One of the more recent travel trends, this phenomenon combines a little slice of glamour and luxury with the beauty and wonder of the great Scottish outdoors. You may find yourself deep in the wilderness, but your accommodation will provide you with a proper bed, a TV and a fridge and sockets for hairdryers and iPods, to make your stay much more comfortable.
Glamping in Scotland
Enjoy the great outdoors with comfort on a glamping holiday where you can stay in a wigwam, teepee, yurt, pod, and more, with a hot tub and gaze up at the stars on a clear night.
Glenshee Farm glamping
Different types of glamping available
Glamping holiday accommodation comes in all shapes and sizes. Some options will feel close to traditional camping, while others offer much more comfort and luxury. Here’s a quick guide to help you choose.
Glamping pods at Loch Lomond
© Go Rural / Craig Stephen
Eco pods
They’re modern, compact wooden cabins designed to be energy-efficient and low impact on the environment.
Main features:
- Fixed wooden structures, sturdy and eco-friendly
- Insulated and weatherproof
- Often include electricity and heating
- Sometimes include a bathroom or have private facilities
Great for: couples or small families who want a comfortable, environmentally-friendly stay.
Picnic in the wilderness tent
© VisitScotland / Mat Hay
Luxury glamping tents
Spacious, furnished canvas tents, often with real beds and furnishings.
Main features:
- Spacious interiors with plenty of room to relax
- Comfortable and hotel-level interiors
- Often found in scenic locations
- Comfort amenities, often equipped with luxurious furniture and private bathrooms
Great for: people who want beautiful views and outdoor adventure without giving up comfort.
Glentress Wigwams
© VisitScotland / Kenny Lam
Wigwams
In traditional Native American cultures, a wigwam is a domed-shaped dwelling. The wigwams in Scotland today are closer to a cosy timber cabin.
Main features:
- Solid wooden structure
- Self-catering kitchen essentials - such as cooking utensils, plates and cutlery
- Luxury versions have hot tubs and ensuite bathroom facilities
- Some hosts might offer special hampers, breakfasts and BBQ packs filled with local produce
- Often a great option for exploring Scotland with your dog
Great for: affordable short breaks, families and travellers with pets.
Teepee accommodation at the Belladrum Tartan Heart Festival
Teepees
Teepee tents are often handcrafted, with natural wooden poles, pegs and cotton canvas covers. They have a rich history among Native American and Sami populations.
Main features:
- Circular floor plan and often have spacious and bright interiors
- They’re environmentally-friendly as they have a low impact
- Often simple interior (modern versions may include beds)
- Some models have a vent at the top meaning that campfires can be lit inside
Great for: a traditional, cultural camping experience. Great for groups and summer stays.
Hot & Bothy Community Sauna
© Hot & Bothy Community Sauna / Callum Neilson
Yurts
Yurts are the traditional dwellings of central Asian nomads and have been in use for at least 3,000 years.
Main features:
- Round shape with lattice walls
- Wooden frame with fabric covering
- A well-furnished and spacious interior, with features such as a wood burning stove, cosy bed and large rugs
- They are often close to places where you can take a hot shower, charge your phone or connect to WiFi
Great for: couples or small families who want something unique but still comfortable, a balance between tradition and comfort.
Brockloch Eco Retreat Treehouse
© @architravelust
Treehouses
Treehouses in Scotland give you a taste of luxury self-catering and are often eco-friendly. These glamping cabins are built in or around trees, elevated within woodlands, offering secluded, nature-focused retreats.
Main features:
- Raised platform structure
- Often wooden and cabin-like
- Varies from rustic and simple to luxury and fully equipped
- Unique views and privacy, often secluded among trees
Great for: a magical, memorable stay with great views and privacy.
