The Smiddy

The Smiddy - Stay in our delightful self-catering one-bedroom cottage, designed for comfort and relaxation. Cook your own meals in the fully fitted kitchen, unwind in the cosy lounge, and wake up to peaceful surroundings. It's a perfect choice for a romantic retreat, small family or solo escape on a working croft near picturesque Portnahaven, coastal walks & an abundance of wildlife. Close by is the lovely Currie Sands beach perfect for a picnic or a spot of fishing. The space Once a cherished croft house, later a cattle byre and a traditional blacksmith’s workshop, The Smiddy has been masterfully reimagined into an elegant, single‑level luxury retreat. Part of the building once sheltered cattle, while the other housed Neil’s grandpa’s working smiddy—a place where horses were expertly shod for life on the crofts. Today, those rich layers of history are woven seamlessly into a sophisticated, contemporary space designed for indulgent island escape. Step inside, and the former byre reveals itself as a tranquil bedroom and beautifully finished shower room, crafted with comfort in mind. The old smiddy now forms an expansive open‑plan living area, complete with a sleek, fully equipped kitchen featuring an oven, hob, fridge‑freezer, microwave, toaster, dishwasher, and a premium hot‑water tap for instant teas and coffees. Deep-set windows—true to the original stonework—flood the space with soft natural light, creating an unmistakably luxurious sense of calm. The living area offers thoughtful touches for elevated relaxation: a plush sofa bed for additional guests, a 40″ Smart HD TV for cosy evenings in, and complimentary high-speed internet for effortless connectivity. Thick, expertly insulated walls and state-of-the-art air‑source underfloor heating ensure the cottage remains warm, serene, and inviting throughout every season—whether you’re savouring a crisp winter sunrise or unwinding after a sun-soaked summer’s day. Where sturdy wooden doors once stood, elegant patio doors now open onto a private outdoor seating area—your own exclusive corner of Islay. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a glass of wine in the evening light, linger over breakfast alfresco, or simply breathe in the tranquillity of the surrounding landscape. The Smiddy offers a rare fusion of heritage character and refined comfort—an intimate, luxurious escape where craftsmanship of the past meets the indulgence of modern living. Ballymeanach Self-catering Holiday Cottages rest quietly on an owner-occupied croft situated on the breath taking Rhinns of Islay; an area celebrated internationally as a Ramsar wetland and domestically as a designated SSSI for its rare flora, fauna and sweeping coastal beauty. Surrounded by wide skies, Atlantic light, and traditionally farmed land with a growing herd of native Galloway cattle, this is a place where nature isn’t just scenery – it’s part of the experience. Our three luxurious self catering cottages – The Barn, The Smiddy & The Cottage – are available to book throughout the year. Each property blends modern comfort with rustic charm, providing a relaxing base for exploring Islay’s coastlines, wildlife, and cultural heritage. Other things to note Please make sure you can get a ferry booking with Calmac prior to booking. Please request bedding for sofa-bed if required and also let us know if a travel cot/high chair is required. Registration Details AR00492F