We came here for our ruby wedding in July last year, and it was smashing so we are here again. The cottage was freezing when we got here, but once we got the log fire going it was lovely and warm (we love it here). We come up to Scotland four or five times a year and this is the best cottage we have been in - it is more like your own home than a holiday cottage. There's a lot of thought gone into it (congratulations). The weather has not been very good but it hasn't stopped us from enjoying ourselves. Thanks for the wine we will be back.
Linda and Malc Simmons
5th-12th February 2001
Dear Andrew,
What a beautiful house and location..... had a fantastic holiday. Didn't do much just had a very relaxing time in front of the log fire.
Have done a lot of traveling in Scotland and stayed in many places, but this house is so far the best!!
Enjoyed the sunsets, the mountains looked on fire.
Had a fantastic meal at the Loch Fyne Oyster Bar. went across to Bute on the ferry - more great scenery. Thanks you SO much for letting us use the house.....THE BEST !
Thanks for the wine...much appreciated.
Many Thanks
Pete, Jo and Alfie Atmore, Cheshire
22nd - 29th December
We've had a lovely week. the cottage is great, very comfortable - We loved the sunroom sunsets, the open fire & huge bed! We've been on some lovely walks, - Puck's Glen, The Crinan Circular and across to Castle Lachlan and down to Kirbury Bay at the very end of the Cowal Penninsula. All easy to do with our 3 children - 4,3 & 1 and a half years [baby in the backpack :] and enjoyed by all - spectacular scenery and views. The children loved collecting shells at Otter Ferry beach in particular which we visited in time for a spectacular sunset.
It has been freezing cold [-3 this morning] but everyday has been clear blue skies and a beautiful winter sun. The solitary dog walker we met on the way Kilbury Bay must have thought we were truly mad as we approached armed with buckets and spades to find the sand frozen solid and the tide line iced over!
We've seen several herons from the cottage and from Kilbury Bay we spotted 2 seals, a heron and a deer.
Thank You for a wonderful week - We feel restored and ready to return to normal life.
Becky, Justin, Molly [4], Sam [3] & Flo [1 and a half] Norwich, Norfolk.
20th - 27th November 2010
We've stayed in lots of cottages in some lovely locations but this is by far the best located and furnished. Someone has a good eye for detail!
What a beautiful house !!
A week in mid November, we must be mad! But we had a fab week, 1 fabulous day, sunny, clear and crisp with snow capped mountains all around us and the most amazing autumn colours.
Loch Fyne Hotel and Spa for a rainy bad day £5 each to spend as much time as you like going from the pool to the jacuzzi to the sauna and the steam room over and over again, we came out feeling wonderful.
The cottage is comfortable, thanks for the wine & bird feed sitting in the sunroom. with a good book glancing at the many birds feeding, gazing at the loch and the changing weather conditions has been lovely.
We hope to book again.
Nicola and Simon Pendreich, Upminster, Essex.
13th - 20th November 2010
What a beautiful place!
We have had a great week here. The cottage is great, children loved being near the loch and exploring. We loved coming in and lighting the fire at night!
Inveraray Jail was good - the children really enjoyed it and the staff there were good with them. We had a great walk at Pucks Glen near Dunoon, some stunning views and waterfalls. We also had a good meal at The Furnace Inn just thro' Inveraray, excellent food and very reasonable price.
Went to the Halloween event at Glenbranter run by the Forestry Commission, it was excellent, don't know who enjoyed it the most - us or the children!!
All in all a fab week - will definately be back - so much to see and do.
Thanks Andrew for a lovely cottage - absolutely excellent.
The Redmond Family, Louth, Lincolnshire.
23rd October - 30th October
The best cottage we have hired, well equipped, wonderful views what more could we ask for. Weather was mixed, but it was worth the journey.
Thanks for the wine, a lovely gesture. Hope to book up for next year.
Janet & George Lee, Claire, Faye and Harry, Hertfordshire
16th October - 23rd October
Dear Andrew,
Thank you for a wonderful stay, our holiday was just perfect, lots of days lazing around doing next to nothing, just what we needed!
The boys loved the sun room [or the 'nature room' as Owen dubbed it}, watching the birds and the occasional squirrel. No porpoises, though!
I spent many mornings on the bike, some amazing rides around here. The walk behind the cottage is also spectacular.
Lovely meal at the Inver Cottage, just down from Strachur - a bit off the beaten track, but highly recommended. Loch Fyne restaurant was also very, very good - if a bit busy!
Anyway, a fantastic week of cycling, walking, sunsets and skimming stones - just perfect!
Many Thanks again ....Hope to be back.
Erik, Pam, Harris and Owen Porter
9th October - 16th October
The 11 hour drive here was certainly worth it. We arrived in glorious sunshine and the fire waiting to light and the wine waiting was a lovely touch.
We have stayed at several cottages over the last 10 years and we can safely say we have enjoyed this week more than any other.
We cannot fault in any way our stay here and the view alone are one of the many reasons we shall be coming back next year!
Many Thanks Andrew.
Jason & Larry, Kent
25th September - 2nd October
We have enjoyed our stay at the cottage and have had a great 2 weeks. Very comfortable and clean, and the views are spectacular.
We have had holidays in Scotland for over 20 years and this place [cottage and views] must come top of our list.
The king sized bed is fantastic and the most comfortable we have ever slept on, it's big enough for Snow White and her gang of seven.
On Thursday 27th we viewed the most beautiful sunset we have ever seen, as the sun went down you would swear the forest was on fire. It was my birthday on the 15th [72...21st!] and the frigate HMS Monmouth came and stayed for three days, going up and down the loch all day.
Thanks for the wine.
We've had a great time.
The Robinsons, Durham
11th September - 25th September
Lovely cottage and very well resourced. We also appreciated the huge comfy bed and the kids loved watching the birds and finding crabs on the shore.
Inveraray Jail was a good rainy day activity, we also did sea kayaking in Oban, a bit of a drive but worth it.
Thanks for the wine.
Hilary, Alan, Ivor & George Crooks
21st August - 28th August
We have had a wonderful 2 weeks of relaxation in this lovely cottage. We have had everything we needed here, the internet access was very handy. The weather has been really good (rain on 2 or 3 mornings) and we have enjoyed walking and visiting Inverary and Dunoon. The bed in the front bedroom is the most comfortable bed ever, and the view from the window makes it hard to get up! The bottle of wine was a really nice gesture. We could both stay longer - we're not ready to leave!
Julie & Ray, Stockport
7th August - 21st August
We have enjoyed our week here and love the wonderful setting. Sitting in the sun room, gazing over the Loch while listing to BBC Gaelic all fits together very nicely. The birds were very entertaining on the feeder, other local wildlife included a family of porpoises swimming downwater one evening.
Many previous entries have recommended Inveraray, and while it is picturesque we found it too touristy although the bell tower is worth a visit. Overall we preferred Dunoon. Also recommended is a visit to the Hidden Gallery, further west down this side of the loch, where artists Dan and Jean will talk you through their work. The gallery is en-route to th Inver Cottage Restaurant where we had an excellent meal - highly recommended [but book ahead], as is the Ballyhenan Restaurant just outside Tarbert - excellent food, low prices, very good service and on of the best ice creams ever [brown bread ice cream with butterscotch sauce]
Of the local walks, we enjoyed the circular walk down from Furness - if you try it say hello to the friendly little black cat that lives near the car park. P.S. very many thanks to the kind neighbours who patiently let us back in after we have locked ourselves out just after arriving. Definitely follow the advice to keep one set of keys in the safe.
Simon & Jackie, Surbiton, England
31st July - 7th August
Thank you for a wonderful week at your cottage, we've thoroughly enjoyed our stay. For a start, we were very happy to escape the heat wave in Germany but then there was so much more ...we felt very comfortable and could have sat the whole time just watching the sky and the water. One of our highlights were the Highland Games at Inverary, especially for our 15 year old son.
Almut, Wern and Heinz from Sandstedt, Germany
17th July - 24th July
The Eves and the Leemings come to stay,
At the Sheiling alongside Loch Fyne
It was love at first sight - the location just right
...And thanks for the welcome of wine!
The forecast was dire ..... would we have the attire
To protect us from wind and the wet?
But, to our surprise - nature changed his disguise -
We had bright light and no need to fret...
Wherever we went, we felt heaven sent
Us a pleasure for memory's store.
By car, train or boat - road, rail or afloat -
What we saw made us hanker for more!
We couldn't get over the changes in colour
As we gazed through the sun room's view,
We watched with delight at the birds in flight ...
...And photographed, painted and drew.
Phil went to fish with a wish for a dish
of fresh trout - and we said "see you soon ..."
Then we left him behind while we went on to find
Tea and cakes in the town of Dunoon
Alas - time has arrived and we all have survived -
But we wish we had longer to stay.
So we'll say Auld Lang Syne to the gorgeous Loch Fyne,
As home we must now wend our way ...
Leni and Phil Eves - Aljezur, Portugal and Deidre and Derek Leeming, Worcs
9th July - 16th July
Dear Andrew and future guests
These days have been outstanding for a "transplated" Brit and an American. The cottage alone was the most amazing experience. A short list (to be proud of, Andrew):-
An awaiting bottle of wine
Extremely clean and tidy
Beautifully and simply decorated
Comfortable and cosy
Tremendous views
Comfortable sleeping arrangements
Wonderfully equipped kitchen, bathroom, bedrooms, sunroom
Attention to detail including soap, umbrellas, hair dryer, binoculars etc.
Fireplace, TV, wireless internet, ipod dock and many cooking and cleaning utensils
Location, location, location
We won't go into where we ate, what we saw, places we went - but the cottage itself was worth the week, we will be back.
Rest and be thankful "haste ye back". Thank you
Eddie & Lani McAuley, Champaign, IL, USA
2nd July - 9th July
Have just enjoyed a relaxing week at The Sheiling,
Very comfortable and well equipped, with the best bit being the views from the sunroom. We have spent many hours with the telescope and binoculars watching the many garden birds, herons, oyster catchers and red squirrels, we can recommend the forestry walk behind the house for great views of Loch Fyne and deer spotting. Really enjoyed the views of Loch Eck and the castle at Loch Awe and the fish and chips at Oban [Nories] were yummy!
Thanks again for a wonderful week and the bottle of wine.
Ian & Melanie, Warwickshire.
12th June - 19th June
We had a smashing holiday, weather very good, not much rain, cottage has a fabulous view. None Better.
We came up to Scotland for our Ruby Wedding on the 6th June and went to The Oyster Bar, Loch Fyne, we had langoustine salad, king scallops a champagne.....What a day.
Thanks for the lovely holiday in your cottage, now we're off to Skye for a week.
Mr & Mrs Summons, S Yorkshire.
5th June - 12th June
Everything has exceeded our expectations - the excellent accommodation, loch views, amazing wildlife and the weather - it has been a glorious week!!
We usually stay in bed & breakfast - not anymore "The Sheiling" has converted us to the freedom of renting a cottage, everything you need is here, just turn up with your suitcases.
Where do we begin with places to see.....we love to walk....Inveraray Castle walk to the Bell Tower [ on a clear day fantastic views ] Pick up a Forestry Commission leaflet for the Argyll Forest Parks [ we got ours from the toilets in the Glenbranter Visitor Centre !!! ] Try the Lauder walks, Pucks Glen and many others - depending on your legs! Also Ardcastle Point - details in the folder, you could take a picnic, takes about 3hrs to walk, lovely views. All eating places mentioned by previous guests are good and we have not left disappointed.
Be patient and keep watching for the porpoise, we have spotted them in late evening when the water is calm, keep the binoculars at the ready.
We can't believe how light it it stays late into the evening, still light at 10.30pm.
Finally thank you Andrew for thinking of everything to make your guests welcome and comfortable. We hope we can return soon.
Kevin & Sally
29th May - 5th June
Idyllic cottage & location. Loch ever changing and difficult to look away from, even after a fortnight. Porpoises regular late afternoon / evening companions. Gannets, Heron and Oyster Catchers make regular patrols.
Not having visited the area before almost too much to see. However for those who enjoy a climb a trip to Crinan harbour to scale the cliff and look across to Mull in the distance was a particular highlight.
Would not hesitate to return to The Sheiling.
p.s. Thanks for the wine.
The Rosiers, Surrey.
8th May - 22nd May
Thank you so much for letting us stay in such a lovely cottage and spectacular location, we would love to come back again.
The weather has been wonderful and we spent the majority of the time watching the loch, we have seen seals, porpoise and a gannet several times each day along with oyster catchers and a pair of merganser.
There has also been much activity on the bird feeders with chaffinch, robin, green finch, great tit, coal tit, gold finch and siskins. Also swallows and a bat.
When we could drag ourselves away from the view we drove down to Otter Ferry [B8000] and saw deer and a red squirrel on the way. Also had a lovely day in Inveraray.
It has been the most relaxing week and we couldn't have found anywhere better, also the most comfortable bed we have ever had when on holiday.
One small recommendation would be a towel rail by the bathroom sink and also a note on your website that once you arrive you will never want to leave.
Thanks again John and Pam - Forest of Dean
1st May - 8th May
Many thanks Andrew we've thoroughly enjoyed our stay. The Sheiling is a first class holiday home, one of the best. The bed in the front room is THE best both for comfort and the view. We walked up the track behind the house - right up to the little hut on stilts. Lovely views after the rain stopped and the sun come out. The weather was great until Friday. A bonus was on Monday night it snowed on the higher mountains. Next day the drive to Arrochar was awesome - we carried on to Tarbet then north and west to Loch Awe and down to Inverary and incredible scenery!
Benmore Gardens are fabulous - even though a bit early for the rhodedendrons. Other places we liked - Old Castle Lachlan, Invercottage restaurant, Tighnabruaich and the views on the A8003 Inverary. The telescope and binoculars were well used but we saw no porpoises ***. We did see a few seals in the distance but the best show was the birds next to the sun room. We also had a pair of eider ducks and a pair of red-breasted mergansers right in front of the cottage. Also some noisy oyster catchers along the shore. We take home many happy memories, thanks again.
P.S. Thanks to the cleaner - the cottage was very clean and well prepared
***P.P.S. A pair of porpoises swam past, near to the closest buoys on Saturday morning.
Paul and Julie Seagers, Worksop
17th - 24th April
Our stay at the Sheiling has been wonderful, you have such a lovely place and the views from the house are just wow! We've all had great pleasure in the conservatory room watching the birds coming and going. We will certainly be booking up again and will let our friends and family know what a brilliant place that you have. Many thanks for the complimentary bottle of wine, it was most enjoyable.
Best wishes Scott, Tracy, Megan, Josh, Jean, Brian, Co. Durham
10th-17th April 2010
We have had a wonderful stay in the most spectacular location. The cottage is fabulous, really comfortable and has everything we could possibly want in it. We have spent a lot of time in the conservatory room:- our two year old (Abigail) has been very excited watching all the different birds feeding and the highlight was a very cute red squirrel which came to eat the seeds. We have seen porpoise and otters from the window and a seal catching fish at Castle Lachlan.
We recommend Pucks Glen walk - stunning and also Benmore Botantic Gardens - I'm sure it is even more special in the summer when everything is in flower. On the recommendations of another guest here, we climbed up to the tower at Inverary - well worth it for the stunning views down the loch. We had a lovely meal at Loch Fyne Oyster Bar and would recommend it - good price for the quality of the meal. We also bought some kippers from the shop for our breakfast the following day, then went back to get more to take home they were so good! Carrick Castle past Lochgoilhead is worth the drive for the stunning scenery on a nice day.
Thank you so much it has been wonderful and we would be back this summer if you weren't already booked up!
All the best Jennifer, Adrian and Abigail Hart, Dorset
3rd - 10th April
We've thoroughly enjoyed our stay. Thanks very much for the welcoming bottle of wine Andrew. Its been great to have such a well kitted out cottage and the children have loved having use of the telescope. Only recommendation would be to create a compost heap in the garden and we assume there is no local recycling facilities?
For other families staying, we recommend the Pucks Glen walk and wildlife hike as an interesting and very enjoyable day out.
We'll certainly be recommending family and friends to come and stay - many thanks!
27th March 2010
What a visit!
Couldn't of had a better place to stay, fantastic cottage, everything you need is here to make your stay super comfortable. Our stay was special in view of the wonderful scenery and the snow on the hills. It made a wonderful picture to wake up to in the morning.
This visit has been made more special as we were here from London to celebrate our sister's 90th birthday. It has been a great few days. You can be sure we will be back soon. Thank you so much for a fantastic place to stay.
Gladys and Percy Graham
I was here with the above Percy and Gladys - and agree with everything they have said.
Keith Bristol, Devon
February 2010
Fab cottage - amazing views and well equipped kitchen!
Tips for others:-
Walk up to monument by Inverary Castle - follow blue waymarked walk from castle car park - stunning views. We did it at sunset, gorgeous evening red light throughout forest.
Drive past Loch Riddon (west road as splits in two) great viewpoint
over Isle of Bute.
Loch Awe/Oban - Loch Fyne Oyster Bar - as good as the reputation we thought and you can buy food from their shop.
Coylet Inn on A815 road to Dunoon very good food at good prices.
Check Andrew's big book for menu and offers.
Pucks Glen Walk on A815 - lovely and quite gentle.
Thanks Andrew - will be back.
Nicola and Blair, Armadale, West Lothian
February 2010
The Cottage - Comfy beds, the real fire, the conservatory [excellent for watching the wild life, we fed the birds with peanuts, sunflower seeds etc and were well rewarded with their antics]
The Views - [even on the dullest wintery of days we could have watched the loch and the snowy hills for hours]
The Wildlife - As well as the garden birds, the Herons, the Ducks [including Goldeneye], the Curlews, the Oyster Catchers, the Gulls.....the Porpoises!! The Red Deer ...and more.
The Walks - Despite the cold, ice and snow...some fantastic walks with ancient trees and fabulous views. If you drive to Loch Riddon, near the top there is a viewpoint, high up looking down Loch Riddon to the Kyles of Bute.....Stunning. We must mention the very clean [and warm] toilets at Glenbranter.
The Fyne Food - Oysters [of course] Fran's first oyster, pheasant, the Bay Cottage at Strachur - Fish & Chips.
Recommendations for the cottage...Just an oven glove...That's all...But oh, if you arrange for a week at The Sheiling to be made on prescription, then we recommend a weekly dose!
Maggie, Mac & Fran
January 2010
ps. Thanks to the friendly neighbour.
We have thoroughly enjoyed our stay in this lovely house in the most beautiful setting! The cold snap has made getting the car up the driveway very difficult and restricted the walks we could do, but has contributed to the most stunning scenery we have seen in Scotland!
A suggestion for other visitors - go to the Loch Fyne Spa just past Inveraray! You can use the swimming pool, sauna, jacuzzi and steam room for the day for £5 per person. We had the place to ourselves with views from the pool out to Loch Fyne! perfect for our January detox.
The house was even better than we had hoped, great quality furniture and finishings, fantastic views from the sunroom....and a very comfortable bed!!
Thanks Andrew for all your help!
Jenna & Iain, Chris & Amye, Glasgow & London
January 2010
New Year - The start of a new decade.
Lovely house, well equipped , beautiful surroundings.
Though we didn't get far what we have seen, well worth a return visit.
The 'poorly' crew from Rochdale
New Year 2009-2010
DO....come to Scotland in November.
We had frost, snow on the high peaks for two mornings, beautiful walking weather - the rest of the week was mild and often warm sun.
Perfect for biking around the forest trails (Argyll Bike Hire).
This morning, as we leave, chucking it down ....!!!
A beautiful area, lovely cottage and a most relaxing (summer) holiday.
Thanks Andrew
Gill and Tony Strickland, Worcs
November 2009
We had a great time and were pleasantly surprised as the cottage is larger than it looks on the website. Fascinating to watch the loch in changing weather and times of day. Particular highlights locally were Castle Lachlan and the short but eventful walk out to it in heavy rain [about 6 miles south on the B1000] and Glenbranter Forestery Commission Site [2 miles south on the main A815 road], several walks including one up the hill with stunning views; we also enjoyed their Halloween event.
Also visited Inverary, Lochgoilhead, Rest and Be Thankful - all worth driving to for the scenery on the way. Inverary has nice shops and 6 miles further round you find Auchendrain Heritage Site [original site of buildings of a historical farming township] fascinating if you like that sort of thing. Loch Fyne Oyster Bar [between here and Inverary] is a must and visited the farmshop and can recommend the venison sausages. Rained at least half the week but could not dampen our enjoyment; hope to be back soon.
The Ingrams [+ 4 daughters aged 4-12] Hertfordshire
October 2009
We have had a really relaxing break. This place is amazing and had everything we needed and more.
Went to Kilmartin Glen to see standing stones, to Inveraray and Castle Lachlan among others. We saw selkies (seals) and plenty of bird life from the windows.
We will definitely be back.
The Turners, Alloa.
October 2009
We've had a lovely, peaceful and relaxing stay in this beautiful well equipped cottage within the most idyllic setting, however we woke one morning to see a frigate passing the bedroom window, now that was a surprise!
Inveraray is very picturesque and quite good for buying provisions, there's a CO-OP on the Main Street, a very good butchers near the jail and petrol at the Londis.
The Furnace Inn at Furnace approximately 6 miles south of Inveraray [A83] is the place to go for REAL FOOD, opens at 6.00pm out of season.
Please feed the birds! We did and they provided hours of pleasure just watching their comings and goings from the sunroom.
Hope everyone has as a relaxing and enjoyable stay as we had.
Mags & Ski, Chesterfield.
October 2009
We have had a great week at The Sheiling at Loch Fyne. The weather has been really great and we have spent our week exploring Western Scotland. We travelled up Ben Nevis by cable car and visited Fort William for a little shopping but the highlight of our week was visiting the Island of Mull (which we caught a ferry to from Oban) where we watched porpoise and saw and filmed Golden Eagles. We then went on to Ardnamurchin on a hopscotch ticket. The cottage was lovely... A really great place to come back to at the end of the day, even nicer than the pictures suggest. It has been done to a really high standard. This was our first visit to Scotland and we would love to come back and stay here again. We feel there is so much more to see.
Diane and Mick Johnson, Nottingham.
September 2009
We enjoyed staying in the house, found it very comfortable with great views. We enjoyed watching the garden birds, and have seen an otter, a porpoise and a seal from looking out of the window (on calm days). We used the house as a base for exploring the Cowal, and have visited many of the seaside and lochside towns, Benmore Gardens, Pucks Glen, Dunoon, Bute, and Lochgoilhead. We have canoed on Loch Eck, and walked up the forestry track behind the house for great views up and down Loch Fyne. We had some good weather too, which meant we could sit on the benches at the front and have a coffee while enjoying the peace.
Lorna and Shug, Kirkcaldy.
September 2009
We have just had a truely wonderful holiday at the Sheiling, Loch Fyne.Positioned right on the shores of the loch, the breathtaking views overthe water to the mountains beyond were further enhanced by visiting porpoises. The property has, whilst retaining its original character, been renovated to a very high standard, with all the mod cons to make for a very comfortable stay. We visited many "tourist musts" from the house, including:- Edinburgh; Glasgow; Ben Nevis and the Falkirk Wheel, to name but a few. We also enjoyed many excellent meals out at local restaurants and pubs, and barbequed other evenings watching the sun set over the loch. One highlight not to be missed was the world caber tossing championship at Inverary Castle Highland Games. The atmosphere was steeped in tradition and accompanied by the sound of the bagpipes and the smell of "Abroath Smokies". We had many family and friends visit
to share the experience and all had the same feeling - "fantastic".
Alison and Russ Jones, Perth, West Australia.
August 2009
We had a wonderful week on Loch Fyne. The house can't be faulted - everything was perfect. It is worth staying here for the views alone. We were regulars at the nearest pub, the Creggans Inn, which also serves excellent food (it's in all the "best pub" guides) and went once to the famous Loch Fyne restaurant - only a short distance away - which also has a shop selling delicious local produce. Spectacular scenery, wonderful walks! We will be back.
Stewart Maclean , Piacenza , Italy.
August 2009
We had a great time at The Sheiling in Strachur. A lovely and comfortable cottage, great views, loads of wildlife, kids loved kayaking in the loch.
Can't wait to go back!
The Jarvies, Fairlie.
August 2009
Please note, the guest information comments are comments as they appear in the guest book and we cannot be held responsible for any inaccurate or misleading information regarding the property, facilities or surrounding area.
Linda and Malc Simmons
5th-12th February 2001
Dear Andrew,
What a beautiful house and location..... had a fantastic holiday. Didn't do much just had a very relaxing time in front of the log fire.
Have done a lot of traveling in Scotland and stayed in many places, but this house is so far the best!!
Enjoyed the sunsets, the mountains looked on fire.
Had a fantastic meal at the Loch Fyne Oyster Bar. went across to Bute on the ferry - more great scenery. Thanks you SO much for letting us use the house.....THE BEST !
Thanks for the wine...much appreciated.
Many Thanks
Pete, Jo and Alfie Atmore, Cheshire
22nd - 29th December
We've had a lovely week. the cottage is great, very comfortable - We loved the sunroom sunsets, the open fire & huge bed! We've been on some lovely walks, - Puck's Glen, The Crinan Circular and across to Castle Lachlan and down to Kirbury Bay at the very end of the Cowal Penninsula. All easy to do with our 3 children - 4,3 & 1 and a half years [baby in the backpack :] and enjoyed by all - spectacular scenery and views. The children loved collecting shells at Otter Ferry beach in particular which we visited in time for a spectacular sunset.
It has been freezing cold [-3 this morning] but everyday has been clear blue skies and a beautiful winter sun. The solitary dog walker we met on the way Kilbury Bay must have thought we were truly mad as we approached armed with buckets and spades to find the sand frozen solid and the tide line iced over!
We've seen several herons from the cottage and from Kilbury Bay we spotted 2 seals, a heron and a deer.
Thank You for a wonderful week - We feel restored and ready to return to normal life.
Becky, Justin, Molly [4], Sam [3] & Flo [1 and a half] Norwich, Norfolk.
20th - 27th November 2010
We've stayed in lots of cottages in some lovely locations but this is by far the best located and furnished. Someone has a good eye for detail!
What a beautiful house !!
A week in mid November, we must be mad! But we had a fab week, 1 fabulous day, sunny, clear and crisp with snow capped mountains all around us and the most amazing autumn colours.
Loch Fyne Hotel and Spa for a rainy bad day £5 each to spend as much time as you like going from the pool to the jacuzzi to the sauna and the steam room over and over again, we came out feeling wonderful.
The cottage is comfortable, thanks for the wine & bird feed sitting in the sunroom. with a good book glancing at the many birds feeding, gazing at the loch and the changing weather conditions has been lovely.
We hope to book again.
Nicola and Simon Pendreich, Upminster, Essex.
13th - 20th November 2010
What a beautiful place!
We have had a great week here. The cottage is great, children loved being near the loch and exploring. We loved coming in and lighting the fire at night!
Inveraray Jail was good - the children really enjoyed it and the staff there were good with them. We had a great walk at Pucks Glen near Dunoon, some stunning views and waterfalls. We also had a good meal at The Furnace Inn just thro' Inveraray, excellent food and very reasonable price.
Went to the Halloween event at Glenbranter run by the Forestry Commission, it was excellent, don't know who enjoyed it the most - us or the children!!
All in all a fab week - will definately be back - so much to see and do.
Thanks Andrew for a lovely cottage - absolutely excellent.
The Redmond Family, Louth, Lincolnshire.
23rd October - 30th October
The best cottage we have hired, well equipped, wonderful views what more could we ask for. Weather was mixed, but it was worth the journey.
Thanks for the wine, a lovely gesture. Hope to book up for next year.
Janet & George Lee, Claire, Faye and Harry, Hertfordshire
16th October - 23rd October
Dear Andrew,
Thank you for a wonderful stay, our holiday was just perfect, lots of days lazing around doing next to nothing, just what we needed!
The boys loved the sun room [or the 'nature room' as Owen dubbed it}, watching the birds and the occasional squirrel. No porpoises, though!
I spent many mornings on the bike, some amazing rides around here. The walk behind the cottage is also spectacular.
Lovely meal at the Inver Cottage, just down from Strachur - a bit off the beaten track, but highly recommended. Loch Fyne restaurant was also very, very good - if a bit busy!
Anyway, a fantastic week of cycling, walking, sunsets and skimming stones - just perfect!
Many Thanks again ....Hope to be back.
Erik, Pam, Harris and Owen Porter
9th October - 16th October
The 11 hour drive here was certainly worth it. We arrived in glorious sunshine and the fire waiting to light and the wine waiting was a lovely touch.
We have stayed at several cottages over the last 10 years and we can safely say we have enjoyed this week more than any other.
We cannot fault in any way our stay here and the view alone are one of the many reasons we shall be coming back next year!
Many Thanks Andrew.
Jason & Larry, Kent
25th September - 2nd October
We have enjoyed our stay at the cottage and have had a great 2 weeks. Very comfortable and clean, and the views are spectacular.
We have had holidays in Scotland for over 20 years and this place [cottage and views] must come top of our list.
The king sized bed is fantastic and the most comfortable we have ever slept on, it's big enough for Snow White and her gang of seven.
On Thursday 27th we viewed the most beautiful sunset we have ever seen, as the sun went down you would swear the forest was on fire. It was my birthday on the 15th [72...21st!] and the frigate HMS Monmouth came and stayed for three days, going up and down the loch all day.
Thanks for the wine.
We've had a great time.
The Robinsons, Durham
11th September - 25th September
Lovely cottage and very well resourced. We also appreciated the huge comfy bed and the kids loved watching the birds and finding crabs on the shore.
Inveraray Jail was a good rainy day activity, we also did sea kayaking in Oban, a bit of a drive but worth it.
Thanks for the wine.
Hilary, Alan, Ivor & George Crooks
21st August - 28th August
We have had a wonderful 2 weeks of relaxation in this lovely cottage. We have had everything we needed here, the internet access was very handy. The weather has been really good (rain on 2 or 3 mornings) and we have enjoyed walking and visiting Inverary and Dunoon. The bed in the front bedroom is the most comfortable bed ever, and the view from the window makes it hard to get up! The bottle of wine was a really nice gesture. We could both stay longer - we're not ready to leave!
Julie & Ray, Stockport
7th August - 21st August
We have enjoyed our week here and love the wonderful setting. Sitting in the sun room, gazing over the Loch while listing to BBC Gaelic all fits together very nicely. The birds were very entertaining on the feeder, other local wildlife included a family of porpoises swimming downwater one evening.
Many previous entries have recommended Inveraray, and while it is picturesque we found it too touristy although the bell tower is worth a visit. Overall we preferred Dunoon. Also recommended is a visit to the Hidden Gallery, further west down this side of the loch, where artists Dan and Jean will talk you through their work. The gallery is en-route to th Inver Cottage Restaurant where we had an excellent meal - highly recommended [but book ahead], as is the Ballyhenan Restaurant just outside Tarbert - excellent food, low prices, very good service and on of the best ice creams ever [brown bread ice cream with butterscotch sauce]
Of the local walks, we enjoyed the circular walk down from Furness - if you try it say hello to the friendly little black cat that lives near the car park. P.S. very many thanks to the kind neighbours who patiently let us back in after we have locked ourselves out just after arriving. Definitely follow the advice to keep one set of keys in the safe.
Simon & Jackie, Surbiton, England
31st July - 7th August
Thank you for a wonderful week at your cottage, we've thoroughly enjoyed our stay. For a start, we were very happy to escape the heat wave in Germany but then there was so much more ...we felt very comfortable and could have sat the whole time just watching the sky and the water. One of our highlights were the Highland Games at Inverary, especially for our 15 year old son.
Almut, Wern and Heinz from Sandstedt, Germany
17th July - 24th July
The Eves and the Leemings come to stay,
At the Sheiling alongside Loch Fyne
It was love at first sight - the location just right
...And thanks for the welcome of wine!
The forecast was dire ..... would we have the attire
To protect us from wind and the wet?
But, to our surprise - nature changed his disguise -
We had bright light and no need to fret...
Wherever we went, we felt heaven sent
Us a pleasure for memory's store.
By car, train or boat - road, rail or afloat -
What we saw made us hanker for more!
We couldn't get over the changes in colour
As we gazed through the sun room's view,
We watched with delight at the birds in flight ...
...And photographed, painted and drew.
Phil went to fish with a wish for a dish
of fresh trout - and we said "see you soon ..."
Then we left him behind while we went on to find
Tea and cakes in the town of Dunoon
Alas - time has arrived and we all have survived -
But we wish we had longer to stay.
So we'll say Auld Lang Syne to the gorgeous Loch Fyne,
As home we must now wend our way ...
Leni and Phil Eves - Aljezur, Portugal and Deidre and Derek Leeming, Worcs
9th July - 16th July
Dear Andrew and future guests
These days have been outstanding for a "transplated" Brit and an American. The cottage alone was the most amazing experience. A short list (to be proud of, Andrew):-
An awaiting bottle of wine
Extremely clean and tidy
Beautifully and simply decorated
Comfortable and cosy
Tremendous views
Comfortable sleeping arrangements
Wonderfully equipped kitchen, bathroom, bedrooms, sunroom
Attention to detail including soap, umbrellas, hair dryer, binoculars etc.
Fireplace, TV, wireless internet, ipod dock and many cooking and cleaning utensils
Location, location, location
We won't go into where we ate, what we saw, places we went - but the cottage itself was worth the week, we will be back.
Rest and be thankful "haste ye back". Thank you
Eddie & Lani McAuley, Champaign, IL, USA
2nd July - 9th July
Have just enjoyed a relaxing week at The Sheiling,
Very comfortable and well equipped, with the best bit being the views from the sunroom. We have spent many hours with the telescope and binoculars watching the many garden birds, herons, oyster catchers and red squirrels, we can recommend the forestry walk behind the house for great views of Loch Fyne and deer spotting. Really enjoyed the views of Loch Eck and the castle at Loch Awe and the fish and chips at Oban [Nories] were yummy!
Thanks again for a wonderful week and the bottle of wine.
Ian & Melanie, Warwickshire.
12th June - 19th June
We had a smashing holiday, weather very good, not much rain, cottage has a fabulous view. None Better.
We came up to Scotland for our Ruby Wedding on the 6th June and went to The Oyster Bar, Loch Fyne, we had langoustine salad, king scallops a champagne.....What a day.
Thanks for the lovely holiday in your cottage, now we're off to Skye for a week.
Mr & Mrs Summons, S Yorkshire.
5th June - 12th June
Everything has exceeded our expectations - the excellent accommodation, loch views, amazing wildlife and the weather - it has been a glorious week!!
We usually stay in bed & breakfast - not anymore "The Sheiling" has converted us to the freedom of renting a cottage, everything you need is here, just turn up with your suitcases.
Where do we begin with places to see.....we love to walk....Inveraray Castle walk to the Bell Tower [ on a clear day fantastic views ] Pick up a Forestry Commission leaflet for the Argyll Forest Parks [ we got ours from the toilets in the Glenbranter Visitor Centre !!! ] Try the Lauder walks, Pucks Glen and many others - depending on your legs! Also Ardcastle Point - details in the folder, you could take a picnic, takes about 3hrs to walk, lovely views. All eating places mentioned by previous guests are good and we have not left disappointed.
Be patient and keep watching for the porpoise, we have spotted them in late evening when the water is calm, keep the binoculars at the ready.
We can't believe how light it it stays late into the evening, still light at 10.30pm.
Finally thank you Andrew for thinking of everything to make your guests welcome and comfortable. We hope we can return soon.
Kevin & Sally
29th May - 5th June
Idyllic cottage & location. Loch ever changing and difficult to look away from, even after a fortnight. Porpoises regular late afternoon / evening companions. Gannets, Heron and Oyster Catchers make regular patrols.
Not having visited the area before almost too much to see. However for those who enjoy a climb a trip to Crinan harbour to scale the cliff and look across to Mull in the distance was a particular highlight.
Would not hesitate to return to The Sheiling.
p.s. Thanks for the wine.
The Rosiers, Surrey.
8th May - 22nd May
Thank you so much for letting us stay in such a lovely cottage and spectacular location, we would love to come back again.
The weather has been wonderful and we spent the majority of the time watching the loch, we have seen seals, porpoise and a gannet several times each day along with oyster catchers and a pair of merganser.
There has also been much activity on the bird feeders with chaffinch, robin, green finch, great tit, coal tit, gold finch and siskins. Also swallows and a bat.
When we could drag ourselves away from the view we drove down to Otter Ferry [B8000] and saw deer and a red squirrel on the way. Also had a lovely day in Inveraray.
It has been the most relaxing week and we couldn't have found anywhere better, also the most comfortable bed we have ever had when on holiday.
One small recommendation would be a towel rail by the bathroom sink and also a note on your website that once you arrive you will never want to leave.
Thanks again John and Pam - Forest of Dean
1st May - 8th May
Many thanks Andrew we've thoroughly enjoyed our stay. The Sheiling is a first class holiday home, one of the best. The bed in the front room is THE best both for comfort and the view. We walked up the track behind the house - right up to the little hut on stilts. Lovely views after the rain stopped and the sun come out. The weather was great until Friday. A bonus was on Monday night it snowed on the higher mountains. Next day the drive to Arrochar was awesome - we carried on to Tarbet then north and west to Loch Awe and down to Inverary and incredible scenery!
Benmore Gardens are fabulous - even though a bit early for the rhodedendrons. Other places we liked - Old Castle Lachlan, Invercottage restaurant, Tighnabruaich and the views on the A8003 Inverary. The telescope and binoculars were well used but we saw no porpoises ***. We did see a few seals in the distance but the best show was the birds next to the sun room. We also had a pair of eider ducks and a pair of red-breasted mergansers right in front of the cottage. Also some noisy oyster catchers along the shore. We take home many happy memories, thanks again.
P.S. Thanks to the cleaner - the cottage was very clean and well prepared
***P.P.S. A pair of porpoises swam past, near to the closest buoys on Saturday morning.
Paul and Julie Seagers, Worksop
17th - 24th April
Our stay at the Sheiling has been wonderful, you have such a lovely place and the views from the house are just wow! We've all had great pleasure in the conservatory room watching the birds coming and going. We will certainly be booking up again and will let our friends and family know what a brilliant place that you have. Many thanks for the complimentary bottle of wine, it was most enjoyable.
Best wishes Scott, Tracy, Megan, Josh, Jean, Brian, Co. Durham
10th-17th April 2010
We have had a wonderful stay in the most spectacular location. The cottage is fabulous, really comfortable and has everything we could possibly want in it. We have spent a lot of time in the conservatory room:- our two year old (Abigail) has been very excited watching all the different birds feeding and the highlight was a very cute red squirrel which came to eat the seeds. We have seen porpoise and otters from the window and a seal catching fish at Castle Lachlan.
We recommend Pucks Glen walk - stunning and also Benmore Botantic Gardens - I'm sure it is even more special in the summer when everything is in flower. On the recommendations of another guest here, we climbed up to the tower at Inverary - well worth it for the stunning views down the loch. We had a lovely meal at Loch Fyne Oyster Bar and would recommend it - good price for the quality of the meal. We also bought some kippers from the shop for our breakfast the following day, then went back to get more to take home they were so good! Carrick Castle past Lochgoilhead is worth the drive for the stunning scenery on a nice day.
Thank you so much it has been wonderful and we would be back this summer if you weren't already booked up!
All the best Jennifer, Adrian and Abigail Hart, Dorset
3rd - 10th April
We've thoroughly enjoyed our stay. Thanks very much for the welcoming bottle of wine Andrew. Its been great to have such a well kitted out cottage and the children have loved having use of the telescope. Only recommendation would be to create a compost heap in the garden and we assume there is no local recycling facilities?
For other families staying, we recommend the Pucks Glen walk and wildlife hike as an interesting and very enjoyable day out.
We'll certainly be recommending family and friends to come and stay - many thanks!
27th March 2010
What a visit!
Couldn't of had a better place to stay, fantastic cottage, everything you need is here to make your stay super comfortable. Our stay was special in view of the wonderful scenery and the snow on the hills. It made a wonderful picture to wake up to in the morning.
This visit has been made more special as we were here from London to celebrate our sister's 90th birthday. It has been a great few days. You can be sure we will be back soon. Thank you so much for a fantastic place to stay.
Gladys and Percy Graham
I was here with the above Percy and Gladys - and agree with everything they have said.
Keith Bristol, Devon
February 2010
Fab cottage - amazing views and well equipped kitchen!
Tips for others:-
Walk up to monument by Inverary Castle - follow blue waymarked walk from castle car park - stunning views. We did it at sunset, gorgeous evening red light throughout forest.
Drive past Loch Riddon (west road as splits in two) great viewpoint
over Isle of Bute.
Loch Awe/Oban - Loch Fyne Oyster Bar - as good as the reputation we thought and you can buy food from their shop.
Coylet Inn on A815 road to Dunoon very good food at good prices.
Check Andrew's big book for menu and offers.
Pucks Glen Walk on A815 - lovely and quite gentle.
Thanks Andrew - will be back.
Nicola and Blair, Armadale, West Lothian
February 2010
The Cottage - Comfy beds, the real fire, the conservatory [excellent for watching the wild life, we fed the birds with peanuts, sunflower seeds etc and were well rewarded with their antics]
The Views - [even on the dullest wintery of days we could have watched the loch and the snowy hills for hours]
The Wildlife - As well as the garden birds, the Herons, the Ducks [including Goldeneye], the Curlews, the Oyster Catchers, the Gulls.....the Porpoises!! The Red Deer ...and more.
The Walks - Despite the cold, ice and snow...some fantastic walks with ancient trees and fabulous views. If you drive to Loch Riddon, near the top there is a viewpoint, high up looking down Loch Riddon to the Kyles of Bute.....Stunning. We must mention the very clean [and warm] toilets at Glenbranter.
The Fyne Food - Oysters [of course] Fran's first oyster, pheasant, the Bay Cottage at Strachur - Fish & Chips.
Recommendations for the cottage...Just an oven glove...That's all...But oh, if you arrange for a week at The Sheiling to be made on prescription, then we recommend a weekly dose!
Maggie, Mac & Fran
January 2010
ps. Thanks to the friendly neighbour.
We have thoroughly enjoyed our stay in this lovely house in the most beautiful setting! The cold snap has made getting the car up the driveway very difficult and restricted the walks we could do, but has contributed to the most stunning scenery we have seen in Scotland!
A suggestion for other visitors - go to the Loch Fyne Spa just past Inveraray! You can use the swimming pool, sauna, jacuzzi and steam room for the day for £5 per person. We had the place to ourselves with views from the pool out to Loch Fyne! perfect for our January detox.
The house was even better than we had hoped, great quality furniture and finishings, fantastic views from the sunroom....and a very comfortable bed!!
Thanks Andrew for all your help!
Jenna & Iain, Chris & Amye, Glasgow & London
January 2010
New Year - The start of a new decade.
Lovely house, well equipped , beautiful surroundings.
Though we didn't get far what we have seen, well worth a return visit.
The 'poorly' crew from Rochdale
New Year 2009-2010
DO....come to Scotland in November.
We had frost, snow on the high peaks for two mornings, beautiful walking weather - the rest of the week was mild and often warm sun.
Perfect for biking around the forest trails (Argyll Bike Hire).
This morning, as we leave, chucking it down ....!!!
A beautiful area, lovely cottage and a most relaxing (summer) holiday.
Thanks Andrew
Gill and Tony Strickland, Worcs
November 2009
We had a great time and were pleasantly surprised as the cottage is larger than it looks on the website. Fascinating to watch the loch in changing weather and times of day. Particular highlights locally were Castle Lachlan and the short but eventful walk out to it in heavy rain [about 6 miles south on the B1000] and Glenbranter Forestery Commission Site [2 miles south on the main A815 road], several walks including one up the hill with stunning views; we also enjoyed their Halloween event.
Also visited Inverary, Lochgoilhead, Rest and Be Thankful - all worth driving to for the scenery on the way. Inverary has nice shops and 6 miles further round you find Auchendrain Heritage Site [original site of buildings of a historical farming township] fascinating if you like that sort of thing. Loch Fyne Oyster Bar [between here and Inverary] is a must and visited the farmshop and can recommend the venison sausages. Rained at least half the week but could not dampen our enjoyment; hope to be back soon.
The Ingrams [+ 4 daughters aged 4-12] Hertfordshire
October 2009
We have had a really relaxing break. This place is amazing and had everything we needed and more.
Went to Kilmartin Glen to see standing stones, to Inveraray and Castle Lachlan among others. We saw selkies (seals) and plenty of bird life from the windows.
We will definitely be back.
The Turners, Alloa.
October 2009
We've had a lovely, peaceful and relaxing stay in this beautiful well equipped cottage within the most idyllic setting, however we woke one morning to see a frigate passing the bedroom window, now that was a surprise!
Inveraray is very picturesque and quite good for buying provisions, there's a CO-OP on the Main Street, a very good butchers near the jail and petrol at the Londis.
The Furnace Inn at Furnace approximately 6 miles south of Inveraray [A83] is the place to go for REAL FOOD, opens at 6.00pm out of season.
Please feed the birds! We did and they provided hours of pleasure just watching their comings and goings from the sunroom.
Hope everyone has as a relaxing and enjoyable stay as we had.
Mags & Ski, Chesterfield.
October 2009
We have had a great week at The Sheiling at Loch Fyne. The weather has been really great and we have spent our week exploring Western Scotland. We travelled up Ben Nevis by cable car and visited Fort William for a little shopping but the highlight of our week was visiting the Island of Mull (which we caught a ferry to from Oban) where we watched porpoise and saw and filmed Golden Eagles. We then went on to Ardnamurchin on a hopscotch ticket. The cottage was lovely... A really great place to come back to at the end of the day, even nicer than the pictures suggest. It has been done to a really high standard. This was our first visit to Scotland and we would love to come back and stay here again. We feel there is so much more to see.
Diane and Mick Johnson, Nottingham.
September 2009
We enjoyed staying in the house, found it very comfortable with great views. We enjoyed watching the garden birds, and have seen an otter, a porpoise and a seal from looking out of the window (on calm days). We used the house as a base for exploring the Cowal, and have visited many of the seaside and lochside towns, Benmore Gardens, Pucks Glen, Dunoon, Bute, and Lochgoilhead. We have canoed on Loch Eck, and walked up the forestry track behind the house for great views up and down Loch Fyne. We had some good weather too, which meant we could sit on the benches at the front and have a coffee while enjoying the peace.
Lorna and Shug, Kirkcaldy.
September 2009
We have just had a truely wonderful holiday at the Sheiling, Loch Fyne.Positioned right on the shores of the loch, the breathtaking views overthe water to the mountains beyond were further enhanced by visiting porpoises. The property has, whilst retaining its original character, been renovated to a very high standard, with all the mod cons to make for a very comfortable stay. We visited many "tourist musts" from the house, including:- Edinburgh; Glasgow; Ben Nevis and the Falkirk Wheel, to name but a few. We also enjoyed many excellent meals out at local restaurants and pubs, and barbequed other evenings watching the sun set over the loch. One highlight not to be missed was the world caber tossing championship at Inverary Castle Highland Games. The atmosphere was steeped in tradition and accompanied by the sound of the bagpipes and the smell of "Abroath Smokies". We had many family and friends visit
to share the experience and all had the same feeling - "fantastic".
Alison and Russ Jones, Perth, West Australia.
August 2009
We had a wonderful week on Loch Fyne. The house can't be faulted - everything was perfect. It is worth staying here for the views alone. We were regulars at the nearest pub, the Creggans Inn, which also serves excellent food (it's in all the "best pub" guides) and went once to the famous Loch Fyne restaurant - only a short distance away - which also has a shop selling delicious local produce. Spectacular scenery, wonderful walks! We will be back.
Stewart Maclean , Piacenza , Italy.
August 2009
We had a great time at The Sheiling in Strachur. A lovely and comfortable cottage, great views, loads of wildlife, kids loved kayaking in the loch.
Can't wait to go back!
The Jarvies, Fairlie.
August 2009
Please note, the guest information comments are comments as they appear in the guest book and we cannot be held responsible for any inaccurate or misleading information regarding the property, facilities or surrounding area.