The area around Aberdeen is well-known for it’s comfortable cabins and glamping pods so. Whilst planning our one night road trip from Edinburgh to Aberdeenshire, we spent a lot of time sifting through Instagram, looking something special that hadn’t been done to death.
We loved the idea of a cabin, however (with the trip being so short). we were ready to steer away from our usual budget approach and drop some coin for a shower we didn’t have to hop across a field for. And, that’s when I came across Tahuna Bothies; expensive looking lodges that allowed me to stay true to my thrifty wee ways.
Despite their slick look and full list of amenities, we paid only £115 between 3 of us for the one night (price was correct at booking in May 2021, but please head to their main website for current prices).
Tahuna Bothies Location
These little cabins are conveniently located only a 15-20 min drive from Aberdeen, making them an easy staycation spot.
After pulling off the bypass it’s really easy to find the little huts; you’ll spot them as you drive into the coastal village of Newburgh, keeping a peaceful eye over the golf course and undiscovered sandy beaches.
Cabin amenities
For us, the main attraction of Tahuna Bothies was their tardis-like set-up and the promise of a tranquil coastal sunset. With only 3 cabins on their perfectly positioned site, we had a pleasant conversation with our neighbors before settling down (with a wine in hand) to capture the sundown on the decking.
With beautiful views from the floor to ceiling, their cosy space is a soothing spot to relax and unwind for up to 4 adults. The large snuggly sofa on the ground floor folds out into a large double, whilst sturdy cabin ladders lead to a second level king size bed. We were pleased to find that the mezzanine bunk area was kitted out with a little row of shelfiing, alongside plugs for phone charging.
The cabin bathrooms are surprisingly spacious, with powerful hot showers and fluffy towels as standard. The owners have been sure to incorporate a fully-equipped kitchenette, including a small fridge, table top hob, microwave, toaster, kettle and all the utensils you might need for a short stay away.
Things to see and do in and around Newburgh
Although they have Slains Castle, the Bullers of Balloch, and the city of Aberdeen right on their doorstep, the main attraction for Tahuna Bothies is (without question) Newburgh Seals Beach.
With rolling sand dunes and miles of deserted beach to while away the day, you’d think this would be enough of an attraction to draw you to Newburgh’s shorelines. However, this beach boasts an incredible 400-strong seal colony, offering a once-in-a-lifestime Scottish wildlife experience.
Where to eat: Vegan friendly restaurants in Newburgh
The Tahuna Bothies are perfectly kitted out with all the self-catering essentials you’d need to enjoy a budget trip away for a couple of nights. But, for those looking to remove the extra work of cabin food prep, Newburgh provides two different dining spots right on your accommodation’s doorstep:
The View Restaurant, Bar, and Lounge
I’m not going to lie, I wasn’t expecting much from Newburgh in terms of vegan breakfast, lunch, or dinner options, but I was pleasantly corrected by The View. Delivering uninterrupted views across Seal Beach (and literally a minutes walk from Tahuna Bothies), the restaurant is a great place to snap up a coffee after a brisk walk, or to settle down for a friendly evening meal. Vegan breakfast options include sausage breakfast rolls and a classic vegan cooked breakfast, whilst dinner and lunch menus list spicy bean burgers (with vegan brioche buns) and chili.
The Newburgh Inn
Located on the corner of the turn down to the Bothies, The Newburgh Inn is a great place to stop for a quick pint in the sun after a long day of exploring the area.
Their sweet potato and chickpea curry is the only vegan option on their lunch/dinner menu (so it’s not one you’re likely to keep going back to). That being said, I appreciate the option and the alternative dining venue. They also offer a vegan hash brown and baked bean breakfast roll. Sounds carby, but this would be right up my street if I was looking for a quick hot tummy filler in the morning.
Plan all your stops and sightseeing points on the road from Edinburgh to Aberdeenshire (via the Cairngorms) with my handy road trip guide for this route.
And, if you’re looking for more Scottish road trip inspiration, visit my NC500 4-day Itinerary blog post.
