26 August, 2020
THIS COMPETITION IS NOW CLOSED.
As lockdown eases, we're craving the feeling of the wind whipping through hair as we dance across sprawling moors. We want to paddle in streams that trickle through thick forest and gather around campfires with wild grins plastered across our faces and dirt beneath our nails. But could we really forgo the comforts of a natty little bolthole?
Enter Glen Dye. On the cusp of the Highlands, this brooding, 30,000-acre private estate strikes the balance between nature and luxury in a lesser-trodden corner of Scotland- and we're giving you and your friends the chance to win a four-night stay in your pick of its five modern-rustic cabins and cottages.
You could opt for the pine-fringed Sawmill, where sleeping quarters come in the form of a revamped 50s Airstream and Keepers Hut, and a seed store has been reborn as a kitchen. Start the day with an outdoor shower; finish in the wood-fired hot tub. For more home comforts, try the modernised 19th-century North Lodge, which sleeps six and enjoys access to a private cabin on the banks of the River Dye.
Couples will enjoy The Bothy, which benefits from an outdoor barbecue and Swedish hot tub. Travelling in a larger group? Check in to either No.4 or No.5 Steading Cottage; the latter of which is backed by the stone-built Smiddy games space and a secluded outdoor entertaining area. Depending on availability, the winner can be accompanied by up to six guests - better start thinking about who your favourite people are.
Days at Glen Dye are best spent in sync with nature. Walk, cycle, run and climb until your heart's content; miles upon miles of tracks and trails are on your doorstep. After a bout of rain (this is Scotland, after all), grab a canoe and venture out on the river or find a comfy spot on the banks with a fishing rod - bonus points if you catch supper. Should you feel inclined to explore a little farther, visit the dramatic ruins of Dunnottar Castle, pootle about shops in Braemar or get a culture fix in Dundee - we love its V&A museum.
This is a place to let loose, to reconnect with nature and, most importantly, to unravel the stresses of the last few months away from the fray. Social distancing? That's not so much a necessity as something that happens on its own at Glen Dye.
For your chance to win this great escape, simply pop in your email below.
Full terms and conditions here.
Glen Dye is a private estate of 30,000 acres with five cabins and cottages at its centre, surrounded by wilderness forest and moorland on the banks of the River Dye. The landscape is wild, rugged and achingly beautiful, while each of the contemporary cabins and cottages allow you to go off-grid without leaving behind your creature comforts.
