Guest Rating
Nestled in the tranquil haven of the Outer Hebrides, The Doctor's Bothy offers a unique sanctuary for those yearning to disconnect from the bustling mainland and immerse themselves in the untouched beauty of Scotland's far-flung corners. This distinctive cottage, perched on the grassy slopes above Loch Hosta on North Uist, is an invitation to experience holiday accommodation like no other, promising serenity, breathtaking landscapes, and a touch of adventure for the intrepid traveller.
Quick Info
| Sleeps: 4 | Bedrooms: 2 |
| Changeover Day: Sat | Pets Allowed: Yes (2) |
| No smoking | Bathrooms: 1 |
Constructed from traditional materials of stone, slate, and timber, The Bothy proudly stands near the historic Old Manse ruins, a testament to the area's rich heritage. Its elevated position affords sweeping panoramic views of the sea, the Southern Outer Hebrides, the Monach Isles, and the enchanting St Kilda, visible 40 miles away across the Atlantic Ocean on days when the sky is clear.
A mere stone's throw from this serene house lies the pristine Hosta beach, where crystal-clear turquoise waters, soft white sands, and intriguing rock pools await. It's a place of solitude where nature's companions, such as seals and otters, might grace your presence, adding to the magic of this secluded paradise.
Inside, The Bothy melds simplicity with comfort. Its open-plan living space is bathed in natural light, offering postcard-perfect views that change with the seasons. The heart of this cozy retreat is a solid fuel stove, ensuring warmth and comfort throughout the year. Accommodation includes a downstairs double bedroom with a charming multi-fuel stove and an upstairs twin bedroom, accessible via a cast-iron spiral staircase. The kitchen diner, equipped with a gas cooker and boasting dramatic views, alongside a modern, tiled bathroom, ensures a stay that combines rustic charm with modern necessities.
Embracing its 'off-grid' ethos, The Bothy provides a pioneering experience. Electrical power, sourced from solar panels, covers essentials (just enough energy to light the cottage, power the radio and charge your phone) reinforcing the allure of a simpler lifestyle. Whilst it shuns some modern conveniences, this eco-friendly approach enhances the sense of adventure and connection with nature. Due to the limited electrical supply, modern conveniences such as electric kettles, washing machines, hair dryers and electric fridges won't work.
Access to this secluded retreat is an adventure in itself, with a gated track welcoming those with four-wheel drives or a spirit for exploration. For guests preferring to trek, a scenic walk from the nearby parking space adds to the immersive experience, complete with a wheelbarrow for easy luggage transport.
Surrounded by expansive open gardens and the natural beauty of the Hebrides, The Doctor's Bothy is a truly unforgettable holiday destination. It's a haven where the wilderness meets comfort, designed for those who respect nature and embrace the joy of discovery. Please note: due to nearby grazing sheep pets should not be allowed outside unsupervised.
The nearest shop/PO and petrol station is 5 miles away at Bayhead, there is a small well-stocked supermarket 8 miles away at Sollas, or a licensed grocers/butchers 9 miles away in Clachan.
The nearest pub is 7 miles away and there are several acclaimed restaurants within half an hour's drive. For light lunches and home-made cakes head for the Kirkibost Centre fifteen minutes drive away or combine a tasty treat with island art and culture at the Lochmaddy Arts Centre.
Loch Hosta itself is excellent for brown-trout fishing and the area is home to many visiting birds and wedges of Hooper swans. Lovers of wildlife will find themselves in paradise here, the skies are patrolled by many types of birds of prey including golden eagles, hen harriers, buzzards, owls and merlins. The RSPB Balranald Nature Reserve is less than 3 miles away and is one of the last places in Britain where the rare corncrake can be seen (from the garden you can often hear its distinctive rasping cry). Herds of deer, grazing cows and sheep are also frequent visitors to the Bothy's garden.
Those interested in history will find the surrounding area fascinating. The famous neolithic burial chamber of Bharpa Langass and the stone circle of Pobull Phinn are just a few miles away and there are many other ancient standing stones, burial sites, wheelhouses and brochs even closer to home - many not even signposted!
Legend has it that there is a submerged village under the waters of Loch Hosta and if the weather conditions are right, from the Bothy you can just trace the outline of sunken circular structures close to the shoreline.
Please note: while we make every effort to be as accurate as possible, the actual position of the cottage indicated on the map above and the proximity of the amenities in the Local Info section cannot be guaranteed to be precise and should be used as a guide only.
Accommodation
Downstairs
Open plan living area with solid fuel stove, LPG gas cooker, TV, radio, etc
Double bedroom with multi-fuel stove
Bathroom with bath and shower over, WC and wash basin.
Upstairs
Twin bedroom (accessed by spiral staircase).
What's included
- Linen (Double Bed)
- Free
- Linen (Single Bed)
- Free
- Sets of towels (per person)
- Free
- WiFi
- Free
Available Extras
- Pet
- £20.00
Services
Bed linen and towels are INCLUDED. Electricity is by solar panels (INCLUDED). LPG for the cooker is INCLUDED. Heating is by solid-fuel stove and multi fuel stove (1 bag/basket of coal or peat INCLUDED). WiFi is INCLUDED. A maximum of 2 dogs are welcome at an additional charge (2 large, 2 medium or 2 small). If you wish to bring any other pets please contact us and we will see what we can do. No smoking.
Weekly Prices
The weekly guide prices for this property are shown below. Use the availability & book sidebar on the right to select your holiday or calculate short break rates (where available).
From 10/10/2025 to 13/10/2025
From 17/10/2025 to 20/10/2025
From 10/01/2025 to 13/01/2025
From 04/04/2025 to 07/04/2025
From 03/10/2025 to 06/10/2025
From 24/10/2025 to 27/10/2025
From 17/10/2025 to 20/10/2025
From 10/10/2025 to 13/10/2025
From 27/12/2024 to 30/12/2024
From 03/01/2025 to 06/01/2025
From 17/01/2025 to 20/01/2025
From 24/12/2024 to 24/12/2024
From 23/12/2024 to 24/12/2024
From 30/12/2024 to 30/12/2024
Changeover Day: Sat
| Rental - Date Range | Sleeps 4 |
| 20 Dec 2024 - 27 Dec 2024 | £750.00 |
| 28 Dec 2024 - 05 Jan 2025 | £750.00 |
| 06 Jan 2025 - 31 Jan 2025 | £495.00 |
| 01 Feb 2025 - 04 Apr 2025 | £595.00 |
| 05 Apr 2025 - 25 Apr 2025 | £695.00 |
| 26 Apr 2025 - 02 May 2025 | £595.00 |
| 03 May 2025 - 23 May 2025 | £695.00 |
| 24 May 2025 - 30 May 2025 | £795.00 |
| 31 May 2025 - 27 Jun 2025 | £695.00 |
| 28 Jun 2025 - 18 Jul 2025 | £795.00 |
| 19 Jul 2025 - 29 Aug 2025 | £850.00 |
| 30 Aug 2025 - 12 Sep 2025 | £695.00 |
| 13 Sep 2025 - 03 Oct 2025 | £595.00 |
| 04 Oct 2025 - 24 Oct 2025 | £695.00 |
| 25 Oct 2025 - 19 Dec 2025 | £495.00 |
| 20 Dec 2025 - 27 Dec 2025 | £795.00 |
| 28 Dec 2025 - 05 Jan 2026 | £795.00 |
| 06 Jan 2026 - 05 Jan 2027 | POA |
| 06 Jan 2027 - 05 Jan 2028 | POA |
| 06 Jan 2028 - 05 Jan 2029 | POA |
Please note: Prices are calculated based on your party size at the time of booking. If your party size changes for any reason after booking, please let us know so we can ensure the accommodation provided meets your exact requirements.
Reviews
(Supplied Independently through Feefo)
The Bothy is a lovingly restored house in a remote location. It's facilities are exactly as described in the listing, an...
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The cottage itself was comfortable and straightforward, though not luxurious. The views were fantastic. However, despi...
Our response:
We are delighted that you found the bothy comfortable and enjoyed its fantastic views. Its description clearly describes...
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Loved the Doctors Bothy - had a great week in North Uist (in mixed weather), the remoteness, views and “adventurous” tr...
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The Bothy is an amazing place. Its location is ideally placed for exploring North Uist and beyond. The Bothy is comforta...
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Good could have been better, I would recommend it if the owner would spend a little bit more on access, and the upgrade ...
Our response:
It is great to hear that overall your experience was good. The Bothy is in a unique, remote location and is off-grid as ...
Read MoreGuest Comments
'We have had a fantastic first part of our honeymoon here, it’s been a real adventure. We have loved going back to basics - it has been really magical and we couldn’t have asked for a nicer cottage or spot.'
Brookes party
'The bothy is very beautiful inside and is set in a beautiful surrounding. Hardest thing to leave behind in the bothy was the beds! I don’t think I have ever slept so well in my life. We also walked up the hill to watch the sunset.'
Self party
'We’ve had a great week exploring this island, which is beautiful, in particular the deserted beaches. The wildlife here is outstanding; we came particularly wanting to see otters and were not disappointed.'
Pritchett party
'Thank you for letting us stay in the cosy bothy. We had lovely weather for the time of year and enjoyed walks on all the local beaches and the hills up behind. Enjoyed being off the grid.'
Taylor party
'What an absolute privilege it has been to spend a week here! Plenty of fantastic walks - up Eabhal to Varloy and Bern Longais on Beanaragh, all thoroughly recommended.'
Green party
'We have had a lovely and relaxing stay here. We arrived at 8:30pm and it was lovely to come in and find the fires ready to be lit and ward off the cold and the dark. Terrific views and beautiful cottage.'
Easton party
INDEPENDENT FEEDBACK
Guest Comments
'We have had a fantastic first part of our honeymoon here, it’s been a real adventure. We have loved going back to basics - it has been really magical and we couldn’t have asked for a nicer cottage or spot.'
Brookes party
'The bothy is very beautiful inside and is set in a beautiful surrounding. Hardest thing to leave behind in the bothy was the beds! I don’t think I have ever slept so well in my life. We also walked up the hill to watch the sunset.'
Self party
'We’ve had a great week exploring this island, which is beautiful, in particular the deserted beaches. The wildlife here is outstanding; we came particularly wanting to see otters and were not disappointed.'
Pritchett party
'Thank you for letting us stay in the cosy bothy. We had lovely weather for the time of year and enjoyed walks on all the local beaches and the hills up behind. Enjoyed being off the grid.'
Taylor party
'What an absolute privilege it has been to spend a week here! Plenty of fantastic walks - up Eabhal to Varloy and Bern Longais on Beanaragh, all thoroughly recommended.'
Green party
'We have had a lovely and relaxing stay here. We arrived at 8:30pm and it was lovely to come in and find the fires ready to be lit and ward off the cold and the dark. Terrific views and beautiful cottage.'
Easton party