The Lapwing Shepherds Hut at Atholl Estate didn't just meet our expectations; it absolutely shattered even our highest ones! This gem is in a truly perfect location: an easy two-hour drive from Edinburgh and just a short ride to charming towns like Pitlochry, Dunkeld, and Perth. It's wonderfully remote enough to offer unparalleled tranquility, yet perfectly close to amenities for comfort and exploration.
The hut itself was far more comfortable than we'd anticipated. Despite its compact size, it felt perfectly adequate, especially since you have acres of private space right outside your door. The water was hot and the shower pressure great, and even at 6'4", I can confirm the bed provided the most comfortable sleep we've had in ages. We enjoyed absolute privacy; save for a neighbor about 20 meters away and some sheep nearby, we had practically no one for company, which was exactly what we desired for our city escape.
Beyond the hut, the location serves as an excellent basecamp for both invigorating hikes and scenic drives. We embarked on a stunning loop drive up to Killin, Glen Coe, Fort William, and Ben Nevis, stopping at the House of Bruar and Blair Atholl Castle on the way back – a thoroughly satisfying circuit of around six hours maximum driving. Inside the hut, the fridge, kettle, hob, and oven are perfect for preparing any meal you fancy.
We initially stayed for only four nights but could easily have stayed, and desperately wanted to stay, for significantly longer. This is unequivocally the one place I'm certain I'll return to before long. It receives my most enthusiastic recommendation!
A quick tip for future visitors: If you're renting a vehicle, opt for one with some ground clearance for the path leading up to the huts. We managed with an extremely low-slung coupe but had to be much slower and more careful than ideal. Any SUV would navigate it perfectly.