A proposal to establish a new glamping site in Easter Ross has been submitted to the Highland Council, with the applicant aiming to introduce eight pods as part of a farm diversification effort.
The planning application, lodged by Duncan Scott, outlines plans for the development on agricultural land at Cadbollmount Farm, located northeast of Hilton of Cadboll and accessible via a minor road connected to the B9165.
According to a supporting statement submitted with the application by development agents Glampitect, the glamping site would offer “contemporary, luxury holiday accommodation” available year-round for short-term stays.
Permanent residency would not be permitted. The development is intended to provide a rural tourism option within travel distance of Inverness, appealing to both local and national visitors.
The proposal includes several supporting facilities such as a communal sauna, permeable tracks, parking areas, footpaths, secure bicycle storage, a storage hut, and recycling and refuse storage.
Plans also call for the installation of an electric vehicle charging point. Landscaping work would be minimal, with some ground levelling and the planting of native trees, hedges, shrubs, and wildflowers to help integrate the site into its surroundings.
An existing row of trees along the northern boundary is expected to partially screen the development from the nearby road.
Glampitect stated: “The proposed accommodation will allow visitors to spend time outdoors to relax in a natural setting as well as explore the surrounding area.” They also emphasized that the project avoids the use of prime agricultural land and would be “easily maintained and managed by the farm owners.”
For business owners in the outdoor hospitality sector, this proposal highlights several trends worth monitoring.
The incorporation of EV infrastructure, minimal-impact construction, and year-round operation reflects evolving consumer expectations and environmental considerations.
Additionally, the integration of farm diversification strategies points to continued interest among landowners in glamping as a supplemental revenue stream.
The project also emphasizes proximity to local attractions and the importance of contributing to surrounding economies—factors that are increasingly relevant in planning and marketing similar ventures.
“The concept of luxury glamping is now gaining popularity throughout the UK,” Glampitect added in a report by The Northern Times.
“This site is intended to be amongst the best available in the area and provide an exciting new alternative, offering guests a secluded retreat in nature and high-quality, modern glamping accommodation.”
There is no indication of when the council will render a decision, but if approved, the development would add another example of rural tourism diversification in the Scottish Highlands.