Skye Lodge
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Overview
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If you are looking for a large holiday house in the Outdoor Capital of Scotland, then this beautiful lodge with clear views of Ben Nevis is ideal. Great lodge, great location.
A hugely popular private mansion, commonly referred to by the Scottish as a ‘Fishing Lodge’, this spacious, holiday home can very comfortably accommodate three or four families. Built in 1870 for landed gentry wishing to fish the River Lochy, over the century this old family home has welcomed guests from all walks of life, including royalty. Edward & Mrs Simpson enjoyed some respite on this private estate far from the public eye in 1935.
Several years ago this large holiday home undertook a fairly major renovation and restoration programme, the photos of which are on display for guests in a leather bound album on the hall table. It’s a tribute to the current family the amount of work put into these improvements, though with a property of this size and calibre, maintenance is an ongoing project. This Victorian Grand Dame was thus transformed into a bright, modern holiday home meeting the needs of the 21st Century traveller without losing the charm of its historic roots.
The property remains to all intents and purposes a fishing lodge, insofar as groups continue to take a beat on the River Lochy in pursuit of salmon and trout. However, its location has become just as attractive to other groups looking to enjoy a general holiday on the West Coast for walking and other activities.
Overall this property is a charming, spacious, nicely furnished holiday home. Smart where it counts, less so where it doesn't. It has a comfortable, relaxed feel and would be perfect for three generational familities or groups of friends looking for a bit of 'space' to unwind and enjoy each others company both indoors and out.
What you should know…
- During high season the house has a 7 night minimum stay and a Sunday changeover
This home is a part of our Great Value Collection!
Our great value homes:
- may be traditionally styled for a laid back feeling
- may have some simple amenities and features
- mean that you can enjoy top holiday destinations for less!
Property Features
LAYOUT
Ground Floor
- Sitting Room with open fire and TV
- Drawing Room with open fire
- Morning Room with open fire
- Dining Room with open fire
- Study with open fire and TV, desk and Wi-Fi hub
- Dogs room with sink
- Large conservatory porch with drying cupboards
- Butlers pantry equipped with sink, dishwasher, fridge for drinks, wine racks and cupboards for china
- Kitchen equipped with four-oven electric Aga and two warming ovens, large fridge and dishwasher
- Large walk-in larder
- Scullery and wash room with tumble drier, washing machine and deep freeze
- WC
First Floor
- Seven bedrooms, three with ensuite bathrooms as follows:
- Bedroom One with twin beds
- Bedroom Two with double bed and ensuite bathroom
- Bedroom Three with twin beds and basin
- Bedroom Four with double bed and ensuite bathroom
- Bedroom Five with Jacobean four poster double bed and ensuite bathroom
- Bedroom Six with twin beds
- Bedroom Seven with twin beds
- Two further bathrooms
DESCRIPTION
Bedrooms
- 4 Twin Bedroom/s With Shared Bathroom
- 1 Four Poster Double Bedroom/s Ensuite
- 2 Double Room/s With Ensuite Bathroom
The bedrooms are all located on the first floor, accessed via two staircases, front and back. The majority of bedrooms run off one long, wide corridor with the 4 master bedrooms running the front of the house - all facing lovely views of the river Lochy and hills beyond. All bedrooms are spacious, but the master bedroom with the four poster bed is particularly comfortable along with a decent sized ensuite bathroom. Two of the twin bedrooms at the back of the house share a small bathroom. These bedrooms are closest to the back staircase and kitchen below.
Accommodation is provided for a group of 14 adults (+ 2 children) in 7 bedrooms with 5 bathrooms, as follows:
First floor (sleeps 14)
Bed 1, Twin room
Bed 2, King size double with en-suite bathroom, with bath with shower over, w.c and wash hand basin
Bed 3, Twin room, bathroom, with bath with shower attachment, w.c and wash hand basin
Bed 4, King size double with en-suite bathroom, with bath with shower over, w.c and wash hand basin
Bed 5, Four poster double bed with en-suite bathroom, with bath, shower cabinet, w.c, bidet and wash hand basin
Bed 6, Twin room; bathroom, with bath only, w.c and wash hand basin
Bed 7, Twin room
Temporary Beds (sleeps 2 children)
There are 2 folding beds available for the + 2 children. If you think you're going to need them please request the extra beds as they're kept in storage and will need to be brought out in advance, set up and made. These are fold out beds and only suitable for children aged 12 and under. Adults are not permitted to sleep on them. We ask you respect this request as it does matter that they are used appropriately.
Living Space
The Porch
The first impression you have walking into the main porch (which tends to be the main point of access into the house) is how well-proportioned the rooms feel. Even the porch was clearly designed with outdoor pursuits in mind. Rows of hooks for coats and hats. Plenty of space underneath for boots and walking shoes. A very large basket for storing logs, sensibly housed inside to keep dry. And chairs to ease weary legs, whilst unlacing hiking gear.
Primary sitting room & TV room
A big plus for this property are the number of reception rooms it has. You’ve three main ones to choose from, all large with comfortable sofas and armchairs. The primary reception room is more of a classic drawing room with three large sofas, an open fire, prints of hunting scenes and bay window overlooking the hills. Additionally there’s a TV room with two deep sofas and an armchair. This room tends to be a popular hang-out with the children in the early evenings when the grown-up’s retire to the drawing room for pre-dinner drinks.
Secondary sitting room
The secondary sitting room is very pleasant with two good sofas, an open fire, a round card table, library of books and bay windows overlooking the hills. This is accessed via the side entrance (porch) which tends to be the main route into the house most people choose.
Entrances
There are several entrances into the property, the principle ones you’re likely to use as a group would be the one via the porch leading into the secondary sitting room. The ‘front door’ leading in from the main terrace and the back door beside the kitchen. Wet dogs tend to come in via the back door and straight into the boiler room, kitchen & pantry. The backdoor leads into a small corridor, with the kitchen, scullery & larder on the right and a small study (with TV) on the left.
Dining room
The traditional dining room on the front-facing corner of the lodge is furnished traditionally in deep red with Scottish scenes adorning the walls and large antique furniture and mahogany dining table befitting a property of this style. The bay windows provide the room with plenty of light during the day as well as access to the vast slate terrace through the French windows. It’s a reasonable distance from the main kitchen (common in properties of this era) so plenty of crockery & glassware is stored in a galley kitchen (formerly the Butler’s Pantry) in the hall opposite the drawing room.
Kitchen(s) & Pantry(s)
The kitchen is well equipped and furnished very much in keeping with the rest of the property. A beautiful old pine table seating 8 sits in the centre of the room on worn yet warm cork tile floor. The double oven electric aga (2 hobs, 2 ovens, 2 warming ovens) keeps the room beautifully warm across all seasons.
Storage will not be an issue with a large walk in larder with stone floor and slate shelves; a lovely relic of pre-refrigeration. Additionally there’s a large laundry room with double Belfast sink, fridge, upright freezer plus another large chest freezer. A washing machine, ironing board and cleaning equipment is kept in this room.
There's a second kitchen along the hall, almost immediately opposite the drawing room. This small kitchen is equipped with a sink, fridge and dishwasher and tends to be the spot most guests store and prepare drinks & cocktails.
Other rooms
There’s also a downstairs lavatory. Additionally, there is a boiler room, with large sink, which makes an ideal drying room.
Facilities
- Fridge
- Freezer
- Dishwasher
- Washing machine
- Tumble dryer
- Central heating
- Cot
- High chair
- Wifi
- Microwave
- Garden furniture
- DVD player
- TV
Features
- Aga
- Fire/woodburner
- Four poster bed
Grounds
The Terrace/Gardens
The slate terrace has withstood the test of time and suffers a little from neglect (albeit romantically). The less nimble or partially sighted would need to be particularly careful of its uneven surface. Guests can access the terrace through the French doors leading off the dining room and drawing room as well as the front door.
It's enclosed by a low stone wall high enough to keep small to medium dogs contained (as long as they’re not partial to jumping). A wooden bench, table and chairs provide seating for a few (not all guests) on sunny days. It’s a very picturesque spot and quiet. There's no garden as such although plenty of grassy areas surrounding the house in the form of open land and paddocks to stretch the legs or for games of hide and seek.
Location
About the surrounding area of Skye LodgeSky Lodge is a beautiful Victorian self-catering lodge set within five acres of private land in Torlundy, Fort William, amidst the stunning Inverness-shire countryside on the western coast of Scotland. The house has currently undergone an extensive refurbishment programme, which now offers a luxurious experience in a tranquil setting.
You might see the occasional tall ship pass on the canal that runs parallel to the river, which always creates a bit of excitement. For those interested in marine history, 'Neptune's Staircase' at Banavie near Fort William is worth visiting. On sunny days you can walk up the canal (young and old alike) tracing its steps up to the top lock followed by a drink or snack in the nearby café.
The River Lochy
You can walk to the river from the front terrace, down some steps and through a mixture of wild bracken, fern and overgrown vegetation. Dogs are asked to be kept on a lead or at least under control in case you come across livestock. The river is fast flowing and quite dangerous in areas, so absolutely not suitable for swimming. It's a lovely walk though right along the shoreline which in some places has formed rocky beaches. You'll pass one or two small wooden huts (bothys) along the way and are asked to be mindful of the fishermen who may be down on the banks, hoping to catch some salmon or trout. If you'd like to try a spot of fly fishing yourself let us know and we'll put you in touch with the relevant people. You can walk a decent circuit from the house, along the river bank, up through the paddock onto the open moorland running either side of the single lane track back to the house.
Getting There
Located 6 miles from Fort William, it's an easy drive to and from town. Your nearest supermarket and other major shops would also be Fort William which is likely to cater for most of your needs.
Local Activities
With spectacular beaches and sheltered coastlines, forests and mountains, lochs and glens, the Inverness-shire landscape is a great place to get out and enjoy yourself, be it walking, skiing, playing golf or simply appreciating the view.
Salmon Fishing
The salmon fishing season on the Lochy starts on 1st April and finishes on 15th October.
Walking
Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in Britain, sits majestically at the head of Loch Linnhe with its presence dominating the landscape.
Highland Games
With activities ranging from Highland dancing, athletics, piping competitions and marching, the Highland Games are a great day out.
Trout Fishing & Riding
For trout fishing in ponds at the foot of Ben Nevis, or riding and hacking along beautiful tracks that lead down to the River Lochy or up on to the mountain with superb views over Loch Linnhe.
kiing, biking, boarding
For more exotic activity on Ben Nevis – gondolas, bike riding, skiing and snow sports are available
Ben Nevis Distillery
Ben Nevis Distillery was established in 1825 and is one of the oldest licensed distilleries in Scotland. The distillery is situated at the foot of Ben Nevis.
Ben Nevis Observatory
Opened in October 1883, the Ben Nevis Observatory provided invaluable meteorological data for 20 years on a continuous hourly basis.
Golfing
Set directly below Ben Nevis, Fort William Golf Club has an 18-hole course.
Boating
For exhilarating boat trips around the western coast.
| Local Amenities | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest Airport |
Glasgow Airport
(166 km) |
||
| Nearest Train Station |
Banavie
(7.6 km) |
||
| Nearest Train Station |
Corpach
(9.2 km) |
||
| Nearest Train Station |
Fort William
(9.0 km) |
||
| Nearest Restaurant |
(10 km) |
||
| Nearest Bar/Pub |
(10 km) |
||
| Nearest Shop |
(10 km) |
||
Region
Luxury self-catering holiday accommodation in the Highlands
Get ready to embark on a whimsical journey to the Scottish Highlands with Oliver's Travels, where fabulous, characterful homes await in this rugged and enchanting slice of northern Scotland. Mist-shrouded mountains, deep-blue lochs and ancient castles are the name of the game. It is like stepping into a fantasy novel, but with fewer dragons and more kilts!
First up on our Highland hit-list is Ben Nevis, standing at a whopping 1,345 metres. Climbers and hikers worldwide flock to its trails, ready to conquer the mountain and be rewarded with the most incredible views. If you are not up for an epic uphill battle, fear not! The Great Glen Way offers a more chilled stroll along the Caledonian Canal, connecting Fort William and Inverness. It is like a leisurely stroll through nature, with bonus canal vibes.
Now, who hasn't heard of Loch Ness? Home to historic castles such as Urquhart Castle, this legendary spot invites you to channel your inner detective and search for Nessie, the Loch Ness Monster. Nessie might be shy, but the views are anything but! You will enjoy ruins, mystery and just maybe, a friendly monster waving from the depths.
Inverness, the unofficial Highland capital, is where historic charm meets modern pizzazz. The River Ness weaves through the city, tickling the feet of Victorian buildings. It is a sophisticated dance of old and new. You can stroll along the riverbanks, explore Inverness Castle and soak up the local vibes at the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery. Heading west is the hidden treasure of Plockton which boasts landscapes so picturesque, you will think you are in a watercolour painting. Whitewashed cottages add a touch of charm and the sheltered bay is the perfect spot for daydreaming. You can take a boat trip to nearby islands or just bask in the coastal serenity. In Fort Augustus, where the Caledonian Canal plays meet and greet with Loch Ness, boating and water-based antics abound. The locks of Fort Augustus are like a watery staircase, a fascinating engineering marvel that turns boat journeys into a spectacle.
The Highland Folk Museum near Newtonmore invites you to step back in time. This living history museum spills the secrets with reconstructed buildings, costumed interpreters and demonstrations of age-old crafts. Another wonder, Eilean Donan Castle is a real-life fairytale fortress perched on a tiny island where three lochs have a meet-up. It is so postcard-perfect that even Hollywood could not resist its charm. History buffs and Instagram enthusiasts, this one is for you!
Of course, we cannot forget the whisky. The Highlands are the holy grail for whisky aficionados. Glenlivet and Glenfiddich distilleries open their doors for guided tours, where you will learn the magic behind crafting Scotch whisky. Sip, swirl and savour – it is a Highland happy hour!
Whether you are scaling castles, conquering peaks, fishing, boating or just lounging by a loch, the Scottish Highlands invites you to a land where nature and history come together in a brilliant way. It is a timeless tale that leaves you in awe. Step into the magic as adventure awaits!
Ah, bonnie Scotland! A wild and beautiful part of the world, where you can explore the rugged highlands or enjoy the colour and vibrancy of cultural capitals like Edinburgh and Glasgow.
But how do you know you’re getting the very best out of your trip? That’s where we come in. If you’ve had a browse through our range of luxury cottages and castles in Scotland, you’ll know there’s some great places to stay, but to find all the great things to do, see and eat you’ll need our handy Scotland travel guide – so read on and enjoy!
Extras
At Oliver’s Travels, we pride ourselves on going that little bit further for our guests. From private chefs to travel services, we can help you arrange those little extras that make it a truly memorable holiday. Simply fill in the concierge request form or contact the Oliver’s Concierge Team, who will be happy to help. We can typically help you arrange any of the following:
- Maid service/extra cleaning
- Private chef/cook/catering
- Welcome hamper/pre-stocked fridge
- Local day-trips or tours
- Airport pick-up/drop-off
Simply fill in the concierge request form or contact the Oliver’s Concierge Team.
Please note that all extras are subject to availability and must be requested in advance of the holiday (prices on request). Due to some rural/remote locations, not all services will be available at all properties. However, we will always do our best to fulfil your requests!
Oliver's Travels Chef Service: A Gourmet Dining Experience
Make hosting a memorable dinner party at your villa an absolute breeze with our superb Chef Service. Our chefs will take care of everything for you from start to finish so you can just sit back and enjoy the gastronomic experience. They will bring all the necessary ingredients, cook and serve the food and even clean up afterwards. To find out more visit www.oliverstravels.com/chefs
| Security deposit | £500 charged to the client's credit card as a pre-authorisation at least 2 weeks prior to arrival and refunded two weeks after departure, subject to a full inspection |
| Arrival time | 6.00 pm check in |
| Departure time | 9.00 am check out |
Terms & Conditions
These terms and conditions may be amended from time to time.
| Security deposit | £500 charged to the client's credit card as a pre-authorisation at least 2 weeks prior to arrival and refunded two weeks after departure, subject to a full inspection |
| Arrival time | 6.00 pm check in |
| Departure time | 9.00 am check out |
| Changeover day | Sunday in high season |
| End of stay cleaning included? | 7 nights minimum in high season and 3 nights minimum in low season |
| Linen & towels included? | Yes, included in the rental price |
| Energy costs included? | Yes, included in the rental price |
| Heating costs included? | Yes, included in the rental price |
| Smoking Allowed? | Smoking & Vaping are not permitted |
| Pets welcome? | 2 dogs are allowed on request only and with prior agreement with the owner. If accepted, a pet supplement of £15 pppw will apply (paid to OT prior to travel) |
Group Types
Stag and Hen bookings may not book this property, unless discussed in advance for approval. Neither the Owner nor the Agent will accept any liability should a booking be confirmed as a consequence of non-disclosure of the above which may later result in a booking cancellation by the Owner. For more information on this matter please speak to a member of our staff.
Private Water Supply
There is a private water supply at this property, which is checked and approved on an annual basis by the local authority.
Dogs
If you're bringing your pet on holiday, you are asked very politely in the Visitor Information Manual to keep your dogs on leads when walking down to the river or around the house in the fields and open moorland. There are often livestock grazing nearby who can be harmed if chased by excited four-legged holiday-makers. Of course if your pooch is perfectly trained to heel the lead might just be needed for decoration!
Rental Rates
Please note that these prices/rates are a guide only and may not be correct at the current date. For an accurate quote, please enquire.
HISTORY
Sky Lodge was built 1870 by Lord Arbinger, who was an officer in the Crimean War. He is more famously known for building Inverlochy Castle, also situated...
Owner Profile
HISTORY
Sky Lodge was built 1870 by Lord Arbinger, who was an officer in the Crimean War. He is more famously known for building Inverlochy Castle, also situated in Torlundy, Fort William, where he once entertained Queen Victoria and her ghillie, John Brown, in 1873.
Edward and Mrs Simpson
Lady Annie Henrietta Yule (1903-1957), following the death of her husband, commissioned the building of a luxury ocean going yacht named Nahlin, which she used for entertaining her many friends and associates from around the world, and for extended trips overseas including a global circumnavigation. A favourite place was Fort William, where she fished the River Lochy from Camisky Lodge.
In 1935, Nahlin made a special trip to Fort William. Guests on board included the Prince of Wales and his wife to be, Mrs Wallace Simpson, who then stayed for a week at Camisky Lodge. The following year, the Prince, now Kind Edward VIII, abdicated the throne.
The Inverness-shire country features regularly in many blockbuster movies, including the Harry Potter franchise. The most notable landmark is the Glenfinnan Viaduct, which appears in Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, Harry Potter and The Prizoner of Azkaban and Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire; as part of the West Highland Line, it connects Fort William with the port of Mallaig.
CURRENT OWNER
Sky Lodge is currently owned by Caroline and Michael, whose family home is situated in Wiltshire.
Reviews
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Skye Lodge
Spacious house, many rooms, well equipped!
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Really welcoming
The house was warm and tidy upon arrival, really welcoming.
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Lovely
Lovely warm house
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Skye Lodge
Fantastic house and location
Something for everyone -
Fabulous stay
Fell in love with the lodge as soon as we walked in the door so quiet and peaceful lots of room and well stocked with cutlery and crockery.
Excellent from start to finish good communication especially in the times we are in
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Lovely time
Lovely old property with plenty of room. Usual good friendly helpful service.
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Would love to go again!
Great location so near Fort William. Easy to find. Such a fantastic location and comfortable house. Enjoyed every minute spent there!
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We love this comfortable house
Large, comfortable estate home. Very comfortable beds. A little worn, but to be expected for a house this age. The patio stone could use a little TLC as it is covered in moss and plant material. Lots of charm and perfect for our family of 8.
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Excellent
The lodge is a great place to stay. We love it.
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Fabulous house in an idyllic location.
Fabulous place. It was a horrible wet weekend when we visited but the house was lovely and cosy. We had a log fire every night. The bedrooms were very comfortable. We will certainly be back.
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Thank you for a great stay
The lodge was a fabulous place for a group of our size (ten). This was an annual week in the hills and we have stayed in a huge variety of properties over the last 35 years. This was easily one of the best. The place has had a recent makeover which has retained the charm but ensured it is properly heated and things work. The setting is really stunning and with the week of weather we had, we never tired of the views of the Ben. Lot's of space and character, everything you might expect (wifi, etc) in a great location. We had one minor problem with the lights which was sorted in a timely and friendly fashion. What's not to like.
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Staff could not have been more helpful
We had a truly excellent stay. Everything worked well, heating, open fires and cooking (once we got used to the AGA). And what a truly delightful place.
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