Easter Ross is an area in the North of Scotland, taking in Dingwall, Evanton, Tain and everything inbetween. It’s a short way away from the famous North Coast 500 and pretty much in the Scottish Highlands. Great accommodation in Easter Ross is hard to find, but I found a true gem!

WHERE TO STAY IN THE SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS

Unfortunately I always have difficulty finding accommodation around the North Coast 500, Easter Ross - Inverness or Tain area. It’s either extremely over priced for what it is or the accommodation is sub-standard or both. So when I find a hidden gem like this one, I’m a little reluctant to share it (hehe) but this is a place that you need to know about. It’s a belter and I am so delighted to have found it on Air BnB! Welcome to Rhicullen Lodge in Newmore, Invergordon.

Nestled comfortably half way between Tain and Dingwall, its 16 minutes drive to Glenmorangie Distillery, 23 minutes to Balblair Distillery and 30 minutes to IV10 the BEST CAFE in the Highlands and Islands (read my review HERE).

REVIEW OF RHICULLEN LODGE, EASTER ROSS, SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS

Rhicullen Lodge is a complete house with enclosed garden, a driveway and plenty parking at the back of the house. It has three good sized bedrooms (two downstairs and one upstairs in the converted loft), one bathroom, a large lounge, dining area, massive kitchen and a bar. It sits atop a hill looking out over the Cromarty Firth and Fyrish with the Newmore Highland Pods to the back.

THE KITCHEN, RHICULLEN LODGE

I fell in love with the kitchen as soon as I walked in. It’s massive with an AGA stove, big fringe and freezer, washing machine, dish washer etc. It’s fully equipped with all the crockery and cutlery you’ll need plus a few condiments and there is a welcome Breakfast pack - eggs, butter, milk and some freshly baked goods.

THE LOUNGE, RHICULLEN LODGE

The lounge is large and welcoming with a massive TV should you be able to tear your eyes away from the crackling of the wood burning stove. Although this area is bright and bathes in light and sunshine, it’s super easy to get cosy. Close the blinds, dim the lights, get the fire on and coorie under a duvet. Perfect for a night in the Highlands.

THE BAR, RHICULLEN LODGE

Our favourite spot was the bar. We absolutely loved this room. You’ll find complementary decanters filled with whisky and gin in the bar and there is plenty of ice in the fridge. There is a old well used and loved chesterfield couch in here. It’s a little frayed but really fits into the bar vibe and if perching on the bar stools becomes a little too tricky, this sofa is the place you’ll want to finish off your drams.

THE BEDROOMS, RHICULLEN LODGE

The bedrooms are all finished and decorated to a high standard. My favourite space was the loft room. A massive space with large sky lights to let the Highland air in and soak up that night sky. Linen and duvets are white, crisp and laundered. And the beds are super comfortable.

This home is stylish, impressively clean, comfortable and just about everything you need is here. The hosts Sammy and Stuart, are very friendly, helpful, efficient and are on hand if you need anything. The booking through Air BnB was smooth and effortless.

This accommodation is perfect for those visiting whisky distilleries or driving, hiking or cycling the North Coast 500 (NC500)

At £150 per night, this is a gem of a place and I highly recommend it.

THINGS TO NOTE : RHICULLEN LODGE, NEWMORE, EASTER ROSS

• Free Wi-fi

• Dog Friendly. Do let them know and they will provide treats for your pooch.

• Disabled accessible - all level throughout the house except for the one bedroom upstairs. Do check with the owners re wheelchair access if the doors are wide enough.

• Towels, soap, toilet paper, cleaning products are all provided.

Rhicullen Lodge, Newmore, Invergordon, Easter Ross www.airbnb.co.uk/rhicullenlodge