A 260-year-old Georgian castle situated on a remote Highland island has come on to the market, giving house-hunters a unique opportunity to restore a landmark property.
Built in 1750 for the 12th Chief of Clan Maclean and Laird of Coll, New Breachacha Castle is an A-listed building situated on the southern end of the beautiful Hebridean island of Coll, which has just 195 inhabitants.
Over the past two centuries, the five-bedroom castle has been extended and altered to fit the developing architectural styles of the times.
More recently, since 2006, the current owners have undertaken work to secure the future of the building, using specialist conservation advisors. Further work is now required to achieve a full restoration and Breachacha presents the ideal opportunity for buyers seeking a long-term conservation project.
The historical and striking building is currently on the market with Oban-based land and estate agents Bell Ingram for offers over £450,000. Overlooking one of Coll’s many scenic beaches, Breachacha is a bright and spacious building with a great deal of period charm and character.
The rooms of the main castle are reminiscent of a well-proportioned Georgian manor house, boasting many traditional features including high ceilings, cornices, period doors and ironmongery.
Will Banham, of Bell Ingram’s Oban office, said: “Scotland is famous for its castles but it is rare that any island castle comes on to the open market.
“The fact that Breachacha Castle combines the character of a fine Georgian manor house with a spectacular outlook over a white sandy beach, makes this restoration opportunity truly exceptional.
“This is not a project for the fainthearted, but this fine building has a fascinating history and really does offer buyers the chance to create a unique holiday home or lifestyle business.”
The current vendors live largely on the top two floors which they have developed into a comfortable living space. Accommodation in the main building comprises six bedrooms (three of which are en suite), two bathrooms – one of which boasts views looking straight out to sea from its original cast iron roll-top bath – sitting room and kitchen.
On the ground floor, the rooms are charming but are currently little used, as are the side wings and pavilions, all of which offer further opportunity for a staged development of the castle.
A secluded island, Coll offers some one of the finest spots to enjoy outdoor pursuits including hill-walking, cycling and kayaking.
The castle is also well situated to take full advantage of the islands’ wildlife as it adjoins an RSPB-owned nature reserve. To the front of the castle, basking sharks, Minke whales, porpoises and dolphins can also occasionally be seen in the bay.
A lack of street lights contributed to the island being the first to obtain Dark Sky Status meaning that on clear nights buyers will be able to enjoy an unrivalled stargazing spot.
Contact: Bell Ingram on 01631 566 122.
