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Pondside

Pondside

4.1
out of 5
Ratings from 28 reviews
86% of guests
recommend
Cleanliness
4.3
Comfort
3.9
Condition
3.8
Location
4.4
Value
3.8
Customer
Service
4.5

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This pretty stone cottage has 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom and a dining room with a sofa bed for a 5th guest. It has a sheltered, sunny garden within the beautiful Colonsay woodland rhododendron gardens. It has WIFI and is available for SHORT BREAKS.

Quiet and warm cottage

Review submitted on Mon, 15 Apr 2024
4.5
out of 5
Guest recommends this property
Cleanliness
5.0
Comfort
4.0
Condition
4.0
Location
5.0
Value
4.0
Customer
Service
5.0
We had a few days at Pondside in mixed weather and appreciated its warmth. It’s in a secluded spot up a short track and reached by driving past a sign which says “No cars beyond this point “. The nearby wind turbine can be heard but it’s nevertheless a quiet place. The upstairs bedrooms are comfortable. The kitchen and living room are small but cosy and warm. We didn’t use the dining room being able to eat at the kitchen table and didn’t miss having no TV. It has a useful porch for wet things and a small garden good for sitting outside in better weather. You can walk around the estate woodlands straight from the front door.



Dark and tired. Not elderly friendly.

Review submitted on Sun, 10 Sep 2023
2.7
out of 5
Guest doesn't recommend this property
Cleanliness
3.0
Comfort
2.0
Condition
2.0
Location
4.0
Value
2.0
Customer
Service
3.0
There was no hot water feed to the bathroom sink and bath beyond a trickle. There is very little storage space for food and clothes. The downstairs is tired and dowdy though clean as far as we could tell in the gloom. Everything worked. We were fortunate to have excellent weather so could be outside a lot. Would not have enjoyed being confined to the cottage.
The stairs are a real problem being steep and with shallow steps, getting round the bend at the top isn’t easy as handholds are precarious. For older people like us they are not really suitable, I would advise a warning in your description.



Excellent holiday cottage and management

Review submitted on Tue, 29 Aug 2023
5.0
out of 5
Guest recommends this property
Cleanliness
5.0
Comfort
5.0
Condition
5.0
Location
5.0
Value
5.0
Customer
Service
5.0
This is a really cosy small cottage which we used for a family of 5 plus a dog on the border of the colonsay estate which has absolutelty beautiful forests and trails right on your doorstep and a short cycle to Kiloran bay,

Everyone we dealt with at Colonsay Holidays was excellent and the 2 problems we had were dealt with immediately, i would not hesitate to recommned them.



A magical island revisited after 50 years.

Review submitted on Fri, 30 Jun 2023
5.0
out of 5
Guest recommends this property
Cleanliness
5.0
Comfort
5.0
Condition
5.0
Location
5.0
Value
5.0
Customer
Service
5.0
A very pleasant cottage nicely located a short walk through woodland to Colonsay House and gardens. The island is a great place for a restful holiday away from the pressures of everyday life. With fantastic beaches, wonderful views and gentle pace of life it is blissful. More amenities than 50 years ago, but all of them enhancing the experience of this magical place.



Good for a short stay

Review submitted on Sun, 21 May 2023
4.3
out of 5
Guest recommends this property
Cleanliness
5.0
Comfort
4.0
Condition
5.0
Location
5.0
Value
3.0
Customer
Service
4.0
Quick visit to Colonsay using Pondside as a base. We took my campervan over although we stayed in the cottage but it meant we had transport. The grounds of Colonsay house were good for walking and the roads are quiet for cycling. We had a good 3 days before we moved onto Jura.



Comfortable but potentially very expensive

Review submitted on Sun, 07 May 2023
3.8
out of 5
Guest recommends this property
Cleanliness
4.0
Comfort
4.0
Condition
4.0
Location
4.0
Value
3.0
Customer
Service
4.0
Overall we enjoyed our stay in Colonsay and at the accommodations. Pondside and Turnigil.

One point is that it’s noted in the welcome letter that Holiday lets ( commercial businesses) aren’t covered by the government price cap. From what I can gather and after talking to others in the industry this is not the case.

Charging extra for gas and electric at the rates set was excessive in my opinion. Guests have no idea how much of either they will have to pay at the end of their stay. Turnigil had an imersion switch and even after half an hour the water was cold for a quick shower. So we didn’t use it at all.

Put electric showers in all your properties?


The rates charged for electric were 41p per KW where the rates set are currently 16p. Unless I’m missing something that’s excessive.

So as much as I find this disagreeable I do understand that visitors can use excessive power there should be a better and fairer system in place.

I stay in holidays lets and accommodations all over Europe ( for a living ) and this is the first time I’ve seen this. We ended up paying about £20 extra ( for two full days) not excessive, but we had no heating or hot water in one of the properties for the duration.

I guess it just might add some anxiety and a nasty suprises to other guests down the line .

I hope you find a better solution.





Nice comfortable Cottage

Review submitted on Fri, 31 Mar 2023
4.8
out of 5
Guest recommends this property
Cleanliness
5.0
Comfort
4.0
Condition
5.0
Location
5.0
Value
5.0
Customer
Service
5.0
Pleasant comfortable cottage. We enjoyed our time there.
I was in twin bedded room but was disappointed that I did not have functioning bedside light. In middle of night I used my phone torch to get to light at door (I am scared of falls)
Washing machine did not work but as we had short stay it did not affect us too much. Amazing the amount of dirty clothes a baby can produce.



Generally good visit at Pondside but negative experience for visual impairment

Review submitted on Sat, 24 Sep 2022
4.2
out of 5
Guest recommends this property
Cleanliness
5.0
Comfort
4.0
Condition
3.0
Location
5.0
Value
4.0
Customer
Service
4.0
We are regular visitors to Colonsay and are very familiar with the many attractions of the island.
We have stayed in a number of properties during visits (as well as experience with self-catering cottages throughout the UK) and found Pondside to be of good quality and met our general requirements for comfort and facilities as scored above (tho` note the issue about *disability and *visual impairment, described below, which has been reported and is expected to be the subject of remedial action).
Staff involved in communications for arrangements were friendly and helpful.
Topics to note include the coal open fire which appeared inefficient in directing heat into the living room, perhaps we didn’t use properly, and the kitchen sink which appeared not to drain well would have benefitted with a basin for the washing up.

A larger problem was the presence of different levels in adjoining floors. The corridors and rooms at the back of the cottage are a step (ca 15cm) below the level of those leading from the front entrance. So moving to the bathroom, utility room and kitchen from eg the living room requires negotiating the step to the lower level.
This is a particular issue for those with impaired *eyesight and *mobility especially where no alert is given to the difference in level, as is the case.
Indeed, this was the case with the *visually-impaired member of our party on first entering the property, who did not know the level changed, did not see it and had a fall which fortunately appeared not to result in injury requiring attention, but could have been much worse.
Suggested remediation to reduce risk, (we have consulted expertise in *visual impairment) includes:
• Information advising in advance, the presence of the different floor levels, including a note on the inner porch door
• An obvious change in floor surface for example at the upper level floor
• Grab rails on the (upper) walls close to join of the floors (These giving an alert and also assisting movement between floors)
(A grab rail above the bath would also be a useful addition to comfort of mobility-challenged visitors).

We would not book Pondside again because of the floor level problem, but for future visits, would look elsewhere on the island for more suitable accommodation for our particular needs.






Great place but what am I comparing the cottage with? On a small island so not as upmarket as mainla

Review submitted on Mon, 15 Aug 2022
3.3
out of 5
Guest recommends this property
Cleanliness
4.0
Comfort
3.0
Condition
3.0
Location
4.0
Value
3.0
Customer
Service
3.0
Customer service might have been fine we didn't have any all Internet.
Not a helpful review to you and an annoying waste of time for me



Pondside - the positives

Review submitted on Thu, 07 Jul 2022
3.8
out of 5
Guest recommends this property
Cleanliness
3.0
Comfort
4.0
Condition
4.0
Location
4.0
Value
4.0
Customer
Service
4.0
The property is located on the margins of the estate woodland area and ideally placed for moderate walking around the estate and to access the Kiloran Bay greater area on foot.
The bedding was excellent; the kitchen basic. (It depends how much self catering you intend to do.)
We found the island’s environment to be stunning by any standards.



Needs an upgrade

Review submitted on Sun, 12 Jun 2022
3.3
out of 5
Guest doesn't recommend this property
Cleanliness
4.0
Comfort
3.0
Condition
2.0
Location
3.0
Value
3.0
Customer
Service
5.0
Definitely needs an upgrade downstairs. The bedrooms are fine. Nice sunny garden. We loved the island.



Beautiful cottage in wonderful location.

Review submitted on Sun, 15 May 2022
4.5
out of 5
Guest recommends this property
Cleanliness
5.0
Comfort
3.0
Condition
4.0
Location
5.0
Value
5.0
Customer
Service
5.0
Beautiful cottage in wonderful location, all dealings with employees were excellent. Staff were all friendly and helpful before and during stay, any questions were dealt with quickly and helpfully and issues quickly resolved.
Only issue was the cottage was cold as a result of being very damp and does need work to resolve that problem but recognise not any easy one to fix in old cottage



Mixed bag visit to Colonsay

Review submitted on Fri, 15 Apr 2022
4.2
out of 5
Guest recommends this property
Cleanliness
4.0
Comfort
4.0
Condition
4.0
Location
5.0
Value
4.0
Customer
Service
4.0
Second time visiting pondside, family really like the cottage and location, only irk was paid for coal and fire lighters but didn’t get the lighters. We were a bit disappointed with how many things were closed with no info on websites eg colonsay house, waiting room, bookshop, these are all little favourites with the kids that help make memories.we had planned to spend the afternoon of our leaving day at colonsay house and gardens , get some lunch and enjoy our last hours on the island only to find it shut as work getting done to decking and everyone didn’t really seem to care. We had to find somewhere else to eat and fill the time which was not a great end to our stay. Nothing on any of the websites to let us know



Typical estate cottage

Review submitted on Thu, 23 Sep 2021
3.8
out of 5
Guest recommends this property
Cleanliness
5.0
Comfort
3.0
Condition
3.0
Location
5.0
Value
3.0
Customer
Service
4.0
Like most of the estate cottages this one would definitely benefit if the kitchen and bathroom were updated



Practical base to explore Colonsay from

Review submitted on Sun, 12 Sep 2021
3.5
out of 5
Guest recommends this property
Cleanliness
4.0
Comfort
3.0
Condition
3.0
Location
3.0
Value
3.0
Customer
Service
5.0
Pondside is a spacious classic cottage situated in the fringes of Colonsay House’s woodland garden. It’s towards the top of the island and Kiloran Bay is in easy reach on foot. It’s practical with no frills but a useful utility room with washer and drier and a WC in addition to the main bathroom. Kitchen has plenty of crockery and cutlery. Bedrooms are warm, bright and comfortable but hanging space is limited if you were a larger group for a long stay.



Very peaceful location

Review submitted on Sun, 15 Aug 2021
4.3
out of 5
Guest recommends this property
Cleanliness
5.0
Comfort
4.0
Condition
4.0
Location
4.0
Value
4.0
Customer
Service
5.0
Pondside is located in a very quiet wooded area, 5 minutes drive to the lovely beach at Killoran Bay. Also near Colonsay House where the gardens are open to the public 2 afternoons a week. Approx 8 minutes drive to the ferry terminal and general store.
The house a old fashioned but well equipped. The property was very clean on arrival. A good location on a beautiful and friendly island.



Pondside

Review submitted on Thu, 15 Jul 2021
3.8
out of 5
Guest recommends this property
Cleanliness
4.0
Comfort
4.0
Condition
4.0
Location
3.0
Value
4.0
Customer
Service
4.0
We had a lovely week in Colonsay especially due to the good weather. The accommodation was basic but value for money. Next time we will try and book a property with more of a view/outlook and a breeze from the coastline to try avoid the swarming flies and midges that tend to be worse inland.



Large house, comfortable but too expensive.

Review submitted on Sun, 11 Jul 2021
2.5
out of 5
Guest doesn't recommend this property
Cleanliness
3.0
Comfort
3.0
Condition
3.0
Location
3.0
Value
1.0
Customer
Service
2.0
Comfortable enough and large. Outdated but don’t mind that. Paying for electricity considering price per night I think is too much though as you have no control over that. Would have stayed longer if not so expensive. Colonsay is lovely island and could make more of tourists visiting and putting money into economy if more accommodation choices. Seems too dominated by one company which is shame. Stayed on Islay for week for same price as three nights in Colonsay when would have been happy to do opposite.



A lovely spot

Review submitted on Thu, 01 Jul 2021
4.5
out of 5
Guest recommends this property
Cleanliness
5.0
Comfort
4.0
Condition
4.0
Location
5.0
Value
4.0
Customer
Service
5.0
The cottage and the island more than lived up to our expectations - we'll be back! The enclosed garden was great both for our dog and for us to sit out in the sun. The adjacent woodland is delightful. The staff were very helpful when we had a minor problem.



Pondside Cottage Colonsay

Review submitted on Sat, 22 May 2021
4.8
out of 5
Guest recommends this property
Cleanliness
5.0
Comfort
5.0
Condition
4.0
Location
5.0
Value
5.0
Customer
Service
5.0
Pondside is a perfect spot next to the woodland gardens belonging to Colonsay House- you can wander through them at any time. The wild garlic smells lovely



Pondside Cottage

Review submitted on Thu, 20 May 2021
4.8
out of 5
Guest recommends this property
Cleanliness
5.0
Comfort
5.0
Condition
5.0
Location
5.0
Value
4.0
Customer
Service
5.0
Lovely cottage at the edge of the delightful Colonsay House woodland gardens. So peaceful, with small sunny enclosed garden - great for those meals outside. Would definitely return! Only two downsides - the fire was a bit difficult to get going and the shower was a bit weedy - but plenty of hot water.



Great location, cottage has everything you need for enjoyable break.

Review submitted on Thu, 22 Oct 2020
4.2
out of 5
Guest recommends this property
Cleanliness
4.0
Comfort
4.0
Condition
3.0
Location
5.0
Value
4.0
Customer
Service
5.0
The electricity is not included in the price, I would rather pay more on the rental than await to see how much I will be charged after the stay.

Location of cottage is perfect for a relaxing holiday and I would go back



Just perfect!!

Review submitted on Sat, 17 Oct 2020
5.0
out of 5
Guest recommends this property
Cleanliness
5.0
Comfort
5.0
Condition
5.0
Location
5.0
Value
5.0
Customer
Service
5.0
We really enjoyed our stay – it was perfect!! thank you so much!!
The cottage was so cosy and very clean, despite the weather being occasionally wild, the cottage was sheltered and always offered a warm welcome back.

The location of the cottage was perfect - right next to stunning woodland walks which lead to us finding more paths which took us on a proper adventure through some stunning scenery. The cottage is just a short cycle to Kiloran Bay - the most amazing beach where we went on adventures most days. The whole island is perfect for exploring - on foot or by bike. There are so many wonders to discover

The Colonsay Hotel was also lovely - the staff were so friendly and welcoming and we couldn’t have asked for a warmer welcome. The food was delicious and the decor of the hotel was totally to my taste! We loved it!

We also really appreciated the cleaning staff getting in touch on our last day when they found my daughter's purse and toys!

We’ve kinda of fallen in love with Colonsay and will definitely be back again very, very soon and will most certainly book Pondside cottage again.



Pondside cottage

Review submitted on Sat, 17 Oct 2020
4.5
out of 5
Guest recommends this property
Cleanliness
4.0
Comfort
4.0
Condition
4.0
Location
5.0
Value
5.0
Customer
Service
5.0
Pondside cottage was perfect for our family's needs. Although slightly dated it had a really homely feel, with all the facilities needed for a family of four. It was in the perfect location with lovely woodland walks right outside the door, the beautiful colonsay house gardens just a few minutes away (don't overlook the delicious cakes) and a perfect beach and coastline just a short stroll further



Good but could so easily be better

Review submitted on Thu, 01 Oct 2020
3.3
out of 5
Guest doesn't recommend this property
Cleanliness
4.0
Comfort
3.0
Condition
3.0
Location
3.0
Value
3.0
Customer
Service
4.0
We had a lovely 2 days on Colonsay and were delighted with the voicemail en route saying we could get entry to the cottage on arrival at 2.30pm instead of 6pm... that was good news!
However, the cottage was baltic on arrival - and both the log basket and coal scuttle were empty. It felt the opposite of welcoming!
When I was told that those items were additions that one had to pay for, I fully accepted it was my mistake and the necessary was delivered the next day.
But, as someone who has experience of letting property, I felt it would have been a much better welcome (with a greater sense of hospitality) to have provided at least enough fire making materials for even just the first night - it was not only a cold grey day but the shop was closed. Due to our own circumstances which were unexpected and unavoidable, we had zero time prior to getting in the ferry to shop. Wrongly, I also expected there to be a pint of milk in the fridge...these little touches make all the difference to a guests experience. I’d rather have paid another £10 on the rental and felt a sense of care and welcoming. I’m aware you have several properties to look after but it really wouldn’t incur much more work would it?
This is not a complaint - it’s constructive criticism - I really think this kind of thing can colour a client’s experience and it might be a gesture to consider for future.
I certainly want to come back again, probably next time we’d try for a cottage with a view of the sea so be assured, it has not put me off the island!





Dream Family Holiday

Review submitted on Sat, 12 Sep 2020
5.0
out of 5
Guest recommends this property
Cleanliness
5.0
Comfort
5.0
Condition
5.0
Location
5.0
Value
5.0
Customer
Service
5.0
Revisited Colonsay after 20 years bringing our young family to experience island life. What a fabulous time we had. Pondside Cottage is in a beautiful location next to the woods. The cottage itself was clean nicely decorated but keeping loads of original features ie doors, fireplace and spacious enough for the four of us with nice garden for kids to play outside. It was far beyond what we expected and are looking to book for next year. Service was also great , we had a small issue with water pressure but Fiona at the Holiday Office had it fixed whilst we were out on a walk... outstanding effort. Can’t recommend the cottage enough whether you have kids , dogs or just want a quite getaway. We will definitely return for more island memories



Pondside Aug/Sept 2020

Review submitted on Tue, 08 Sep 2020
3.2
out of 5
Guest recommends this property
Cleanliness
2.0
Comfort
3.0
Condition
2.0
Location
4.0
Value
3.0
Customer
Service
5.0
The cottage could benefit from a full refurbishment in the not too distant future, especially the toilet, bathroom & kitchen. The location for coastal walks and beaches was perfect.



Lovely week

Review submitted on Mon, 31 Aug 2020
3.8
out of 5
Guest recommends this property
Cleanliness
4.0
Comfort
4.0
Condition
3.0
Location
4.0
Value
3.0
Customer
Service
5.0
We were impressed with the facilities and the cottage was lovely and clean. The garden was perfect for the kids and we had a great stay. We felt in wet weather the cottage could feel damp, but realise the location is tricky as half the building is in shade all the time. We would stay here again but are thinking of booking a cottage with more views next year.