Six plots, a stunning drive and Fisherman's Loft in Ord

The breakfast at Cuil Lodge was as good as expected and we ate well and chatted to our hosts. We then return to the Trotternish Peninsula to take another look at three plots - successfully finding no 21 this time. All three have different merits and glorious views - especially today when it is clear, warm and almost sunny. One has the access road built and someone has started on the foundation slabs - must check it has not been sold. We have three more plots to view; one on the road to Dunvegan and two on the Waternish peninsula itself. The first plot is too closed in so it is disregarded. The furtherest plot on the peninsula has been dug out and looks east with unrestricted views out to sea - it is a bit small and the land is steep but it is a very peaceful location; we don't strike it off the list. The final plot is in an area called Lochs and looks west across the sea to some small islands; this is quite nice too! Not doing too well in terms of dismissing at least some of the plots we see.

Decide to drive the west coast route down to Ord; this turns out to be one of the most scenic drives we have ever done, with the Cuillin mountain range in full view with different perspectives at every twist and turn of the road. Weather-wise it is 18 degrees, sunny and calm. At many places on this road we say "must come back and explore here" Also spot some great places for photos later.
We stop off for supplies in Broadford, as Ord seems quite remote looking at the map, so we stock up on essentials like wine and cheese.
We then take the road to the ferry (for Mallaig) and turn off this onto a very small road - instructions say 15 minutes drive even though it is only 4 miles. We time it and you couldn't do it safely in less time so the owners do know what they are talking about.
Arrive in Ord which comprises about 12 properties and follow the twisty directions to the door of the Fisherman's Loft. The clue is in the name and the cottage sits on its own little peninsula with nothing but water all around. It has been tastefully (and expensively) renovated with living space upstairs - accessed via a three person lift. There is a deck which looks over rocks and water. I am writing this sitting on the deck, sipping red wine and it feels as if we are on a island; the tide is in and there is water on three sides. The only sound is of birds and the waves slurping on the shore. The sky is clearing to present us with a pure blue sky, the wind has disappeared and the sun will set (eventually and probably close to midnight) behind the Cuillins. Why would we want to be anywhere else?  I have never stayed anywhere like this before.

View from deck

We have an Aga to cook on / with and the first foray proves to be successful with a fine dinner produced and eaten. It does make the kitchen a very hot place at all times but we are just relieved that the food we put in was cooked as we hoped. We have also managed to do all of the washing we have accumulated over the week so will look clean and presentable tomorrow.
Gary has set the camera up on the deck - on auto - so that we will have photos of the ever-changing view taken every 25 minutes; will be interesting to see how they turn out.
Have planned to walk to the end of the Sleat peninsula tomorrow; 8 miles and not too strenuous and of course, the views are stunning, according to several guidebooks. We can see the road to where Mary lives, in fact we watched a motorhome struggle and fail to negotiate the steep bends earlier although he made it on the second attempt.
Have now uploaded photos as promised for Wednesday and Thursday so you can view the pictorial diary, We do need positive ID for the bird we saw on Thursday; have used the RSPB guide to tentatively identify it but..... not 100% sure.
The tide is on the turn, swallows swooping over the water and we have to wear our sunglasses to be able to see anything. Oh, and the sun is still warm! .... and there are no midges (yet)
The visitors' book for this place promises all kinds of wildlife - so far we have only seen common seabirds and the odd rabbit. Keeping an eye open for otters, eagles, dolphins and seals. All available to view from the comfort of your own deck / living space!
A very positive day with no niggles and a sunny, happy ending. 
I think we will enjoy our week here.