Lochshiel Estate
Near Acharacle, Argyll
The privately owned Lochshiel Estate is situated amongst the wonderfully dramatic scenery of Scotland’s west coast. Located some 45 miles west of Fort William, the 9,000 acre estate rests along the shores of the sea lochs Moidart and Shiel.
A haven for wildlife, expect to surround yourself in the splendour of ancient woodlands, dramatic mountains and magnificent shorelines. Wildlife is abundant, with rare treats such as eagles, ospreys and pine martens all calling the area home. Lochshiel offers the opportunity to relax and recharge, while also being perfect for trying some fantastic walking routes, a spot of sailing, or even wild swimming. ame family for 120 years, the estate has remained true to its traditional roots, with preservation at its heart.
Mary Ann's Cottage
This wonderful, romantic hideaway nestled on the waterside has been beautifully renovated with care to maintain its many traditional charms.
Gardener's Cottage
Standing within a beautiful garden and surrounded by trees, this traditional cottage boasts a spectacular view of impressive Castle Tioram in the loch.
Dorlin Cottage
A beautiful stone house with substantial gardens and wonderful views of Castle Tioram, as well as the chance to see the local deer.
Scarduish
Standing in its own substantial grounds with a wonderful furnished terraced, this light and airy property is ideal for a larger holiday group.
Camus Dorche
Standing along the banks of River Shiel, this is the ideal base for fishing or simply relaxing and enjoying the amazing scenery.
Activities to Try
Making the Most of the Water
Lochshiel’s cottages all benefit from sea or open water views and for those keen to experience more, there are several watery pursuits to suit all tastes. Wild swimming has become a popular pastime for many in the last few years and Lochshiel are happy to advise on safe and tranquil spots for a dip in the sea or lochs.
Sailing is also available with weekly opportunities to visit the small isles of Rum, Muck and Eigg. Dolphins can often be spotted along the way and the skipper will happily slow down in order to fully appreciate what is sure to be a magical encounter. Dorlin, a picturesque little hamlet within the estate itself, is centred around its harbour with its stone pier and surrounded by beautiful old stone fisheries and ice houses. These 150-year-old buildings are a must-see for those with an interest in the traditional history of the area.
Lochs Moidart and Shiel are both surrounded by ancient woodlands. Designated as a protected area of special scientific interest, the woodland and lochside habitat is home to the rare black-throated diver and an ideal spot for the keen wildlife photographer to snap a rare beauty.
Walk in the Footsteps of History
There are many beautiful coastal walks within the estate, one of note being The Silver Walk. Starting from the Forestry Commission car park at Ardmoilch, follow the coastline to Castle Tioram. The traditional seat of the Clanranald branch of Clan Donald, the castle sits atop the rocky tidal outlet of Eilean Tioram and is only accessible at low tide when the sand bar emerges from the waters. The castle itself is steeped in history, dating back to the 13th century, and is surrounded by an impressive pentagonal curtain wall. With its turbulent history, reflecting the struggles of the Clan and the Jacobite uprising, this romantic castle is a sight not to be missed.
For those with an interest in film, the castle was used for aerial shots for the TV program, Highlander. Just across the loch is Eilean Shona where JM Barrie, the author of Peter Pan, was known to have regularly stayed during the 1920s. Other local areas of cinematic interest include the white church at Lochailort that featured in the 1983 film Local Hero. Younger visitors will be excited to learn that Loch Eilt, and its many tidal islands, were used in the Harry Potter films most notably as the spot for Dumbledore’s grave.
Activities in the Local Area
The west coast is renowned for its unrivalled stunning shores. Arisaig and Morar both boast some of the most breathtaking silver beaches in the UK that are enough to rival any tropical destination.
The Glenfinnan Viaduct, an early 20th century engineering marvel, curves elegantly for 416 yards through the Inverness-shire countryside and over the River Finnan valley. The first concrete viaduct to be built at this scale in Britain, it remains the longest structure of its kind in Scotland. A magnificent sight in its own right, it is perhaps best known as the ‘Harry Potter Bridge’ and has become an increasingly popular tourist attraction.
For visitors looking to take part in some sports during their visit, the estate offers opportunities for stalking and fishing. Fishing is available on a weekly basis from late May through to the end of September in groups of 4 to 6. The estate’s keeper will act as ghillie and will take care of the group throughout. The river offers a variety of fishing options along its length, including wading where the loch meets the river mouth, fishing off stages in the pools found along the length of the river and at the base where the river meets the sea.
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