Camusfearna Bay
A small archipelago of islands to the south of Glenelg marks the location of Sandaig. The largest island in the chain has a lighthouse but there's no longer a lighthouse keeper's cottage nearby. That burnt down in 1968 ending the story of Camusfearna. Today, visitors to Sandaig can still see the location of the house, as a large boulder marks the last resting-place of its most enigmatic tenant.
Gavin Maxwell wrote the autobiographical account of his life with otters here and with the fame that followed the publication of Ring of Bright Water (and subsequent books Raven Seek thy Brother and The Rocks Remain), forever changed Sandaig, from a remote location with beautiful shell sand beaches to one of the most visited areas on the north west coast of Scotland.
Not much has changed in that time; the waterfall - the soul of Camusfearna to which Maxwell said he would return after his death - still roars during the winter months and the burn which gave the book its name, still meanders in a semi-circle to the sea.
As well as the graves of Maxwell and his famous otter Edal, (who perished in the fire which destroyed the house) there are still some tangible reminders of Maxwell's time here. The rusting boat trailer of his forty foot motor launch, Polar Star can be found in a corner of the field. The power cable and the poles, which arrived at Sandaig after the success of Ring of Bright Water and Raef Payne's cottage, all attest to a time that's now past.
The powerful imagery, which Maxwell's writing created, has drawn readers of his books to explore for themselves this remote corner of Scotland.
Other Cottages
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Rams Cottage, Glenelg, sleeps 4
Stunningly located at the edge of Glenelg Bay where the tide ebbs and flows providing a haven for birdlife and otters. This comfortably furnished and well equipped holiday home enjoys a splendid location, ... -
Brightwater Cottage near Glenelg - Sleeps 4
Near Kyle of Lochalsh, Brightwater Cottages lies in the beautiful village of Arnisdale, below Beinn Sgritheall.. Near Kyle of Lochalsh, the stunning village of Arnisdale nestles below Beinn Sgritheall (Munro), on the shores of Loch Hourn. It overlook -
Riverfoot, Glenelg, sleeps 4
This is a spacious detached bungalow, well furnished and equipped its a real ’home from home’ amidst superb scenery. The area is steeped in history, 2000 year old Brochs, Hanovarian Barracks, Eilean ... -
Tigh na Camus, Glenelg, Sleeps 6
In a fantastic location next to the seashore with uninterrupted views across to the Isle of Skye, this traditional croft house with its stylish kitchen and lovely sun room is ideal for that special family ... -
Roddy's Cottage Isle of Skye Glenelg self Catering Sleeps 6
This three bedroom property close to the Isle of Skye is able to sleep up to six people. The cottage was warm, cosy and clean with good facilities.
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The Holt, nr Kyle of Lochalsh - Sleeps 2/4
The Holt is a cosy semi-detached holiday apartment situated on the edge of the village of Glenelg and benefits from views of the Isle of Skye. The owner speaks French and German and welcomes overseas visit... -
Tigh Na Ros, West Highlands, sleeps 6
This detached holiday bungalow enjoys lovely open views. Set on the edge of the peaceful and scenic village of Glenelg, Tigh Na Ros has been well equipped and makes a super base for touring this beautiful ... -
Smithy Cottage, nr. Kyle of Lochalsh, Sleeps 3-4
A semi-detached cottage situated in historic and scenic Glenelg, 1 mile from the beach, Smithy Cottage, once the home of the village blacksmith, provides the ideal location for holidaymakers, naturalists, ... -
Tigh A Cnuic, nr Kyle of Lochalsh - Sleeps 2
Set amidst spectacular unspoilt rugged grandeur on the Sound of Sleat is Glenelg village, 9 miles from the A87 over the scenic mountain road of Mam Ratagan. This cosy detached holiday cottage makes a comfo...