A beautiful and remote farmhouse on the Isle of Arran with outstanding sea views

We have just got back from 2 weeks at Banlicken and had a wonderful time at the house and also across all that Arran has to offer.

The house itself it perfect as a base from which you can explore the island and also get across to Skipness on Kintyre which is recommended if nothing else because of Skipness Seafood Cabin serving delicious fresh seafood with Skipness Castle as a stunning backdrop on one side and views across to Arran the other.

With 2 small children (aged 18months and 5yrs) we hoped the house would satisfy them as well as ourselves and we weren't disappointed. The House is well stocked with games, toys and DVD/videos which were appreciated when we needed some down time to recharge the kids batteries.

For us adults all the key essentials (and more) were provided to make life as easy as possible and to make the house feel like that very well used cliche - a home from home.

It is worth noting that the drive way up to the cottage off the main road isn't for the timid but perfectly passable none the less. The water for the house coming direct from the mountain side needs checking and that is a short hike up the side of the hill so again not ideal if 10min walks up hill aren't your thing. The views at the check point are worth it though as you get widescreen views of Banlicken and the Kilbrannan Sound beyond and Kintyre beyond that.

As for Arran itself, there is so much to see and do that 12 days wasn't enough which means we'll have to return soon!

We had a great holiday lots to see and do

I have just returned from a marvellous holiday in Banlicken. There were 3 families of four and a spaniel. The house was very remote, well equipped and just what we were looking for. There were plenty of games for the evening.

The route to the house was fun but I am glad we arrived in the light. The ramble to the beach down the shortest route was slippy in the rain and sturdy boots were required. Sausages on an open fire were the reward. What more could you want!!

Seals and porpoise, we saw them too. Great week, great island, fantastic property with lots of helpful information.

Although remote as described, this house offered seclusion,a sense of peace and views which were quite outstanding. It offered our children and grandchildren a sense of freedom. The road has been described fully and can be a bit tricky for those not used to farm tracks. It was well maintained though and was passible by our 2 saloon cars, though there is a ford which was full flow after a stormy night. Would be impossible if two cars met! The house was one of the best stocked holiday homes I’ve been to, regarding kitchen equipment, games, dvds and videos. Reading material really interesting too. Play barn was used but we were reasonably lucky with weather so out and about a lot. After a long spell of drought water flow to tank really a trickle but luckily the rain came just at right time and with quick clean of input pipe and clearing of airlock no issues over the course of week. Full instruction were given and we were well warned that this is one of the quirks of this isolated farm house... it’s a gem of a place and we left with every intention of returning. Thank you for allowing us to share the experience of living in your home. Many lovely memories made.

The house and bothy were comfortable, beautifully furnished , with the arrangement of the accommodation ideally suited for extended family. The big kitchen diner was a great space to congregate, and was very well equipped. Loads of crockery and big pans. We really enjoyed the views over the water to Kintyre. The farm track to the property had had some work done to it, and was easily passable with a heavily loaded family hatchback. Finally, both owner and housekeeper could not have been more helpful and friendly throughout our entire dealings.