FAQs
WHAT IS PROVIDED?
What will I find in my holiday cottage?
In your holiday cottage you will find:
- All bed linen and towels
- Dishcloths, tea towels, washing up liquid, a few dishwasher tablets, a couple of toilet rolls, one or two bin liners and all essential cleaning products with the exception of washing detergent
- A selection of tea and coffee sachets and milk portions
- A welcome folder with all the information you will need for your stay
If your property has a fire, we will provide matches. If you order coal, we will provide some firelighters.
We aim to provide enough essentials for a short stay, but please note that if you are staying for longer you may wish to bring or buy more to last you for the duration of your stay.
What do I need to bring or buy?
- Kindling. If you are booking a property with a fire and need kindling, this can be purchased from the shop, or you are welcome to collect sticks and twigs from the woodland garden
- Food. You will need to bring food and drink with you or buy it. On the island, you can buy food from The Island Shop, eat in or take away from The Colonsay Pantry or eat in at The Colonsay Hotel. The Island Shop also does food deliveries - call 01951 200 265 to find out more or make an order.
- BBQ. A disposable barbecue if you would like to use one.
ELECTRICITY
Do staff take the meter readings for guests?
Yes, both before and after your stay.
Can I charge my electric car while on the island?
Electric cars can be charged for free at both the pier and the Pantry. There is a car charging point at Colonsay House that can be used by prior arrangement only (contact cottages@colonsayholidays.co.uk for more information).
DIRECTIONS
What are the directions to the Cottages, Colonsay House and the Backpackers Lodge?
You will be sent directions in your information pack after booking.
BOOKING DATES & CANCELLATION
Can I change dates or move my booking to another property?
We can transfer your booking to different dates if we can relet the property, subject to a £100 administration fee per change. However if we are not able to relet the property, then you would need to make a new booking. It is essential that you let us know as soon as possible if you need to change the date of the booking, to allow time for the property to be relet. You may be required to pay an additional deposit or booking fee that would then be credited back you if the original property is relet.
What if I need to cancel?
All bookings are non refundable however we will offer a credit note for a future booking if the property relets less a £100 admin charge.
What happens if the ferry is cancelled on the day I am due to check in or out?
If the ferry is cancelled on the day you are due to check in, unfortunately we can't offer any refund due to days missed due to ferry cancellation. If the ferry is cancelled on the day you are due to check out, we will allow you to stay on in the property for a pro rata nightly charge, provided the property is available. We recommend taking out travel insurance to cover accommodation costs in the event of a ferry cancellation. If the ferry is cancelled for non-weather related reasons, CalMac will repay any additional accommodation expenses for guests who need to book additional accommodation on Colonsay or Oban. This can be done by filling out a passenger claim form on the CalMac website, here.
ACCESS & TRANSPORT
Do I need to collect a key?
No, the key will be in the door of the property for your arrival.
Can I request transport to and from my cottage ?
We can transport you and your luggage for a charge of £25 per one way trip. This will need to be arranged in advance with the Colonsay Holidays office - email cottages@colonsayholidays.co.uk for more information.
COLONSAY HOUSE GARDENS & CAFE
When is the Gardens Cafe open?
The cafe opens from April-October each year.
Can I visit the gardens when the Gardens Cafe is closed?
Not usually, but it may be possible by prior arrangement - please phone 01951 200312 or email cottages@colonsayholidays.co.uk for more information.
DOGS
Are dogs allowed in the café / Colonsay House Gardens?
Yes, on a lead.