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Kiloran Bay

Kiloran Bay

4.0
out of 5
Ratings from 23 reviews
83% of guests
recommend
Cleanliness
3.8
Comfort
3.7
Condition
3.7
Location
4.9
Value
3.6
Customer
Service
4.1


This pretty cottage is located up a short track above the magnificent beach, Kiloran Bay. It has 3 bedrooms and 1 bathroom and is ideal for 4 adults or 4 adults and 2 children. It is adjacent to Uragaig cottage. Please note that the kitchen and bathroom are small and the cottage is south facing and has only glimpses of Kiloran Bay.

Kiloran Bay Cottage

Review submitted on Tue, 12 Sep 2023
4.3
out of 5

Guest recommends this property
Cleanliness
4.0
Comfort
4.0
Condition
4.0
Location
5.0
Value
4.0
Customer
Service
5.0
The location is wonderful and worth it for that alone. The neighbours are lovely, which isn't always the case when the holiday makers arrive. The garden of the (current) caravan is a marvel and I spent happy times gazing and inhaling the scent of all those roses and sweet peas.
The kitchen and bathroom of the cottage have both been refurbished and are in much better condition, though both are v small and require some manoeuvring. Plates abound but the glassware is limited for a cottage for 4-6 and a large casserole dish (there is a pyrex lid but no bowl) or similar would really help. The fridge was running v cold and adjusting the thermostat didn't help so most of the veg from home were frozen in situ.
The fire is easy to light and does get the back boiler moving so we didn't need to use the immersion heater often
The beds and sofas are comfortable. The stairs are manageable by one 70+ but I couldn't carry the hoover upstairs and had to leave that for the cleaners. Support from Tanya and Norah (? - apologies if I have her name wrong ) was excellent when I couldn't get the oven to work,, and providing enough linen which hadn't been there when we arrived.
We were blessed with beautiful weather after an indifferent summer
Great to see the road repairs - thank you
But
What has happened to the hotel and who on earth is running it? Having a meal there used to be a highlight. With the exception of Andrew's oysters, which you would have to be really determined to spoil, the rest was poor and the service indifferent/chaotic. That cannot be good for the island economy and future.




Lovely in many ways but a lot of room for improvement

Review submitted on Mon, 10 Jul 2023
3.7
out of 5

Guest doesn't recommend this property
Cleanliness
3.0
Comfort
3.0
Condition
3.0
Location
5.0
Value
3.0
Customer
Service
5.0
We adore Colonsay and have visited many many times over the last 54 years as a family, staying in a number of different properties over that time. We had never stayed in the two cottages before (we took Urigaig and Kiloran as a pair). First impressions aren’t good, as the track up off the road is horrendous - pitted with holes and rocks sticking up - we ended up telling one of our party, who was joining us later, to leave his car in Oban, as the track would have ruined the underside of his vehicle. We are very used to Colonsay roads and tracks, but this one is particularly bad, even more astonishing since there are five dwellings at the end of it. The flies at that time (towards the end of June) were also swarming everywhere around the cottages, they seemed particularly drawn to the cars. Having some fly spray, fly traps or even door netting would have been lovely (couldn’t get these in the shop either sadly) would recommend that you bring some and/or some citronella candles for outside.

The cottages themselves have pluses and minuses. I can only talk about Kiloran cottage as it’s where I was based. The lounge area and dining area are cosy, but the couches are just about in need of replacement. The dining table folds out and can accommodate six (we managed 7 for supper and drinks with a bit of a squeeze). The weather was warm and the downstairs in the cottage stayed cool, but a fire was never needed. The dining room chairs aren’t very comfortable (we like a bit of post meal loitering up at the table) and the wine glasses are very small, there were plentiful bowls, plates and cutlery though. There are books and some games and jigsaws in the cottage for those rainy days or long evenings. The wifi signal was really good in the cottage, with the exception of a short period when it was down due to maintenance.

The kitchen is VERY compact and there isn’t much pantry room (we had to move things about to make space for our items). The fridge and freezer were adequate, but I wouldn’t bring a full weeks worth of food - we love to visit the shop anyway as well as the hotel and pantry (where we had some lovely food over the week). The freezer could do with being defrosted. It would have been good to have clear instructions for the hob, washing machine, drier and dishwasher - but we managed to puzzle our way through. Most things needed in the kitchen were there. The cottage was both clean and tidy when we arrived, but there was a bit of an unpleasant smell when you open the cupboard that the pots and pans were kept in. There was dishsoap, a small supply of dishwasher tablets, bin bags, dish towels, steel scrubbers (all the pans are stainless steel) and sponges.

The bathroom was an ok size (especially if you compared it to Urigaig cottage) and the shower was strong and good - you do have to wait quite a few seconds for the water to ‘’kick in’ though when you use the taps and it is a bit noisy at first for those in the upper bedrooms. The immersion heater worked well and hot water was plentiful. The downstairs bedroom is a twin in this cottage and suffers from a lack of plug points (there are only two and they are near the window at the opposite end of the room from the beds), that meant there was no bedside lamp, not too much of a problem in June with the light lasting well past 11pm, but I’d think it might be a problem at other times. There was also no wardrobe in the room, just a chest of drawers, so nowhere to hang clothes.

As others have said the ladder type staircases are steep and care is needed. They would only be suitable for people who do not have any mobility issues. The two bedrooms upstairs here were generous sized (again in comparison to Urigaig) and comfortable. Bedding and beds are ok, we found them comfortable, but the towels provided are not great, we’d brought our own so not really an issue.

We had a mix of weather, but mostly good afternoons and were able to fully enjoy the amazing Kiloran beach being so close to the cottage. We had read somewhere that there is a path from the cottages through the woods down to the car park area, but we never found it and so either walked the long way or took a car (due to the amount of ‘beach accoutrements’ we have). It’s sad that the cottages don’t have a direct view of the beach and the overgrown trees and bushes means that there is actually very little view at all. However, that being said the outside seating areas are lovely sun traps and through the bright sunny days the flies were far less in evidence.

We will be back to Colonsay, indeed we are already booked for next year, but as a family we wouldn’t return to these particular cottages again, partly because we prefer to all be together somewhere, where there is more communal space, and partly because we felt they were not good value overall. Ideally suited to families where some of the occupants are going to be smaller, but even then the cottages feel like they need a little bit more thought and refurbishment to command the current rental price.




Sunny Kiloran Bay

Review submitted on Sat, 17 Jun 2023
3.3
out of 5

Guest doesn't recommend this property
Cleanliness
4.0
Comfort
3.0
Condition
3.0
Location
5.0
Value
2.0
Customer
Service
3.0
Kiloran Cottage is in a fantastic location overlooking Kiloran Bay but overgrown hedge/trees blocks any view and light from living room. Cottage is basic but clean and beds are comfy.



Underwhelmed

Review submitted on Mon, 26 Sep 2022
3.2
out of 5

Guest doesn't recommend this property
Cleanliness
3.0
Comfort
3.0
Condition
3.0
Location
4.0
Value
3.0
Customer
Service
3.0
Dark cold, damp bothy which needed a good hoover and the mice escorted to the door. Basics lacking - hand wash, bath mat, dish cloth, kindling. Extremely steep stairs are hazardous. Shower decent, double bedroom upstairs comfortable but view obscured with overgrown shrubs which need cutting down - that Would also let more light in. A shame as with proper attention and care could be nice cottage



2 wee issues

Review submitted on Mon, 11 Jul 2022
3.8
out of 5

Guest recommends this property
Cleanliness
2.0
Comfort
4.0
Condition
4.0
Location
5.0
Value
4.0
Customer
Service
4.0
We've stayed before so knew what to expect and it was all fine, except
1) the pots and pans had no been cleaned properly so we had to wash them before we could use them
2) the fridge needs checked as it randomly stopped working for periods 2 or 3 times then was OK again. We saw the notice and made sure the door was properly closed so that wasn't the issue. The wee red light on the power switch is very flickery so maybe a loose connection or something.




The Best Location

Review submitted on Tue, 21 Jun 2022
4.5
out of 5

Guest recommends this property
Cleanliness
4.0
Comfort
5.0
Condition
5.0
Location
5.0
Value
4.0
Customer
Service
4.0
Our fourth visit to Colonsay over 30 years. It doesn't change much and that is its charm. These two cottages are perfectly located to appreciate the full glory that is Kiloran Bay. Probably best rented as a pair, as we did but enough privacy to work if rented separately. Positives - Brilliant showers, effective heaters (our weather was mixed), cosy sofas around great fireplace.
Negatives - lacking a few basic kitchen items such as a casserole dish and a large frying pan.

We loved these cottages. There were eight of us in our group and we all managed to eat together which was very special.
We will no doubt return.




Kiloran Bay Cottage

Review submitted on Mon, 02 May 2022
3.8
out of 5

Guest recommends this property
Cleanliness
4.0
Comfort
3.0
Condition
4.0
Location
5.0
Value
3.0
Customer
Service
4.0
the cottage was as described, and in wonderful location. Given our late arrival time and distance from nearest shop (opening hours fairly limited on some days) perhaps in future an arrival pack could be provided (and included in rental price?) also including loo roll, sponges wipes etc for cleaning kitchen. No tea towels or oven gloves provided, and only I extra blanket. Basically - cottage could/should be better equipped. That said - we had a magical week, helped by amazing weather. The Island is very special.



Outdated heating inefficient and ineffective

Review submitted on Mon, 18 Apr 2022
3.0
out of 5

Guest recommends this property
Cleanliness
3.0
Comfort
3.0
Condition
1.0
Location
5.0
Value
3.0
Customer
Service
3.0
The heaters in all the rooms are dated and extremely costly to run.
No indication is given as to what the cost per unit would be and no detail given on the invoice either.
Modernisation of appliances is badly needed to ensure costs effectiveness and to be environmentally friendly.
I appreciate it is in the countryside but saw no evidence of bait stations to ensure the property was vermin proofed. There was evidence of mice in the kitchen, bathroom and the dining room area. not good with a toddler.
Mentioned in comments left in house and no apology.
I have fond memories of this cottage and am sorry to see it in this condition.




Kiloran Cottage

Review submitted on Tue, 05 Oct 2021
2.5
out of 5

Guest recommends this property
Cleanliness
1.0
Comfort
2.0
Condition
2.0
Location
4.0
Value
3.0
Customer
Service
3.0
Lovely location but cottage was not clean at all - cobwebs, insects and dog hair everywhere. Took us 2 hours to clean the kitchen and fridge to a state where we could use it on arrival. Dirty cutlery, glasses and crockery put back in cupboards.

Paid extra for coal and kindling - coal arrived two days late and still no sign of the kindling.




Very poor

Review submitted on Sun, 15 Aug 2021
2.2
out of 5

Guest doesn't recommend this property
Cleanliness
1.0
Comfort
1.0
Condition
2.0
Location
5.0
Value
1.0
Customer
Service
3.0
We were bitterly disappointed in the accommodation. We had travelled from Morar where we had spent a week in a beautiful property 2/3 of the price of the Kiloran Bay one. On arrival I had to make up 2 beds, the level of cleanliness was not high, there was no warmth of welcome, just more information to tell us what additional charges would be when we left. Absolutely no charm at all.

We have stayed on Colonsay before in other accommodation, love the island and will return, but not to any Colonsay Holidays properties. At over £1000.00 it was extremely poor value for money.




Beautiful Place

Review submitted on Mon, 19 Jul 2021
4.5
out of 5

Guest recommends this property
Cleanliness
5.0
Comfort
5.0
Condition
4.0
Location
5.0
Value
3.0
Customer
Service
5.0
What a lovely cottage in a beautiful location. Plenty of room for 6 people and a well equipped kitchen. We'd go back.



We had a great stay

Review submitted on Sun, 13 Jun 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
Nice simple cottage we went as a couple it’s simply but comfortably furnished. Cottage is in a great location close to the sands at Kiloran Bay with great walks directly from the house. The cottage could sleep 6 but the living areas would be cramped. It was perfect for us as a couple and ideal for a family with a couple of kids. There are ample tables and chairs outside for sitting out. Steep stairs but one bedroom is on the ground floor. All in all we had a great holiday.



Kiloran Bay Stay

Review submitted on Wed, 02 Jun 2021
3.8
out of 5

Guest recommends this property
Cleanliness
3.0
Comfort
4.0
Condition
4.0
Location
5.0
Value
4.0
Customer
Service
3.0
Kiloran bay was awe inspiring in the sunshine. Watched dolphins play in the bay and seals basking further round the coast. However views from the cottage itself are obscured by maturing trees.



A beautiful spot.

Review submitted on Fri, 13 Nov 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
We stayed at the cottage for 5 days in November and used it as a base for walking. There were only two of us which was perfect, 4 would be fine. 6 would be a squeeze.
Everything there you would need, although some hot water bottles or an electric blanket would have been good. Probably not necessary in he summer months.
An amazing location just a short hop to a stunning beach. An amazing island our second visit this year.




Wonderful but perhaps overpriced for this time of year?

Review submitted on Sat, 05 Oct 2019
4.2
out of 5

Guest recommends this property
Cleanliness
5.0
Comfort
4.0
Condition
4.0
Location
5.0
Value
3.0
Customer
Service
4.0

I do think the cottage was overpriced for this time of year. The cottage next to us was empty and the island very quiet. Wouldn’t it be better to lower the prices by £50-£80?
We had a marvellous time after so many wonderful holidays there in the 90’s. Magic




Could do with an upgrade.

Review submitted on Sun, 08 Sep 2019
3.7
out of 5

Guest recommends this property
Cleanliness
3.0
Comfort
3.0
Condition
3.0
Location
5.0
Value
4.0
Customer
Service
4.0
As far as value for money goes, you couldn’t fault it. In saying that, I would rather pay a little bit more, and have better accommodation. The beds were very uncomfortable, as were the sofas, after sitting on them for half an hour, you were beginning to go numb. The overall cleanliness could be a lot better, our cottage was full of cobwebs and a bit dusty. Forgetting all the above, the Island of Colonsay was out of this world, with its stunning scenery, and outrageous beaches that wouldn’t look out of place in the Caribbean. The walks were all rewarding, with non stop views at every point. The locals were very pleasant, and always accommodating. We will definitely visit again, and hopefully the weather will be kinder, but dress for the weather, and get out there and see for yourself. Trust me, you will love it, and won’t be disappointed.



This is a lovely pair of cottages and excellent value for a two family group

Review submitted on Thu, 29 Aug 2019
4.5
out of 5

Guest recommends this property
Cleanliness
5.0
Comfort
4.0
Condition
4.0
Location
4.0
Value
5.0
Customer
Service
5.0
Lovely little cottages overlooking one of the most spectacular beaches in Scotland if not the world.



June 2019

Review submitted on Sun, 07 Jul 2019
4.7
out of 5

Guest recommends this property
Cleanliness
5.0
Comfort
4.0
Condition
5.0
Location
5.0
Value
5.0
Customer
Service
4.0
The location of this cottageon this beautiful island is unbeatable, so hardly anything else matters. The cottage itself is tastefully restored and has all the comfort needed. The kitchen is well equipped and clean, the bathroom is small but the shower is excellent. The master bedroom is large, light and comfortable. The other rooms are fine too although some of the beds are better suited for young people. We used the downstairs bedroom as a boots room, which was handy. Entering directly from the terrace into the living room means space for shoes , coats and and beach utensils is sparse.
The downstairs living area is a bit dark as to be expected in an old cottage, but the fireplace works well. All in all well worth its money; we had an absolutely marvellous time.




Island cottage

Review submitted on Sun, 23 Jun 2019
4.3
out of 5

Guest recommends this property
Cleanliness
5.0
Comfort
4.0
Condition
4.0
Location
5.0
Value
4.0
Customer
Service
4.0
The position of these 2 cottages Kiloran & Uragaig was perfect for us. Safe garden for little ones to run around. Walking distance of beautiful Kiloran Bay.

Only problem was the stairs - not good for little ones!




Great short break

Review submitted on Sun, 12 May 2019
4.2
out of 5

Guest recommends this property
Cleanliness
5.0
Comfort
4.0
Condition
4.0
Location
5.0
Value
3.0
Customer
Service
4.0
The great thing about Kiloran Bay Cottage is its closeness to the biggest, most splendid beach on the Island, just five minutes walk away, down a woodland path. The access track is rough and steep, a bit of a challenge in a front wheel drive car on a wet day, but is rewarded by a good elevated view, though not of the beach, as it faces inland. The cottage is comfortable, though quite chilly in May, unless the electric heaters are on or the fire lit. An ash bucket would be good to take the ash outside, instead of using the coal scuttle, and the fireplace a bit tired, but I can’t complain as it all worked well and kept us cosy during our enjoyable stay, which we will doubtless repeat.



The ultimate getaway holidayy

Review submitted on Mon, 15 Oct 2018
4.3
out of 5

Guest recommends this property
Cleanliness
4.0
Comfort
4.0
Condition
4.0
Location
5.0
Value
4.0
Customer
Service
5.0
Colonsay is truly beautiful, quiet and unspoilt. Kiloran Cottage is so peaceful and remote yet right above the incredible Kiloran Bay. The bliss of no television is wonderful. During our most recent stay the weather was awful but we went prepared with books and jigsaws and still had the most relaxing holiday in years, walking the dogs on the beach every day in gales and rain! We will return to this cottage again and again I am sure.



A lovely peaceful cottage close to an amazing beach

Review submitted on Sun, 02 Sep 2018
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 lovely peaceful place to stay. The air is so fresh, smelling of wild flowers that grow by the roads. So near Kiloran Bay we could put on our wetsuits at home & run down to swim at the beach. The newly done kitchen is really well equipped.



Cosy cottage near stunning Hebridean beach captivates customers!

Review submitted on Sun, 26 Aug 2018
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 love staying at Kiloran Bay Cottage as it is so close to the best beach on Colonsay, and we enjoy its traditional style, simple comfort and the recently updated kitchen and bathroom. It might not suit families with small children because of the very steep staircase and because there is now no bath (but a good shower). However we had many happy stays there when our children were tiny. We love having an open fire and the fact that the furniture is not too smart for relaxing when you come in from muddy walks and sandy play - however some punters used to super accommodation in mainland holiday cottages might feel the price is a bit high for the standard of furnishing.