Charming private cottage in the heart of Skye, near Portree. Family-friendly.
Escape to the breathtaking Isle of Skye with a stay at this charming traditional 3-bedroomed cottage. Perfectly positioned for exploring the island's dramatic landscapes, this private retreat offers comfort, warmth and Highland character - ideal for families, couples, or groups of up to 5 guests.
Idyllic Setting & Views
Nestled within a large enclosed garden, the property is surrounded by picturesque crofting land and views stretching to the Cuillin mountain range. The lawned front garden provides ample outdoor space, a perfect spot for morning coffee or evening stargazing , while off-road parking for several vehicles.
✅ Fully equipped kitchen – electric oven & hob, fridge/freezer, microwave, dishwasher, washing machine, tumble dryer ✅ Entertainment – Freeview TV (featuring Netflix access), DVD player, a selection of books, games & DVDs ✅ WI-FI included ✅ Bed linen & towels provided (all washed at 60 degrees) ✅ Highchair & cot available (cot suitable for children under 24 months) ✅ Complies with Scottish Government’s Fire & Short-Term Let Regulations 🚭 No pets and no smoking permitted.
The cottage is superbly positioned just 6.5 miles from Portree, where you’ll find a supermarket, shops, pubs, and restaurants, while the ferry port at Uig (only 8 miles away) offers access to the Outer Hebrides.
We're also ideally placed on the Trotternish Peninsula, home to some of Skye’s most famous landmarks, including:
The Old Man of Storr – A towering rock pinnacle with breathtaking views The Quiraing – A dramatic landscape of unusual rock formations Staffin Beach – Discover real dinosaur footprints embedded in the rock Skye Museum of Island Life – Explore Skye’s rich history Historical sites – Visit the graves of Flora MacDonald and Alexander McQueen
Booking and stay information:
Minimum stay: 5 nights Check-in between Saturday-Monday (stays cannot overlap into a second week) Check-in from 4:00 PM Check-out by 10:00 AM Final balance due 28 days before arrival Equipped with fire alarm & carbon monoxide detectors for safety The cottage has a short term let licence issued by Highland Council (Licence No: HI-31097-F).
This centrally located retreat is the perfect base to explore one of Britain’s most desirable places to live, offering peace, nature, and adventure in equal measure.
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Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock
Property Registration Number HI-31097-F
About the area
Skeabost
Located in Skeabost, this holiday home is in a rural area and in the mountains. Apothecary's Tower and Dunvegan Castle are local landmarks, and the area's natural beauty can be seen at Sgurr Alasdair and The Lump. Travelling with kids? Consider Aros Experience and Aros Centre. Sailing and fishing offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with hiking/biking trails and cycling nearby.
Portree Visit Scotland Information Centre - 10 min drive - 13.5 km
Portree Harbour - 11 min drive - 13.6 km
Restaurants
The Isles Inn - 9 min drive
Cafe Arriba - 9 min drive
Birch - 9 min drive
Tongadale - 9 min drive
The Granary - 9 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Is Charming private cottage in the heart of Skye, near Portree. Family-friendly. pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much does it cost to stay at Charming private cottage in the heart of Skye, near Portree. Family-friendly.?
As of 8 April 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Charming private cottage in the heart of Skye, near Portree. Family-friendly. on 2 May 2026 start from NZ$417, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
How much is parking at Charming private cottage in the heart of Skye, near Portree. Family-friendly.?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Charming private cottage in the heart of Skye, near Portree. Family-friendly.?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Charming private cottage in the heart of Skye, near Portree. Family-friendly.?
Checkout is at 10:00 AM.
Where is Charming private cottage in the heart of Skye, near Portree. Family-friendly. located?
Located in the mountains, this family-friendly holiday home is within 9 mi (15 km) of Skeabost Golf Course, Aros Experience and Aros Centre. Sgurr Alasdair and The Lump are also within 9 miles (15 km).
Reviews
9.8
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
We had a lovely time! Perfect location to explore the Isle of Skye! The cottage has all things you need to make the stay complete. Definitely would recommend!
Good Afternoon Joerg
Many thanks for giving us such a lovely review It means so much to us when guests enjoy their stay at the cottage We are so sorry that you did not the best of weather Perhaps we will see you back at the cottage sometime in the future Once again many thanks Hope you had a safe journey home
Kindest RegardsMairi
We loved our stay; the cottage was clean and had everything we needed - including many small touches (books, games, drying rack, laundry liquid) that made it easier travelling with kids (8 and 10). Check in was a breeze; the location was fantastic. Perfect location for a family holiday. Would definitely return.
We had a wonderful stay in this cozy, spotless Skye cottage. Mairi was a fantastic host—friendly and quick to respond. The beds were super comfortable, and the kitchen spacious and well equipped. Just 9 minutes from Portree, it’s convenient yet perfectly remote for that “end of the world” feeling. Would love to stay here again!
Hester H.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2025
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Simone
13 September 2022
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
Quiet and beautiful area around, fantastic for relaxation and “downtime”
It has everything you need in a holiday house and is just as described. Really enjoyed the house as a based to explore the island and come home to relax in the evening.
Rob H.
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 9 August 2022
Good evening Rob
Many thanks for your excellent 5 star review Hope you managed to get over to the Outer Isles okay with all the problems with the ferries If you return to Skye in the future we would love to have you back at the cottage
Kindest regards
Mairi
Just spent a week at this charming holiday cottage very clean and very central for exploring the island would highly recommend
Alison C.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 22 August 2021
We are so pleased that you enjoyed your stay at "Hartaval" Many thanks for the excellent review If you return to the island in the future we would love to see you
Regards
Mairi
Great location for exploring Skye (especially north of island and major outdoor attractions. Cosy well equipped cottage close to Portree for all provisions.
Stuart B.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 12 June 2022
Many thanks indeed for the excellent review. It means so much to Louise and myself when we get such lovely comments Remember if you return to the Island in the future we would love to see you Once again many thanks
Mairi
This cottage is an excellent holiday stay for any family. It was extremely comfortable, clean and extraordinarily well equipped. for information, the bathroom is downstairs and third bedroom is very small but we didn’t find this a problem at all Its location is good as well; close to Portree and the main attractions of the Trotternish Peninsula.
Sharon B.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2025
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Susanne N.
21 April 2015
Wonderful little cottage!
What a wonderful and cosy cottage! Perfectly equipped (from kitchen to bathroom) and situated in the heart of Skye - a perfect base to explore the stunning nature of Skye. Excellent for families !
Highly recommended!
Susanne N.
Response from VrboOwner on 25 March 2020
I am so glad that you enjoyed your holiday at No 1 Rhenetra and thank you for your nice review It is very much appreciated
Kind Regards
Mairi
Good Evening Ivor
We are so pleased that you enjoyed your stay at "Hartaval" It means a lot to us to get such a lovely review Perhaps one day you will come back to see us Again many thanks
Mairi
Lovely cottage, perfect for exploring the north of the island and all the amazing landscapes. House was beautifully clean on arrival, and owner communicated well with us throughout the process.
Debbie H.
Stayed 14 nights in Jul 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 26 August 2021
Many thanks for your excellent 5 star review We are so glad that you enjoyed your stay at "Hartaval" and we would love to see you back if you return to the island in the future. Will be passing on your review to Louise who does a sterling job keeping the cottage immaculate for the guests Once again many thanks
Regards
Mairi
L
Lovely cosy cottage. We feel like at home. Very well located near Portree
Gwen welcomed us and took well care of us
Anne-Marie P.
Stayed 14 nights in Apr 2018
Response from VrboOwner on 25 March 2020
Many thanks for your excellent review I am so pleased that you enjoyed your stay at No 1 Rhenetra. Gwen really enjoyed meeting you both Perhaps you will return to Rhenetra in the future Once again many thanks
Kindest Regards
Mairi
We had a great time in Mairi‘s house. It had everything we needed, the kitchen was well equipped, the beds so comfortable :)
It was well located for all the trips we did. We always enjoyed coming back in the evening and sitting on the table and enjoying the views.
Thank you for everything!!
Isabella F.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 16 August 2022
Dear Isabella
It was such a pleasure to having you and you family staying at "Hartaval" Thank you for your five star review Remember if you return to the island we would love to see you back
Kindest Regards
Mairi
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Maud T.
25 August 2018
Very confortable cottage idealy located to discover Skye
Very confortable cottage idealy located to discover the island.
Very warm welcome by Gwen and her family with good advises of the best places to visit.
Kind exchanges with Mairi before ane after our stay.
We strongly recommend this adress!
Maud T.
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2018
Response from VrboOwner on 25 March 2020
Thank you so much for your excellent review We are so pleased that you enjoyed your stay at No 1 Rhenetra We are so very lucky to have Gwen and her family looking after our guests Perhaps one day you will return Rhenetra Thank you again
Kind Regards
Mairi
Many Many Thanks for your excellent review We are so pleased that you have enjoyed your stay at Hartaval". Perhaps we will see you back in the future Once again many thanks. It means a lot to us
Mairi
A little dated furniture wise but clean and comfortable. Tbe kitchen is modern and very well equipped.
Alison B.
Stayed 10 nights in May 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 14 May 2023
Glad that you enjoyed your second visit to the cottage Many thanks for your excellent review again Hope to see you back at "Hartaval" sometime in the future
Regards
Mairi
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Graham S.
3 June 2018
Home from home
Extremely well equipped and comfortable. Quite location. Lots of wildlife, especially cuckoos. Ideal touring base for this stunning island. Made to feel very welcome. Highly recommended.
Graham S.
Stayed 7 nights in May 2018
Response from VrboOwner on 25 March 2020
Thank you so much for your excellent review . I am so glad you enjoyed your stay at No 1 Rhenetra and hopefully the cuckoos didn't waken you up too early in the morning!!! Perhaps you will return to No 1 Rhenetra in the future We would love to see you back
Kind Regrds
Mairii
This is a very well equipped property with plenty of space in a prime location to explore what skye has too offer. The whole process and communication with mairi is very good. We spent 5 nights in this property and everyone enjoyed it. Well worth a stay again.
richard f.
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 7 September 2022
Thank you for your five star review It means a lot to both Louise and myself Look forward to seeing you back in 2023
Regards
Mairi
Archival
8/10 Good
Jo A.
6 October 2017
Great to have an actual drum clothes dryer!
Lots of supplies and extras. Very cozy and warm. If you plan on going on any of the popular hikes make sure you get there early as parking is very limited.
Jo A.
Stayed 6 nights in Sep 2017
Response from VrboOwner on 25 March 2020
Thank you for your kind Review about the cottage I entirely agree with you that the parking at popular sites needs to be improved. Hopefully the authorities will do something about it.
We like your lovely house and beautiful landscape of skye !
Thanks for warm welcome's Richards.
See you soon next year.
Best regards
Loïc D.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 25 March 2020
Thank you so much for your five star review I am so pleased you and your family enjoyed your stay at No 1 Rhenetra. If you return to the Island in the future you will be made more than welcome at No 1 Rhenetra
Kindest Regards
Mairi
A lovely cottage big enough for 4 adults and even 2 kids. Everything you possibly need is available. Everything is in good working order and clean at arrival. Very quiet location but only 11 km's from Portree.
In the middle of the Isle of Skye, so everything is within a 1-2 hours drive.
Gwen and Richard live close by and are very friendly and helpfull.
We have stayed here for 3 weeks and still haven't seen everything of this beautiful island. It would almost be unfair to yourself and Skye to stay for a shorter period.
Rein and Janneke M.
Stayed 21 nights in Aug 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 25 March 2020
Thank you so much for your excellent review It was a pleasure having you both staying at No 1 Rhenetra. Gwen & Richard really enjoyed meeting you I am so sorry I didn't have the pleasure of meeting you both We would love to see you if you ever return to the Misty Isle
Mairi
It's hard to find a really perfect holiday property, but this might be it! We had such a great time.
Our holiday happened as the Covid lockdown was starting to be eased, and the managers had gone to great lengths to ensure the property was thoroughly cleaned and safe. The house was very comfortable and well-equipped. Wifi speeds were good, which isn't always the case in remote locations.
Great location, with views of hills and white cottages, near Portree, and most of the "top attractions" of Skye nearby, on the Trotternish peninsula. Skye is of course a fantastic island to visit. Highly recommended.
Andrew E.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 20 August 2020
Many many thanks for your your excellent review of the cottage We try hard to make sure that visitors enjoy their stay at No 1 Rhenetra. It means a lot to us to have comments like yours about the cottage Thanks again
Mairi
About the host
Hosted by Mrs Mairi Macdonald
Welcome! This is my childhood home where I grew up and it holds a lot of special memories. Whether you're here to relax or explore the island, I hope you feel right at home.
Why they chose this property
Its a place full of natural beauty, history and peace. Being surrounded by dramatic landscapes, every-changing skies, and a strong sense of community has always made it feel truly special. I feel lucky to call this part of Skye home and I love being able to share it with guests who want it experience the island's magic for themselves.
What makes this property unique
What makes this property special is its mix of comfort, history and location in the heart of Skye. This is the family home where I grew up, filled with warmth, character and personal touches. Its peacefully tucked away, yet just a short distance from Portree, the main town so you get the best of both worlds of convenience and quiet. Whether you're here to explore Skye or simply to unwind, its a welcoming place that offers a true sense of home.
Languages:
English
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests