With a phone call to the property owner a few days before our trip we had arranged details for accessing the property. As a side note I'd expected to receive an email from HomeAway just prior to our stay, but the details were in my original booking confirmation email.
The owner was very friendly and helpful in giving directions to the property and suggesting local amenities, and also asked if we wanted anything bought in, but we had planned a supermarket shop in Inverness before heading down to the property.
The property (in Coulags) is located a few miles out from two villages; Strathcarron (5 min drive or so) and Lochcarron (less than 10 min drive), so you get a sense of being out in a fairly secluded location with wonderful views, while also having amenities nearby.
We were pleasantly surprised to find the property has had a major upgrade in terms of decoration, furniture and equipment compared to the photos shown on the site (at the time of writing this review). The owner has put a lot of effort in and it looks great. Very cosy and well presented. Heating system easy to operate/adjust, which we were invited to do.
The owner came to greet us with a bottle of wine not long after we'd arrived and we had a quick chat. We were left to it to enjoy our stay, but it was good to know the owner was next door if needed.
We were also left biscuits and chocolates :)
The property backs onto fenced off land where sheep roam freely and come right up to the property. And there are little birds living in the hedge which were lovely to observe. During our stay we also saw deer up on the hillside, birds of prey and one evening a bat. It was a treat to see so much wildlife.
A few minutes walk down the road (towards Lochcarron) is the start of a footpath that stretches between Coulags and Torridon with beautiful views. Definitely worth checking out and basically right on the doorstep. We also visited the ruins of Strome castle a bit further on from Lochcarron and did a few walks around Torridon. The property would also be a good base for a day trip to the Isle of Skye.
All in all, a comfortable and well presented property in a lovely location. It was just the two of us staying but the place would be ideal for a family also as it has plenty of space. And all the things you'll need for a stress-free stay; washing machine, drier, spin drier, iron/ironing board, clothes airer, board games, smart tv, and lots of leaflets on surrounding activities. Highly recommended.