With holiday plans severely limited, we’ve asked writer, photographer and the founder of Hidden Scotland, Jack Cairney, to share the best modern holiday homes in Scotland to give us something to look forward to. These architect-designed spaces are the current source of our post-lockdown holiday daydreams, with thoughts of hiking up a Munro, soaking in a bath or maybe just staring out across the landscape next to a roaring fire all playing on heavy rotation. 

Jack Cairney: The Scottish landscape is the perfect antidote to modern life, a chance to slow down, or stop altogether, to observe, breathe and relax. I’ve found that the most memorable holidays are often defined by the quality of where you stay, which in this landscape means a well-designed holiday cottage that brings you closer to nature while providing a sense of calm and relaxation. Here are six of the most inspiring and unusual properties for a stay in Scotland.

Harlosh Black H

This stealthy hideout cuts an angular profile into the dramatic landscape of Isle of Skye’s west coast – a markedly modern addition to this ancient setting. It was conceived as a minimalist space in which little distracts from the main event (the views) and, as such, a simple palette of oak and concrete comes together with low-key Scandi furniture to restful effect. Put the wood-burning stove on, make a coffee, take a seat and stare out onto Lock Bracadale: this is Skye at its best. 

Westside Woodshed

The Woodshed’s contemporary Scandinavian design features whitewashed timber cladding and locally-sourced stone walls: a secret hideaway that blends effortlessly into the dramatic backdrop of the Pentland Hills, just 10 miles from the heart of Edinburgh. Enormous windows flood The Woodshed with natural light and reveal the landscape in its ever-changing splendour. Whether you’re absorbing the panorama from the comfort of the cosy interior in winter or the invigorating warmth of the woodfired hot tub in summer, it’s difficult to imagine a more reclusive yet inspiring haven on the doorstep of one of the world’s great capital cities.

Wildlife Croft

The tranquil Sleat peninsula in south Skye is the setting for Wildlife Croft, a rural retreat from which you can explore the entire island. The modern cottage, Stonechat Bothy, has underfloor heating and expansive windows for a cosy and welcoming ambience and its isolated position offers an unforgettable view, not only over Knoydart and the imposing Ben Sgritheall, but also of the night sky, with the potential to witness the Northern Lights. Woodland walks and wildlife spotting are bound to feature on your to-do list, returning at the end of the day to the comforting embrace of this snug home.

The Henhouse

You might recognise this award-winning eco-home from the numerous television programmes and publications it’s been featured in. 15 Fiscavaig – The Henhouse – teeters on the brink of Loch Bracadale and is constructed from sustainable, locally sourced materials to reflect the natural beauty of the Isle of Skye, something which is further embraced by the large landscape-framing windows.  

The open-plan living space is kitted-out with a Morso wood burner, which provids gentle warmth in the depths of winter, while the reading spot with views of Macleod’s Tables is perfect for some downtime whatever the season. With an eye to sustainability and minimal energy consumption, a stay in The Henhouse is likely to strengthen your affinity with the natural world.

Glen Dye

Surrounded by wild forests and untamed moorland, and overlooked by the immense granite tor of Clachnaben, Glen Dye enjoys an unrivalled location; for unsurpassable beauty and unbreakable silence, it’s hard to recommend a more suitable retreat. Each cottage at Glen Dye has outdoor, private woodfired hot tubs to soak in every season or the converted 1955 Airstream Safari caravan, which is nestled in secluded pine woods, offers a homely stay with a fully restored foresters’ kitchen and outdoor shower. Whichever option you choose, Glen Dye’s combination of untouched Scottish countryside and considered living spaces presents an unforgettable experience.

57 Nord

There’s no better way to escape the stresses and strains of modern life than immersing yourself in the slow travel experience, and 57 Nord is custom-made for a leisurely exploration of the Scottish Highlands. Situated on the scenic coastline of Wester Ross, 57 Nord is isolated enough to absorb the mesmerising landscapes free from the summer crowds yet easily accessible by car. Fusing Scottish design and Scandinavian architecture, 57 Nord’s glass walls bring the untamed outdoors within, with views of Loch Duich and the Kintail Mountains, while a walk-in monsoon shower, luxury mattress, outdoor decking and organic bath products are the little extras that make relaxing even easier.