A small Scottish island is home to a glamping destination modeled after African safari lodges, offering a nature-immersive experience in the UK’s Argyll region.
WildLuing, located on the Isle of Luing, was established three years ago by Jack and Emily, a couple who drew inspiration from their time living in Kenya. Their aim was to bring elements of the safari lodge experience to Scotland, adapted to the local landscape and culture.
The site features eight custom-built, self-catering glamping suites, called WildSuites, all positioned to maximize views of Torsa Bay.
The location allows guests regular opportunities to observe local wildlife, including otters and seals. According to The Sun, some guests have reported sightings of dolphins as well.
Each WildSuite includes a super king bed—convertible into twin beds—a private shower, and, in some cases, a roll-top bath. Select units are pet-friendly. The nightly rate starts at £195 per couple.
Unique to WildLuing is its absence of commercial amenities like shops or pubs, with a focus instead on quietude and nature. The site includes a communal lounge and dining room, designed to reflect the shared-space dynamic the owners admired in Kenyan safari lodges.
“Wowsers. If you haven’t been, then this should be bucket-list material,” one visitor noted on Tripadvisor. Another review read, “Wild Luing was simply sensational on all fronts.”
The largest facility on the site is The Observatory, a communal building that accommodates up to 20 people.
Although it is not available for overnight stays, it can be rented for events such as yoga retreats, cooking schools, group dining experiences, wild swimming meetups, and small wedding receptions. It features an open-plan kitchen, pantry, dining area, and living room.
Located in the Inner Hebrides, the Isle of Luing is part of the Slate Islands and has a population of approximately 200 people.
Access is by ferry from North Cuan. WildLuing’s development represents a growing trend in the UK’s glamping sector, where remote and minimally serviced properties are attracting a clientele looking for immersive, nature-based stays.
For outdoor hospitality operators, WildLuing provides an example of how safari-inspired design and intentional disconnection from urban life can translate into a compelling guest experience in a temperate climate.
The business model blends private accommodation with communal experiences and minimal infrastructure, showing potential for replication in similarly remote settings across the UK and beyond.