Gorsten House Sleeps 8 | £1350.00 to £2800.00 per week

Gorsten Explore the area, things to do and more

Gorsten House is not your average house. Being the family home of internationally renowned artist Charles Avery, the interior has been carefully thought out and finished with some absolutely stunning features, many designed by the artist himself (such as the spiral staircase), making this property one of a kind.

This unique, inviting home is a pleasure to spend time in, and ideal for those looking for the highest quality accommodation. In addition to the beautiful interior, guests will enjoy use of many comforts and amenities, such as the sauna, wood-fired hot tub and table tennis. There is a farmhouse adjoining the property, belonging to and (from 2024) lived in by the same owners, and a Studio to the rear, used by the caretakers of the property.

On the approach from the small hamlet of Lochdon, the single track road to Gorsten Farm follows the coastline with excellent views all around the loch, the last stretch being the half-mile private drive. Guests can park beside the stone built property, which is set 450 acres of unspoilt scenery. The nearest visible buildings from Gorsten are Duart Castle, three miles to the north, and the iconic Stevenson lighthouse on Lismore Island.

There is little to suggest, on first glance, that the long elegant stone building is particularly unusual, but the large windows and charred timber porch offer an enticing glimpse. Guests may enter the house from either the front or rear, with both porches leading onto a large, double-height reception room. This is a striking space, where the geometric Penrose pattern tiled floor and spiral staircase contrast with the exposed stone wall of the gable. There are artworks, seating and a table tennis table, as well as great views from the windows.

This space takes on a new atmosphere in the evenings when the sun has set. The gable is illuminated with recessed edge lighting, throwing the beautiful old stonework into relief. Details like this throughout the property make you feel this is a home that has been lovingly furnished, crafted and styled, from top to bottom.

On the ground floor there are three superb bedrooms to choose from, offering plenty of space and light. Off the north side of the atrium, a corridor gives access to a large double bedroom with its own wood burning stove, comfortable armchairs, lots of natural light and sea views. There is a private bathroom complete with a sauna, large red clawfoot bath (with shower attachment), basin and w.c, making this a great personal space to retreat to.

At the opposite side of the atrium, there are two further bedrooms, one twin and one double, both with ample storage and separated by a Jack and Jill bathroom. This bathroom features a deep clawfoot bath (with shower attachment), basin and w.c. The twin room has large glass doors opening to the outside, and in addition to the two single beds, there is a cot bed suitable for a child.

The spiral staircase leads to a galleried area on the upper floor, giving access to the kitchen, entertaining space and the master bedroom. The wow factor is in abundance up here, with an open plan kitchen/ living area, and a long dining table commanding the central space. The well-equipped and high specification handmade kitchen is a pleasure to use. The long table offers ample space for large dinner parties, and good layout space for childrens' activities. Double doors open to the outside patio and seating area, which gets the sun from early afternoon until the end of the day.

The living area is organised around the wood stove and television. There is also a good selection of board games and books too - a relaxing and comfortable place to have a drink and socialise after the activities of the day. The large panoramic window offers expansive views all the way from Duart castle to the north, the lighthouse to the east, and the Island of Kerrera to the south. A telescope is provided to survey the scenery and the abundant wildlife.

From the bridge of the atrium space, one looks down onto the beautiful Penrose tiled floor, named after its inventor, the mathematician Roger Penrose. Crossing the bridge, you pass through an opening in the thick stone wall to the master bedroom. Guests making use of this room will wake up to the most stunning view, framed by a large panoramic window. The semi open-plan ensuite bathroom is of an exceptional standard with a large walk-in shower, freestanding claw foot bat and twin basins.

The 400 acres that surround the house are a mix of grassy meadow, open moorland and rocky coastline; fantastic for a spot of otter watching, rock pool exploring or fishing. There are trails leading from the house to a beautiful section of coastline, sheltered by a reef that is home to colony of seals. There are also walks to view points of Duart Castle and Grasspoint at the mouth of Lochdon.

The tranquillity and beauty of the scenery here is perfect for artists, photographers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The house is a 15-minute drive from amenities at Craignure, where there is a village shop, pub, coffee shop and a swimming pool and spa (at the Isle of Mull Hotel). A stay in this unique property promises to be both memorable and magical.