What to expect
“A wild, rocky, romantic island it is too. It almost taketh the breath away”
We invite you to journey with us to the Highlands for a four-day adventure into deliciousness and discovery.
Side by side with our guest chefs and creatives, we’ll explore the forested solace of the island and all the natural magic it has to offer. For those brave enough, the day may start with a brisk and invigorating swim in Loch Moidart, followed by a well deserved warm up in the waterside sauna. Breakfast will then be served in the house before guests split into small groups for the morning happenings. It's up to you to participate as much or as little as you please.
Alongside wonderful dining, crafts play an integral role in our events. Guests will gather in the Art Studio for sessions in leatherwork or painting, ceramics or printing, each event inviting a different artist or maker outstanding in their field.
Lunches can take various forms, maybe a beach picnic (by boat or kayak), a windswept walk to the hilltop bothy or a peaceful gathering on the verandah of the house. Gather near the fire for a gigantic chowder of mussels, grilled mackerel stuffed with wild herbs or skewers of local venison sizzling over charcoal and served with a tender salad of dulce seaweed, gathered from but feet away.
The afternoon could be spent summiting the island’s peak for views of neighbouring isles, exploring the shores by kayak or paddle board or taking a rod to the end of the pier in search of willing fish.
The kitchen door is always open for guests to come and talk to or join in with the chefs. With the help of local experts and guides, you are encouraged to bring any foraged plants or fungi to the kitchen, the chefs are always keen to incorporate them into the menu, adding that unique sense of place.
Come the end of the day's endeavours, return to your room or cottage to relax and unwind in a steaming bath before dinner. The group will gather by the fire for remarkable cocktails from our visiting bartender to share their day's adventures and finds with one another.
Then dinner! Each evening a different chef is at the helm, so expect unique, collaborative cooking using the very best produce from local suppliers or collected by the group. Gathered around the table, the room will fill with heavenly smells, the tinkling of cutlery and the happy volume of days well spent.
Deep black skies for stargazing and morning birdsong we hope will send you away, the tongue titillated and the soul nourished.
“A story-book island of simple, timeless pleasure and happy endings ”
Why Eilean Shona
“Heaven on Earth. This is the kind of magic one longs for, looks for & seldom finds ”
Outside of a stunning and wild landscape we look for locations that have access to other beautiful settings nearby where we can cook or gather, be it by river, coast, forest or mountain. After 15 months of searching the land of the brave, we were introduced to the jewel that is Eilean Shona.
Where to begin? The island is a car-free wilderness haven, nestled in a loch on the dramatic west coast. Privately owned, for the past three decades the Branson/Devereux clan have had the honour of being its custodians; by their own admission both a mighty challenge and a wonderful adventure. They have succeeded in creating a luxurious retreat alongside a respect for the pristine natural environment. Eilean Shona House and and the several cottages dotted along the forest paths and coastline are welcoming and quirky, a home from home. We immediately fell in love!
This magical island, with crystal clear waters and ancient forests, is a rare habitat. Unlike many windswept Scottish islands, Eilean Shona is nestled close to the mainland which means it’s rich with several different ecosystems. Ancient woodland, dripping with lichens and rocks clad with abundant mosses have captivated us as well as the abundant natural larder of plump oysters, scallops and langoustine as well as seaweeds, chanterelles and of course the wild game and venison.
The family’s dedication to conservation and the environment was also a huge draw for us. Every effort is made to be plastic free, all the electricity comes from the local hydro-electric power station and the water supply comes from the hills.
We cannot wait to welcome you…
