Nead Bernera - Self-catering cottage in Highland

Take a winding path through wild gorse and native shrubs to this timber-clad cabin tucked beside the loch, with big windows gazing across still water to distant hills beyond. Designed by local architects and thoughtfully furnished by owners Sarah and Sophie, this modern bothy feels as though it evolved from the landscape itself. No TV, no fuss – just birdsong, books, and the ever-changing Highland light.

Inside, the open-plan space is cosy and clever: a sofa bed made up and waiting, art on the walls, puzzles and paperbacks in easy reach. Add a pink pebble to the guest-made path, curl up on the deck with binoculars and a dram, and watch the weather sweep in from the sea (on still winter nights, you can see the Northern Lights ripple above the loch).

Wander into Glenelg for a pint and live music from local bands, or take a trip to Skye on the last remaining hand-operated turntable ferry in the world. This place is one of our Sawday’s Community Champions – not-for-profit organisations receiving subsidised Sawday’s membership as recognition for their support of causes and communities.