Catchpenny Safari Lodges in Fife is drawing attention from travelers seeking an alternative to traditional camping, offering an upscale glamping experience along the coastline between Elie and St Monans.
The site, owned and operated by Alex and Tara Nairn, features eight safari-style lodges designed to combine the comforts of home with the natural beauty of the Scottish coast.
The lodges are situated on a grassy escarpment overlooking the Firth of Forth, providing panoramic views stretching from the Isle of May to the Pentland Hills.
Constructed with sustainability in mind, each lodge is powered by a combination of wind turbines and solar panels.
The off-grid energy approach is increasingly seen as a draw for eco-conscious travelers, and the model may interest operators in the outdoor hospitality sector considering renewable energy integration.
Inside the lodges, visitors will find fully equipped kitchens, wood-burning stoves, quality bed linens, and hot-water showers, according to The Sunday Times.
The accommodations include three bedrooms, one of which features an elevated king-size cabin that has proven popular with younger guests. “The lodges are the Taj Mahal of glamping,” said one guest. “They have everything a happy camper could wish for.”
Without televisions, the site encourages guests to engage more directly with nature and each other.
A visitor noted that their child quickly made friends with neighboring campers, replacing screen time with outdoor play. The location also sits along the Fife Coastal Path, giving guests direct access to walking trails and tidal pools.
Nearby attractions are also a feature of the Catchpenny experience. Bowhouse, located a mile up the coast, hosts a variety of artisan vendors, including food producers and craftspeople.
For those visiting between July 12 and 20, Largo Arts Week offers the opportunity to view the work of more than 50 local artists in homes, gardens, and community spaces.
Cambo Gardens, another regional highlight, provides families with access to woodland paths, a walled garden, wildflower meadows, and a play area designed to engage children’s imaginations.
Located near Crail, the estate is a frequent destination for guests staying at Catchpenny, particularly those looking for family-friendly activities.
Rates at Catchpenny start at £425 for a four-night, self-catering stay for up to six people. More information is available at catchpennyelie.co.uk.
For business owners in the outdoor hospitality industry, Catchpenny Safari Lodges represents a case study in delivering high-end, sustainable accommodations without sacrificing the core experience of nature immersion.
Its approach to guest comfort, eco-friendly operations, and integration with local cultural and food destinations may offer insight into how glamping operators can meet rising consumer expectations while promoting regional tourism.