Our best cabins in the Scottish Highlands

With the Rhiroy Hills and tall pines behind it and the still waters of Loch Broom glistening in front, Red Squirrel Cabin has one of the most picture-perfect settings in our collection. The sleek, stylish interior is deliberately uncluttered so it doesn’t distract from those views, while the walk-in shower, large kitchen and deck provide more than a wee dram of luxury. The owners are dedicated to environmental campaigning in Scotland and are in the process of rewilding, diversifying and protecting the local ecology. They run guided ecology walks and you can sample the fruits of their labour at the local organic farm.

Go for long hikes with your binoculars, brave some wild swimming and if you’re craving civilisation, head to the nearby town of Ullapool for shops and a surprising variety of dining experiences from seafood, to authentic pizzas and even a New Zealand-style café.

Calling this place a shed is a bit misleading, especially when you peek inside the Tardis-like interior to see the smooth concrete floors, big windows and stainless steel kitchen. You’ll definitely want one of these at the bottom of the garden when you get home. In the far north of Scotland, on the romantic Isle of Skye, your chances of seeing the Northern Lights are good if the conditions are right, so prepare to be awe-struck if you’re one of the lucky ones. By day, climb up Macleod’s Tables — the flat-topped mountains behind Black Shed — or bring your canoe and launch it from Colbost beach to see the seals and explore the off-shore islands.

Neist Point, one of the most famous lighthouses in Scotland, is a must-visit for spectacular sea views and the chance to spot minke whales passing through. The owners provide a welcome hamper and run a restaurant and deli three miles away in the village of Dunvegan, with a 10% discount for guests.

If you love nature but aren’t too bothered about seeing other humans, head straight to Inshriach Loghouse deep in the mighty Cairngorms. It’s surrounded by 200 acres of mature woodland and pasture with the famous Scottish salmon river, the Spey, running close by. In every direction you’ll find outdoor activities that deliver an endorphin high against a backdrop of jaw dropping scenery. Depending on the time of year, you can try everything from snowsports, white-water rafting and mountain biking to climbing, pony trekking and canoeing.

The rustic log cabin is a cosy sanctuary to kick back in after an invigorating day in the hills. Unwind with a session in the recycled horse box sauna, before a trip to the site’s licensed bar to sample their homemade small batch gin, then whip up a feast with goodies picked up at the Rothiemurchus Estate farm shop. You’ll sleep like a baby in the low-ceilinged bedroom under the eaves.

On the same Leckmelm Wood site as Red Squirrel Cabin, Pine Marten Cabin is a slightly bigger space with two king sized beds that can be split into singles. The cabins are 25 metres apart and separated by a small stream, neither overlooked as they face the spectacular loch. With a hammock, firepit and log benches outside, the cabin is designed for leisurely days padding around camp as well as being a brilliant base to explore the wilderness. Whether you’re out and about or sitting on the deck, there’s incredible wildlife to spot from otters, sea eagles and porpoises to deer, Highland cows and red squirrels.

Hill walkers will be in heaven with so many prominent local Munros to tick off including An Teallach and Stac Pollaidh. If you’re more of a water baby, hire paddle boards, go on a guided kayaking trip or admire the coastal scenery from a boat trip.