Between Glasgow and the Highlands lie Strathblane, Blanefield and Craigmarloch Lodge. It’s a handy spot that’s incredibly easy to get to from the city and within walking distance of amenities – but it also has the great outdoors on the doorstep. It’s on the edge of the Campsie Fells and the route of the West Highland and John Muir Ways with Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park less than half an hour’s scenic drive away. There’s no denying that this is a good location – but what of Craigmarloch Lodge itself? Happily, it’s rather good too: offering self-catering, studio-style accommodation in a Nordic tiny home with a hot tub outside on the deck.
Whether you use the lodge as a base for exploring or as a bolthole for a weekend away, it’ll more than do the trick. To be honest, it stretches the boundary of glamping. It’s an insulated and heated place to stay for two – with space for a child, a baby or a dog if you need it. It offers electricity, WiFi, a Smart TV and a modern bathroom with a power shower in addition to a made-up super king size bed. Standing at the far end of host James’ long garden and backed by mature trees, it’s a semi-secluded spot with the added reassurance of a knowledgeable and helpful host nearby. He and his wife are the type to go the extra mile and their hosting skills help make stays here special – offering pick ups from the local train station and providing little extras, if required, for birthday and celebration stays.
The lodge has handy kitchen equipment to make hot drinks and simple meals but the location means you don’t have to use all that. There’s a great coffee shop and a great pub within easy walking distance that’ll tempt you not to. There’s also a whisky distillery, the Glengoyne, a couple of miles up the road and a country park a couple of miles down it. Not forgetting, of course, all the outdoor adventure that beckons you further into the hills and Highlands that are within easy reach of here.
This peaceful and self contained studio is situated in the village of Blanefield within walking distance of local shops, café and pub. There is a local bus service to Glasgow and Stirling. Milngavie, a 10 min drive away, provides a train service to Glasgow and Edinburgh. Loch Lomond National Park and the Trossachs are a short drive away. There are many renowned country walks, Mugdock Park, The John Muir Way and West Highland Way. Glengoyne Distillery and several golf courses are close by.
