There are some Highland properties where the setting does most of the talking, and this little stone cottage overlooking Gruinard Bay is certainly one of them.
Meriel sits at Sand near Laide on Scotland’s north west coast, looking across the bay towards the ocean and the Summer Isles beyond.
From the outside it has all the appearance of a traditional Highland croft house, but appearances can be deceptive.
The cottage was actually built around 17 years ago as part of an exclusive development of just four properties, all designed in a traditional croft style.
That gives Meriel an appealing combination of Highland character and a considerably more modern home.
At its heart is a wonderful open plan lounge, kitchen and dining room stretching more than 34 feet from end to end.
The high vaulted timber ceiling immediately gives the room a sense of space, while an exposed stone wall at the gable end and a log burner set on a tiled hearth bring warmth and character.
Solid oak flooring runs through the lounge, and the windows at the front frame views across Gruinard Bay and the landscape beyond.
The kitchen and dining area continues the traditional feel with oak units and a Belfast sink with solid oak surround, alongside integrated appliances and plenty of room for a dining table.
More windows here make the surrounding landscape a constant part of the house.
There are two double bedrooms, making Meriel particularly suited to someone looking for a manageable permanent home, west coast retreat or holiday property.
One bedroom has dual aspect windows overlooking the surrounding countryside and direct access to the family bathroom, while the second double bedroom has its own en suite shower room.
Outside, there is considerably more space than the compact appearance of the cottage might initially suggest.
Meriel sits within approximately one acre of garden ground, partially enclosed with stock and deer proof fencing.
A gravel road leads down across a cattle grid to a generous parking area, with lawn to the front and a mixture of shrubs and trees elsewhere allowing the garden to merge naturally into the countryside.
There is also a detached wooden shed providing useful additional storage.
But this property is really about where it sits.
Sand is a small west coast hamlet on the southern shore of Gruinard Bay, surrounded by the kind of landscape that has made this part of Wester Ross so special.
The coastline offers sheltered sandy beaches and views towards the islands, while the mountains, moorland and lochs inland provide endless opportunities for walking, climbing and fishing.
Gruinard Bay is close by, while the beautiful white sands of Mellon Udrigle are only a short drive away.
Laide provides a petrol station, general store and Post Office, with a wider range of amenities available in Aultbea and Gairloch.
For somebody looking for a little corner of the north west Highlands with sea views, space around them and some of the finest countryside in Scotland almost immediately outside the door, Meriel makes a compelling case.
It looks every inch the old Highland cottage.
It just comes without having to be quite so old.
The property is being marketed by Innes & Mackay
The asking price, full property details, photographs, floor plans, Home Report where available, and viewing information can all be found on the official listing.
Click here to view the official listing
