Creide, Culrain, Ardgay, Highland, IV24

Exceptional oak-framed home with views over the Kyle of Sutherland.

Description

Creide is an exceptional contemporary oak-framed country house extending to approximately 3,068 sq ft, occupying a remarkable elevated position above the Kyle of Sutherland with breathtaking views across the surrounding countryside towards the historic Carbisdale Castle. Built to Passivhaus standards, the property delivers exceptional energy efficiency, with Fakro triple-glazed windows and doors, an MVHR heat recovery system, underfloor heating throughout, and an air source heat pump installed in 2022. Thoughtfully designed and crafted with an extensive use of natural materials, the house sits beautifully within its Highland surroundings. Set in over three acres of grounds and approached via a sweeping private driveway, Creide combines striking architecture, beautifully balanced accommodation and an outstanding setting.

The house makes an immediate impression through its magnificent reception and dining hall. Rising to full height beneath a vaulted ceiling and framed by substantial exposed oak timbers, this dramatic space forms the heart of the home.

Beyond the dining hall lies the impressive sitting room, arranged around a striking double-sided fireplace which creates a natural connection with the dining area while maintaining a distinct sense of separation. Large windows and glazed doors flood the room with natural light, frame views across the grounds and provide direct access outside.
The kitchen and breakfast room is undoubtedly one of the highlights of the house, it has been thoughtfully designed around a substantial central island and combines contemporary practicality with country-house charm. Bespoke cabinetry, timber worktops, exposed oak beams creates an inviting atmosphere, while generous glazing enjoys attractive views across the surrounding landscape. A pantry and separate utility room provide excellent ancillary accommodation.

A generous fourth bedroom suite is also positioned on the ground floor. Enjoying dual aspects, direct access to the garden through glazed French doors and an adjoining en suite wet room, the room offers excellent flexibility for guests or those seeking predominantly single-level living.

An oak staircase rises to a striking galleried landing overlooking the reception hall below. The gallery is a particular feature of the house, with exposed oak trusses, vaulted ceilings and rooflights creating a bright and versatile space, currently arranged as a family room and home office.

Occupying a private position on the first floor, the principal bedroom is a beautifully proportioned retreat enjoying views over the surrounding grounds. Exposed oak timbers frame the room, while glazed doors open onto a private balcony, providing an ideal spot from which to enjoy the tranquil setting. The private balcony provides a wonderful vantage point from which to appreciate the surrounding landscape. Benefiting from dark skies, the current owners have on occasion enjoyed sightings of the Northern Lights from this elevated position.

A dressing room and stylish en suite shower room complete the suite, featuring twin wash hand basins, a granite vanity top, natural stone finishes and a spacious walk-in shower.
Bedroom two is another particularly characterful room, combining dramatic oak trusses with vaulted ceilings and attractive views across the Highland landscape. Natural light pours in through both a rooflight and feature window, enhancing the sense of space.

A further double bedroom and a beautifully appointed family bathroom complete the first-floor accommodation. The bathroom features a freestanding bath positioned beneath a rooflight together with contemporary sanitaryware and exposed oak detailing.

The grounds extend to just over three acres and enjoy a wonderful sense of privacy. Mature trees, established planting and expansive lawns create an idyllic setting, while the elevated position commands ever-changing views across woodland, water and the surrounding hills. A well-established kitchen garden with raised beds for vegetables, herbs and fruit further enhances the appeal of the grounds. The area is exceptionally rich in wildlife, with regular sightings of deer, pine martens and hedgehogs, while the surrounding woodland supports an abundance of birdlife, including an established heronry opposite the house. Ospreys and buzzards are frequently seen overhead, and otters and seals can occasionally be spotted along the Kyle of Sutherland.

The property also benefits from a substantial detached triple garage providing excellent storage, workshop space and secure parking. Recent improvements by the current owners include renovation of the exterior of the house and installation of a new water supply.

Location

Creide enjoys a beautiful elevated position above the Kyle of Sutherland in the Highland village of Culrain. Surrounded by some of the finest scenery in the Northern Highlands, the area is renowned for its unspoilt landscapes, abundant wildlife and exceptional range of outdoor pursuits.

Everyday amenities are available in nearby Ardgay (approx. 4 miles), while the market town of Tain (approx. 18 miles) provides a wider range of shops, services and leisure facilities. Inverness, the capital of the Highlands, is approximately 40 miles to the south.

The surrounding area offers outstanding opportunities for fishing, walking, cycling and wildlife watching. The Kyle of Sutherland, River Shin and River Oykel are renowned sporting rivers, while the wider Highlands provide endless opportunities for hiking, stalking and field sports. Golf is available locally, including at the world-renowned Royal Dornoch Golf Club (about 14 miles), regularly ranked amongst the finest links courses in the world.

Culrain railway station (approx. 1 mile) lies on the Far North Line, providing direct services to Inverness and beyond. Inverness Airport offers regular domestic and international connections.

Square Footage: 3,068 sq ft


Acreage: 3.36 Acres

Additional Info

Creide offers a rare opportunity to acquire a distinctive Highland home where exceptional scenery, architectural character and modern comfort combine to create a truly special country property. Making this offering all the more remarkable, the property has never previously been available to the open market.

Water - Private
Electricity - Air Source Heat Pump
Drainage - Private septic tank
Heating - underfloor heating with supplementary wifi-enabled electric panel heaters.

Prospective purchasers should note that proposals have been brought forward by SSEN Transmission for the Spittal to Beauly 400kV overhead line project in the wider area. The proposals remain subject to the relevant consent process and Public Inquiry. Further information is available from SSEN Transmission.