“What an astonishing house.”
It's huge and beautiful, and the grounds are breathtaking. We absolutely loved it. Any small niggles were dealt with immediately and enthusiastically for us by Agnes, even though it was Sunday/Bank Holiday Monday. The house was spotless. To clarify for those looking, the larger sitting room, the master bedroom and the twin bed room are all upstairs, as is the bathroom with the huge bath in it. These two first floor bedrooms share the bathroom; the bath is magnificent but it has no shower or shower attachment. The twin beds can be zip-linked (we did this). Down stairs bedrooms are all ensuite, all are standard doubles: two have baths with showers over, two have walk in showers. Two overlook the loch, two overlook the rear of house and so have no view. Beautiful, clean linen and plentiful towels (including actual bath sheet sized) and bathrobes. Bath toiletries are provided. We arrived to a pint of milk, some bread, some cheese, 6 eggs and pack of butter, which was very kind.
Phone reception is almost entirely non-existent at the house, and there is no phone. Wireless internet is provided, but not fast enough for streaming, so make any teenagers and Netflix addicts aware and come prepared. TV reception is not always what one would wish. There is a Blu-Ray player. Next time (and we will come again, it's FABULOUS there) we will bring some films. Luckily we brought plentiful games.
I cooked for nine of us easily every night, the kitchen is well equipped and any deficiencies were immediately amended. There is a small fridge, a wine fridge and a large American style fridge freezer with ice maker. Good washer drier, laundry airier....it's like home but so much nicer! Heating is good, but wood and other fire making essential are provided too.
We had no problem finding the house, Google maps and the little yellow man on there gave me a good visual of the turning off the public road, and after that the way to the house is well signposted. Drivers on Bute seem patient and are considerate. The pot holes are only in the road particular to the house, and only what one would expect in a little used private road, but you would need to take care in the wet as large puddles form.
Bute itself is magnificent, just lovely. I've rarely felt so drawn to return to a location. The people are welcoming, the atmosphere relaxing, the amenities low key but entirely adequate. Do take a ride on the bus our that goes round the Island - it leaves from opposite the ferry terminal. Our driver Paul was informative and amusing and it's an easy way to spend a few hours getting your bearings. Lots of fun.
We will be back. The best family holiday in many years. Thank you so much.