Contin, Strathpeffer, IV14 9ES

Blackwater Lodge sits on a remarkable stretch of the River Blackwater, where the house faces directly towards it with open countryside and Highland hills unfolding in the distance. The house itself combines traditional Highland lodge styling with the scale and proportions of a substantial modern home. A steep roofline, multiple dormer windows and timber framed glazing give the exterior real presence, while the broad balcony spanning across the front strengthens the connection to the river setting below. The detached timber double garage sits neatly alongside the house, matching the character of the main building, while additional outbuildings including a workshop, bike shed and wood store add further practicality across the grounds. A large decked platform extends out towards the riverbank with a covered summer house area positioned above the water’s edge, creating a standout outdoor space that fully embraces the setting while also offering fishing on your doorstep.

Inside, the house opens into a broad hallway floored with large Caithness tiles and clean neutral walls, with timber internal doors and finishes that immediately set the tone for the rest of the home. Off to the right of the hallway is the main dining area, a generous open space centred around a wood burning stove which adds character against the clean modern finish. Full height glazed doors offer views of the wonderful countryside while the size of the room comfortably allows space for a large dining table and additional seating without feeling overcrowded.

The room flows naturally into the kitchen where sleek white cabinets are paired with thick timber worktops. A substantial stainless steel range cooker sits beneath an oversized extractor canopy, creating the perfect space for preparing meals for larger families or guests. The rest of the kitchen wraps around the space with plenty of storage, while a stainless steel sink, fitted with a modern flexi hose tap, sits below a wide window. A decoratively glazed exterior door provides another access point outside and acts as a dividing point between the kitchen space and the adjoining utility. This space continues the same styling with additional fitted units and timber worktops plus another stainless steel sink.

A door from the utility leads into the family room where you immediately notice the wide glazed doors that stretch across the front wall facing the river, bringing the landscape directly into the room. The proportions give you plenty of flexibility in how the room is used, whether it’s used as a

relaxed sitting room, cinema room or games space. A large built in cupboard provides excellent hidden storage within the room itself while a further door opens into the plant room. This houses the main heating system for the property where an LPG-fired boiler is located.

Also accessed from the utility is a ground floor WC fitted with a toilet and pedestal sink. A frosted window brings natural light into the space, while the continuation of the dark slate flooring and timber finishes keeps it consistent with the rest of the ground floor.

The first of the two ground floor bedrooms is positioned off the main hallway and is a generous double room finished with oak flooring and crisp neutral walls. A built in wardrobe provides substantial storage while glazed doors facing the river bring in plenty of daylight. The en-suite is finished in a clean contemporary style with large white coloured wall tiles, a wall mounted sink, toilet and walk in shower area. A frosted window provides natural light while maintaining privacy, and the darker floor tiling ties in neatly with the finishes used throughout the ground floor.

The second ground floor bedroom sits at the rear of the house and mirrors the same finish found in the first. Timber flooring and neutral walls keep the room feeling bright and understated. A large window draws in natural light and a built-in wardrobe with double doors provide excellent storage space. Its en-suite shower room follows the same styling with large white wall tiling, dark floor tiles and a walk in shower area.

The staircase rises from the hallway with solid timber steps and matching balustrades, naturally lit by a decorative glazed window positioned at the half landing. The craftsmanship of the timberwork immediately stands out here, adding warmth and detail against the clean white walls as the stairs lead up towards the first floor accommodation.

At the top of the staircase, the main living room stretches across the front of the house and takes full advantage of the elevated river views. A pair of glazed doors open directly onto the balcony, creating an uninterrupted connection to the landscape. The vaulted ceiling adds to the sense of scale while recessed ceiling spotlights continue the clean modern finish carried throughout the house. A freestanding wood burning stove sits against one wall, bringing warmth and character to the space while also creating a natural focal point within the room. The proportions comfortably allow for multiple seating areas without losing the open feel, making it equally suited to quieter evenings or larger gatherings with family and guests.

Leading directly off the living room is a substantial bedroom, measuring an impressive 6.27m x 5.21m. The room mirrors the same flooring and timber finishes seen throughout the house, while the sloping ceiling lines add character. Natural light enters through a deep set dormer window to the front. A hatch provides access into useful eaves storage, helping to maximise practicality within the space.

Along the hallway, set to the front, is another bedroom which is definitely one of the standout rooms within the home. The size is exceptional, while it also enjoys access to the front balcony through glazed doors. Leading off the bedroom is a walk-in dressing room, providing excellent storage and helping maintain the clean, uncluttered feel of the main sleeping area. The en-suite bathroom is equally impressive in scale and finish. Contemporary tiling and chrome fittings give the room a polished modern appearance, while the layout comfortably accommodates both a separate shower cubicle and a large jacuzzi-style bath. A wall mounted sink, heated towel radiator and modern toilet complete the space.

Also on the first floor is a fifth bedroom which would work equally well as a nursery, dressing room or home office depending on requirements. Finished with the same flooring and neutral décor found throughout the home, the room benefits from a dormer style window bringing in natural light while also creating a practical recessed area within the layout. Although smaller in size than the other bedrooms, it remains a useful and versatile addition to the overall accommodation.

Completing the first floor is a separate shower room fitted with a large walk in shower enclosure finished with crisp white tiling. In here you’ll also find a pedestal sink, toilet and chrome heated towel radiator, while the dark floor tiles provide contrast against the lighter walls and fittings.

Blackwater Lodge leaves a lasting impression. The combination of substantial living space with a direct connection to the landscape gives the property enormous versatility, whether it becomes a remarkable family home, a luxury retreat or a successful bed and breakfast business catering to visitors exploring this historic part of the Highlands. With the River Blackwater flowing directly past the grounds, beautiful scenery in every direction and a setting shaped by centuries of Highland clan history, this is a home with genuine presence and character. Viewing in person is the only way to fully appreciate the scale, setting and atmosphere Blackwater Lodge provides, so contact Hamish Homes today to arrange yours.

About Contin
Contin is a picturesque village nestled amidst the stunning landscapes of Ross-shire, making it an ideal location for those seeking a peaceful lifestyle surrounded by nature. Situated on the A835, Contin is a gateway to the Highlands, offering easy access to some of Scotland’s most breathtaking scenery, including the nearby Rogie Falls and the expansive Black Water River. The area is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, with ample opportunities for hiking, fishing and exploring the great outdoors.

The village itself has a warm and welcoming community, with local amenities including a village shop, church and community hall. For families, Contin Primary School provides education for younger children, while secondary schooling is available at Dingwall Academy, just 6 miles away in the bustling town of Dingwall.
Contin benefits from excellent transport links, with regular bus services to Dingwall and Inverness, which is approximately 20 miles away. Inverness, the capital of the Highlands, offers a wide range of amenities, including shopping centres, healthcare facilities, restaurants and rail and air connections.
With its tranquil setting, friendly community and convenient access to larger towns and cities, Contin is a desirable location for those looking to enjoy the best of Highland living.

General Information:
Services: Mains Water, Boiler and underfloor heating,
LPG
Council Tax Band: F
EPC Rating: C (69)
Entry Date: Early entry available
Home Report: Available on request.
Viewings: 7 Days accompanied by agent.