Bluebell Croft, Highlands, Scotland

Bluebell Croft offers the option of a cosy cottage called Rose sleeping 2-4 and a spacious house called Honeysuckle for 8 guests in great comfort or up to 12 with extra beds for children. The house has also been designed to be let to a big group of 12 - 16 in 6 en-suite bedrooms, with a dining table seating 16. Perfect for an extended family gathering or group of friends. We also cater for small weddings for up to 30 guests.

Although 5 star and offering luxury and every thoughtful comfort throughout, the owners are very environmentally aware and are trying to run Bluebell totaly fossil fuel free. You can eat a huge variety of food grown on the working croft, watch the Jersey cow Daisy being milked, collect eggs, feed the pigs, enjoy just picked fruit and vegetables together with a wide range of home-smoked goodies. Suppers or even a full 5 course dinner can be ordered by Sukie former 'Rural Chef of the Year'. 

Stunning elevated views from every window of the often snow covered mountains and South to a peak of the sea. Bluebell is set in the Ariundle Oakwoods a National Nature Reserve with walks and bike rides from the door - we have bikes you can borrow - which should enable a car free holiday. Wildlife abounds and Bill and Sukie are keen supporters of the Lochaber Environmental Group and village compost initiative. Everything you will need is included, warm scones and bread on arrival, tea, coffee, wine and sugar by 'Traidcraft' and all chemicals and household essentials by' Ecover', even extra towels for the hot tub.

Two of the bedrooms have been designed for those who use a wheelchair with wheel-in wet rooms, a shower/commode chair and even a hoist. The children will love it all - the trampoline, toys, games, books and of course feeding the animals. Dogs are welcome with care.

Reviewed by Kash Bhattacharya

"Bill and Sukie are the perfect hosts and created a holiday dream - this is more than just a home away from home. This is 5 star, responsible luxury - the chance to sample sustainable working croft in action within the stunning natural environment of the Ardnamurchan Peninsula."

Read Kash Bhattacharya's full review of Blue Bell Croft 

How does Bluebell Croft minimise its impact on the environment and contribute to a sense of place?

Awarded Gold by the GTBS, Bluebell Croft has a comprehensive energy saving scheme that produced all their electricity and includes the use of a wind turbine, a wood burning boiler and solar panelling. The new build is extremely well insulated, and all appliances have been rated A or above. The cistern have been fitted with granite rocks, while the taps have been aerated to reduce water consumption. Water is collected in the garden and then goes to the polytunnel and is syphoned off to water the local animals.

Recycling is done wherever possible, with facilities for glass, tins, plastic, paper, batteries, light bulbs and cardboard. The owners are on the Board of Lochaber Environmental Group, which aims to 'preserve, conserve and restore the environment of Lochaber' and improve local knowledge of wase management, and are committed to the composting of food waste and sending as little as possible to landfill. Much is reused, and their own plants are grown for tubs around the house using all homemade compost. Guests will be able to sample home grown meat, fruit and veg as well as home-smoked goodies. Bikes are available and there is free pick up from the train or bus.