Find answers to our frequently asked questions below:
Why is the house called Tigh Na Mara?
Tigh Na Mara means house by the sea in Gaelic
Why is it better to book direct?
All the online booking sites charge commission which reduces the price that we receive for the room. We are able to somewhat reduce the cost if you book direct. We also offer exactly the same policies available online and we can give you all the advice you need if you give us a call. Furthermore, not all our rooms are always advertised online so you may find unexpected availability if you call us. It is always a good idea to get the latest advice on restaurants too...
Why do the prices vary so much online?
Online booking sites like to promote free cancellation. Free cancellation costs more especially fully-flexible 1 day cancellation as there is a considerable loss of income to the property if the room is cancelled at the last minute and not re-booked. Sometimes last minute offers will be available because of these types of cancellations but again if you book direct we can still offer a better price.
Do you offer free cancellation?
Yes we do offer free cancellation until 14 days before arrival. This does cost more but will be much more reasonable booked directly with us than if you book online.
How can I pay?
We accept all major credit or debit cards and payments can also be made by bank transfer or cash. For non-refundable bookings full payment is taken in advance. For reservations with free cancellation within 14 days- a 50% deposit is required. This is in line with our online booking policies.
What happens if my travel is restricted?
If you need to cancel your holiday due to Covid-19 travel restrictions, we will offer a free change of date for all non-refundable bookings..
How many guest rooms do you have?
We are currently operating 4 guest rooms. They are all different, so please call to discuss which one best would best suit your personal needs. For the best availability call direct -only 3 of the rooms are bookable online- sometimes less...
How close are you to the beach?
We are right on the seafront about 10 steps from the beach!
Do all rooms have sea views?
No, we only have 2 rooms with full sea views and one with a beautiful side sea view of Rosemarkie Bay. Our fourth room does not have a view.
Is seeing the dolphins guaranteed?
No, unfortunately we cannot guarantee seeing the dolphins as they are wild animals but there are around 200 resident Bottlenose Dolphins resident in the Moray Firth.
When is the best time of year to see the dolphins?
Dolphins can be seen throughout the year as they are the Moray Firth Dolphins and our sea is the Moray Firth but the best time of year to see the dolphins is in July and August because they are chasing the salmon as they swim towards the rivers. This is the best time of year to see them actually jumping but they can be seen at any time.
What time do the dolphins arrive at the Point?
The best time to see dolphins is said to be 1 hour after low tide as they swim in with the fish but they live in the Moray Firth all year and can be seen at any time of the day.
Can I see the dolphins from my room?
The dolphins have to swim past our house to get to Cannonry Point! We see them from the house on a regular basis... Many guests have spotted them from their rooms or at the breakfast table so it is definitely possible and we do provide binoculars!
What wildlife do you have other than dolphins?
As well as the dolphins we are lucky enough to also have salmon and sea trout (which can be seen jumping) seals, sea otters and killer whales. All these have been seen from the house. There are many bird sanctuaries around where you can see Red Kites, Eagles, wading birds and more... There are also red squirrels, pine-martins, deer, woodland birds and more...
Do you have tennis courts?
Not on our property but a short walk away along the beach next to the Rosemarkie Beach Café
What is there to do in Rosemarkie?
There is plenty to do here!
Of course the beach is the main attraction and there is a beach cafe and an ice cream van as well as a play park and basketball/tennis court/football pitch.
There is the Groam House Museum less than a 5 minute walk away which celebrates local history and has Pictish relics.
We have many lovely walks within close reach of the house. It takes about 25 minutes to walk to The Fairy Glen Falls where you will find wild flowers, a natural gorge, a bird sanctuary, pond and 2 waterfalls.
It takes about 20-25 minutes to walk to Chanonry Point
to watch the dolphins very close up from the beach!
There are lovely walks to caves and rock pools which take around the same time, or less depending on how far you go.
A short 10 minute walk away you will find The Fortrose and Rosemarkie Golf Club which is the 15th oldest golf course in the world and is one of those famously designed by James Braid. There is also a driving range.
How long does it take to get to Inverness?
It only takes about 20-25 minutes to get to the beautiful city of Inverness which and tourist attractions as well a beautiful river with an array of bridges and the Ness Islands.
is the capital of the Highlands and has a good variety of shops, restaurants, bars
Where can we park our car?
We have 2 on-site spaces for guest cars but we can arrange more if required. There is also free parking on the road opposite.
Do you do evening meals?
No, we do not do evening meals at this current time but Crofters restaurant is 2 doors along or The 19th Restaurant in The Fortrose and Rosemarkie Golf Club is a ten minute walk. There is The Anderson Hotel and IV10 in Fortrose which is a 15-20 minute walk away.
When was the house built?
It was completed in 1901 and there has been much dispute over whether it is Victorian or Edwardian in design but it is in fact an Arts and Crafts house.
Where is Hugh Miller's Cottage?
Hugh Miller was a famous Scottish geologist who regularly frequented the Fairy Glen. His former house in Cromarty (15 minute drive from Rosemarkie) is now a musuem which is well worth a visit.
Do you have a dog?
Yes, we have a black Labrador called Beau.
Can we bring our dog?
No, sorry pets are not allowed at Tigh Na Mara.
