Scottish hot tent experience

The headline had us too and with borders now open we reckon it’s time to plan some hot adventures. Walking holiday experts Scot Mountain Holidays have launched a new wilderness trip with Nordic ‘hot tipis’ and Highland ponies in Scotland’s Cairngorm Mountains. It’s an amazing way for visitors to experience the ‘real’ Scotland and its more remote corners with authentic hospitality and some creature comforts, all with a focus on sustainable tourism. At the end of each day of walking, a central Nordic tipi is heated by a wood burning stove where meals are cooked and enjoyed, clothes dried and limbs fully warmed whatever the weather outside. The sleeping tents are equipped with deep insulated camp mattresses, a top sheet and a luxuriously cosy down duvet to rival beds at home for ultimate comfort, and warm camp showers are available. Largely in the open air and in very small groups, each trip is tailored to ability, and is suitable for families as well as experienced hikers or those who just enjoy a good walk and being in the outdoors. Highland ponies adopt their traditional role as pack horses to carry the tents, camp beds, food and wood fuel, while guests carry little more than a day sack with their essentials and a change of clothing. The camping experience is hands-on, with tents assembled and dismantled by guests, following a full induction on the first afternoon. The hearty meals are freshly prepared from home grown vegetables and locally sourced meat. Cake o’clock is an important ritual every day, as are stories around the fire and baking fresh bread in the outdoors.