Real estate adviser Bidwells is seeking offers of over £1,600,000 for the portfolio, which comprises three lots: Ballyhaugh, a substantial former residential and volunteer centre set within one acre of gardens; Totamore Cottage, a charming four-bedroom croft house; and 1 & 2 Beinn Tioraidh, a pair of traditional thatched cottages.
The Isle of Coll, located on the West Coast of Scotland, is a picturesque and serene island that forms part of the Inner Hebrides. Often associated with the neighbouring island of Tiree, otherwise known as the ‘Hawaii of the North’, Coll is known for its stunning landscape and serene atmosphere. This pristine environment is home to a small but vibrant community with around 160 year-round residents; a close-knit population that contributes to the island's unique charm and sense of community.
A wildlife haven, the island is home to species such as the corncrake, hen harrier, basking shark, and minke whale. Coll enjoys some of the highest sunshine hours in the UK each year and has been designated a 'dark sky community' since 2013, making it an ideal stargazing location.
The properties featured as part of the estate are located within half a mile of each other, with the surrounding environment including grazing pastures, ancient sites, and a biodiverse freshwater loch designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).
Each of the properties are located approximately 5 miles from the island’s village of Arinagour. Arinagour offers essential amenities such as village stores, a medical centre, a café, a parish church, a fire station, a local UHI college campus, a fuel station, a community centre, and a hotel.
All properties are situated within easy walking distance to Hogh Bay, well known for its white sandy beach and turquoise water.
Lot 1 - Ballyhaugh and land extending to about 71.71 acres – Offers Over £755,000
Ballyhaugh, also known as the Hebridean Centre, represents a historic building with capacity to accommodate up to 46 people. Home to international volunteering charity Project Trust, it includes office space, a commercial kitchen, a traditional Celtic ‘ceilidh hall’ social area, and a lounge and bar area.
Covering approximately 71.71 acres, the land that comes with the property includes Ballyhaugh Loch, a picturesque freshwater loch itself spanning around 20 acres. Ballyhaugh Loch is a well-renowned bird-watching site and home to a diverse range of wildlife and flora and fauna. The surrounding land around Ballyhaugh offers investment opportunities for a small farming enterprise, equestrian activities, or biodiversity enhancement projects.
Ballyhaugh is equipped with two 18 metre wind turbines (5kw each) to offset electricity use, and benefits from an electric car charging point.
Lot 2 – Totamore Cottage - Offers Over £425,000
Totamore Cottage represents a charming four-bedroom, 120-year-old croft house, with rustic character grounded in a modern amenity offering a well-appointed social space. The house offers open views of the surrounding natural island setting, and is situated just a short walk from Ballyhaugh, providing easy beach access.
The house is equipped with a multifuel stove and oil-fired central heating system and has a private septic tank for drainage and a private water supply, alongside mains electricity.
The functional charm of Totamore Cottage is enhanced by its outdoor space, with a western sun-facing decking area and a picturesque garden bordered by a traditional stone dyke. There is also space for car parking.
Lot 3 – 1 & 2 Beinn Tioraidh - Offers Over £420,000
Beinn Tioraidh comprises two thatched cottages that share a grass garden and each feature open plan kitchen and living space, one bedroom, and a bathroom. Parking is conveniently located just below the cottages, with a stepped footpath leading up to the wooden front door.
Angus Kelly, Partner, Rural at Bidwells, said:
“The estate has fantastic appeal as both a lifestyle and sustainable investment proposition, with its expansive, historically rich island setting representing one of the most breathtaking locations in the Inner Hebrides.
“This is a truly unique instruction, and a special one for me personally. Having participated in a gap year with the seller Project Trust when I was younger, I have first-hand experience of the great work the charity has done in Coll and while it is sad that it is moving on, the sale represents an opportunity to put its property and landed assets to new use.”