Uist Forest Retreat

Reconnect with nature from the comfort of a rustic treetop cabin, set on the wild and exceptionally scenic ‘edge of Britain'.

There are fewer British locations more visually mesmerising than North Uist, part of the unspoilt and sparsely-populated Outer Hebrides. The simple life reigns supreme on this windswept edge of Britain, and you'll find plenty of natural wonders to tempt you with a stay at Uist Forest Retreat.

For starters, you can expect to make your acquaintance with several exceptional species of birdlife, including the white-tailed eagle, long eared owl, hen harrier and gold crest to name but a few (tip: don't forget to pack your camera).  

In fact, the two custom-designed, circular wooden cabins you'll find here are named after the resident birdlife in traditional Gaelic - choose from Cailleach-oidhche (owl) or Iolaire (eagle). Each cabin sleeps two people, making them an ideal romantic retreat for couples looking to reconnect with nature (and each-other!) in an unsurpassed natural location.

Based on an ancient wheelhouse design (indeed, you can see ample evidence of prehistoric wheelhouses scattered all over the islands), the secluded cabins have been especially designed to maximise your views of this unique setting, even from the bath!

Nestled within sheltered forest land, this is a designated National Scenic Area - and it shows. Far-reaching views stretch out to the tidal sands of Claddach Vallay and Vallay Island, as well as the magnificent beaches and ocean...and you'll be begging to explore it all from the moment you arrive.

Inside your cabin, you'll find everything you need for a relaxing stay, including a cosy king-sized bed, a well-equipped kitchen, a shower, and a warming wood-burning stove.

Of course, the cabins each boast floor-to-ceiling windows, a view-filled balcony area for morning coffee (perhaps accompanied by the local wandering deer)...and a free-standing bath positioned by a huge landscape window, so you won't miss out on a single moment of that awe-inspiring scenery.

This is life well and truly off the beaten track, and with no street lights disrupting the scenery, the sunsets and the dark skies above are truly glorious. There's a chance you'll see the famed northern lights in winter time, while in summer the days are long and languorous.  If you wanted to stay up all night, you may even have the chance to see the sun rising where it set within just a few hours.

While you'll have already gathered that this is a haven for keen birdwatchers, next to the forest you'll find a location on the RSPB Outer Hebrides Bird of Prey Trail - paradise! There are a whole wealth of walks to enjoy too, taking in the ever-changing landscapes from dramatic moorland and rocky coastlines, to deserted powder-sand beaches and the lush machair (Gaelic for "fertile plain"). Whichever route you take, you'll be accompanied by some of the most spectacular examples of flora, fauna and wildlife you'll ever see.

Meanwhile, the cabin's friendly owners, Angus and Kathryn, were born and raised on the islands, and both have a genuine passion for the area. You'll find them a wealth of local knowledge...and if you're able, you can even chat to Angus in Gaelic - his first language.  

A stay at Uist Forest Retreat offers you the natural world in all its wild, wondrous glory. So accept the invitation, and never look back.

Things to note

Prices include pick up from local airport or ferry terminal where possible, enquire for details. No pets or smoking permitted at the cabins.