northumberland

Oct 2005

Our first visit to Windyhill – selected for the original and practical design after some internet browsing. We are delighted with this cottage - it is such an easy place to relax in and we spent far more time indoors rather than out walking and exploring. The views are stunning and we have also had a couple of out standing sunset.
The weather has been fairly mixed be we never came here looking for a sun tan!!
A good selection of books, games, films and music was an unexpected surprise and very much appreciated.

The coastal road to Lochinver is a stunning drive and the pie shop in Lochinver is fabulous. Our 2 year old daughter (Taylor) tool to the cottage immediately but got a bit confused with upstairs being downstairs and vice versa!! The cottage is a masterpiece of design and we have all claimed our own private corners since it is spacious enough to do so. Finding a stair – gate in the cupboard was a real bonus and allayed the only real concern we had before arriving. We did not use the fire, again because of the ‘wee one’ but the house was very warm at all times. Thank you for a very relaxing holiday.

The Reid Family – Renfrewshire

Oct 2005

Achnahaird beach, Quinag, Ples en Lochinver, Beach Again, excellent food at Hydroponicum, Coigach path to Strathkanaird, Cul Mar, Pies again, beach, walked to mast and meal an Fheadain’’Oh yes and beach again. Good weather – only rained twice, wish we had booked two weeks

Trevor ,Sylvia, Lewis

Oct – Nov 2005

What can we say that hasn’t already been said, the house is a true home from home, we came seeking refuge from the daily pressures of everyday life and certainly found it at Windyhill. The seats in from of the window have been well used. Brilliant watching dusk creep across the day , no lights on in the house for full effect.

The walk from Reiff is breathtaking for pounding surf and plunging cliffs. Loads of sea birds too, not bird watchers so no idea what we saw. Enard bay walk so good we did it twice during our sta. a must for seal spotting and stunning views of the mountains. If you are truly beach lovers make the 1 ½ drive to Blairmore and walk in to Sandwood bay – magical place – if you’re lucky like we were you’ll have the whole expanse of golden sands to yourself. BREATHTAKINLY BEAUTIFUL! Park up by the youth hostel sign just our of Polglass and enjoy some rock hopping – just follow the river Dows to the sea and take your pick left or right – if you go at low tide the beach is lovely and sandy also seal spotting territory.

Falls of Kirkaig impressive, walk past them for 30 mins and towards Sulven for solitude and stunning views of the mountain. Achmelvich beach beautiful and also deserted! Polbain stores great for jus about everything. Am furan bar serves quality home cooked food. Haddock melts in the mouth. All in all a fantastic holiday, been coming to Scotland for 15years now – this tops the list so far, can’t wait to return.

Simon & Jeanette West Yorkshire

Nov 2005

A fortnight of mixed weather as expected later in the season. Squally for much of the first week with a storm one night. By the second week, it was calm with blue skies, clear vies and a dusting of snow of the hills. The cottage has been a haven, and a CD and book selection very much to our taste made I very easy o watch the changing weather. The best low level walk was the improved path from Culnacraid towards Strath Canaird for a couple of miles to the rock beach. In rough weather try the walk past Reiff. The shorter day (plus a leisurely start it must be admitted) suit a day out on Ben More Coigach or Stac Pollaidh, both with wonderful views. This must be our first holiday in Scotland without a Munro ascent, though we’re rarely here this close to year-end (neatly avoiding giving advancing years as a possible reason) A wonderful holiday in this superb cottage.

Ian & Janet Milne – West Dorset

August 2004 to Febrary 2005

2006-06-02T10:46:00.000-07:00

August & September 2004

A great fortnight at Windyhill. Weather mixed but no Midges and views from the house always stunning in rain or sun. Cloud cover stopped us 50 ft from the top of Stac Pollaidh so we'll have have to come back! In brilliant sunshine we had Achnhaird beach to ourselves. The house itself was one of the best features of our stay, comfortable and well equipped. It contributed hugely to a stress free and relaxing holiday.

Dinner at the Drumbeg Hotel was a real highlight. Rooms where clean and comfortable but the food was amazingly good. We only managed to do a fraction of what we'd like to do here so we'll surely return.

Linda, John McWilliam – Staffordshire

September 2004

Possibly one of the laziest weeks of our lives! The perfect house and location to escape from the hassle of London. It's not often that you can take a couple of hours stroll to get a newspaper and a pint of milk! We would love to buy the house!

Many thanks

John, Michelle and William (aged 1 ¾ )

P.S. William loved the place too – but he can't write!

September 2004

We concur with comments of previous people with regard to the house and its setting. It is a truly idyllic place. Walks from the leaflet titled “ Walking Round Achiltibuie” are to be recommended and the views from the Stac Polly” are stunning.

Joan and Paul – Wilkshire

September 2004

Brilliant week, despite mixed weather. Delighted by the house, views and by how cosy and comfortable we were in gale force wind and rain. Really enjoyed Hydroponcium, smokery and village stores at Polbain. Soup, bread and mixed leaves from Hydroponcium excellent, even if you already know everything you want to about hydroponically grown stuff – if (like us) you know nothing the experience is even more interesting. We think the smoked fish from the smokery may even rival Crasters ( and thats saying something ). The village store at Polbain managers to cram into a tiny space all sorts of interesting and uselful things. We had a pleasant lunch at the mountain equipment shop opposite the museum at Ullapool and enjoyed a little browse in the book shop. The garden at Lechmelm is certainly worth a visit if you're interested in wonderful trees ( 3 miles South of Ullapool).

Recommended walks would certainly include the 1st one in the local booklet, especially on a good day, when the views are spectacular. The journey over to Lochinver is stunning – stop at Inverkirkaig for the waterfall walk and the bookshop and cafe.

Reiff walk delightful, fantastic coastline and rock formations. Really excellent meal in the bar of the Summer Isles Hotel, there special apple cake is exquisite!

Nick & Helen Northumberland

October 2004

Wonderfully peaceful 2 weeks here at Windyhill Cottage – mixed weather in the first week which gave opportunity for lighting the stove – has to be done, but need to turn all other forms of heating off well in advance as the house is so well insulated!

Walk up and over the hill at Dornie lovely views, and around the coast to Garvie Bay beautiful. Drives to Lochinver, Point of Stoer and around Poolewe in a circle all well worth it – lovely Bridge Coffee House and gallery in Poolewe.

Agree completely with previous guests about the Hydroponcium and Summer Isles Hotel. The salad bags from the Hydroponcium are fabulous. Also excellent shop for wool next to Safeways in Ullapool – and 2World” goods etc. Walking shop and Ceilidh place also good for coffees, papers, cakes and general musing. Don't know where the hours go! Cottage superb. Hope to return for 3 weeks as soon as possible.

Sarah

Windyhill is a great cottage to stay in – by good fortune we had some poor weather, stove blazing, chair in the window, snoring. Would be awful if the weather was good all the time. Excellent collection of pans in the Kitchen. Grand collection of books, have added some. The walk in the booklet that takes you to Garvie Bay is brilliant for spotting seals. For deer, drive along the single track road from Ullapool when it is dark.

Mark

October 2004

As said previously lovely view, window central for cosy chats, reading and cups of teas. Home had a comfortable feeling, enjoyed “real” fire (Brought back memory of sitting round the fire when young). Learned about hydroponics. Had nice walks on a few beaches. Saw deer on way home from Ullapool at night. Layed – Back sheep. Nice memories of our relaxing holiday. This was a treat holiday from my kind son and daughter – in - law and much appreciated. Would recommend this place.

Regards

Jackie, Mark and John.

October 2004

Recommended Walks:-

Rieff around the headland gives great seascapes. Falls of Kirkcraig is a wonderful walk up a wooded valley. Go beyond the falls to the summit point for fabulous views across Inverpolly National Nature Reserve. The walk from the lighthouse at Stoer to the Old Man of Stoer also provides wonderful seascapes. The coastal path was considerably drier than the inland route.

Stac Pollaidh is worth the haul up if the top is clear for the view across the lochs to the North. The bay in front of the cottage has provided plenty of wildlife to watch, highlights have included a merlin charming, meadow pipits, several Mack – Throated Divers, red – breasted mergansers and mack quillemots. Occasional Grey seals and a brief view of two otters were the main mammal highlights.

February 2005

How my husband managed to get flowers here ready for our arrival amazed me we are in the back and beyond! (I think Michelle in Polbain Stores helped). As per everybody else lovely views, the weather stayed good, had real chill out time. We haven't been walking or exploring have enjoyed the nothingness and great views. Off to Gleaneagles now before we head back home and back to work.

Liz, Kev and Arianne – Southampton.

May 2004 to August 2004

2006-06-02T10:25:00.001-07:00

May 2004

We had wonderful weather and managed some great walks; can thoroughly recommend “walking around Achilibuie” for good walks both long and short. We travelled up to the North of Scotland this time, a beautiful drive – The beach at Durness is magical. A well designed house, which feels like a home. The view in every light is unforgettable.

Helen & Rose – London

July 2004

A beautiful place to unwind – We practically unravelled! Probably spent too long sitting looking out to sea instead of climbing mountains but when you’re 6 months pregnant its nice to have the excuse not to. Will remember the bracing coastal walks and beach ponies and some nice lunches at the Lily pond café at the Achiltibuie Hydropondicum and our wonderfully clean, comfortable and spacious cottage.

Linda & Ian - West Yorks

July 2004

Our first time in Scotland and what a wonderful place to choose. The views are stunning; the house so different from the rest; the living room is just made for looking and dreaming. We didn’t venture far – Invereuie was amazing and gave an insight into what could be done by determined gardeners.

Giles – Co Durham

July 2004

Absolutely Fabulous! A first class place to stay. We will especially remember the fantastic views and how fortunate we were having had perfect weather throughout our stay here. We would like to return and hope that the new owners will continue to let the house.

Ian & Donna Durham

August 2004

This fantastic house has really contributed to our lovely holiday and made us feel relaxed, rested, peaceful and at home! We’ve walked, “beached” explored, played and just admired the incredible views from all the windows.

Janine & Chris - Oxfordshire

March to May 2004

2006-06-02T10:18:00.000-07:00

March 2004

Our 2nd time in this area – our 1st time in Windyhill. Loved the space, the view, the sun streaming in the many windows. A wonderful place to relax.

Maureen & Dave Edinburgh

April 2004

Managed to esape to enjoy this beautiful area for just a couple of days. Well worth it though, as we crammed in the necessary walks, visit to purchase some art, fine food and wine, not to mention the most magnificent sand castle at Achnahaird! A first class holiday home, to which I would like to return.

Callum and Ellie

April 2004

Mixed weather didn’t stop us from having wonderful week here Windyhill is beautiful and the views are breath taking. We enjoyed the outdoors and the indoors!

Outdoor highlights include lovely coastal walks and an exhilarating if rather tiring climb up Stac Pollaidh! Driving on the road from Kylesku to Lochinver we came across a little piece of paradise on the beach at Clashnessie.

Although we are seasoned travellers this is our first visit to the highlands, but we will be definitely be coming back! We are very very sad L to be leaving, well done for creating such a perfect holiday home. You have thought of everything thank you.

The Hackett Family - Armitage Staffs

April 2004

Having spent many holidays in Scotland over the last 10 years we have stayed in a great variety of holiday homes but Windyhill stands head and shoulders above the others. The house is so well designed and in such a great location, it takes the breath away. The view throught he window has seemed different every day, the colours, textures and forms constantly altered by the effect of sunshine and clouds. The view from the top of hill behind the house is even more spectacular as An Teallach is hidden when looking through the window.

Driving from Windyhill through Inverpolly in the mornings has been incredibly impressive – silhouetted mountains with sunlight reflecting off the surface of the lochs. It would be impossible to take bad landscape photos around here.

The weather has been changeable for our week but it hasn’t spoilt our holiday in the least. We’ve seen loads of Deer, Curlew, Oyster Catchers, Black Throated Divers and even Golden Eagles. This house must be the best we’ve ever stayed in, the kitchen has everything you could wish for and so much thought has obviously gone into creating the perfect holiday retreat.

David & Sylvia Stooke and our Mums – Salisbury

May 2004

Came looking rest and relaxation – new we found it as soon as we walked in the door. In the 18 years I have been with him, I’ve never known my huband to relax enough to sit still and read a book cover to cover – he did here!

Shona & Ewen Clunie - Perth