April 28, 2023 5 min read

Traditional Scottish Bothies are small cabins located in remote locations across Scotland that provide shelter for hikers and explorers. Some are in stunning locations and have led many of us to harbour the fantasy of a relaxing remote stay with family or friends. The reality can be a bit different as whilst they are free to use and don’t require booking, there is no guarantee of getting the place to yourself or that really relaxing weekend you were looking for. 

Luckily, there are plenty of luxurious Bothy style retreats around Scotland that will guarantee that perfect getaway. We’ve pulled together a few of our favourites below, each is totally unique allowing for those creature comforts to get that outdoors feel, without needing to bring your own sleeping bag. From rustic charm to modern eco-lodges, they offer the perfect blend of luxury and seclusion. 

 

Birch Cabin - Stirlingshire

Not far from the central belt, at the edge of The Trossachs National Park lies Loch Venachar and 3 beautiful stays. The one in particular we want to highlight is The Birch Cabin. The cabin has two tiers and is larch clad with a hardwood interior. Beyond the stunning facade, comfy beds and hot tub, you can sit back and take in the ever-changing views of the loch and mountains set in the distance. You aren't short of things to do in the area. Around the Loch, there are plenty of rental companies offering a range of water sports and fishing days. Stirling Castle and Doune Castle are a great for a day out, and for those looking for whisky, Glengoyne isn't too far away!!

Location:  Loch Venachar Cabins Ltd, Dullater Burnside, Invertrossachs, FK17 8HG

Booking and Info: lochvenacharcabins.co.uk

Birch Cabin

Loch Venachar

 

 

 

 

 

 


Waterfell - Wester Ross 

Designed and created by an award-winning design firm, Waterfell is a unique house that cantilevers over a stream on its way down to Loch Broom. Inside you are met with an open plan living area with large windows to make the most of the spectacular scenery. There are plenty of walking and cycling trails surrounding the site to explore too!Outside, there’s a small courtyard with timber decking and a partially covered area that acts both as a welcoming entrance to the house and a lovely outdoor space to soak up your surroundings. Downstream you can also go for a swim in the loch and explore the pebble beach. Your nearest town is Ullapool which is about a 15-minute drive from the property. Here there are some great restaurants, local markets and nice art galleries for if you are looking for a balance in your getaway. There are also boat trips from the local harbour if you’d like to go dolphin watching and eagle spotting! 

Location: Waterfell at Sealoch House ,Loggie, Lochbroom, By Ullapool, Ross-Shire IV23 2SG

Booking and Info: waterfell.co.uk

Waterfell

 

 

 

  


Inverlonan Bothies

Inverlonan sits on the magnificent west coast of Scotland and offers three beautiful bothies, constructed around the theme of “rough luxury.” For anyone who wants to truly escape, this is the spot. The bothies are only accessible by either boat (Loch Nell), foot or buggy. You can also be provided with local produce for the duration of your stay, allowing you to stay secluded and have a proper opportunity to immerse yourself in nature. Each bothy is strategically placed, sensitive to its surroundings and offers a different experience to one another. 

Inverlonan is reached by a spectacular drive through Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park and is 6 miles from the port town of Oban on the West Coast of Scotland.  Known as the Gateway to the Isles, Oban is the perfect base for exploring the Western Isles, including Mull, Iona and beyond.

Location: Inverlonan, Ballygowan Farm, Oban PA34 4QE

Booking and Info: inverlonan.com
 

Inverlonan

 

 

 

 

 

 

   


 
57 Nord - Sky House, Isle of Skye

The Isle of Skye is one of the hotspots when it comes to tourism in Scotland. Hosting incredible quality in hiking, water sports, wildlife and landscape and whisky to name a few, it offers the perfect setting for a getaway from the everyday. Sky House’s rugged exterior conceals exquisitely designed, tactile furnishings. Sliding glass walls make the living space part of the landscape beyond. From the structure, you are met by panoramic views of Loch Duich, Eilean Donan Castle and the Kintail Mountains. 57 Nord, pays homage to these Scandinavian influences as well as to our stunning location: 57 degrees’ latitude in the northern hemisphere.

 

Location: 57 Nord Upper, Ardelve, Ross-Shire IV40 8EY

Booking and Info: 57nord.co.uk/sky-house
 

Sky House

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


Black h - Harlosh, Skye 

On the Isle of Skye’s rugged and beautiful west coast, Black h is positioned and designed to both withstand the weather and embrace the landscape, so you can immerse yourself in both. Surrounded by an open croft, this hideaway for two is a soft minimalistic space that’s private, contemporary and luxurious. Being placed close to the island's shores, there is plenty of wildlife you may be lucky enough to come across from sea eagles to dolphins, otters and slightly easier to spot, sheep. The west coast is known for many things such as its rugged landscape, rolling hills and terrific vistas, but get ready some of the most incredible sunsets!! These must be one of the most under rated highlights of Scotland. 

If you want to explore the island and make the most of your stay, a car is essential. The famous multi-coloured town of Portree in 25 miles away which is definitely worth a visit. You also have the Three Chimneys restaurant 8 miles away, and the Michelin starred Loch Bay by Michael Smith 11 miles away. If you're looking for whisky, then Talisker should be on your list. Whether you are a beginner or more seasoned whisky drinker, the tour has something for everyone. 

Location:  4-5 Ardmore, Dunvegan, Isle of Skye IV55 8ZJ

Booking and Info: harlosh.co/black-h

Black h

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Luxury bothies are a fantastic alternative to your usual getaway or staycation and offer a great variety for those after an almost hotel-like experience and those after something closer to your traditional bothy. What all these have in common though is seclusion and setting for relaxation. Being able to escape the hustle and bustle and immerse yourself in nature and the beautifully rugged Scottish landscape. For those who switch off by doing, make sure to consider the activities available in the area as well. You might even discover a new hobby! Whatever the time of year, there's a luxury bothy with exactly what you need. Let us know how you get on in the comments below.

 

 

 

 


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