Rediscover the simple life with these gloriously back-tonature staycations that kids and adults will adore
FEATURE ANDRÉA CHILDS
GLEN DYE CABINS & COTTAGES
At Glen Dye you will feel deep within the Scottish wilderness without having to sacrifice the comforts of home. This is the vision of Charlie and Caroline Gladstone, who renovated what was once abunch of dilapidated houses and farm buildings. Glen Dye is now afun, sustainably-minded retreat for all ages to enjoy outdoor living. There’s room to roam, vegetable gardens, atiny cinema, and big starry nights to admire. Festoon lights twinkle in the pine trees and wood-fired hot tubs and outdoor rainfall showers allow you to connect with nature as you unwind. If camping isn’t your thing but you want to introduce the kids to the great outdoors, this is the place. Rooms The accommodation is eclectic: an American Airstream trailer, atin-clad bothy, converted farm buildings, aspruced-up caravan, and acoach house that sleeps 12 are among the mix. The décor is bright and homely, with mismatched vintage furniture, kilim rugs and log burner. For small families, The Hay Loft and Cottage No.2 are the perfect size, sleeping four, with two bedrooms and aliving space filled with books and games. For larger parties, Cuttieshillock (with its lovely garden) and North Lodge (with its river access) both sleep six. Travel cots and highchairs are provided free of charge, and all accommodations have wood-fired hot tubs. Food Each dwelling has its own Big Green Egg charcoal grill and awell-stocked kitchen, and some have Gozney pizza ovens, too. An on site shop sells store-cupboard staples, meat, fish, local cheeses and homemade ready meals, as well as seasonal vegetables from their own garden and fresh eggs from the Glen Dye hens.
Activities From guided foraging to bushcraft (kids will go wild for the fire-lighting and axe skills), and more grownup experiences like whisky tasting and cold-water swimming therapy, there’s plenty here to keep everyone busy. There’s also acommunity cinema in the woodshed, a cosy spot for guests and locals to enjoy films with fresh popcorn. On wet days, take cover in The Glen Dye Arms, aBYOB pub with atoasty log fire and record player.
Nearby It’s blissfully remote here. There are miles of forest trails for adventurers of all ages, or go for afamily walk up Clachnaben for great views. The charming fishing village of Stonehaven is perfect for astroll and some fish and chips. There are also the craggy ruins of Dunnottar Castle and the grand royal residence of Balmoral Castle nearby for topping up on local history.
