click to enlarge - Photo © Gordon C. Harrison

Located on a small working croft in the community of Braes, this purpose-built 2-bedroom self catering cottage was completely refurbished in 1999 on the site of the original croft house. (This photo of Loch Sligachan was taken during the construction of the new house which is visible in red near the trees on the left-hand side)

This comfortable property sleeps 5 adults in 2 spacious bedrooms on the upper floor. Cosy duvets with covers and pillows are provided. A high chair and cot with mattress is available on request, but bed linen for this should be brought with you. A bath/shower room is situated on the ground floor.

The country style kitchen is fully equipped with an electric cooker, microwave, fridge with freezer compartment, automatic washing machine and dishwasher. The lounge area is most comfortably furnished and has a colour TV. Country pine is used for the furnishings throughout and the open plan living area is made even cosier by electric heating. The electricity supply is operated by means of £1 coin meter. Taigh Uilleam has its own private access with parking. Relax in the garden where children can play in complete safety.

You can enjoy superb views of the surrounding countryside and the island of Raasay. A sandy beach is just 5 minutes walk from the cottage. March - April: £300 per week Easter / May - August: £350 per week September - October: £300 per week November - December by negotiation

This is an excellent base from which to explore Skye. The island capital Portree (8 miles away) has a tourist information centre, heritage centre with cinema, post office, supermarkets, restaurants, etc. From this small fishing port you can take boat trips around the nearby islands of Raasay and Rona, or do a spot of sea angling.

When it comes to dining out, you will be spoilt for choice with many fine hotels and restaurants in Portree, Broadford and throughout the island. Sample the best of Highland fare including local produce and seafood. Why not wash it down with a wee dram from Talisker, the island's very own whisky distillery?

The Braes district is made up of several crofting communities spread along the north side of Loch Sligachan. This is an area rich in wildlife, geology and history. You may well spot porpoise, dolphins and otters, not to mention plover, fulmars and oystercatchers. Also look out for the spotted orchid, sundew and butterwort. If you are lucky, you might even observe a sea eagle soaring high overhead. At Balmeanach, a spit of land reaches out into the narrows of the Raasay. You will find niches where fishing boats sheltered over the centuries waiting for fine weather. The landmark 'Battle of the Braes' in 1882 resulted in laws giving crofters rights for the very first time.

North Skye is full of interesting places to visit and things to do including castles, museums, potteries, galleries, hand spinning exhibitions and local craft markets. Pony trekking is possible and there are endless opportunities for fishing. For the adventurous there is rock climbing, canoeing and diving. Unlimited scope exists for hill walking, bird watching, and observing seals and other wildlife.

Dunvegan Castle

All of this and more is within easy access of Taigh Uilleam.
All you have to do is come and enjoy your stay.

Photo © Gordon C. Harrison Sunrise, Caolas Scalpay, from Strollamus

Elizabeth Nicolson 4 Balmeanach Braes Isle of Skye IV51 9NH Scotland Tel: 01478 650 360 Email: taigh_uilleam@lineone.net

Other self catering accommodation on Skye can be found at:
www.skye-selfcatering.co.uk
'The cottage' sleeps 2 and 'Alidale' sleeps 5 in 3 bedrooms.
Both properties are situated 10 miles from Portree & Dunvegan.

Web site copyright 2004-2009 Elizabeth Nicolson and The Internet Guide to Scotland
www.taigh-uilleam.co.uk