Oh bonnie wee Scotland! A tiny island with enormous character- known for its tartan, bag-pipes, kilts and whisky ?

But, did you know that Scots also basically invented the modern world?! The flush toilet, penicillin, television, telephone and refrigerator were all discovered by Scots! 

And if that’s not impressive enough, Scotland is also home to the highest proportion of redheads in the world (13%)!  ?‍??‍?

For a relatively small country, Scotland has a fantastically diverse landscape. From real lowlands to unspoilt uplands, mountainous high peaks and large cities to sparsely inhabited islands- it’s an incredible place for an outdoor adventure! 

Although the climate does tend to be slightly cooler than in neighbouring England- the weather doesn’t differ too much across the UK as a whole. In general, Scotland is a little bit cloudier, windier and wetter- but don’t let that put you off! The climate is mostly temperate, changeable but rarely extreme.

Quick Facts about Scotland

⛰ Tallest Mountain- Ben Nevis (Inverness-shire) 1,345 metres. Also the tallest in the UK.

?️  Lowest Point- The sea bed of Loch Morar (310 metres deep)

?  Longest River- River Tay (193 km)

?  Largest Lake- Loch Lomond (60sq km) 40 km long

?️  Coastline- 7,330 miles 

☔  Average Annual Rainfall- Upto 3,000 mm per year in the western Highlands. Scotland is officially the wettest place in the UK!

?   Highest recorded temperature- 32.9 C at Greycrook in August 2003.

❄️   Lowest recorded temperature- -27.2 C at Braemar in the Grampian Mountains in January 1982.

If Scotland’s beautiful, breath-taking landscape isn’t enough to tempt you to visit, perhaps the fact that the country is credited with creating the Gin & Tonic, the Chicken Tikka Masala and the deep-friend Mars bar, will be! ?

Here’s a quick rundown of some of our favourite locations and glamping sites in Scotland.

Glamping in Southern Scotland

Dumfries and Galloway 

Dumfries and Galloway is located in the western Southern Uplands of Scotland. 

Located in the south west of the country, it has an undulating coastline of rocky shoreline and sandy beaches, whilst inland, there are acres of forest and green spaces.

Places of interest:

• Galloway Forest Park– many claim this to be the largest forest in the UK. Expect dramatic ancient woodland, magnificent scenery and an astonishing range of local wildlife. 
• Caerlaverock Castle– moated triangular castle built in the 13th century. A medieval fortress once caught up in bloody border conflicts.
• Loch Ken- a popular recreational area where you can enjoy walking trails, windsurfing, sailing, canoeing, power-boating and kayaking. 

Fun Fact: Built in the late 1700’s, The Star Hotel in Moffat is officially the narrowest hotel in the world! At only 20ft wide and 162ft long, it is mentioned in the Guinness Book of Records. Across the road from the hotel, you’ll also find Syme Street- Scotland’s narrowest street!

Yurt in Parton, Scotland

?  Located in beautiful rural Galloway, just 10 minutes from Loch Ken. Set in a really special secluded spot on a 10-acre smallholding, nestled amongst hazelnut trees, by a stream. This is a completely off-grid getaway, with no electricity or wifi and only the birds for company.

?  The yurt was handmade in Scotland and is particularly special because of its large window which makes the space light and airy.

?  Inside you’ll find, a king-size bed with memory foam mattress, full bedding, hot water bottles and blankets. Wood-burning stove to keep you warm.

? Outside there’s a double-ringed gas stove and a small outdoor washing-up station. There is an eco compost loo a few metres away from the yurt, with a rustic-but-warm shower cubicle on the back. There is also a campfire under an awning by a stream and a firepit with outside seating.

Find out more here.

Scottish Borders

The term “Scottish Borders” is used to designate the areas of southern Scotland that bound the Anglo-Scottish border.

Places of interest:

• Southern Upland Way– 214 mile long coast-to-coast footpath across southern Scotland.
• St Mary’s Loch– the largest natural loch in the Scottish borders.
• St Abb’s Head– rocky promontory by the village of St Abbs. A national nature reserve. The village of St Abbs is also a popular scuba diving area- due to its crystal clear waters. 

Fun Fact: The famous Rugby Sevens game was invented in the Borders town of Melrose in the 1880s!

Unique Fishing Hut in Scottish Borders, Scotland

?  This unique hideaway is half-vintage caravan, half-wilderness cabin. The Fishing Hut sits on the bank of the Boondreigh River in the Scottish Borders. You’ll spot ducks, heron and if you’re lucky leaping salmon or trout!

?  Inside you’ll find a woodburning stove-cooker-oven, which keeps the cabin warm and toasty even in winter. There is also a sofa, rugs, cushions and blankets. At the end of the cabin is a small fully-equipped kitchen area and dining table. The vintage caravan end houses a small double bed, high tech composting toilet. 

?  Outside, there is a separate shower room, flushing loo and washing machine a few minutes walk away. There are two decks with perfect countryside river views. There is also a campfire.

Find out more here.

Scottish Islands 

Scotland has approximately 790 islands (660 are uninhabited). The main island groups which are best suited for visiting include the Inner Hebrides and Outer Hebrides in the west of Scotland and Shetland in the North.

Glamping in Skye Scotland

The Isle of Skye is connected to Scotland’s northwest by bridge, it’s known for its rugged landscapes, picturesque fishing villages and medieval castles. 

Places of interest: 

• Fairy Pools– beautiful rock pools of crystal clear spring water fed by a series of waterfalls from the Cuillin Mountains.
• The Quiraing- landslip on the eastern face of Meall na Suiramach, the northernmost summit of the Trotternish on the Isle of Skye.
• Rubha nam Brathairean (Brother’s Point)- a dramatic headland marking the easternmost point of Trotternish.

Fun fact: Legend has it, you’ll be granted eternal beauty, if you stick your face in the water under the Old Sligachan Bridge for 7 seconds and let it dry off naturally!

The Hideaway- Luxury Glamping Pod in Isle of Skye

?  Uniquely designed, light and airy cabin in a secluded spot overlooking the sea. 

?  Inside you’ll find a full size bathroom with deep fill bath and beautiful sea views, a small kitchenette, dining area for two and a king sized bed with Egyptian cotton sheets.

?  Outside, there is a balcony with stunning views of the Cuillin mountains, Pool Roag and Loch Bracadale.

Find out more here.

Glamping in Central Scotland 

Glamping in Perthshire

Perthshire (officially the county of Perth) is a historic county in central Scotland.

Known as the ‘big county’, due to its roundness and status as the 4th largest in Scotland. It has a wide variety of landscapes, from the rich agricultural straths in the east, to the high mountains of the Southern Highlands.

Places of interest: 

• Schiehallion– a prominent mountain in Perth and Kinross. It has a rich botanical life, interesting archaeology and a unique scientific history.
• The Falls of Acharn- a series of waterfalls, with a total height of 80 ft, set in a steep wooded gorge.
• Loch Tay– the largest loch in Perthshire and one of the deepest in Scotland, flanked by the impressive bulk of the Ben Lawers mountain range, much of which is a designated National Nature Reserve.

Fun Fact: Perth is home to the world’s highest hedges. Planted in 1745, the Meikleour Beech Hedges on the A93 Perth-Blairgowrie road, are officially recognised by the Guinness Book of Records. The hedge is over 1,700 feet in length and 100 foot high!

Bell tent in Blairgowrie & Rattray

?  This cosy, but spacious tent, is located in the orchard grounds of the uniquely built Aikenhead House. There are apple, plum and oak trees in the orchard.

?  Inside, you’ll find- a wood-burning stove, double bed, chesterfield chairs, Persian rugs and lots of fairy lights. 

?  Outside there’s a private bathroom and kitchen area approximately 20 metres away from the tent. There is also a wood-fired hot tub and a beautiful garden area.

Find out more here.

Glamping in Stirling 

Stirling is a city in central Scotland, 26 miles north-east of Glasgow and 37 miles north-west of the Scottish capital, Edinburgh.

Places of interest: 

• Stirling Castle– at the heart of Stirling’s old town is this medieval castle on a craggy volcanic rock.
• Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park– a national park which extends to cover much of the west part of the Southern Highlands and contains many mountains and lochs. Easily accessible from the small town of Callander. 
• The National Wallace Monument– a tower standing on the shoulder of the Abbey Craig- it commemorates Sir William Wallace, a 13th century Scottish hero, who famously defeated an English army, at the Battle of Stirling Bridge in September 1297.

Fun Fact: The first record of an attempted human flight took place at Stirling Castle. In 1507, John Damian climbed the castle walls and began flapping his ‘wings’ (which he had made from hen feathers) in front of a small crowd including King James IV. He then proceeded to throw himself into the air. There was a collective gasp from the crowd as he plummeted to the ground. Miraculously, he managed to survive the fall with only a broken thigh bone!

Helicopter Glamping in Thornhill, Stirling.

? This former Royal Navy, search-and-rescue helicopter has been transformed into stunning, luxury glamping accommodation. Once featured on Channel 4’s George Clarke’s Amazing Spaces, the accommodation can now sleep a family of 5.

? Inside you’ll find fantastic original features, a quirky bed in the tail, a spectacular cockpit seating area with panoramic views over the Carse of Stirling, a mini kitchen and shower room.

Find out more here.

Glamping in Fife

Fife is situated between the Firth of Tay and the Firth of Forth, with inland boundaries to Perth and Kinross. From the cosmopolitan atmosphere of St Andrews, to the quaint fishing villages of the East Neuk- the region is filled with picturesque sea villages, great outdoor activities and amazing wildlife.

Places of Interest:

• St Andrews–  a seaside town, known for its castle with a medieval dungeon, cathedral and university.
• Fife Coastal Path- a long distance footpath that runs from Kincardine to Newburgh along the coastline of Fife. 
• Incholm- a historic island in the Firth of Forth, with a medieval abbey.

Fun Fact: Fife is home to a giant rock formation known as The Bunnet Stane. The size of a car, it’s recognisable by its distinctive ‘mushroom’ shape and attracts hundreds of visitors each year. There are many possible explanations for how it formed, but the truth is, its unique shape is due to the relentless battering by wind, rain and ice over thousands and thousands of years! 

Safari Tent in Elie, Fife

?  Completely unique way to experience the East Neuk. Just metres from the shoreline, on the Fife Coastal Path between the pretty fishing villages of Elie and St Monans.

?  Inside, you’ll find real beds, log burning stoves and hot showers and flushing toilets.

?  Outside, you’ll have uninterrupted views of the Firth of Forth and beyond. There’s also a deck where you can enjoy a glass of wine, over the fire pit.

Find out more here.

Glamping in Western Scotland 

Glamping in Argyll & The Isles  

Located on the west coast of Scotland, Argyll & The Isles is home to 23 uninhabited islands, each offering tranquil beaches and their own unique island cultures. With 7 National Nature Reserves, it’s arguably one of the best places in Scotland to see iconic wildlife including golden eagles, red deer, otters, seals, puffins and more.

Places of interest:

• Glen Coe – a glen of volcanic origins, the main settlement is the village of Glencoe, located at the foot of the glen.
• Staffa– an island with unusual hexagonal basalt columns formed millions of years ago. In good weather, you can take a boat and explore inside the famous Fingal’s Cave and spot various sea birds, including puffins as they nest.
• Argyll Forest Park- oldest forest park in Britain, covering a large part of North of Cowal. The land boasts beautiful contrasts from ruffed mountains and dramatic sheltered glens, unspoiled forests and open moorland.

Fun fact: Known as Scotland’s Adventure Coast, Argyll & The Isles’ coastline is longer than that of France, 23 inhabited islands and over 2000km of trails. There’s also 7000 years of history and some of Scotland’s best food and drink!

Railway Carriage in Loch Awe

?  One of the last remaining Scottish Camping Railway Carriages- set in a spectacular location on the beautiful shores of Loch Awe. The carriage originally ran on the London to Edinburgh main line, but now provides space for a wonderful glamping holiday. 

?  Inside, the carriage has been carefully restored to maintain all original features. There are two bedrooms, one with a double bed and one with a single and two bunk beds. There is also a shower and toilet with washbasin and a small kitchen with electric-hob and small oven.

?  Outside there are private gardens, a bbq and a table and chairs, which can be used to admire the wonderful views of the loch. 

Find out more here.

Glamping in Northern Scotland

Glamping in Inverness-Shire 

Inverness-Shire covers much of the Highlands and Outer Hebrides, making it Scotland’s largest county but with one of the smallest populations (just 1.34% of the population!).

Places of Interest: 

• Ben Nevis– the highest mountain in the British Isles, the summit is 4,413ft above sea level.
• Loch Ness– a large, deep, freshwater loch in the Scottish Highlands– best known for alleged sightings of the Loch Ness Monster (affectionately known as ‘Nessie’). On the banks of the loch stands Urquhart Castle- an ancient fortress, although mainly ruins- supposedly one of the best places to spot Nessie! 
• Cairngorms– a mountain range in the eastern Highlands of Scotland, closely associated with the mountain of the Cairn Gorm. Became part of Scotland’s second national park on 1 September 2003. 

Fun Fact: Inverness once had an almighty battle over cheese! It happened in 1668, when a man named Finlay Dhu caused a Kebbock (a round cheese) to roll from the castle hill into the River Ness and refused to pay for it. The stooshie (row) engulfed the entire town and resulted in much death and destruction!

Glamping Pod in Onich, Fort William

?  Nestled in the heart of the highlands, set on the picturesque shores of Loch Linnhe, with unbelievable views of surrounding mountains and only one metre away from the beach!

?  Inside you’ll find a small but fully-equipped kitchen with microwave, hob, and fridge. A dining area. Spacious en-suite bathroom with shower and toilet. Double bed with full linen and towels provided and a large sofa.

?  Outside is a decking area with table and chairs to enjoy the stunning, picturesque views.

Find out more here.

Shepherds Hut in Highland, Scotland 

?  Surrounded by organic farmland, with a vegetable patch and polytunnel just outside- you can even purchase organic produce during your stay.

?  Inside, you’ll find a wood-burning stove to keep you warm, a raised double bed with full linen and blankets, a small kitchen, bathroom with shower, sink and toilet.

?  Outside is a wooden decking area with table and chairs, to enjoy the beautiful countryside view.

Find out more here.

Forest View Dome in Achany, Scotland 

?  Beautiful dome nestled at the edge of the Invershin forest- next to the Falls of Shin (a famous spot to watch salmon leap up a waterfall). Positioned at the edge of a thick forest.

? Inside, you’ll find a double bed with soft feather-down duvet and pillows, clear window panels for star-gazing, 

?  Outside, there’s a communal fire pit where you can light a bonfire to cook a meal on. There is also a basic shower block with hot running water. Nearby, you’ll also find a cafe and fully-equipped bar with local beer, wine and cocktails!

Find out more here.

Glamping in Eastern Scotland 

Glamping in Aberdeenshire 

Located on the north-east coast of Scotland, Aberdeenshire is the area in and around Aberdeen city. The Aberdeenshire coast is home to plenty of swooping seabirds and one of the best places in Scotland to spot dolphins!

Places of interest: 

• St Cyrus National Nature Reserve– one of the richest and most diverse reserves in Britain.
• The Banffshire coast- one of the world’s outstanding coastlines according to National Geographic. Not just for its natural beauty with plentiful dolphins, seals, puffins and other seabirds but also for its ‘community feeling’.
• Dunnottar Castle- ruins of a 13th-century cliff-top fortress.

Fun fact: Aberdeenshire is 1 degree warmer than the Scottish national average and has half the annual rainfall of Miami, Florida! 

Hobbit House in Aberdeenshire

? A totally unique, unforgettable getaway situated on the banks of Shepherd’s Loch. Try some wild swimming or fishing in the loch!

? Inside, the house has been finished with handcrafted wood. The bedroom has a double-bed with a single bunk overhead. There’s a shower and toilet. A round picture window with a table shelf and chairs and wood-burners to keep warm.

? Outside, you’ll find a covered decking area with a bbq and picnic benches.

Find out more here.

Glamping in Scotland with hot tub

Why not make your glamping trip to Scotland extra special, by booking accommodation with a hot tub?!

Here are a few of our favourites! 

“Auld Rusty” Converted Horse Box in Bedrule

?  An off-grid, off-the-beaten-track adventure in a converted horse lorry called ‘Auld Rusty’. The horse box is in a private location, surrounded by trees, with fantastic views of the Scottish Borders.

? Inside, you’ll find a double bed and 2 singles, a wood-burning stove to keep warm, solar-powered lights, bedding, torches and towels.

? Outside there’s a separate pony trailer, which has been converted into a cooking hut with double ring gas stove. A separate hut with a shower and composting toilet. A fire-pit, outdoor seating and a wood-fired hot tub.

Find out more here.

Vintage Air-Stream with Hot Tub in Dull

?  A unique experience in a vintage 1973 Airstream.

?  Situated in organic gardens, in the stunning countryside of Highland Perthshire.

?  Beautiful private outdoor area, with fire pit and hot tub.

?  Inside has a flushing toilet, hot proper shower and extensive cooking facilities.

Find out more here.

Shepherds Hut with hot tub & outdoor shower in Braco

? A cosy, modern shepherd’s hut on a family-run farm with sheep, donkey and goats. Rural, remote, full of character and charm. The hut is in a quiet corner overlooking a donkey paddock with stunning views of the Ochils.

? Inside you’ll find two rooms- one with a double bed, wood-burner, table and sofa. The other with a single sofa bed.

? Outside there’s a hot tub, kitchen with gas hob and bbq. There’s also a secluded outdoor shower under the trees and a modern compost loo.

Find out more here.