Lodges in Scotland

Scotland is known as one of the best spots in the world for nature enthusiasts with its magical mountains and highlands, dramatic rocky shores and mystique forests filled with animals of all kinds. Mostly known as a land of rich history and culture, Scotland’s territories have a lot to offer in terms of natural landscape as well. The local Scottish population will enchant you with battle stories, magical traditions preserved from centuries ago. They will also teach you how to honor and preserve nature in terms of both flora and fauna – a very important aspect of their culture and customs.

Whether you wish to wake up on top of a hill with a panoramic view of evergreen valleys and meadows, or you wish to be immersed in thick forestation away from any human contact and into the wild Scottish nature, we are hopeful that you will find your perfect match among our suggestions. Most of the nature houses we offer for a visit to Scotland are even dog-friendly, so consider taking your four-legged pal on a trip of a lifetime with you.

Scotland’s evergreen nature

As one can expect, Scotland’s green highlands and fields are the most widespread reason why people wish to visit the land. The experience of roaming fields untouched by humans and suddenly coming upon a herd of Scottish sheep which are obviously used to human contact is intriguing to say the least. Hundreds of kilometers of walking and hiking trails crossing the country are available to any visitor – beginners, experienced hikers, and even families with small children. Long-distance routes are usually preferred and more famous among tourists, but there are short ones as well. Nevertheless, long-distance marked routes offer unique possibilities for some of the best views throughout Europe.

Along this country’s territory, there are two national parks and a few geoparks. Each of the two national parks (Cairngorms/ Loch Lomond & The Trossachs) let you discover great landscapes filled with plants and animal species. The former park covers most of the eastern highlands in the UK and is a rather mountainous territory with centuries-old forests and rivers, small picturesque villages and numerous lakes (or what the locals call them – lochs). Across these national parks, the government has established more than 40 National Nature Reserves, serving an important purpose for the rich wildlife diversity. Moreover, three UNESCO Global Geoparks are open to visitors. The Shetland UNESCO Global Geopark is one of the biggest ones around here, offering an unforgettable “dive” into diverse geology – extinct volcanoes, sheer cliffs, a variety of rock formations, shifting sands.

Did you know that the first Dark Sky Park in the United Kingdom is located in Scotland? Galloway Forest Park is a favorite spot for those who cherish a beautiful love for stargazing. There are many discovery sites, where during fall and winter and if the weather allows it, you could also watch the Northern lights and the Milky Way.

Do not underestimate the shoreline – beautiful beaches await for you even in Scotland. To the north, on the Shetland archipelago with its many small islands, the beach is never too far away from you. The isles are also home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the UK. For example, on St Ninian’s isle you can combine duty with pleasure by taking the 6 km-long hiking circuit right along the beach and through the ocean over a natural sand bridge. If you want to get lost in the view during sunset, Tolsta Beach on the isle of Lewis is the place to be. Rest assured that you will not want to leave this place, and when you eventually do leave it, you will forever cherish the memory of the horizon reflecting into the sea waters.

Activities to consider

The possibilities to enjoy an outdoor activity here are literally endless. All across the country, hundreds of small companies and their instructors provide for an unforgettable experience for the region’s visitors. Except for hiking, you can also choose to go surfing, coasteering or canoeing through the beautiful gorges. During the winter months, you can visit one of Scotland’s five ski areas.

What sport works the best with the Scottish evergreen fields? Golf! Scotland is known as the home of golf and there are dozens if not hundreds of courses spread around. Some of the best and renowned international courses are the Old Course in St Andrews and Royal Troon, located southwest of Glasgow.

If you feel even more adventurous, then definitely try to ride a mountain bike – there are numerous bike centers offering tours and rentals. One of the most famous and among the biggest bike centers in Europe is the Glentress center in the West Scottish Borders area near the small town of Peebles. Another option for adventure enthusiasts (especially those travelling in a group) is to try the white-water rafting along the Orchy River. You can sign up through various websites for any date of your choice starting from October and until March.

Biodiversity

Incorporating a multiversity of soils and weather conditions, at the same time Scotland is home to many plant species otherwise typical for mountainous, woodland, river, oceanic and even tundra regions. Some of the rarest plants to find around the highlands are the Mountain Bearberry and the Twinflower and the Intermediate Wintergreen (very rare).

When it comes to animal species, the fauna is much more typical for the geolocation of Scotland. The Scottish wildcat is often spotted across the British Isles, however these animals have been listed as at risk of extinction. One of the most pronounced animals for the region, famously painted numerous times in the past, is the magnificent Scottish red deer stag. These deer prefer the higher hills of Scotland, so you will need to hike if you want to spot one.

When to visit

Due to its location, Scotland tends to hold lower temperatures even during the warm months. However, probably the best time to visit is either from late March to May or during the September-November period. In the springtime, temperatures range from around 6°C to 15°C. If you are going on a hike, always dress accordingly, as usually there is still snow in the highlands even during the warmer months. Of course, bear in mind the activities which you want to try as for some of them you can only sign up during specific months of the year.