The Old Post Office
Glenelg
By Kyle of Lochalsh
Sleeping 4
The Old Post Office is situated in the little Highland village of Glenelg, about 27 miles from Kyle of Lochalsh. It was originally built in 1723 as accommodation for the English captains who were stationed at the nearby Bernera Barracks after the first Jacobite rebellion. Today, it is a delightful and cosy holiday home with views across the Sound of Sleat (at the end of the garden) to Kylerhea on the Isle of Skye.
Since those days this mid terraced cottage has served as the local Post Office and it enjoys a unique position in the village. Your morning papers are available from the village shop directly opposite and you can roll home at night from the village pub which is just along the road. The meals served here are first class and there is often an opportunity to hear local musicians at the many informal musical evenings.
Inside, the house manages to retain its cottage persona while, at the same time, being remarkably roomy. In the sitting room a multi-fuel stove adds a cosy factor to the efficient electric heating. Three steps lead down to the well equipped kitchen then through to a separate dining room and bathroom. Upstairs, (the steps are fairly steep and narrow) there is a double bedroom with magnificent views across the Sound and a large second bedroom with bunk beds and an extra single bed. At the rear of the house there is an area where you can sit out and enjoy the light playing over the mountains on the other side of the Sound.
From April to October a little turntable car ferry, owned by the community, (no booking necessary) sails between Glenelg and Kylerhea making it perfect for a day trip to Skye where you can walk in the Cuillins or try to spot otters at the Kylerhea hide. (If you are very lucky there may even be a glimpse of one at the cottage itself.) On the way to the ferry, and right in front of the Bernera Barracks, there is a sandy beach while a gentle amble from the cottage will take you to a pebble beach where you can either enjoy a barbecue or take a challenging dip in the incredibly clear waters. (It's also the best place to get mobile reception.)
The little single track road continues on down the coast and peters out in Corran. Take a left turn just outside the village and you will arrive at the Glenelg Brochs. These large Pictish round-houses have been astonishingly well preserved and are very interesting to visit – by bike if you happen to have brought one with you.
It is possible to take a walk through the woods further down the coast to Sandaig, which used to be the home of Gavin Maxwell, author of 'Ring of Bright Waters'.
On the way back via the dramatic route over Mam Ratagan to the main road at Shiel Bridge (garage, cafe, riding stables), it is a good idea to divert to the road running up the side of Loch Duich to Letterfearn. Totaig sits at the end of this road and here there is a beautiful walk up through the woods to see some more remarkable Brochs.
The Five Sisters of Kintail, rising up on the other side of Loch Duich, are a constant magnet for hill walkers and climbers. Beyond Kyle of Lochalsh you will find the charming little village of Plockton complete with a sheltered harbour and palm trees bordering the lochside. At the mainland side of the Skye Bridge Kyle of Lochalsh has a supermarket, shops, hotels and restaurants.
Bed linen and electricity are 
included and towels may be hired. Sorry pets are not accepted and smoking is not permitted. Wi-Fi is available, subject to provider.
Accommodation (sleeps 4):
Downstairs:
- Sitting room with TV/DVD and multi-fuel stove.
- Kitchen (three steps down) with electric cooker, fridge, microwave, washing machine, etc.
- Dining room.
- Bathroom with bath, shower over, WC and basin.
Upstairs:
- Double bedroom.
- Room with two bunk beds and additional single bed by arrangement.
Accommodation availability:
The Old Post Office:
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