What started as an 19th century shepherd’s hut on the Ardulussa Estate on the magnificent Isle of Jura is now a wonderful off-grid home looking for new owners.

Built around 1850 Lealt is a comfortable two-bedroom home with an environmental twist situated amid more than three acres of land and stunning scenery.

The current owners bought the property in 1995 and since then have transformed it from a the derelict building into a comfortable self-contained retreat.

After seeing the property in its previous state, owner Richard Mayes, said: “After a good cry...we bought the place. Then we sat down and decided what we'd like Lealt to look like when we'd finished. In a nutshell we wanted to completely renovate the place but retain all the existing character and add some more light and air.

“Everything except the four outside walls had to go. Now family and friends can wallow in comfort and warmth lit by the wind!”

The property is completely off grid with electricity provided by its own generation system based on the power of wind, water and sun. With its own wind turbine and water turbine, built in the property’s burn, which by itself generates 7.5kw per day satisfying all the basic electrical needs.

As a backup, six solar panels were installed to produce electricity and a battery system is used so all surplus energy is stored to ensure there is zero reliance on the grid.

The Island of Jura is a most picturesque island and one that is little explored by tourists, many of whom do not venture north beyond the coastal village of Craighouse. It has a rich natural heritage with much to attract those who wish to enjoy hill walking and the outdoors.

Author George Orwell, who spent time on Jura writing his novel 1984, described the island as “an extremely unforgettable place”.

“It’s not everyday you have such a unique property equally rich in history and modern in its outlook,” said Andrew Fuller of selling agents Bell Ingram.

“Eco friendly homes and off grid living is proving increasingly popular in the Highland and Islands and given the uniqueness of Lealt and its prime position on the ever-popular Isle of Jura, we envisage this property to be very desirable.”

Lealt is on the market at offers over £475,000.