How many people can stay at Oystercatchers?
The cottage comfortably accommodates up to 6 adults across three bedrooms. We also provide a travel cot for infants under 3 years old upon request. The master bedroom and ground floor bedroom both feature kingsize beds, while the third bedroom has twin beds, making it ideal for families or groups of friends.
Is the cottage suitable for those with mobility issues?
The ground floor offers good accessibility with a double bedroom and bathroom. However, the property is built on various levels with some steps both inside and out. There's a single step in the kitchen area and four steps with a handrail from the parking area to the main entrance. Please contact us for detailed accessibility information.
Can I bring my electric car?
Unfortunately, we cannot accommodate electric vehicle charging at the property as our electricity supply isn't sufficient for this purpose. However, there are charging points available in nearby Broadford, just 10 minutes' drive away.
Are pets allowed at the cottage?
We regret that we cannot accept any pets at Oystercatchers. This policy helps us maintain high cleanliness standards and ensures comfort for guests with allergies.
What time can we check in and out?
Check-in is from 4:30 PM on your arrival day, and check-out is by 10:00 AM on your departure day. All weekly bookings run from Saturday to Saturday. Early arrivals or late departures may occasionally be available upon request.
Is there WiFi at the cottage?
Yes, we provide free Superfast WiFi broadband throughout the property. There's also a WiFi booster in the ground floor bedroom to ensure good coverage throughout the cottage.
What entertainment facilities are provided?
The cottage features a 32" Smart TV with Freesat and BluRay/multi-region DVD player in the sitting room, plus an additional TV/DVD player with Freesat in the upstairs twin bedroom. We also provide books, board games, and outdoor games for guest use.
How is the cottage heated?
The property has individual thermostatically and timer-controlled electric heating in every room. Additionally, there's a wood-burning stove in the sitting room, for which we provide locally-sourced, sustainable softwood fuel. This combination ensures comfortable temperatures year-round.
Is parking available?
Yes, there is private parking for two cars with care, plus additional space in the bottom garden for a motorbike. The parking area is connected to the main entrance by four steps with a handrail.
Can I bring my own boat or kayak?
Absolutely! The property is perfect for water sports enthusiasts. The garden extends to the shoreline, providing an ideal launching spot for kayaks, canoes, SUPs, or sailing dinghies. You can easily pull your equipment up into the garden when you return.
What kitchen facilities are provided?
The kitchen is fully equipped with an electric cooker, dishwasher, fridge, microwave, and slow cooker. The adjoining utility room houses a washing machine, tumble dryer, and freezer. We provide enough crockery and utensils for 6 people, including special outdoor dining equipment for garden use.
How far is the cottage from local amenities?
While the cottage enjoys a peaceful location, it's only 10 minutes' drive from Broadford's amenities. There's a restaurant within walking distance, and the bus stop for Portree and mainland connections is also walkable.
What's the booking process?
Booking requires a non-refundable deposit of £150 per week, with the balance due 4 weeks before arrival. We prefer payment via BACS or PayPal. We only accept direct bookings, not third-party bookings, and always respond within 24 hours.
Is bedding and linen provided?
Yes, all bed linen and towels are provided. The king-size beds have feather duvets and pillows, while the twin room has synthetic bedding. Synthetic options are available for the double rooms upon request.
What can I see from the cottage?
The cottage offers stunning views across Broadford Bay towards the Red Cuillins and the Isle of Scalpay, as well as views to the mainland near Applecross. The garden overlooks the Ardnish Peninsula, known for its excellent birdwatching opportunities.
Is smoking allowed?
No, Oystercatchers is strictly a no smoking and no vaping property, both inside and in the gardens.
Are short breaks available?
Yes, we sometimes offer short breaks of 4 days or more throughout the year. Please contact us directly to check availability and pricing for short stays.
What outdoor space is available?
The property features three distinct garden areas: an enclosed main garden suitable for tents, a bottom garden with fire pit and barbecue area, and a top "Wildflower" garden. Garden furniture and outdoor games are provided in a shed.
How environmentally friendly is the cottage?
Very! We hold a Green Tourism Silver Award and implement numerous eco-friendly measures including green electricity, water conservation, recycling programmes, and wildlife-friendly gardening. We provide eco-friendly cleaning products and encourage sustainable practices.
Do you offer any discounts?
Yes, we offer a 10% discount to returning visitors. We also provide locally-sourced welcome gifts and information about local attractions and activities to help you make the most of your stay.