When you think of a “luxury holiday,” what comes to mind? We recently spotted an article about lucury walking holidays and we were curious, so we read it. It didn’t mention a single thing which we consider to be important and which are guests have mentioned they appreciate. Consider how you much time you have to organise and research everything you want to do, then imagine the luxury of having someone else take on that burden and free up your time to enjoy the adventure. Dry clothes and boots every day; delicious food cooked for you and available when you finish the day out on the hill no matter the time; a qualified and experienced leader … the list goes on.
For many, the word “luxury” doesn’t immediately conjure images of hiking trails and muddy paths. But at Scot Mountain Holidays, we believe luxury is less about glitz and more about the richness of the experience. A luxury walking holiday isn’t necessarily about marble bathrooms and butler service—it’s about comfort, quality, connection, and care. We (modestly) think we’ve hit on the right formula for our guests to experience “luxury”; or at least our definition of it here in the Highlands:
One of the most indulgent aspects of a luxury walking holiday is handing over the logistics. No need to worry about which trail to take, where to stop for lunch, or what the weather might do next. A local guide—someone who lives and breathes the landscape—makes all the difference.
At Scot Mountain Holidays, we tailor our guided walks to match your interests and abilities. Whether you want a gentle ramble through heather-strewn glens or a more challenging hike up remote Munros, your guide ensures you get the most out of every day—without the stress of planning it yourself.
Luxury on the trail doesn’t have to mean white tablecloths, but it does mean food that’s thoughtfully prepared and nourishing—especially after a full day outdoors.
We believe a walking holiday should feed the soul and the appetite. Our guests often tell us the food is one of the highlights of their stay. At Fraoch Lodge, we serve hearty home-cooked meals made with local and seasonal ingredients. From fresh-baked bread to garden-grown herbs and locally sourced meats, our menus are crafted to delight and satisfy.
After a day’s hike, luxury is a hot shower, a soft bed, and a warm, welcoming space to relax. You won’t find gold-plated taps at Fraoch Lodge, but you will find everything you need for deep rest and recovery: underfloor heating, a drying room for your gear, a communal fireplace for evening chats, and cosy rooms that feel like home.
We also offer a unique Highland wilderness glamping experience for those who want to get even closer to nature—without sacrificing comfort. Think campfires, real beds, and stargazing in the pure Highland night air.
Luxury is also about time—time to connect with your surroundings, with your travel companions, and with yourself. In a small group setting, there’s space for real conversation, shared laughs, and unforgettable moments. You’re not just another booking number; you’re part of the adventure.
Whether you’re travelling solo, with a partner, or with family, our small-group approach ensures you’re well looked after, personally known, and genuinely welcomed.
In today’s world, many travellers consider responsible tourism part of the luxury experience. Supporting local businesses, treading lightly on the land, and engaging with authentic culture matters.
At Scot Mountain Holidays, we take environmental responsibility seriously—from our use of local produce and eco-friendly practices to our commitment to low-impact travel. Walking, after all, is one of the most sustainable ways to explore.
We pride ourselves in being able to dry your kit out in almost all circumstances on our trips.
Dry clothes & boots for the morning
Is it the absence of stress? A sense of achievement? Beautiful views shared with like-minded people? Or maybe it’s the rare chance to switch off and reconnect with nature.
Whatever luxury means to you, we invite you to experience it with us here in the Cairngorms. Because the real luxury isn’t found in flashy extras—it’s found in the richness of the journey.
Wild Camping in Scotland: Freedom, Responsibility, and the Roadside Problem
Scotland is often hailed as a camper’s paradise—home to some of the last truly wild spaces in Britain, with the rare freedom to roam and pitch a tent in remote landscapes. But in recent years, that freedom has sparked debate. Is wild camping under threat? And more importantly, do we all mean the same thing when we talk about “wild camping”?
At Scot Mountain Holidays, we think it’s time to draw a clear line between true wild camping and roadside camping—because they’re not the same thing at all.
True wild camping is what we offer on our guided expeditions: camping on foot, far from roads, buildings, and car parks. It usually means hiking for at least an hour into the hills or forests, carrying everything you need in your pack, and choosing a spot with care—leaving no trace behind.
It’s peaceful, immersive, and quiet. You’re unlikely to see another soul. The kind of place where red deer graze nearby and golden eagles might sweep overhead.
This is the kind of camping protected by Scotland’s access laws and encouraged under the Scottish Outdoor Access Code—when done responsibly.
In contrast, roadside camping often involves pitching up just off a layby, or on the edge of a loch accessible by car. Many of these spots have become magnets for crowds during the warmer months. And unfortunately, this kind of camping has led to serious problems: litter, human waste, fire damage, and noise pollution—not to mention strained relationships with local communities.
This isn’t what the Scottish Outdoor Access Code means by “wild camping.” In fact, many of the issues now being debated—such as whether camping should be further restricted or permitted only in certain zones—stem directly from the impact of this inappropriate roadside camping, not from the quiet camper tucked away in the hills.
Scotland’s unique access laws are something to be cherished. But they rely on a shared understanding that freedom comes with responsibility. If we lose that balance, we risk losing the very freedoms that make this land so special.
At Scot Mountain Holidays, we teach and practise true Leave No Trace principles. On our wild camping trips, we carry out everything—even food waste. We camp in small groups. Our food is homemade and packed sustainably at Fraoch Lodge—no foil packets or single-use plastics here.
This is wild camping done properly. The kind of experience that fosters a deep connection with nature, not just a convenient night outdoors.
The conversation around camping in Scotland isn’t going away anytime soon. But if we’re going to find the right balance, we need to be precise with our language—and our actions.
Let’s stop lumping all campers together. Let’s celebrate and protect the tradition of truly wild camping—while working to address the challenges of roadside and inappropriate camping through education, infrastructure, and clearer guidelines.
Because if you’ve ever woken up to the mist curling over a Highland loch with no sound but the birdsong… you’ll know it’s worth preserving.
Looking for a True Wild Camping Experience?
Join one of our guided expeditions or Highland Wilderness Glamping adventures and discover what wild camping really means—quiet, nourishing, and unforgettable.
There’s something truly magical about watching your children discover something new. From forest trails filled with ancient Scots pines to the glistening waters of hidden lochans, the Cairngorms National Park is a giant outdoor playground for adventurous families—and Fraoch Lodge is your perfect base to explore it all.
Whether you’re travelling with young children, energetic teens, or even grandparents in tow, there are countless ways to enjoy the wild heart of the Highlands together. Here’s our guide to age-appropriate adventures that bring the generations closer while making the most of this spectacular setting.
Little legs don’t need to miss out on big adventures! At Fraoch Lodge, we know the secret trails and gentle routes that are just right for curious explorers aged 5–11.
Summer foraging and wildlife spotting
Children love the thrill of discovering what nature has to offer—and the Cairngorms are full of tasty treasures and wild wonders. On a gentle family walk through the Caledonian pine forest, we’ll help you identify edible plants like wood sorrel, wild bilberries, and blaeberries (in season). Keep your eyes peeled for red squirrels darting between the trees, roe deer in the glades, and the distinctive call of the crested tit. It’s a fun, hands-on way for young adventurers to connect with the natural world—safely and respectfully.
Andy can help you on a half day walk of exploration or you can join a ranger walk (if there are any scheduled during your visit). Or you can see what you can find on your own, but it is always more productive to tap into the local expertise.
Woodland Cycling Trails
The flat, wide trails around Glenmore and Loch Morlich are ideal for young cyclists. We’ll help you plan a route with plenty of snack stops, wild play areas, and safe space to roam. Cycle hire is available nearby, and we can even recommend balance-bike-friendly options for little ones just starting out. Don’t forget – Boat of Garten also has it’s very own pump track popular with wee bikers and skateboarders alike.
Paddling at Loch Garten or Loch Morlich
When the sun shines, families love to wade and splash along the sandy edges of the lochs. Pack a picnic from Fraoch Lodge, take a dip, skim some stones, and watch the osprey soar overhead. There’s nothing better.
Family-Friendly Hikes
Short walks like the Green Lochan (An Lochan Uaine) route are perfect for small feet and reward you with a magical, emerald-coloured loch said to be coloured by the local fairies. Myth, mystery, and manageable distances—what more could you ask for?
Teenagers crave challenge, freedom, and a sense of achievement. The Cairngorms deliver all three in spades—and we’re experts in finding experiences that make teens put their phones away (willingly!).
Summit Challenges
If your family is up for a bit more adventure, we’ll guide you to lesser-known summits like Meall a’ Bhuachaille—a manageable hillwalk that still gives you those epic “on top of the world” views. Perfect for teens who want bragging rights!
Mountain Biking in Glenlivet or Laggan Wolftrax
Adrenaline-loving teens can test their skills at one of the local trail centres, with routes ranging from beginner to black-grade. Bike hire and guiding can be arranged, and we’ll pack you off with a hearty breakfast and plenty of post-ride snacks.
Rock Climbing and Gorge Walking
We can link you up with trusted local activity providers offering supervised outdoor adventures. From scrambling up riverbeds to abseiling down crags, these experiences give teens the thrills they love—with the safety parents appreciate.
Wilderness Photography & Instagram Walks
For the creatively inclined, a walk up to Ryvoan Bothy or around the Cairngorm Ski area is packed with photogenic moments—ancient stone walls, dramatic skies, and stunning Highland backdrops.
Traveling with grandparents, parents, and kids? The Cairngorms shine when it comes to inclusive activities that suit all generations. We’re happy to help tailor the perfect balance of comfort and adventure.
Rothiemurchus Estate
From gentle strolls to farm shop visits, wildlife hides, and scenic viewpoints, Rothiemurchus is ideal for relaxed, nature-rich outings. Feed the deer, visit the working farm, or enjoy tea and cake while the kids run free.
Scenic Walks with a Story
Our guided low-level walks are a big hit with older guests. You’ll hear local legends, learn about Highland history, and discover flora and fauna you’d never notice without a guide. Routes like the Dell Woods or Inshriach Forest trails offer shade, peace, and benches for a breather.
Meals Together, Memories Forever
At Fraoch Lodge, our family-style dining brings everyone together at the end of the day. With home-cooked meals using local ingredients (and plenty of kid-approved favourites), it’s a chance to relax, reconnect, and plan tomorrow’s adventures.
Your Home-from-Home
Our family-friendly rooms, drying room, and warm hospitality make Fraoch Lodge a stress-free hub for exploring. We’re happy to help with logistics, packed lunches, gear hire, and insider tips—so you can spend more time enjoying the Highlands and less time organising.
We’re a family-run business who’ve raised our own child right here in the Cairngorms. We understand what it takes to make a holiday work for every age, from buggy-friendly strolls to big-day-out mountain hikes.
Our guided walking holidays can be tailored for families—or you can base yourself at the Lodge and explore under your own steam, with plenty of advice from us.
At Fraoch Lodge, your family adventure begins the moment you arrive.
We’d love to help you create unforgettable Highland memories.
Get in touch to ask about family-friendly availability
Or browse our family adventures page for suggested itineraries
Because the best kind of family time happens outdoors.
Wild Camping food , the Gourmet Way: What’s on the Menu One Hour from the Nearest Road?
If your idea of wild camping food involves a foil packet, a spork, and a vague sense of disappointment, it’s time to reset your expectations. At Scot Mountain Holidays, we believe that wild camping—true wild camping, where your tent is pitched at least an hour’s hike from the nearest road—should never mean compromising on food. Quite the opposite.
We take pride in serving hearty, home-cooked meals, freshly prepared and dehydrated at Fraoch Lodge before each expedition. Our wild camping menu isn’t just about sustenance—it’s about celebration. It’s part of the experience, a moment to savour, surrounded by heather, hill, and wildlilfe.
Each evening, we serve a two-course dinner, piping hot and packed with flavour. Imagine tucking into a velvety Thai spinach soup or a warming carrot and cardamom blend, accompanied by freshly baked bannocks or damper bread—cooked right there at camp.
For mains, you might enjoy a rich sausage casserole, or perhaps a comforting lentil spaghetti bolognese for a vegetarian twist. The beauty of preparing everything ourselves means we can tailor meals to suit the group—without compromising on nutrition or taste.
And yes, we sometimes go a step further. When the mood strikes (and the weather allows), we offer desserts: wild berry fruit crumble, or our personal favourite—camp cranachan, made with toasted oats, whisky cream (alcohol-free options available), and seasonal berries. Just because you’re off-grid doesn’t mean you can’t indulge a little.
You won’t find a single commercial packaged meal in our rucksacks. All our expedition meals are made from scratch at Fraoch Lodge, then dehydrated and portioned into reusable or recyclable packaging. It’s part of our commitment to minimising waste and making outdoor adventures more sustainable.
Not only does this approach reduce our environmental footprint, it also ensures we know exactly what’s in each dish—because we made it ourselves.
The same menu makes an appearance on our Highland Wilderness Glamping adventures—complete with pony support to carry your kit, and a few extra comforts. If wild camping sounds appealing but you’re not sure about carrying a heavy pack, this is the ideal alternative. You’ll still eat like a king or queen under the stars, but without the physical demands of a full backpacking expedition.
Happy campers on a Tentipi weekend
These trips are about more than just walking. They’re about stepping away from the noise and bustle, slowing down, and rediscovering the pleasure of simple things—good food, good company, and wild places. Meals become a highlight of the day, not just for the flavour but for the connection they create—with each other and with the landscape.
If you’re dreaming of a truly immersive experience in the Scottish Highlands—where even the food is part of the adventure—our guided wild camping expeditions or Highland Wilderness Glamping trips might be just what you’re looking for.
Ready to Taste the Wild?
Join us for an unforgettable journey through the Cairngorms. Bring your boots, your appetite, and your sense of adventure.
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Fraoch Lodge, Deshar Road,
Boat of Garten,
PH24 3BN
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