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Welcome to Airidh an Dobhrain - our secluded cottage by the lochside

Photo gallery for Welcome to Airidh an Dobhrain - our secluded cottage by the lochside

Fridge, microwave, oven, stovetop
Exterior
Aerial view
Property grounds
TV, fireplace, DVD player, books

Reviews

10 out of 10

Exceptional

Entire home

1 bedroomSleeps 2

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
    Parking available
  • Washer
    Washer
  • Barbecue grill
    Barbecue grill
  • Outdoor space
    Outdoor space
  • Kitchen
    Kitchen
  • Fireplace
    Fireplace

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

Welcome to Airidh an Dobhrain - our secluded cottage by the lochside

This cosy one bedroomed cottage sits right on the waters edge and is both remote and isolated, our only neighbours being the sea birds, seals and the occasional otter! It really is an ideal retreat, where you can escape the bustle of daily life and relax.
It is ideally placed right at the centre of the Outer Hebrides, so you can explore from Eriskay (with regular connections to Barra) to the south, to Berneray (with regular connections to Harris) to the North.
It was originally built as a shieling to house land workers, and is now a comfortable holiday retreat, with the added advantage of a log burning stove to snuggle up to after a long day out. The bedroom has a 4 poster double bed and is dual aspect. Guests have in the past told me the bathroom has the best shower they have ever used! The well equipped kitchen/living room contains everything you will need to enjoy your stay including SMART TV with chromecast, DVD player, bluetooth sound bar and wifi. The property is accessed via a driveway with parking space situated next to the cottage. There is a 3kW EV charger for our guests' use (additional charges apply).
The cottage is situated right on the shore of Loch Killerivagh, the tide rising on either side of the cottage as it comes in. Guests regularly see buzzards, owls and Golden and white tailed Eagles from the garden which features a rowing boat filled with fresh herbs for guests to pick and enjoy.
There are many walks that are suitable for all ages and abilities that offer a great way to engage with the unique landscape. The nature reserves at Balranald on North Uist and Loch Druidibeg on South Uist are easily reached with rare birds including Corncrakes, Phalaropes, eagles and much more. The dark skies are a haven for stargazers (particularly during the autumn and winter months) and keep an eye out for the Northern Lights too! The area is a paradise for: walkers, cyclists, birdwatchers, photographers, artists, astronomers, and people looking for a break from the hectic pace of daily life. Uist can only be accessed by ferry or plane, making it very remote. The island is an incredibly friendly place, with the majority of drivers waving as they pass - even on the double track roads.

Property manager

Ian Swain

Languages

English

Property amenities

Beach

  • Beach nearby

Internet

  • Available in the cottage: WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Electric car charging station on site
  • Car recommended
  • Parking on site

Kitchen

  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dishwasher
  • Electric kettle
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Refrigerator
  • Stovetop
  • Toaster

Bedrooms

  • Bedroom
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • Hair dryer
  • Shower
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Fireplace
  • Wood stove

Entertainment

  • Books
  • DVD player
  • Stereo
  • TV with cable/satellite channels
  • Video library

Outdoor areas

  • Barbecue grill
  • Garden

Laundry

  • Washing machine

Comfort

  • Heating

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Smoke-free property

Services and conveniences

  • Iron/ironing board

Location highlights

  • In a rural location
  • On a lake
  • On the waterfront

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • First aid kit
  • Fire extinguisher

General

  • Electric car charging station
  • Garden
  • Property does not allow children

Similar properties

Cookware/dishes/utensils
Traditional thatched cottage- An Taigh Dubh
Kitchen
Pet-friendly
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (4)
Traditional thatched cottage- An Taigh Dubh

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions

Pets

Pets not allowed

Children and extra beds

This property does not allow children

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
Property Registration Number ES00253F

We should mention

A car is recommended for transportation to and from this property

Property is also known as

Welcome Airidh Dobhrain our Secluded Cottage Lochside
Welcome Airidh Dobhrain our Secluded Lochside Isle of Benbecula

About the area

Map
Isle of Benbecula, Scotland

What's nearby

  • North Uist Distillery - 12 min drive - 11.6 km
  • Our Lady of the Isles - 14 min drive - 13.8 km
  • Howmore - 18 min drive - 18.5 km
  • Lochmaddy Ferry Terminal - 35 min drive - 37.3 km
  • Lochboisdale South Uist Ferry Terminal - 36 min drive - 38.7 km

Getting around

  • Benbecula (BEB) - 23 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Charlie's Bistro - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪Dark Island Hotel Bar - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Namara Marine Supplies and Seafood Café - ‬24 min drive
  • ‪Westford Inn - ‬12 min drive
  • ‪Low Flyer - ‬13 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Welcome to Airidh an Dobhrain - our secluded cottage by the lochside pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Welcome to Airidh an Dobhrain - our secluded cottage by the lochside?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Welcome to Airidh an Dobhrain - our secluded cottage by the lochside?

Check-out is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Welcome to Airidh an Dobhrain - our secluded cottage by the lochside located?

Situated on the waterfront, this cottage is within 9 mi (15 km) of Bàgh Chulla, North Uist Distillery, and Mol Mòr. Oitir Mhòr and Our Lady of the Isles are also within 9 mi (15 km).

Welcome to Airidh an Dobhrain - our secluded cottage by the lochside Reviews

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 40 out of 41 reviews" "
Rating 8 - Good. 1 out of 41 reviews" "
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 41 reviews" "
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 41 reviews" "
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 41 reviews" "

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

9.0/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Guido D.

Liked: Cleanliness
Stayed 7 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Ann D.

Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect getaway
Cosy cottage in a perfect location overlooking the loch. Beautiful, little piece of heaven
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Nigel M.

Liked: Cleanliness
The most breathtaking views from the windows
The cottage felt very welcoming when we arrived - someone put a lot of love and hard work into fitting it out. The surroundings were just breathtaking - being located right on the shore of a lock with plenty of birds flying around - and sheep in the driveway. An evening's or early morning's stroll over the rocks around the loch was a particular pleasure, and the quietness was almost tangible, broken only by the gulls screaching, the sheep bleating, and the very occasional car passing the end of the driveway 100 yards away. The remoteness also means you get a chance to talk to people - residents and other tourists - whom you would probably just walk past if you saw them at home. Overall we were very sad to leave and we hope to be back before too long.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Keith T.

Liked: Cleanliness
Delightful cottage in idyllic location.
This was our second stay in this lovely, cosy cottage. It is well equipped and comfortable - with a brilliant shower! A perfect location for bird watching and walking in an astoundingly beautiful area.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Rebecca S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Delightful Stay!
We loved renting this property! It was located right on a loch with many different species of birds to view and tides to watch. Unfortunately no otter sighting this time! The house was very cozy and clean-just right for two people. It was conveniently located to explore Berneray, North Uist, Benbecula, South Uist, and Eriskay. It was also convenient to several grocery stores, gas stations, and restaurants. We had great weather in April/May and enjoyed sitting out on the chairs watching over the loch during the day. We were able to meet Ian, the owner, and it was a delight talking with him. He was very responsive to any questions we had about the property before we arrived. We would definitely recommend this property!
Stayed 14 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Lyn E.

Liked: Cleanliness
Location, location, location
We had a wonderful time in this lovely cosy cottage by the loch just watching the tides come in and out. The birds keep us entertained and the extra daylight was a joy. A very well equipped neat homely cottage with everything you could possibly wish for. Especially if you like cooking from scratch.
Stayed 7 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Elma C.

Liked: Cleanliness
Àirigh an Dòbhrain
Had a wonderful stay in Benbecula. What a beautiful Island, and what a beautiful place to stay at Àirigh an Dòbhrain.
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Christopher

Travelled with pets
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Nice cottage, nicely decorated, nice pictures, furniture, lovely floorboards, good shower, heating, multi-fuel burner. Quiet but good access to North and South Uist. Weather I as bad most days I was on Uist so it was good to be able to get back to a warm cottage, shower and woodburner. Binoculars and scope. Good hillwalking and beach walking. Didn’t see much wildlife due to weather but saw a Golden Eagle, 2 Herons, Waders, Shanks and Gulls.
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

James

Travelled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
We wondered if we were mad to visit the Outer Hebrides in mid November so we only booked 3 nights at Airidh an Dobhrain. Wish we'd been brave enough to stay longer! What a delightful, cosy wee cottage and the Hebrides are magical at any time of year. The many 10/10 reviews are accurate - perfect!
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Philip D.

Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect for Two
A charmer of a cottage with it’s own resident wildlife (Sheep and Short Eared Owls anyone?) A perfect little getaway for a week away in the Outer Hebrides.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Nigel R.

Liked: Cleanliness
On arrival and on departure … I cried! Happy tears!
This cottage is pure delight. One of the best holiday accommodations I have ever stayed in. Away from all the stresses of life. The situation is perfect to heal whatever might need healing! My two dogs also loved it … the three of us were horizontally ‘chilled out’. Thank you David and family .. what you are ‘offering’ there is, well, certainly for me … perfect!
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

John K.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great setting-great place
Just back from a magical week on the Uists. The property is in a fantastic location with the water almost at your doorstep. Great base for exploring the surrounding areas-not too far from anywhere. Lovely clean and comfortable cottage.
Stayed 7 nights in Nov 2022

10/10 Excellent

Celia C.

Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful and peaceful
We had a fabulous stay here, the setting is beautiful and we hardly saw anyone during our stay, just the sheep and birds. Just what we wanted. The property is cosy and well equipped, and the shower is amazing. We loved sitting by the fire and taking in the view across the water.
Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Barbara

Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Ian M., Erskine

Liked: Cleanliness
Peaceful location
The cottage is well presented and clean. The location is absolutely perfect if your looking for peace and quiet with spectacular scenery. Its a perfect location in the middle of the group of islands for travelling around. A lot of thought has went into the layout of the cottage to make most of the size and it certainly works. It was cosy even with the blustery wind we had on the first few days. We would definitely recommend this place and would love to return sometime in the future.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

bridget B.

Liked: Cleanliness
Absolutely fabulous!
This place is top notch. We've rented lots of cottages over the years and this one is definitely one of the best. It's warm and cosy with all mod cons. The shower is so powerful with lots of hot water. There's lots of local info to read up about the area. And the location is STUNNING! We watched golden eagles, a white tailed eagle, short eared owls, deer and otter all from the sitting room window! And to top it all there is lovely Joan who lives nearby who makes sure all is well and is on hand if you need her. We will definitely be back .. thank you!
Stayed 7 nights in May 2022

10/10 Excellent

Nicola D.

Liked: Cleanliness
Immersed in nature
The location is simply incredible, the tide breathing in and out metres from the back door and bird life bursting all around. The cottage itself is beautiful, cosy, comfortable full of warmth and light - just perfect all round. We had a blissful week
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2022

10/10 Excellent

Pat W.

Liked: Cleanliness
Peace and tranquillity
This was everything I needed and more. A perfect place for a writer trying to complete the first draft of a novel and an ideal base for exploring the southern Western Isles. This is a beautiful part of the world. Benbecula is an island of rainbows. The cottage was so comfortable, I really didn't want to leave.
Stayed 57 nights in Feb 2022

10/10 Excellent

Andrea S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Lovely blue isle on lovely blue island
We only stayed 4 nights, but we would have liked to have stayed longer. The cottage is highly comfortable, furnished with great attention to detail (even outside, like herbs in the garden!) Perfect for a romantic hideaway und watching wildlife. You can already see the sea when you wake up. Grocery store within a short drive. Thanks again Ian. Highly recommend!
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2021

10/10 Excellent

Colin R., Sunninghill, Berkshire UK

Liked: Cleanliness
Great location to explore the Uists and Hebridean chain.
Comfortable, super-clean, well-equipped. Planting pretty but needs pruning back to maximise the views and reduce attractiveness to midges!
Stayed 14 nights in Aug 2021

10/10 Excellent

Adam K.

Liked: Cleanliness
Cosy cottage away from it all
Perfect location to see all of the islands. Cosy and well looked after. EV charger was a bonus.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2021

10/10 Excellent

Jean S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Cody little gem of a cottage
Fabulous week in this charming little cottage. Comfy and cosy, right on a loch in a lovely remote location. Shower was particularly amazing! Wish we were back there now!
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2021

10/10 Excellent

John H.

Liked: Cleanliness
Outstanding accommodation in a remarkable location
My work as an ecologist involves travelling and staying in remote locations and we decided to holiday in North Uist because of the wildlife, which didn't disappoint. We were prepared to accept that the accommodation would come with limitations and were therefore delighted that the most enjoyable part of our trip related to the cottage. It has evidently been a labour of joy to reinstate the cottage for Ian and his family. With so many personal touches, he is evidently a remarkable individual. The addition of two skylights in the lounge make it light and the sympathetic colour scheme makes it feel that three feet thick walls don't come between you and ever changing environment outside the window. It would have been easy to simply sit and enjoy the view from the windows for the entire week, with so much wildlife to see and the fifteen metres or so to the tidal loch there always seemed to be something happening. The cottage is typical of many of the houses on the island but the inside is modern, light, warm, comfotable and well appointed. We cooked several meals during our time there, choosing to limit our contact with locals during a time of Covid, and found it easy to cook, there is good storage space, a small dishwasher, a good sink, plenty of surface space and everything required. In a separate space there was a washing machine and if we would have had the need for it, a small log burner so I can't see any issue with going out of season. The WiFi connection was good enough to make Zoom calls and download and send emails. The area surrounding the house, like houses over the entire island, is a blanket bog, which I couldn't resist looking at, and recorded almost a hundred species of plants, a similar situation back in England would have made it a wildlife reserve! The slight breeze meant that we were midge free for almost the entire week and were able to enjoy our stay in an amazing location, made better by the comfortable accommodation and thought that had gone into make it such a pleasure. Definitely somewhere we'll be trying to book again.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

Debbie T., Cranleigh

Liked: Cleanliness
Great central location
Well equipped cottage, ideal for two. So peaceful and located so you can to travel to either North or South Uist.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

Jo R.

Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect
A quaint little cottage perfectly situated for outdoor pursuits and sightseeing around Uist. All essential equipment provided. Had a wonderful time. Highly recommend.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2021