Call it a Glamping Bothy, call it a tiny home, call it whatever you like – there’s no denying that this little stone cottage has an irresistible appeal. It sits in the grounds of a 12th-century, turreted castle that could have housed Rapunzel and it looks so perfectly cute that it might have been home to Snow White. Mind you, this Aberdeenshire bothy might have proved a tight squeeze for her seven friends. Instead, it’s a perfect fit for two and, with its secluded setting in the woods, its open-plan design and its free-standing roll-top bath, it’s a great choice for a romantic stay or, perhaps, a solo retreat.
While a bothy is typically basic and provides a place to shelter from the elements, this one, of course, offers more. There’s an antique bed with an electric blanket to keep you warm on cold nights and a woodburning stove as well. But that’s not all: there’s wallpaper and artwork on some of the stone walls, stylish lights hang from the beams and there’s more than you need to cook a basic dinner. In fact, there’s a fitted kitchenette with a hob, a kettle, a fridge and – yes – the kitchen sink. The Victorian freestanding bath provides a rather luxurious place to keep clean and a private, flushing toilet and washbasin complete the picture. This place has everything you need to self cater in compact, tiny-home style.
Outside, your seating area (complete with barbecue) looks out into the trees of the Wardhill Estate. They are part of 400 acres of woodland that makes up part of one of the largest privately-owned estates in north-east Scotland. There’s also extensive parkland grazed by sheep and the castle itself, of course. That’s hired out as a separate concern so unfortunately you can’t tour inside – but the grounds are yours to explore. This is a grown-up place to stay and the things to do suit grown ups too: walking, whisky tours and tastings, golf and fine food.
Whether you are looking for a romantic weekend or just want to escape the hectic schedule of the city. The Bothy has an open plan layout with a woodburning stove. You can cosy up in a luxurious antique bed equipped with an electric blanket and indulge yourself in the beautiful freestanding victorian bath.
