Elemental
Pitlochry, Loch Rannoch, Scotland, UK
Sublimely remote and meticulously designed down to the placement of the last herringbone tile, this modern self-catering hideaway sits on the shores of Loch Rannoch in the heart of the Scottish Highlands, with two private beaches. The house was first fashioned for a Danish family, taking inspiration from Swiss-French architect Le Corbusier, a pioneer of modern architecture. Clean lines and Scandinavian simplicity work in perfect contrast to the rolling mountains and glens of the West Highland landscape.
Introduction
If it's off the beaten track you're after, this lochside self-catering retreat in ancient Viking woodland is the spot. A nature-lover's paradise, Elemental has two beaches and an acre of garden full of wildlife. The architect-designer owners have breathed new life into their stylish sixties home, overhauling the one-story build with natural finishes nodding to the environment. In summer, take a dip while a fish supper fries on the barbecue; in winter, cosy up by the log fire, where sandpipers and dippers can be spotted from the sofa. After sundowners are poured, line up the music system and dance in the sunset beams that stream across the wooden floors.
Inside
Each as inviting as the next, Elemental's light-filled bedrooms are tucked away from the main living area and have views of loch, garden or scudding clouds. Guests can lounge in the master four-poster or tuck into the twin, bare toes kept toasty by underfloor heating. The family bathroom has an overhead rainfall shower, while the shower room features a unique square rose; both are monochrome with an industrial edge, in-line with the solid wood floors and poured concrete counters found elsewhere in the house.
Outside
With big open skies and sparkling fresh water all around, there is much here to set families at one with the elements. Solace is the watchword of this once-Viking settlement, and there's plenty for adventurers to explore too. Ancient woodland is tracked through with hidden pathways, opening up to the sapphire blue waters of Loch Rannoch, diving down to a depth of 130m. The cottage's two lochside beaches are separated by a small headland; pull a chair onto the deck and keep an eye out for local wildlife, such as the baby deer known to frequent the acre of garden. Four kayaks are provided, for those who want a different perspective of the coast.
The Facts
- SleepsUp to 4 guests
From £1,995 per week, £1,495 per short break - Alternative group optionUp to 2 guests
- Bedrooms and bathroomsThree double bedrooms, one with king-size bed and two bedrooms with double beds, a further twin room can be found on the ground floor. One family bathroom with bath and overhead shower plus one shower room. Please note, Elemental accepts a maximum of four guests across two bedrooms, however, guests may pick which two bedrooms they would like from the available options.
View bedrooms - FeaturesFour kayaks for the loch (available from March - October)
- PetsSorry, no pets
- Arrivals and departuresArrival Time: 4pmDeparture Time: 10am
- FamilyBabes-in-arms and children over the age of 12 are very welcome. One travel cot is available.
- PracticalitiesThe house has parking for up to four cars on the drive. The kitchen has a fridge-freezer, dishwasher, induction hob and on-hob kettle, plus a Magimix coffee machine. The water here is beautifully pure and perfectly safe to drink, however, water from the bathroom may appear orange in colour due to naturally high peat content. Due to Elemental´s windswept location, there is no permanent outdoor seating however chairs can be taken outside and placed on the deck whenever needed. The entrance path can be slippery when wet, and uneven access to the beach and a garden on several levels makes the grounds less suitable for those with limited mobility.
- Homestay includesLuxury welcome hamper, Smart TV with access to Netflix, Amazon Prime and Disney+, Sandstrom music player, iPad, WiFi internet, built-in wild barbecue, use of kayaks, luxury linen, towels, logs and kindling to get you started...House book - your property and destination guideDiscover more
- Private cateringSeeking a celebratory dinner or fully catered escape? Our recommended caterers will work with you to create personalised menus for your stay. Details are shared through our house book on confirming your booking.
- RestrictionsParties considered on prior permission from the owner
- Other informationProperty terms and conditionsFrequently asked questions
Prices & Availability
Loch Rannoch
Stretching nine miles from east to west this loch, north east of Perth, is one of Scotland´s most beautiful tracts of water. No major roads run here so car trips are peaceful and scenic, taking in picnic spots and viewing points.
Getting there
- On the Map Elemental is located on the north shores of Loch Rannoch, approximately 7.5 miles from Kinloch Rannoch and 25 miles from Pitlochry.
- By Air Dundee airport on Scotland's south-east coast is a two hour drive away.
- By Car Elemental is a 15 minute drive from Kinloch, one and a half hours from Perth and eight and a half from London.
- By Train The train journey from London Euston to Pitlochry is seven and a half hours, followed by a one-hour bus journey. A sleeper service also operates to Pitlochry with a journey time of nine hours. A government-subsidised taxi service from Kinloch Rannoch then takes you right to the door.
From the owner
“Elemental is less about the house and more about the actual site itself – the architecture of the house just captures that. This is a home where you can connect with the natural environment and spend hours watching the Loch in its ever changing state. It is good for the soul.”
We have always spent a lot of time in this area – Seamus was at university in Scotland so he's very fond of it – and we first saw this place after we'd been to a wedding: we fell in love with it straight away. We knew how much it would add to our lifestyle: you just have to stand in the garden with the house behind you and those waters ahead, to know this is all we need for serious relaxation.
As a designer-architect duo, we wasted no time in getting to work to put our own stamp on the property and have since lovingly updated it. Our whole life is spent looking at things from a design point of view and it was fun to create our own dream home. We wanted a look that balanced nature with clean, industrial lines – the amazing views from all those sheer windows are inescapable, and help pull interest to the great outdoors.
Now we love being able to hop in the car, drive out of the big city and all the way up here through the night, then wake to the wonderful wilds of our peaceful loch. It really is the stuff of dreams and we know our guests will feel the same.
Lucy and Seamus
Owner recommendations
Live like a local, discovering the best hidden gem restaurants, walks and attractions during your holiday in Loch Rannoch with an insider’s perspective.
To Do
Explore the rugged terrain
Outlander fans will know this area all too well, as much of the film was set in and around its majestic mountains and flora-filled moorland. If biking is the sport of choice, the loch´s 35-km round circuit is ideal for a scenic pedal-push.
To Eat
Moor of Rannoch Restaurant
This award-winning restaurant lies in a beautiful and remote situation on the edge of Rannoch Moor and is the place to unwind with no TV, Radio or Wifi. You are advised to book well in advance for dinner so as not to be disappointed.
To Do
Rannoch Moor
Not far to the west, Rannoch is the place for biking, four-wheel-drive tours, steam train rides and even a spot of archery. Pick up some treats at Rannoch Station Tearoom for your long walk: call ahead to order a tasty packed lunch.
To Do
The Clan Trail
Channel your inner Jacobite on a clan trail round the loch, keeping an eye out for various storyboards detailing the area´s legends of Bonnie Prince Charlie: daring deeds, battle and romance.
Guest Testimonials
Read reviews on TrustPilot and Google
The house lives up to all it promises! We thank you for your efforts and the service from Unique Homestays, they were very professional! We certainly hope we can return one day.
Great location, very secluded, private beaches, kayaking on the loch, great walking straight from the doorstep. This property is truly outstanding- such a perfect location and with two private beaches it’s like paradise. It doesn’t matter on the weather we just sat and stared at the loch and sky out of the huge floor-to-ceiling windows in awe. Absolutely incredible holiday- thank you.
This property is truly outstanding- such a perfect location and with two private beaches, it’s like paradise. It doesn’t matter on the weather we just sat and stared at the loch and sky out of the huge floor-to-ceiling windows in awe. Absolutely incredible holiday- thank you.
The house was stunning, beautifully furnished and felt very homely. Every window gave us wonderful views and we would certainly recommend Elemental. we would definitely come back for another stay.
Kinloch Rannoch is like no other place I´ve ever been. The ten-minute winding drive around the loch took over half an hour as we just had to keep stopping to take in the breathtaking view, only for it to get even better when we arrived at Elemental with its two private beaches. The house is incredible, designed to perfection and we wouldn´t change a single thing - apart from having to leave!
Elemental is a luxurious property with windows that make the most of the ever-changing views of Loch Rannoch. Flaunting the decor of a five-star hotel as well as all the comforts, such as underfloor heating and a wood-burning stove, which make returning after a chilly stroll down to the private beach all the more blissful.
Elemental is such an amazing place to escape to; we absolutely loved our stay here. It is rare to have the combination of such a stylish property in a truly gorgeous location.
Press
Below are a selection of features in which Elemental and Unique Homestays has appeared. If you would like to feature the property in an editorial capacity, please contact the marketing team on +44 (0)1637 882014.
complete an image bank request
The corner fireplace
Living Etc.
October 202125 of the best autumn getaways
The Times
November 2024Good manors
Condé Nast Traveller
November 2024Ways to improve your life—from our experts
The Times
October 2024The UK´s most relaxing riverside stays
The Times
October 2024At one with nature
25 Beautiful Homes
September 2024Healing waters
Condé Nast Traveller
September 202425 of the UK´s best lakeside stays
The Times
September 2024
Collections > Any Day Stays > UK > Scotland > Loch Rannoch > Elemental
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Disclaimer: These particulars, whilst believed to be accurate, are set as a guideline so should not be relied upon as a statement of fact. The photographs show aspects of the property at the time they were taken and it should not be assumed that the property remains precisely as displayed. If there are points of particular importance that need clarifying before you book, please contact us.
