Achnacloich, Connel

Argyll. Sleeps up to 18

Connel 3.5 miles. If you fancy yourself as lord or lady of the manor then you’ve come to the right place. Achnacloich in Argyll and Bute, is a strikingly beautiful country house set within a stunning 500 acre country estate on the shores of Loch Etive and is just perfect for large family gatherings or as a venue for a reunion of old friends. Dating back to the mid-19th century, the house is literally bursting with original features and character and the grandeur of the property oozes from every part of the building. Walk into the huge entrance hall and it is like stepping back in time. The generous drawing room could be straight out of the set of Downton Abbey and boasts feature windows designed to showcase the stunning views, wood flooring and a wealth of original features. Recline on one of the pristine sofas in front of a roaring open log fire and you really can transport yourself to another time but with all the mod cons of the 21st century of course! A smaller sitting room offers a more snug experience and talking of relaxing, check out the fantastic games room with full-size snooker table and there is also a play room. It would be a shame not to make use of the formal dining room which has an abundance of traditional features so why not rustle up a banquet (or just a simple meal!) in one of the two spacious kitchens? Imagine sitting down around the giant dining table and enjoying a candlelit meal with loved ones – it really is the perfect setting. With nine bedrooms to choose from there is a boudoir for everyone including twin and double bedrooms as well as children’s bunk beds and there’s no shortage of bathrooms either. The adventure doesn’t stop there with extensive grounds to explore including formal lawns, shrubbery areas, woodlands, a children’s play area and a brick-built barbecue, perfect for balmy evenings spent outdoors, eating, drinking and soaking up the wonderful views over the estate and Loch Etive beyond. Tempting as it is to spend the whole holiday exploring Achnacloich and its grounds, there is so much else on offer right on the doorstep so what adventures await? If you love the great outdoors then there are a number of superb cycling routes nearby, golf courses at Oban, Taynuilt and Dalmally, mountain climbing and hill walking, brown trout fishing and salmon fishing (by arrangement) and boat trips on the loch. The town of Oban has loads to offer or you could hop a boat over to one of the adjoining islands such as Mull, Iona and Staffa. Achnacloich is a country house with character, style, elegance and most importantly, space.

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