Macquarie House Sleeps 9-10 | £1400.00 to £1750.00 per week

Gruline Estate Explore the area, things to do and more

Macquarie house is a large holiday house with a superb location on the edge of freshwater Loch Ba. This is a breath-taking location in its own right in a central part of the Isle of Mull, but the house also allows easy access to the Loch na Keal 'National Scenic Area'. Staying here is a win-win if you’d like to have some of the most magnificent areas on the Isle of Mull just a short walk or drive away.

The house is of historic interest being the former residence of Lachlan Macquarie, founder of the state of New South Wales in Australia, and is Grade II-listed. It sits alongside the beautiful family home of Gruline House – an impressive building, occupied by the owners. Macquarie House has been fully renovated. The four twin bedrooms are ensuite and the house is spacious with several living areas, which make it perfect for a family gathering. The house has central heating, double glazing throughout and underfloor heating on the ground floor, promising a cosy and comfortable stay within its charming, historic walls.

What really sets Macquarie House apart is the beautiful location on the shores of Loch Ba, a large freshwater loch with pebble beaches and a dramatic mountainous backdrop. From the house, paths lead through the deciduous woodland down to the lake shore, so guests will enjoy exploring the immediate surrounds, which are abundant in wildlife. Walking, fishing and wildlife watching are all rewarding experiences to enjoy here.

Entering the house, guests will find a utility room with space for storing coats and boots – something that is particularly appreciated when there is a large group of you staying. On the ground floor, there is a large kitchen with a sociable dining table and seating area, perfect for the whole family to sit down together. The kitchen is well-equipped for self-catering, with an electric oven, dishwasher, microwave, fridge freezer, chest freezer and larder. There are views of the loch from this room and double doors open out onto the large patio area with outdoor table and chairs - a fantastic sun trap in the summer months. Sit out with a pair of binoculars, or let the roaming peacocks entertain.

From the kitchen is a hall leading to the dining room, known as the parlour, which seats 10. Its original panelling, now restored, can be seen in the Macquarie University in Sydney. There is also a study, which is a cosy room complete with a wood burner and a selection of books. Beyond the study is the main living room, with plenty of seating, an open fire and again, lovely views over the loch. This is a great room in which to relax at the end of the day, without having to leave behind those stunning loch views for a second.

There are four spacious twin bedrooms upstairs, each boasting an ensuite bathroom for the ultimate convenience and luxury, as well as fitted wardrobes and ample storage. There is an additional bedroom with a single bed that adjoins one of the twin rooms, as well as an additional pull out bed in this single room, so it can be made into a twin if there are 10 people staying. There is also a games room complete with pool table and table tennis, along with a selection of board games, which are great for keeping children entertained.

The immediate surroundings are a haven for flora and fauna in the area, with fallow and red deer roaming freely. Golden and white-tailed eagles can be spotted soaring overhead, with the latter sometimes fishing on the loch. Daffodils, bluebells, rhododendrons and some wonderful wild flowers can be seen at various times throughout the year.

This is an ideal area for taking a walk, sketching, or simply sitting by the loch and enjoying the view. The loch has salmon and sea trout fishing in season (end of June to October), which can be arranged in advance with the owners.

With its truly stunning setting, Macquarie House makes a superb venue for special occasions, weddings and celebrations, as well as setting the scene for a brilliant family holiday.