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Updated 04/24/2013

 


Achany Glen
Angus McPherson

Achany is a village in the Scottish council area of the Highland.  Achany Glen occupies the valley of the River Shin between Loch Shin and the River Oykell. At the Shin Falls to the north of Inveran, salmon can be watched swimming in the pool below the falls from an observation platform. Within the Glen are the Falls of Shin known for its dramatic waterfalls and the famous, natural Atlantic Salmon Leap.

Achany House, a Munro family seat situated at the centre of the glen, dates from c.1810.  The house, with its white harling and round corner turrets gives the impression of being older. Originally a seat of the Munros, the house and surrounding estate were bought in 1840 by the wealthy Sir James Matheson (1796 - 1878) who extended the property by adding the two bayed wings containing the elegant drawing room and dining room. The original two stories were raised to three by Matheson's nephew and heir in 1878, and he also added the corner turrets over the bays. A further extension to the rear dates from 1885. Achany remained the Matheson family home until 1948 when it was sold to the Ministry of Agriculture to serve as an Agricultural College. It became a hotel but later returned to private ownership.