Coll croft that inspired Katie Morag books on sale

A Hebridean croft house that inspired the Katie Morag books has gone on the market. Picture: Contributed

The price tag includes a two-acre private island with a silver sand beach reached by boat or by foot at low tide.

The two-bedroom property on the Hebridean island of Coll, which looks just like the house in Mairi Hedderwick’s books, is just a about mile away from where the author brought-up her children.

Surrounded by 46 acres of private land which includes two working peat banks, the traditional house is reached by a turf track.

Complete with its own tidal harbour often occupied by seals the ruggedly beautiful spot is the perfect place to get back to basics and have adventures like Hedderwick’s red haired creation.

The island of Coll itself is best known as the real-life counterpart of the fictional Isle of Struay, home to Katie Morag and her many exploits.

The picturesque island in the inner Hebrides is home to less than 200 people and measures just 13 miles long and three miles wide in parts.

The Scottish illustrator and author who created the hugely successful children’s books lived on the island for much of her life.

In 1964, after the birth of her first child, Hedderwick and her husband moved to the island and lived a traditional crofting lifestyle.

At the time they had no electricity, running water or permanent road access.

Now, for the same price as a three bedroom flat in Edinburgh, prospective bidders could have their own slice of the magical island that has fascinated children for decades.

The brochure from agent Bell Ingram states: “A rare opportunity has arisen to acquire a two bedroom, former croft situated amongst 48 acres of private grounds.

“The property occupies a lovely secluded location on the island’s south coast. It also includes ownership of ‘Eilean Dubh’ an island in the bay which extends to some two acres and has a small sandy beach.

“Seals are normally found around the bay while dolphins and whales are often seen offshore.

“Further offshore fishing boats, ferries, yachts and other shipping can be watched as they weave between the various islands.”

It continues: “Normal access to the property is by a half-mile long track from the island’s B8070 road. An obvious means of alternative access would be by boat.

“Nearby, further up from the shore are several other old roofless croft houses that offer excellent potential for development. Most have original stonework in excellent condition.”

It adds: “The property benefits from two separate working peat banks and has the possibility of renewable energy options being introduced.”