Vatersay Cottage

Delightful dog friendly converted lock keepers cottage packed full of character on the Caledonian Canal, just outside Fort Augustus.

Located right on the side of the canal at Kytra Lock, this stylish and comfortable three-bedroom cottage has been tastefully upgraded, while retaining many of the features of the original lock keeper’s cottage.

Access to the cottage is by a two-mile drive along the well maintained gravel tow path, making for a secluded location and adventurous approach!

Unique Location

The unique location combined with quirky and stylish interiors, make this a magical place to stay – perfect for family friendly holidays. Another major bonus is that the cottage is dog friendly, with great tow-path walks straight from the door. The kids will love watching the boats go by, seeing how the lock works, playing in the enclosed garden, easy walks and bike rides; no need to get in the car!

Vatersay Cottage has original wooden floors downstairs and charming period fireplaces. The careful use of traditional fabrics, upcycled furniture and vintage photographs, as well as some quirky contemporary décor such as the boat-themed wallpaper and a funky take on a stag’s head, all add to the experience.

There are two comfy downstairs sitting rooms, one with cosy woodburner and dining area, and the other with TV/DVD. If the weather isn’t kind, you can settle down by the fire with a good book and a glass of something good, while the children put on a film in the other room. There is a small but well equipped kitchen with decent cooker, fridge-freezer and microwave. (Note there is no dishwasher and no WIFI.)

The master bedroom is downstairs and there is a decent sized family bathroom next to it with a bath and a good shower – lovely soaps and shower gels supplied. Upstairs: the twin bedroom and a single bedroom, both with stylish decor.

The tranquil outdoor seating area with BBQ is perfect for when the sun shines! Beyond the private garden, the lock-side area is landscaped and beautifully maintained with large grassy areas, pond and interesting planting.

Vatersay Cottage is one of a number of historic lock keepers’ cottages which have been tastefully restored in similar style by Scottish Canals. There are another two cottages at this site, on the opposite side of the canal across the lock footbridges. Eriskay, Sandray and Vatersay Cottages can be rented in combinations to accommodate larger groups (max 13), making an unusual location for an extended family holiday or group of friends.

We also had a peak around Eriskay and Sandray Cottages and they offer the same high standard of cosy accommodation. The unusual combination of modern style and traditional character works really well here too.

Vatersay Cottage is a fantastic and unusual canal side holiday house. Its unique location makes it the perfect place to relax on a Highland family holiday. Although Kytra Lock is a secluded spot, Fort Augustus and Loch Ness and all their attractions, are easily accessible.

Perfect Days

Explore nearby Fort Augustus, enjoying a canalside drink or having a picnic while the boats pass through the impressive flight of locks. Take a boat trip on Loch Ness and go ‘Nessie spotting’, the guys at Cruise Loch Ness do a great tour. Alternatively, hear the real truth about Highland life at the Clansman Centre. For younger kids there is a Rare Breeds Farm with pigs, goats and deer.

Take a drive along Loch Ness to the historic ruins of Urquhart Castle, one of the finest castles in Scotland.

Go for a bike ride along the Caledonian Canal and enjoy family friendly cycling along part of the Great Glen Way.

Go for a slap-up seafood lunch in Fort William at the lochside Crannog Restaurant, or take a ride up the Nevis Range Gondola to soak up the mountain views.

There are loads of great walks nearby, from serious hillwalking to forest rambles. Pick up a leaflet from Tourist Information in Fort Augustus.

Take a day trip to the magical Isle of Skye, through some of the most spectacular scenery in the Highlands, including the iconic Eilean Donan Castle. Or visit Glen Affric, arguably Scotland’s most beautiful glen!

How to book our cottage?

Call 01625 416 430 or send us an email.