5 Fun alternatives to the traditional cottage holiday
Are you tired of the standard cottage holiday? Are you looking for something different this summer? We’ve put together a list of 5 exciting holiday alternatives to liven up your staycation.
1. Glamping – like camping, only better
A portmanteau of ‘glamourous’ and ‘camping’, glamping has become increasingly popular in the last few decades for its ability to combine the comforts of hotel accommodation with the adventure and escapism of outdoor camping.
Loch Ness Glamping is a perfect example of this; nestled by Loch Ness with the backdrop of the Great Glen, their Armadilla pods fit cosy double (or twin) beds, a bathroom with shower and underfloor heating, TV/DVD with Bluetooth speaker, kettle, toaster, fridge, and a private BBQ/fire pit. Escape into the wilderness of the Scottish Highlands with all the luxuries of a hotel suite.
2. Holiday on a working farm
A brilliant option for families (or anyone in touch with their adventurous side!) is a working farm holiday. Agrotourism has seen a massive boom in recent years and is now one of the tourism industry’s most creative and fastest growing sectors.
Newton Farm Holidays is just one of many working farm stays popping up around the country. Their farm house B&B and 4-star self-catering cottage (sleeps up to 6) means different accommodation options to suit different groups, and with various farm tours on offer from ‘feeding frenzies’ to taking fluffy alpacas for a stroll, Newton farm offers a fun and educational trip for all the family. You can even bring your dog along!
3. Stay in a real Scottish castle
Rarely does the opportunity to stay in a real castle come around. If you’re looking for a more unique holiday (or something a little Hogwartsian), consider staying in one of Scotland’s iconic highland castles.
An excellent option is Glengorm castle, a 4-Star B&B offering all the splendour you’d expect. It’s remote location right at the tip of the Isle of Mull makes it a true Highland getaway; with four-poster beds, deep Victorian baths, and a gorgeous library, you can play laird for the night in this striking 19th century castle overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.
4. Relax in style in a converted barn
Like a cottage holiday but with extra benefits – converted barns tend to be ultra-modern in their furnishing, open and bright, with stunning rural backdrops. If you prefer privacy or want to be closer to nature without sacrificing any creature comforts, this is the perfect staycation option for you.
Look no further than Birchbank at Chesters Farm – a recently renovated sheep shed turned serene country getaway. The self-catering property is entirely on the ground floor with wide, open plan living, underfloor heating and luxury fittings. Located at the foot of the Lammermuir Hills in East Lothian, this holiday accommodation offers an excellent compromise between proximity to the capital and peaceful rural surroundings.
5. Try a townhouse in the capital centre
For a more glamourous or city-centric break, consider a townhouse in Scotland’s historical capital. With 1000 years of history at your fingertips, A townhouse offers a fantastic way to enjoy the city of Edinburgh and access all that it has to offer. A central location comes with many perks from a massive variety of entertainment options and restaurant choices to excellent public transport links.
9b Scotland Street offers a stylish yet traditional stay in a characteristic Georgian townhouse. Perfect for lovers of culture, it’s New Town location places it in the artistic centre of the capital, with all three Scottish National Art galleries only a short walk away. The Town House Serviced Self-catering Apartment is another excellent option – a comfortable 4-person flat only 1 mile from the famous Royal Mile. If you’re looking for activity-filled holiday, this is the ideal spot to experience a chic urban existence.