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As a long-time resident of London, my soul sometimes craves peaceful isolation, so I was excited to venture out to the Scottish Highlands for a little reprieve from the metropolitan crowds.
My partner booked this unique and wonderfully remote Airship 002 on the banks of the Sound of Mull as a Christmas gift, and we were looking forward to the chance to get away. It featured cozy quarters inside a quirky architectural structure, and—best of all for creatives like me—a writing desk overlooking the picturesque land and water.
Crossing the border from England by car, we skirted the banks of Loch Lomond, marveling at the snow-capped peaks, and caught the Corran Ferry to the Morvern Peninsula—dubbed the best kept secret in Scotland. Keeping our eyes peeled for golden eagles, we made our way past rolling hills and ancient woodlands—scenery that emulated the drive Daniel Craig’s Bond takes in Skyfall.
Our host provided an easy-to-follow hand-drawn map, and we arrived at the impressive residence crafted from glass, steel, and aluminum. The Airship cut a striking contemporary figure against the natural landscape and moody March sky.
Despite the stark exterior, once inside we found plenty of creature comforts, including a comfy queen-size bed with extra blankets, locally-made toiletries in the bigger-than-expected bathroom, and a pile of logs waiting by the wood burner.
With the nearest store some eight miles away, it was imperative to stock up on supplies before arrival. As evening drew in, we cooked a casserole on the countertop stove and dined on the nifty fold-out table. Happily full, we donned our down jackets to enjoy a bracing drink on the balcony (a dram of local whisky, naturally, bought from the appointment-only Nc’Nean distillery shop on the nearby Drimnin Estate). With minimal light pollution, we were treated to a stunning starry night sky.
Retreating inside to the warmth of the Airship’s wood burner, my partner selected a station on the radio whilst I chose some reading material from the Airship’s extensive collection of books. Curled up on the comfy sofa bench, I spent a happy hour enjoying the peaceful nature.
Waking the next morning, we peeked out of the porthole windows to see rain clouds overhead. Undeterred, we pulled on our waterproof gear and headed out. Passing through eerie woods (think Sleepy Hollow vibes) and crossing gushing streams, we arrived at the picturesque water’s edge. Here, the corrugated iron hut that marks Drimnin Ferry Landing provided just enough shelter from the approaching storm to eat our packed lunch.
A water taxi across the Sound of Mull departs from this spot just twice a month, and only from April through October—a testament to the area’s secluded nature. The 45-minute transfer drops you at the picture-postcard town of Tobermory on the Isle of Mull, with its brightly-colored harbor houses. Visitors can take in an exhibition at An Tobar (the local arts center housed in a refurbished Victorian primary school), pick up handmade soaps and wax melts at the Isle of Mull Soap Co., or feast at Fisherman’s Pier Fish & Chip Van, a winner of 2023’s inaugural Scottish Chippy Awards, where specials might include lobster tails in garlic butter.
Tobermory Bay Tours also depart from the town, and offer a one-hour outing with the chance to glimpse white-tailed eagles, red deer, porpoises, dolphins, and otters, or you could head on the water for a 90-minute gin and whisky-tasting cruise.
Alas, with no water taxis to be had and the weather worsening, we retreated to the airship to see out the storm over a board game and another dram (or two) of whisky. As wind and rain battered the solid structure, the view across the water was lost to dark mist, but we were warm and comfortable, tucked snugly inside the airship.
More eye-catching Airbnbs in Scotland
The Tabernacle, Perth and Kinross
This quaint chapel served the nearby market town of Aberfeldy before being lovingly reconstructed on its current site, where it enjoys uninterrupted views across the Tay Valley. Its beauty extends inside, with two bedrooms and stylish design details that complement the splendid wooden structure.
Endrick Escape Eco Pod, Stirling
Modern conveniences abound in this small sci-fi-esque space—think mood lighting, underfloor heating, and power-operated blackout blinds. Driving distance to Loch Lomond, it offers both immersion in nature and all the luxuries of modern living.
The Treehouse, Dumfries and Galloway
This quirky treehouse just 30 minutes from the English border is an off-grid retreat that boasts a private hot tub, a wealth of nearby walking trails, and floor-to-ceiling windows to take in the greenery of the Caerlaverock Estate, the Solway Estuary, and the beautiful Criffel hill.
The Bridge House, Perth and Kinross
If an actual castle is more your vibe, they don’t come more charming than this two-bedroom stay spanning the River Ardle. There’s a spiral stone staircase, a small bathroom with river views, and, if that isn’t quirky enough for you, a small sauna tucked inside one of the turrets.
