Remote, yet accessible self-catering accommodation in the Highlands of Scotland

Bedrooms: 2 Sleeps: 4 Bathroom: 1 No pets

Vindolanda is a charming and character-filled self-catering holiday cottage tucked away in the tiny hamlet of Fearnbeg, near Applecross on Scotland's breathtaking west coast. Whether you're a couple seeking a romantic retreat, two couples looking for a peaceful getaway, or a family in search of outdoor adventure and tranquility, Vindolanda offers the perfect base for four guests.

Vindolanda selfcatering accommodation Applecross Scotland

Vindolanda, Applecross peninsula - Wester Ross, West Coast Scotland

Vindolanda is a beautifully restored and character-filled holiday cottage in the tiny hamlet of Fearnbeg near Applecross. Just steps away from a secluded sandy cove and surrounded by the wild beauty of the Scottish Highlands, this is a place where you can truly unwind and reconnect with nature.

Perfect for families, couples, or friends travelling together, Vindolanda has breathtaking views across Loch Torridon to the majestic mountains beyond—often dusted with snow even in the warmer months. Almost every room frames this ever-changing landscape, creating the sense that you're living inside a painting.

Applecross, Known in Gaelic as An Cromaich, meaning The Sanctuary, Applecross is a place of rare and timeless beauty. From the moment you arrive, a deep sense of peace settles over you—as if the outside world has gently faded away.

Applecross isn't just a place to stay—it's a destination in its own right. Remote, peaceful, and rich in character, this is the kind of place where time slows down and nature takes centre stage. There are no taxis, and the nearest train station nearly an hour away, the journey here is part of the experience.

But while it feels wonderfully off-grid, you’re far from isolated, you’re not cut off - for those looking for a treat from self-catering, The award-winning Applecross Inn, with its hearty food and unbeatable views, is just a 15 miles from the cottage. A little further, is the enchanting Walled Garden Café, nestled among ancient trees and brimming with seasonal, locally inspired dishes.

Whether you're in the mood for peaceful walks or family-friendly exploration, there are countless trails to choose from right from the doorstep. From Applecross you can explore the coastline by kayak, join a guided botanical walk through ancient Highland landscapes, or dive into local culture with tartan weaving and wool workshops.

For those who want to cook at home - everything you need for selfcatering is there for you, and the friendly local shop in Applecross is well worth a visit - they'll be happy to help source local Scottish produce and essentials on request and do ask locally about fresh seafood deliveries.

If you're seeking a creative retreat, a nature-filled escape, or simply a break from the fast pace of modern life, Vindolanda is the kind of place that stays with you long after you leave. The views are breathtaking and ever-changing. Whether it’s sunlight dancing on the water, mist rolling in over the hills, or a golden eagle soaring above, there’s fresh wonder each time you pause to look.

Just a short stroll away is a sheltered sandy beach, perfect for quiet wild swims, lazy picnics, or endless rock-pooling adventures with children or adults, whatever the tide.

Inside, the cottage blends traditional charm with modern comfort. Light floods in through every window, it's a holiday home designed not just for staying in, but for truly experiencing the magic of the West Coast Scottish Highlands.

Sleeps 2
A large dining room with dual-aspect views and an open fire
Two upstairs double bedrooms, both with panoramic views
A spacious family bathroom with roll top bath
A cosy, welcoming living room, with views and fireplace
Seperate dining room, with views and fireplace
A well-equipped farmhouse-style selfcatering kitchen
Electric Oven
Electric Hob
Microwave
Freezer
Fridge
Dishwasher
Washing machine
Tumble dryer
Hairdryer
Store cupboard basics
Flat screen smart TV
Free Wifi
LPG central heating
electricity
Bed linen and towels
Travel cot, highchair and stairgate available on request
Welcome pack
Small enclosed garden
No smoking
Sorry no pets

Beach 3 miles
Shop, pub, and restaurant 13 miles
Applecross Inn
Applecross Smokehouse
Applecross Heritage Centre
Inverness Airport 85 miles / 2 hours
North Coast 500 (NC500) cat touring Route
Kinlochewe
Gairloch 56 miles
Inverewe Garden, Poolewe 62 miles
Loch Torridons
Loch Carron
Bealach na Ba / Pass of the Cattle
Sandy beach 3 miles
Birdwatching and wildlife
Sea kayaking, paddle boarding
Fishing nearby
Wild swimming
Sabdy beaches and excellent picnic spots
Isolated location which stretches to the shore
Views to Loch Torridon and the Torridon mountains
Ideal location for fishing, walking, climbing and wildlife

Accommodation:

The cottage is accessed via a quiet track (easy to navigate), with private parking right outside. A few steps lead through a small enclosed garden to the front door, where you’ll step into a bright and airy space filled with natural light and stylish, tasteful décor.

Just steps from the front door lies a secluded sandy cove — a magical spot for children to explore and adults to unwind. The cottage boasts spectacular, uninterrupted views across Loch Torridon to the dramatic, often snow-dusted mountains beyond. From nearly every room, the ever-changing scenery is like a living, breathing painting.

On the ground floor, you'll find two bright and cheereful reception rooms at either end of the house — both spacious, beautifully furnished, and featuring cosy open fires and dual-aspect views. One is a welcoming sittingroom for relaxing evenings, the other a generous dining room for memorable meals. At the heart of this holiday home is a warm, well-equipped farmhouse-style kitchen with all appliances that you will need for a self-catering holiday.

A staircaseleads to the first floor where a vaulted landing brings in even more natural light. Two elegant double bedrooms sit at either end of the house, each with breathtaking views and thoughtful design. Between them is a large, comfortable family bathroom with roll top bath, Wc and wash hnad basin.

Directions:

To reach Vindolanda from the East Coast, Applecross is around two and a half hours from Inverness, where there is an airport with car hire and a train station. Edinburgh Airport and Glasgow Airports are around five hours away. From the West Coast, Kyle of Lochalsh and the Isle of Skye are around one and a half hours away. The Bealach na Ba (pass of the cattle) into Applecross is one of the highest mountain passes in Britain, which is part of the North Coast 500 (NC500) Route.

For inexperienced drivers or those afraid of heights, the scenic coast road from the North brings you into Applecross from Shieldaig and Torridon. This route is about fifteen minutes longer than the Bealach na Ba.

Please note that all roads in and out of Applecross are single track, so anticipate for journeys to take a little bit longer. Mobile coverage is patchy once you reach Applecross. Full directions on booking.

What's included:

Bed linen and towels included.
Electricity and heating costs.
Logs for the fire.

Please note: The property has a natural water supply from the loch, 500 yards away. Due to a backlog in private water testing the authority strongly advise as a precaution, that only bottled water should be used for direct consumption. This will be supplied for your stay.