Cuil is a small cottage in a very isolated and beautiful part of the West Highlands, on the north shore of Loch Shiel. It is about a mile from its nearest neighbours. It is off grid but has a solar generator and gas-fired cooker and fridge. The water is heated by a stove (coal and wood supplied) which also warms the house. It has no Wi-Fi but there is a pretty good mobile signal within less than 100yds of the house – and also a landline for emergencies. The water supply is 'natural' (no mains). It is approached by a mile of fairly rough, but perfectly drivable, track and has a fully fenced garden.
Location and access. Cuil is in Moidart about 5 miles from Acharacle (so map below just shows Acharacle) – where there is a good shop and a Wi-Fi café. It is about 50m from Fort William. It can be accessed by public transport – although that involves a walk-in or by taxi. (Or by boat). A car or bike definitely helps!
For those who don’t know the Rough Bounds of Lochaber – this is still a very isolated area of Scotland. There is great hill walking from the cottage door, it is possible to book a boat on the loch and there is very rich wildlife – deer, pine marten, bats, sea eagles, etc.; ancient woodland, and accessible loch side bathing.
There is one step up to the front door and otherwise the cottage is all on one level – but it is probably a retreat for the physically able – e.g. the coal and wood has to be brought in from the barn. In emergencies the neighbours (a local farming family) have been wonderful, but...
For further details or to discuss a booking email cuilbookings [at] gmail.com. Or phone 01581 600334 - be ready to leave a message - I don’t always answer, but will get back to you.
Pricing guide. This is genuinely open to negotiation on a person by person basis, depending what you can afford and how long you want to stay. I pay rent and rates – and the fuel – and sadly can’t afford to 'give' it fully. Think c. £150 a week or c £500 a month. Or . . .
Comments
Cuil solitary retreat
Hi there,
I have been going to Cuil on solitary retreat almost every year for the past 9 years or so (and i've always gone without a car which is part of the adventure for me). If you want somewhere that is beautiful, remote, wild and you like adventures then this is a wonderful place for you. Sara, who looks after the place, and is passionate about solitude herself is very helpful and flexible. In addition - because the place is not a 'holiday home' but is used by people who love meditation, contemplation, prayer and simplicity it has a wonderful atmosphere.