Why go there? Garmoran Square offers the best of both worlds – a rural getaway amid spectacular west coast scenery but with contemporary city-chic on the accommodation front. The four apartments have been a labour of love for Kenneth and Susan MacD
onald, who designed the holiday properties to feature a traditional-looking croft exterior that is sympathetic t o its surroundings and gives lie to the luxurious, contemporary interiors. The properties sleep two to six, or up to 18 if taken as a whole – and every bedroom has an en suite bathroom or shower room.
Getting there Head to Fort William and from there take the A82 in the direction of Oban. After about eight miles, cross the Corran Ferry to Ardgour. On leaving the ferry turn left and follow the signs for Strontian then continue on to Salen, Acharacle and Mingarry.
Room service The welcome may be warm and a hamper of homebaking may await your arrival but the decor instantly tells you this is a far cry from any tartan-filled images of Granny's Heilan' hame. Somerled, the five-star, three-bedroom property we stayed in, was probably the most traditional of the four in that the kitchen was cream rather than black like the one in neighbouring property. Terracotta, oak, slate and underfloor heating run throughout the apartments, while floor-to-ceiling windows in the lounge make the most of the stunning views across Loch Shiel to Ben Resipole. Spa baths, fluffy robes and Arran Aromatics goodies are the order of the day in the luxurious bathrooms.
What's the food like? Since this is self-catering, the standard of food is really up to you. The kitchen in our apartment was so luxurious and well-equipped, however, that cooking really was a pleasure... honestly. You can even have fresh local produce delivered to your door including prawns, lobster, crab, scallops, venison and smoked salmon. But for those who really can't stand the heat there is a hotel, pub and restaurant nearby as well as the option of three-course meals delivered to your house by a local company called Sunart Suppers, where typical choices include Highland beef in heather ale or spiced lamb shank with chilli, coriander and rosemary.
Out and about Garmoran Square is just an hour from Fort William and within easy reach of Mull, Skye and Ardnamurchan. It's a gorgeous drive round Loch Sunart to Kilchoan, from where you can catch a short ferry direct to Tobermory. Kenneth and Susan can also arrange fishing permits on Loch Shiel or Loch Sunart, or you can pay to fish or stalk on the Kinlochmoidart Estate. You can also try your hand at clay pigeon shooting through the local gun club.
Little extras After a long day of hunting, shooting and fishing – or even just walking – you can arrange a relaxing massage in the comfort of your house
Room for improvement Sadly, for my husband, the only improvements I can think of are the ones I'd like to make to my own home having seen Garmoran Square.
The bottom line Prices range from £325 to £440 per week for the one-bedroomed MacRuari and from £595 to £875 for the five-star, three-bedroomed Tioram and Somerled cottages, but late availability short breaks may also be available so it's always worth checking the website or e-mailing to enquire.
