Home > Scotland > Highlands and Islands > Coillabus Cottage, Islay

Coillabus Cottage, Islay

Comfortable self-catering accommodation on the beautiful Mull of Oa, near Port Ellen, Isle of Islay, Scotland.

The cottage which was renovated in 1995 is situated at the heart of a working hill farm four miles from the village of Port Ellen. Coillabus sleeps 6 but is also perfect for couples and is growing in popularity as a 'get away from it all' honeymoon destination.

With ever-changing views over grass, heather and sea to Kintyre and Ireland, no wonder many of our guests just stay put and enjoy the peaceful surroundings, enjoying a game of Coillabus croquet or trying to spot the Oa's resident Golden Eagles from the garden. From Coillabus you can walk undisturbed for miles in any direction, discovering hidden bays, lochs and cliff-top paths. And we are only a short drive away from Islay's famous whisky distillleries, golf course, award-winning restaurants and miles of sandy beaches.

Living room - with open fire, record collection, board games and bookcase (no TV)

Kitchen / dining area - well equipped with electric cooker, fridge, freezer, microwave and washing machine

Bathroom - bath with shower over

Small garden room leading onto pebble terrace

3 bedrooms (to sleep 6): double bedroom with seating area; twin bedded room ; twin bedded room plus bunks; cot available

The Oa is rich in fauna and flora: wild goats, otters, rare golden eagles and choughs are fellow residents in the area. The cottage is within walking distance of, or a short car drive away from, the new RSPB reserve at Upper Killeyan and Kinnabus. Killeyan, Gaol and Port an Eas beaches are hidden gems.

Nowadays only a few families remain in an area which was once heavily populated. Next to the cottage lie the stones which are all that remain of the homes of 26 families living there before the clearances.

There are also seldom visited iron age and Celtic sites including a chambered cairn reputed to be the grave of the warrior Connachan. Be sure to explore the rarely trodden paths of the Oa. A silent place with many secrets.

Famed for its miles of sandy beaches, wild open spaces, idyllc villages, and friendly folk, Islay is the perfect choice for a family holiday, honeymoon, romantic getaway or a relaxing break with friends.

Pony trekking, golf, tennis, trout and salmon fishing, bowls, diving and cycling, not to mention tours of our world famous distilleries, can all be arranged locally.

For a sense of the island's rich history a visit to Finlaggan, the medieval seat of the Lords of the Isles, is a must.

A short drive from the cottage will bring you to the 9th century. Kildalton High Cross... truly inspirational.

Birding on the Oa and the John Muir Award
Jeremy Hastings of Islay Birding provides tailor made birding tours specially for residents of Coillabus Cottage. For those who want a real bushcraft focus we are delighted to offer families a unique opportunity to achieve a John Muir award during their stay at Coillabus. The award is an ideal way to enjoy to the full the wonderful environment of the Mull of Oa as well as to engage in selected conservation activities. With the luxury of Coillabus to come home to you have the very best of both worlds. The cost of the flexible three day course is £195 in addition to accommodation. Ask for details when booking.

Sketching and painting
Join local artist Mina Carmichael in an informal drawing and painting outing. Details on application.

Fishing
Anglers staying at Coillabus can take advantage of our fishing permit and enjoy the unrivalled peace and tranquility of nearby freshwater lochs including Glenastil and Kinnabus. A boat is also available by arrangement with Port Ellen Angling Club.