Nowadays, 'me time' is a real luxury; and the best place to get it is out in the middle of nowhere, without the distractions of phones, emails and televisions. Not all of us are suited to roughing it like campers (i'm definitely not), so that's where 'glamping' comes into play- all the relaxing benefits of camping without the stressful negatives of finding heat, pitching a tent and having no electricity.
Wigwam holidays have over 50 locations in the UK, each with solid, spacious,wooden wigwams for you to take a break from the rat race. All the wigwams have locked doors, lovely warm heating, double glazed windows, fridges, kettles, outdoor firepits for cooking, and plug points. Other than that, they are bare, and ready to turn into your own luxury retreat. You can also get the wigwam already supplied with made-up beds (duvets, pillows and sheets), with towels and a with hospitality tray by choosing the Luxury Wigwam package which is only slightly more expensive than the regular options.
I recently stayed at Strathfillan Wigwam Village in Scotland; located on a working farm in the heart of the West Highlands, within the Loch Lomond & Trossochs National Park.
Strathfillan Wigwam Village has it's own shop where you can get the firewood you need to start your barbecue, and (if you are adventurous enough) get some of their exotic meats to roast- including kangaroo, camel and zebra! The staff are friendly and there if you need them; but otherwise they leave you in peace; which is great. The location also has a communal kitchen to cook in if the barbecue doesn't appeal; but I didn't use this as there is a cafe just down the road in Crianlarich called 'The Green Welly Stop' which opens late and makes delicious homemade pizzas and other specials to takeaway for the nights that you don't want to barbecue.
There are also plenty of activities to do whilst at Strathfillan Wigwam Village if you don't just want to laze about. There are gorgeous woodland walks, and you can even pan for gold; which is great fun. I spent most of the time reading novels though, and it was heaven!
I had a fabulously relaxing time, and they also welcome dogs to join the holiday. The only negative to Strathfillan Wigwam Village is the existence of only one communal toilet block. I was staying right at the top of the complex, and had to walk in the middle of the night down paths to go to the toilet. It did add a sense of adventure though; but you definitely need a torch as it's not well lit.
To find out more information about the sites across the UK, and to book, visit: Wigwam Holidays
A version of this recently appeared in Twinkle Style & Travel Magazine by Laura Pearson-Smith.