by Richard Hammond
A new glampsite has opened in the Ochils, Perthshire, central Scotland, and the good news is that you can get there by public transport.
'Enchanted Glamping' is a collection of luxury yurts (and a converted horse-box) at Alexander House, just a few miles from Gleneagles railway station from where you can walk or cycle to the camp where there's a keybox for you to pick up the keys for a contact-less check-in.
Alexander Estate is in Perthshire’s beautiful Ochil Hills (the house itself is also available for a self catering). The yurts are tucked away in a sheltered corner or amongst Scots Pines with views of the countryside. Facilities include private bathrooms with roll top baths, eco-friendly products and flushing loos, wood burners and woodfired hot tubs (there is no Wi-Fi nor TV).
One of Scotland’s newest Gin Distilleries, the Gate House, offers tastings and tours location at the end of the drive. Local massage therapist Lyn offers a range of treatments from a 30-minute facial to a full body massage for 55 minutes (£30).
Gleneagles is just 3 miles away, where you can play golf, visit the spa or dine at the two Michelin starred Andrew Farlie restaurant. For something simpler - such as local beef, eggs, sausages and oatmeal - you can stock up on supplies at Gloagburn Farm Shop or pick up fish and chips or an Indian take out in Auchterarder village. Alternatively it's a 7-mile hike along the old Drove Road through the hills for a pint and a bite at the 18th century Tormaukin Inn overlooking the river in the glen of Glendevon.
Walkers can cross the lower level glens or tackle a full traverse of the Ochil Hills. There's a long range of steeply sided hills stretching 25 miles from the Firth of Tay to Stirling with names including Whitewisp, Steele's Knowe, Craigentaggert, The Nebit, Bengengie. Ben Cleuch is the highest at just over 700m.
The Yurts are cost from £150 a night - minimum two night stay, for up to 2 adults only.
The converted Leyland Horsebox costs from £150 a night - minimum two night stay, for up to 2 adult and 2 kids (aged up to 10 years). Dogs are welcome for an additional £25 per stay.
To book or for more information visit www.enchantedglamping.co.uk or call 01764 910320.
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Covid 19 - bookings, flexibility and social distancing
Currently Enchanted Glamping is closed due to Covid 19 restrictions, however bookings are being taken from 15th July onwards and it says it will be following all social distancing and cleaning guidelines recommended by VisitScotland and the Scottish Government. For future bookings, full payment is requested 30 days before travel and should restrictions not enable the booking to be fulfilled guests will be offered the opportunity to rebook alternative dates within the next 12 months.