Balblair Cottages | Self Catering Holiday Cottages in Easter Ross, Scotland
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Rhunacairn, Connel

Guest Rating
Rating
4.7
out of 5
Guest Rating
Rating
4.7
out of 5
Argyllshire & Islands » Rhunacairn, Loch Etive , Connel
Sleeps up to 6
Pets 1
Bedrooms: 4

Rhunacairn is a traditional white-painted lochside cottage sitting directly on the shores of Loch Etive in Argyll, Scotland. The position is genuinely right on the water guests fish and crab from the loch's edge. Located roughly 6 miles from Oban and about a mile off the main road, this four-bedroom property sleeps eight and is fully pet-friendly.

The setting is quiet and rural. Wildlife sightings include red squirrels, deer, otters, eagles and highland cows. Paddle boarding, kayaking and swimming in the loch are all popular. Oban is around 20 minutes by car for shops, restaurants and ferry connections to the islands.

The cottage sleeps 8 across four bedrooms: one double, two twin rooms and one bunk room (children only).

 

About Rhunacairn

Rhunacairn is a traditional white-painted lochside cottage sitting directly on the shores of Loch Etive in Argyll, Scotland. The position is genuinely right on the water guests fish and crab from the loch's edge. Located roughly 6 miles from Oban and about a mile off the main road, this four-bedroom property sleeps eight and is fully pet-friendly.

The setting is quiet and rural. Wildlife sightings include red squirrels, deer, otters, eagles and highland cows. Paddle boarding, kayaking and swimming in the loch are all popular. Oban is around 20 minutes by car for shops, restaurants and ferry connections to the islands.

The cottage sleeps 8 across four bedrooms: one double, two twin rooms and one bunk room (children only). Two bathrooms an upstairs bathroom with bath and shower over, plus a downstairs walk-in shower room. Ultra-fast full fibre broadband runs at around 500Mbps.

Scottish Sealife Sanctuary on Loch Creran is 8 miles away (15 mins). Dunollie Castle near Oban is 6 miles (20 mins). Ardchattan Priory is 4 miles (10 mins). Glencoe is 33 miles away (45 mins).

Rhunacairn suits families and groups of up to eight who want direct loch access, open fire evenings and proper Scottish scenery without the crowds.

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Need To Know

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What Guests Love

Discover why our guests keep coming back to Rhunacairn

Direct Loch Etive frontage

Fish, crab, paddle board or swim directly from the cottage. The loch is right outside the door.

Open fire in the sitting room

The sitting room has a working open fire with fuel and a starter pack included in the rent. Perfect for evenings in.

Ultra-fast broadband

Full fibre broadband delivers around 500Mbps. Works well for remote working or streaming throughout the stay.

Stunning views from the kitchen

Multiple guests highlight the kitchen window view over Loch Etive as one of the best features of the whole cottage.

Responsive house manager

Wendy the house manager checks in regularly and deals with any issues fast. Guests consistently praise her helpfulness.

Wildlife on the doorstep

Red squirrels, otters, deer, eagles, cormorants and highland cows are all regularly spotted from and around the property.

Getting To Rhunacairn

Find your way to your perfect countryside retreat

By Car

Rhunacairn sits on the shores of Loch Etive, approximately one mile off the main road near Connel, around 6 miles from Oban. Follow the A828 north from Connel and take the turning towards the lochside. Off-road parking for up to three cars is available at the property.

By Train

The nearest railway station is Connel Ferry, approximately 3.8 miles from the cottage. There is also a train line that runs behind the property guests report trains pass every few hours and are not disruptive.

Off-road parking for up to three cars
Connel Ferry station (3.8 miles)
Approximately 6 miles from Oban via the A828

Attractions & More Nearby

Everything you need within easy reach

Scottish Sealife Sanctuary
Distance: 8 miles (approx. 15 mins)
PA37 1SE
Dunollie Castle
Distance: 6 miles (approx. 20 mins)
PA34 5TT
Ardchattan Priory
Distance: 4 miles (approx. 10 mins)
PA37 1RQ
Beinn Lora Forest Walk
Distance: 5 miles (approx. 12 mins)
PA37 1PJ
Loch Etive Shoreline Walk
Distance: On the doorstep
PA37 1PR
Glen Etive Road Walk
Distance: 12 miles (approx. 20 mins)
PA36 4HZ
Oban Town Centre
Distance: 6 miles (approx. 20 mins)
PA34 4BX
Tesco Oban
Distance: 6 miles (approx. 20 mins)
PA34 4LN
Connel Village Stores
Distance: 3.8 miles (approx. 10 mins)
PA37 1PH
Connel Ferry Station
Distance: 3.8 miles (approx. 10 mins)
PA37 1PH
Oban Ferry Terminal (Mull & Iona)
Distance: 6 miles (approx. 20 mins)
PA34 4DB
A828 Main Road Access
Distance: 1 mile
PA37 1PR
Scottish Sealife Sanctuary
Distance: 8 miles (approx. 15 mins)
PA37 1SE
Dunollie Castle
Distance: 6 miles (approx. 20 mins)
PA34 5TT
Ardchattan Priory
Distance: 4 miles (approx. 10 mins)
PA37 1RQ
Beinn Lora Forest Walk
Distance: 5 miles (approx. 12 mins)
PA37 1PJ
Loch Etive Shoreline Walk
Distance: On the doorstep
PA37 1PR
Glen Etive Road Walk
Distance: 12 miles (approx. 20 mins)
PA36 4HZ
Oban Town Centre
Distance: 6 miles (approx. 20 mins)
PA34 4BX
Tesco Oban
Distance: 6 miles (approx. 20 mins)
PA34 4LN
Connel Village Stores
Distance: 3.8 miles (approx. 10 mins)
PA37 1PH
Connel Ferry Station
Distance: 3.8 miles (approx. 10 mins)
PA37 1PH
Oban Ferry Terminal (Mull & Iona)
Distance: 6 miles (approx. 20 mins)
PA34 4DB
A828 Main Road Access
Distance: 1 mile
PA37 1PR

Is Rhunacairn Right For You?

Discover why this cottage is ideal for different types of visitors

For Families
Kids can fish and crab directly from the loch's edge. The bunk bedroom is set up for children. A highchair and travel cot are available on request. The enclosed garden has a lawn for outdoor play. Wildlife including red squirrels and deer are regularly spotted nearby.
For Couples
Rhunacairn works well for couples wanting space and seclusion. The open fire, loch views from the sitting room window seat and direct water access make evenings and mornings genuinely special. Oban is 20 minutes away for dinner. The setting is quiet with no neighbours in sight.
Pet Friendly
Dogs are welcome at Rhunacairn. The enclosed garden has a large lawn though it is not fully secure for small dogs due to gaps in the fencing. Dogs are asked to stay within the utility room and not enter the main living areas. The lochside location gives dogs plenty of outdoor space.

Dining & Cafes

Taste the local flavours during your stay at Rhunacairn

Cuan Mor Restaurant & Brewery

Located 6 miles (approx. 20 mins) from your accommodation.

Postcode: PA34 4BX

Falls of Lora Hotel & Restaurant

Located 3.8 miles (approx. 10 mins) from your accommodation.

Postcode: PA37 1PB

Ee-Usk Seafood Restaurant Oban

Located 6 miles (approx. 20 mins) from your accommodation.

Postcode: PA34 4LW

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers to our most common questions about Rhunacairn

Does this cottage have a hot tub?
No, Rhunacairn does not have a hot tub. The cottage does have an open fire with fuel and a starter pack included, which guests use most evenings.
Is it pet friendly?
Yes, dogs are welcome at Rhunacairn. Dogs are asked to stay in the utility room and not enter the main house and the enclosed garden is suitable for medium to large dogs though it is not fully secure for small dogs.
How many does Rhunacairn sleep?
The cottage sleeps up to 8 guests across four bedrooms. There is one double room, two twin rooms and one bunk room which is suitable for children only.
How many bathrooms are there?
There are two bathrooms. Upstairs there is a bathroom with a bath and shower over, basin and WC. Downstairs there is a walk-in shower room with basin and WC.
Is there parking at the property?
Yes, there is off-road parking for up to three cars directly at the cottage. The property is about a mile off the main road and easy to access by car.
What is included in the rental price?
Bed linen, towels, fuel for the open fire and a starter pack are all included. A highchair and travel cot are available on request though guests must bring their own travel cot linen.
How far is Oban from the cottage?
Oban is approximately 6 miles from Rhunacairn and takes around 15 to 20 minutes to drive. The town has shops, restaurants, a distillery and ferry connections to Mull, Iona and other islands.
Is there internet access at the cottage?
Yes, Rhunacairn has ultra-fast full fibre broadband. Guests have reported speeds of around 500Mbps which is more than sufficient for streaming, video calls and remote working.

Rhunacairn Reviews

Jonathan
Oct 2025
We had a lovely and relaxed stay at this beautiful cottage. The views were spectacular and snuggling up by the log fire made this even more special. Everything was clean and tidy and wed love to come back one day. Itd be nice if there was a welcome pack containing teabiscuits etc as weve seen at the other cottages weve stayed at. After a 10 hour drive that would have been much appreciated! Thats the only negative though. Otherwise perfect!
Eelkje
Oct 2025
We enjoyed our holiday in this comfortabel and spacious hous. The lovely Fire. The piano!!! Nearby Edinburgh and st Andrews. Easely by train to Edinburgh. Top
Jennifer
Sep 2025
It was a lovely location. We enjoyed having a fire going each night as we relaxed before bed.
Aug 2025
Absolutely stunning cottage in a beautiful location. Beautiful views from all around the cottage. Kitchen is equipped with everything you could possibly need! 3 big spacious bedrooms and one slightly smaller one but would be brilliant for children. We did also really appreciate that they have Midgemosquito repellants in every room as they are a nightmare especially this time of year. Right on the water which is great for fishing and crabbing! Only a 20 minute dive into Oban. Lots of wildlife around too we saw highland cows over the back and red squirrels! The ONLY things that let it down for us is the fact we felt like we had to clean the house before we felt settled. It wasnt the cleanest. The bathroom could also do with abit of a revamp. I would also say that the garden is not the most secure, if you have a smaller breed of dog they would be straight through the fence. We have two dogs mediumlarge that could get through the gaps which did mean we constantly had to watch them when they went out as a lot of people walked past with their dogs. Also one more thing is isnt advertised online but is in the guest book is that they ask you dont let the dogs into the house past the utility room which was a little disappointing, so we did have to go and buy a baby gate so it didnt feel like we was completely shutting them out, there was one in the cupboard upstairs but it didnt fit that door. Overall we did have a brilliant stay and definitely recommend it theres just a few things to bear in mind!
Aug 2025
Great week spent at Rhunacairn regardless of some minor water issues which were swiftly resolved by the helpful owner. The house is very well equipped and comfortable I would reccomend staying here if youre looking for a peaceful and tranquil place to relax for the week.
Jul 2025
We had a lovely time everything was as we hoped it would be . Wendy kept in touch with us to make sure all was well .We couldn't ask for anything else the house was perfect for us and the kids loved the water as they loved to paddle board .We will be back.
Jun 2025
The cottage is in a great location , very relaxing week . Great shower and plenty hot water and very cosy with the log burner .The washing machine door came of while we were there but the caretaker fixed it the same day . The only thing was the mattresses could be done with a change but having said that we would definitely book rhunacairn again
May 2025
We had a lovely holiday, the cottage was in a stunning location, well equipped, comfortable and plenty of hot water. Our two little dogs loved the garden but it wasn't secure enough to let them off their leads. Wendy was very helpful with a couple of issues we had. Would love to return in the future.
May 2025
Property was a absolute dream! We loved ever second and hopefully will be able to revisit.
Apr 2025
We came to have a reunion with our bonus daughter , son in law and grandchildren. We live in France now, they in Belfast. We brought along a young couple from France to show them our beautiful Scotland. And what a lovely location to stay in and do just that. We spent hours just looking out the kitchen window. when we weren't touring. We would like to have our future stays there too. There was everything we needed, and comfortable beds.
Apr 2025
The holiday cottage is set in a lovely landscape within Scotland. There was an issue with the heating but the housekeeper did the best to sort that out for us. Kitchen was well stocked adn the bathrooms were fine. Tv worked okay although I would prefer it the TV to be a litle bigger. We would stay here again.
Alexandra
Dec 2024
This was our first time away from home for Christmas. We booked this property hoping that the location and the house itself will be enough to give us that cozy, special feeling you get at Christmas. And it did not disappoint! This house is amazing, tucked away on Loch Etive, with picturesque views. It really had everything you needed. I know most people eat out when on holiday, but we cooked almost every day and were pleasantly surprised to find a fully equipped kitchen. The location is ideal. Located about 1520 minutes from Oban and about an hour away from Glencoe, it is perfect if you want to explore the area. We had the most amazing time! Special thank you to the house manager who provided us with a Christmas tree. Our children were so happy. We will be back!
Nov 2024
A most wonderful stay at Rhunacairn . The cottage was everything we wanted it to be. Rural absolutely NO fireworks heard at all spacious, well presented some little signs of end of season wear and tear but definitely didnt effect our stay clean and comfortable, especially the beds. Lovely secure dog friendly garden not that that was needed as the only person we saw passing was the very friendly farmer. The loch view was amazing we sat many an hour just admiring the area. Connel and Oban a very easy drive away with shops and restaurants. Cant wait to visit again !
Anthony
Sep 2024
Although the cottage has a lovely location and lots of character, cleanliness and maintenance issues lets it down badly. We took photos of the offending issues which included rusty radiators, rusty toilet fittings, on a toilet seat that would not stay up, rusty fridge front, and peeling paintwork on some kitchen unit fronts. A bottom kitchen corner units cupboard with what appeared to be black mould, attempting to be hidden under some cardboard. One of the utility sink wastes was broken and emitted a nasty smell and its white plug is dintegrating and needs replacing. The shelf the microwave sits on housing the chopping boards had dirt on both sides, and we had to clean the shelf above the sink before we dared put our picnic stuff on it. There was also dirt stains on the interior of some kitchen unit doors and dead insects in one of the utensil storage jars, and the underside of the unit by the toaster was really grubby. On our day of departure we shockingly discovered a badly stained lower bunk mattress which needs replacing immediately, as it is an utter disgrace .The sitting room does not have enough comfortable seating for eight adults. The microwave packed up the day before our departure and an apology for the inconvenience would have been nice when we reported it on the day of departure.
Aug 2024
Had a lovely week at Rhunacairn. A beautiful location and the cottage is well equipped with sensible flooring for those of us with canine companions. When looking for a holiday cottage it is always difficult to know if a cottage is really safe for our dogs, so some comments to help others with this. The cottage is fenced but one section is metal railing only and dogs can get through if they want to. This wasn't a problem as the property is at the end of the road and the only very occasional vehicle I think was a farmer passing very slowly to feed his pigs down the track and he always waved as he passed! Dogs very content running around the large well kept lawn. I have seen comments regarding the train line behind the cottage, again this was not a problem and was in fact quite nice to see it rumble past every few hours or so. Our test to our family after a holiday is would we go back, and this was a definite 'Yes'.
Adelle
Jul 2024
Lovely location. Needs more instructions on the electric heaters. We were not aware of then and the first night was cold. We enquired about where the thermostat was but were not provided with that information. Main oven had stopped working on the day we arrived and wasn't fixed until the Thursday we were Saturday to saturday. This was a problem due to having a dog we were unable to go out for meals. No oven glove so we had to buy one and left for the next guests. The hot water kept running out so I presume there is only so much hot water. Overall the cottage is in a beautiful location. Personal preference I think the TV needs updating. Very limited channels especially when children are present.
Konrad
Jun 2024
We really enjoyed our time in this wonderful cottage right on the shores of Loch Etive. The cottage was a wonderful home from home for us and our grandparents and children during our time in the Highlands. Oban with its shops and restaurants was within easy reach just perfect.
Jun 2024
Supper fast internet. ..easy 500meg.....the view from the kitchen window in the morning was especially good. Only half a mile from the main road. so quiet and relaxing. falls of lora hotel was really good. and cuan mor in oban was very good also...the pokey hat ice cream..mmmmmmmmm...yummy.
Jonathan
May 2024
Great property in an idyllic location. Lots to see nearby can recommend a walk up Beinn Lora, and a visit to Ardchattan priory from both you can see Rhunacairn. It was great to see deer bounding across the road on our way down the lane please drive carefully! Thanks to Wendy particularly for being helpful and kind.
May 2024
Brilliant situation by lochside. Cottage had everything we needed for our week's break. Although it looks a little tired and some work needs to be done to update kitchen, the faciklities were ideal for our party. Would love to return
Christine
Apr 2024
Fabulous cottage on the edge of the loch. We have been coming here since 1972 and it simply doesn't change! We had some wonderful weather and never tire of the amazing scenery.The cottage is well equipped and comfortable. We love it.
Apr 2024
Our little bit of heaven for 50 plus years. Wish I could keep it a secret.
Dec 2023
Overall really good, amazing location comfortable cottage with good facilities, Wendy very helpful and responsive. Couple of points as mentioned in a previous review not being able to control heating was a bit of an issue. Having to open the windows because its so hot inside, when 1 degrees outside isnt great, would recommend giving guest access to the thermostat. Also the welcome book is a lists of dont dosfully appreciate the cottage is someones property, but we stay at a lot of cottages AirBnBs and the welcome book comes across as unfriendly e.g welcome dogs but the ask is to keep them in the kitchen and remove every single dog hair.... Overall it was a great week, and the property is in an amazing location so we had lots of fun.
Oct 2023
The house is set in an idyllic situation, quiet and beautiful. The owners left a bottle of wine and laid the fire for our arrival, which I thought was a lovely touch. The house is well appointed, with all the facilities that you need. Beds are comfortable and linen was beautiful. The owner checked in to see if there were any issues and responded very quickly. My whole family just kept saying how wonderful the property was, the location being a massive part of that. Oban is just 15 mins drive away, which is a lovely town, filled with brilliant shops and lovely walks. The owners supplied plenty games and puzzles, and had lots of information about the area and places to visit. We thoroughly enjoyed ourselves.
Averil
Oct 2023
Beautiful Cottage, only fault, and shouldnt really grumble, much too warm, unable to turn down radiators our ages ranged from 9 years old to eighty years old and we all were unbearably hot throughout the week. Despite that little moan we all enjoyed our week tremendously. Our holidays for the last thirty years have been spent in the Lake District, I think we have been won over to the Scottish Highlands w
Graham
Oct 2023
We had a lovely family break at Rhunacairn it comfortably accommodated the family, with space for kids too. Considering we caught some pretty bad heavy rain, the cottage was warm, dry and kitted out with drying facilities and lots of logs! to cope. It is also well kitted out for living and comfort, the kitchen is really well equipped. The location is amazing in my opinion, I think I could have easily sat for hours looking out over the sea loch... It's beautiful. The hosts were also really friendly and helpful in all communications before and throughout our stay. We had a great stay... Would love to come back in a slight less rainy timeseason.
Sep 2023
The stay at Rhunicaurn was exceptional, offering a warm welcome and outstanding hospitality throughout. Wendy, the house manager, played a pivotal role in ensuring our stay was comfortable and memorable. The stay exceeded our expectations, thanks to Wendy's exceptional hospitality and the enchanting setting. On leaving, we were confronted with unexpected floods and landslides we were stranded, no accomodation to be had in Oban, no cars entering or leaving due to unprecedented weather. Wendy contacted us, concerned for our safety, she offered us 'a bed for the night..' WOW!! The unexpected stay at the Nelson family's castle was a highlight of our trip. Thanks to Wendy, despite minor challenges, this experience will be cherished and highly recommended to others seeking a unique and memorable getaway in Oban. Beautiful relaxing holiday. We will be back. Kay and Rod.
Carrieann
Sep 2023
Rhunacairn is a beautiful cottage full of character in a idyllic location right ... Rhunacairn is a beautiful cottage full of character in a idyllic location right on the Loch front of Loch etive and just 6 miles into oban it was the perfect location we saw some beautiful even red skies we in the evenings and a beautiful view of the loch sitting in the window seat any time of the day The cottage is fully equipped with everything you could possibly need even down to the bin liners being provided The beds are super comfortable and the bed linen is really nice quality linen and the bath towels were Egyptian cottan not something you usually get in a holiday let but it was greatly appreciated We enjoyed our stay so much we booked again for next year whilst still on holiday there wasn't anything at all to be disappointed about we didn't want to leave but really looking forward to next year
Melanie
Sep 2023
Another fabulous week at this comfortable cottage in a truly magical setting .
Jun 2023
We had a wonderful time at this beautiful cottage, it had everything we needed and more. Stunning views from the cottage and a lovely sitting out area. We were blessed with 7 days of sunshine in beautiful Oban. Thanks for letting us stay.
Christine
May 2023
Stunning location with fabulous views. Everything we needed for a comfortable stay. Short drive to the excellent Falls of Lora Hotel serving great food. Problem with shower was dealt with quickly, despite bank holiday.
Apr 2023
Visited this little gem countless times over the years and it never disappoints
Feb 2023
A wonderful cottage in an idyllic location. We really enjoyed our stay and plan to return next year.
Nov 2022
We loved the property location, layout, accommodation and general facilities. The kitchen equipment all worked, and we cooked some great meals, though some potspans need replacing. Very happy to have the bottled drinking water provided as the current filtered supply was running a bit brown, though fine for washing and kettle drinks. We thought the rate was a bit high for the season though.
Claire
Oct 2022
We have just returned from spending a week at Rhunacairn. This property sits on the shores of Loch Etive with the most amazing views which were even more breathtaking with the Autumn tints. The cottage had everything we required for a comfortable cosy stay with the kitchen and utility room being particularly well equipped. However being a party of 6 adults we felt the upstairs bathroom would have benefited from a fully operational shower as we all required to use the downstairs shower.
Sep 2022
This is a beautiful cottage in the most perfect setting, and we absolutely loved our stay here. The facilities provided were fantastic, and the log burner fire made it extra cosy in the evenings. We were here for a week and managed to fit in a boat trip in Oban, trips to local castles a tour from Alex at Dunollie Castle is a must, Easdale Island and Glenfinnan Viaduct near Fort William, with all of these being within reasonable travel distance. There are a couple of points that we wanted to raise, not necessarily as criticism but as genuine feedback to make it even better. The main thing is the main bed, which felt like a small double for a cosy stay a king size bed would have suited the master bedroom much more. Although we went just as a couple we both said that the bedroom with the bunk beds off of the utility room wouldnt be suitable, in our eyes, for young children, purely from a security side of things given that its by the main entrance with two doors between here and the rest of the household. We would recommend this cottage to anyone looking for a relaxing and peaceful break away, with the option to be as busy or not as you want to be.
Melanie
Aug 2022
Returned to this lovely property for another holiday. Wonderful! Swimming Kayaking, just sitting and looking at the view! Sadly others seemed to have discovered its charms and already booked for next summer. Was a bit of an issue with water colouration on arrival but lovely housekeeper Wendy immediately reassuring .
Jul 2022
Wow . What a fantastic place . The cottage was very comfortable, clean , and very well equipped. A beautiful location with fantastic scenery. We even managed a swim in the loch we had a