Isle of Skye Coastal Escape

Remote yet conveniently located, this lovely holiday home adds a contemporary twist to croft life. A thatched crofter's house around 150 years ago, the now-extended property is in a secluded spot between Breakish and Broadford, the second-largest settlement on Skye with a selection of shops for your self-catering essentials. The views over Broadford Bay are beautiful; watch for wildlife including otters, seals and orca whales from serene Ashaig Beach, just a couple of miles away. Capital Portree is a scenic 27-mile drive from your doorstep, and for a true taste of local life, the Talisker Distillery (26 miles) sits on the shore of Loch Harport, with the stunning Cuillin Hills as a backdrop. Head across the Skye Bridge to the mainland and mesmerising Eilan Donan Castle (16 miles) is a must-see, as is the postcard-pretty village of Plockton (13.5 miles).

A tree-lined driveway leads from the road to this handsome holiday home; park on the driveway then pause to admire the lovely mature gardens and surrounding scenery. Step inside and there's a similar sense of space, with a choice of light-filled rooms where five can spend time companionably or apart. There's a lounge at each end of the ground floor, both with comfortable seating, a Smart TV and wood burner. French doors lead from the largest lounge directly into the garden; next door, the kitchen has country styling and all the must-haves for hassle-free catering. A sturdy table and high-backed chairs set the scene for lively discussions as you gather in the dining room. Adjacent, the hallway has a family bathroom to the rear, plus doors into the second, smaller lounge. Stairs from the hallway lead upstairs, where three peaceful bedrooms beckon. Ensuring flexibility to suit any party of five, one bedroom has a double bed, one has twin beds and the third has a single bed.

Lap up the big skies and breathtaking views from the wrap-around garden, which includes seating areas and a shed where guests can store bikes and put wet gear in the tumble dryer. For the ultimate feel-good factor, relocate to the fabulous Finnish Grillikota, or BBQ hut, and fire up the grill for a meal to remember.