Glamping in Scotland’s magical wilderness

There’s no such thing as a one-size-fits-all glamping escape to Scotland. These unique accommodations come in all shapes, sizes and characters. They aim to maximise the experience of nature offered by a rustic trip, forging a holiday that really immerses you in the craggy Highlands or the sweeping Lowlands. In this guide, we take a look at the ins and outs of glamping Scotland, with tips on where to go and what sort of features to look out for.

Different sorts of glamping in Scotland

There are more curious glamping pads in Scotland than you can shake a wee dram of whisky at, ranging from moss-clad cabins in the Perthshire woods to timber-built wigwams by the side of a loch.

Glamping domes in Scotland

Dome-shaped stays are glorified tents with a lacing of luxury. They are particularly popular glamping options in Scotland because their semi-permanent structures can easily be raised on the most enticing spots. The upshot is that you get sweeping views of mountains and firths from these, not to mention log-burning stoves and wide windows for those cosy days of snuggling in.

Yurt glamping in Scotland

Yurts have been used by Mongolian nomads for centuries. Easy to set up and take down, they are hardy structures that can seem like they’ve been standing somewhere forever. Inside, you get roomy, circular spaces with plush seating and enough square meterage for a double bed. It’s common for the whole yurt to be warmed by a real-wood stove fire.

Luxury wigwams in Scotland

Wigwams were once the home design of choice for the First Nations of Canada. They were typically made from sticks and brush, tangled together to create a round-topped dwelling. These days, glamping stays have elevated the humble wigwam to something altogether more comfortable. You’ll find them in Scotland’s hillsides, catering for up to 4 people with their cosy, heated interiors and ensuite bathrooms.

Who is glamping suited to?

Not sure that glamping in Scotland is the thing for you? Read on to discover 3 types of stay that could be just what you’re after, whether you’re looking for a pad for the pooch or somewhere to host the whole family.

Dog-friendly glamping in Scotland

With the thistle-speckled heaths and ridges of the Cairngorms and the stunning Cuillins of Skye just outside the door, it would be a shame not to be able to share that escape to Scotland’s wild side with the adventurous pup. That’s where animal-friendly glamping stays come in. They might charge a little extra to host the 4-legged friend, usually payable per pet, per stay.

Child-friendly glamping in Scotland

While glamping pods can be compact, there are some stays with a little extra square meterage. They tend to be the ones that are better-suited to travellers with kids in tow. They can offer room for the cot and even multiple bunks to host the whole crew.

Luxury seekers often love glamping

Going rustic certainly doesn’t mean going basic in the world of glamping. In fact, these quirky stays often come with plenty of style, bohemian interiors and artsy additions. What’s more, they bolster that closeness to nature with a few treats – hot tubs and crackling fire warmers are just 2 of the things to expect.

Some top destinations for glamping Scotland

Scotland’s certainly not short on breathtaking wildernesses. From the crag-carved Highlands around Inverness to the moody bays of the Hebrides, there are countless places where you can feel the rawness of the natural landscape. Here are just a couple of suggestions.

Head to Aviemore

The small town of Aviemore is the stepping stone into the Cairngorms National Park. It’s packed with hiking boot shops and pubs and comes peppered with a few glamping options that promise proximity to Ben Macudi and mirror-like Loch Morlich. During winter, a glamping pod here could also be your ticket to the CairnGorm Mountain ski resort – considered the largest and best in Britain.

Glamping in Loch Tay and the Trossachs

The region around Loch Tay in the southern Highlands is known for its sweeping fir forests and glowing waters. It’s a great place to seek out glamping stays if you’re keen on hiking, what with 1,100-metre-high Beinn Ghlas and the snow-gathering Meall Garbh both on the climbing agenda.

Glamping around Inverness

Inverness is hailed as the capital of the Highlands for its location just north of Loch Ness. The landscapes are all wonderful in these parts of Scotland, but there’s also plenty to keep non-walkers happy. A monster-spotting trip to the loch itself is a must, of course, while grand Inverness Castle comes steeped in clansmen history.