Peace at last on the edge of the Atlantic
Idyllic spa home offers unbeatable ocean views and a truly tranquil lifestyle
THERE is an ocean between House of Peace and its neighbours – but it’s just 35 miles from the nearest airport.
This little piece of paradise – Gaelic name Tigh Na Sith – is only accessible via a 125 ft bridge across a narrow strip of the Atlantic in the Outer Hebrides.
It has to be one of the most unspoilt and natural places in Britain. Its three-bedroom cottage – with dreamy spa suite and “endless” pool – is flanked by land that spills down to the sea.
But while it might blow your mind it will not blow your bank balance. House of Peace at Valasay, Great Bernera is being marketed by CKD Galbraith for offers over £310,000.
It was given its name by its owner, businessman Tim Baker, who has lived and teleworked from here with his wife for 20 years.
Tim was left with mobility problems after he was involved in a near-fatal car accident in 1999. The keen kayaker – who relies on his upper body strength for the sport – now needs a single-storey home, which has prompted the move.
And his successor in “paradise” is in for a treat. Tim says: “My wife and I
moved here because we wanted to recover ownership of our lives.
“We were living in Perthshire and very involved in our jobs. We wanted to have a new quality of life, so we came here and set up our own business. You could say we were pioneers in the digital revolution by running our company remotely.
“We knew this was the perfect place for us. As we crossed the bridge to view it we were already figuring out how we would move our furniture in.”
This cosy home has all the mod cons a 21st century family could wish for. The house, which dates back to 1910, was extended 10 years ago to create the spa suite which includes mood lighting, indoor pool and sauna plus an array of equipment.
Tim explains: “I wanted to create a haven of relaxation.”
It didn’t come without challenges. The equipment involved was too heavy to cross the bridge and a helicopter was brought in to deliver it. But the cost and the effort paid off. Says Tim: “In the winter months the place comes alive, the lighting effects are magical.”
And in the summer the couple enjoy panoramic views of the ocean from an elevated wooden deck.
Says Tim: “Living here is a lifestyle choice. It is the most tranquil and peaceful setting you can ever wish for.”
Galbraithgroup.com