Cork Cottage
Near Dounby
Orkney

Sleeps: 4, Bedrooms: 2

Not for nothing does Orkney claim to be Scotland's 'Treasure Island', for, of all the Scottish Islands, it has arguably the widest range of attractions to offer the visitor.

It is an island steeped in history since prehistoric times. The charming Corks cottage, in the north west of 'mainland' Orkney, though not dating from quite that far back, has certainly been standing for at least a hundred years. A traditional, stonebuilt dwelling, it has now been carefully restored and extended by the owners to create cosy and comfortable holiday accommodation. The living room is spacious and open-plan, with a multi-fuel stove in the sitting area. The floor is of reclaimed oak with underfloor heating throughout. Wherever possible, the original features have been retained, and the old pine of the furnishings complements the stylish effect. The kitchen is fully equipped with all labour saving devices.

The cottage is set on a hillside with panoramic views across the island and it is also within earshot of the sea. There is an RSPB reserve nearby, which will make it an ideal base for wildlife-watchers. There are marvellous walks along the dramatic cliff tops, and also quiet and excellent sandy beaches for lazy days in the sun. Loch fishing in Orkney is free and boat hire is available. The cottage is close to a number of well-stocked lochs.

The nearest shop, an excellent general store, is 5 miles away at Dounby (also hotel). The capital, Kirkwall (all facilities, airport) is 20 miles away, and the second major centre in Orkney, the picturesque little town of Stromness (12m) (all facilities, swimming pool), immortalised by its native poet George Mackay Brown, is where you will land if you come by sea from Scrabster. Orkney was of tremendous strategic importance in both World Wars. In 1919 the German fleet scuttled itself in the legendary Scapa Flow. Keen divers can hire boats at Stromness to visit the wrecks. You can drive across the spectacular Churchill barricades to South Ronaldsay and the lovely Italian Chapel, built by Italian prisoners of war in two Nissen huts from whatever came to hand. Nearby St Margaret's Hope has one of the best restaurants in Scotland. On Hoy, the largest of the Orkney's satellite islands, in addition to walking round from Rackwick (beach) to the rock pillar of the Old Man, you can visit the Scapa Flow Visitor Centre and Museum, for an insight into wartime Orkney. Leave plenty time - it really is fascinating!

Standing stones, brochs, burial mounds and prehistoric villages are to be found all over the island. Skara Brae, quite near to the cottage, is perhaps the best known, in its glorious seaside setting. Then there is the famous Maes Howe, some 5,000 years old, with some remarkable Viking graffiti from later times. (How many ways can there be to access a burial mound? You'll find them all on Orkney - the Tomb of the Eagles, for example, involves lying on a glorified skateboard and propelling yourself through the tunnel! Kids, old and young, will love it.)

The delights of Orkney would fill a book - just book into Corks Cottage and GO!! Bed-linen and towels are included. Heating and electricity is included. Pets are welcome.

Accommodation (sleeps 4):

Single-storey:

• Kitchen/Dining/Sitting room with multi-fuel stove, electric-cooker, microwave, dishwasher, washing machine, fridge/freezer etc.
• Double-bed room (king-size).
• Room with two full size bunks.
• Bathroom with bath, shower, WC, basin.

Accommodation availability:

Cork Cottage: