




Being on the doorstep of The West Highland Way, Tyndrum is the perfect place to set up camp, stretch your legs, recharge and reconnect with the stunning Highland scenery.
Callander sits at the eastern gateway to the Trossachs National Park and makes for an ideal base for exploring Scotland’s first national park. There are some excellent lodges with hot tubs near Callander that offer the perfect mix of outdoor adventure and a really comfy stay. After hiking Ben Ledi or cycling through forest trails, you can soak while enjoying Highland views.
The area boasts Loch Katrine, Bracklinn Falls and Rob Roy’s grave at Balquhidder. Family-friendly attractions include the Trossachs Woollen Mill and nearby Blair Drummond Safari Park. Self catering accommodation here ranges from luxury lodges to traditional log cabins, many dog friendly so you don’t have to find someone to take care of them.
Whether fishing on Loch Venachar, visiting Doune Castle or exploring Callander’s shops and cafes, a lodge stay provides the ideal retreat. The hot tub becomes especially welcome after days spent discovering the stunning Trossachs landscape that inspired Sir Walter Scott.
Just a 10-minute drive from Callander sits Golden Oak at Strathyre, a stunning forest cabin with breathtaking mountain views and glimpses of Loch Lubnaig that’ll make your jaw drop.
This luxury log cabin offers top-notch interiors with underfloor heating and a real wood burner for those chilly Scottish evenings. The private hot tub on your decking is the perfect spot to unwind after a day exploring – grab a drink and soak under the stars while listening to the forest sounds around you.
Blair Drummond Safari Park (25 min) and historic Stirling Castle (30 min) make excellent day trips. Loch Lomond (40 min) offers water activities and hiking trails, while Callander itself has charming shops and cafés for afternoon tea or a pint of local ale.
This self-catering accommodation is ideal for couples, with one double bedroom complete with luxury robes and toiletries. The fully equipped kitchen includes a fancy Nespresso machine for your morning caffeine fix. You can bring dogs at no extra charge. Check out the pics, this one is amazing…
About 10 minutes from Callander, the Golden Oak Treehouse offers a holiday experience that’ll make your friends green with envy – where else can you cross a rope bridge to reach your bedroom?
This unique lodge houses ten guests across a main cabin and separate pod. Sink into your private hot tub on the spacious deck while taking in 360-degree forest views! The log burner creates a cosy atmosphere and is perfect for evening drinks and board games.
The surrounding area is beautiful and has pine-covered mountains and Loch Lubnaig practically on your doorstep. Stirling Castle (30 min), Loch Lomond (30 min) and Glengoyne Distillery (35 min) make excellent day trips from your woodland base.
With four bedrooms and four bathrooms, morning queues are non-existent even with a full house. The kitchen comes fully equipped with modern appliances including a Nespresso machine. Dogs are welcome too, making this the perfect lodge stay for extended family gatherings or friend reunions where nobody gets left behind – not even the dog!
Just 15 minutes from Callander, the Golden Oak Hideaway cabin offers couples a romantic forest escape with knock-out views of Loch Lubnaig – honestly, the photos don’t do it justice.
This luxury cabin blends the bedroom seamlessly into living space, creating an intimate atmosphere. The freestanding bath with forest views just awesome and your private hot tub sits on a secluded deck where you can spot stars through pine branches.
The Trossachs National Park (20 min) offers endless walking routes for all abilities. Loch Katrine (30 min) provides boat trips on historic steamers, while Doune Castle (25 min) lets history buffs explore a medieval fortress used in Outlander and Game of Thrones.
This self-catering accommodation includes a fully equipped kitchen with integrated appliances and that all-important Nespresso machine. The double cocoon egg chair fits two if you’re friendly and underfloor heating means no cold toes in the morning. Dogs are welcome too.
Located just 15 minutes from Callander, the Silver Birch cabins prove that accessibility and luxury aren’t mutually exclusive – these lodges with hot tubs offer genuine forest immersion for everyone.
These thoughtfully designed cabins feature a private hot tub with hoist, ensuring nobody misses out on relaxation time. The wet room and lowered kitchen worktops make self-catering straightforward for wheelchair users. Underfloor heating and eco-friendly toiletries add those luxury touches that elevate your stay from good to unforgettable.
The Falls of Dochart (20 min) offer spectacular views with accessible viewing areas. Stirling Castle (40 min) has worked hard on accessibility improvements, while Blair Drummond Safari Park (35 min) provides a fun day out with good wheelchair access throughout most areas.
With three bedrooms accommodating six guests, these cabins are perfect for family holidays. The wheelchair-friendly master en-suite, plus one double and two twin rooms ensure everyone has their space. The outdoor deck includes dining furniture and BBQ facilities.
Callander sits at the eastern edge of the Trossachs, making it the perfect base for exploring this stunning part of Scotland. Your lodge with hot tub gives you the ideal spot to return to after days out exploring the area’s natural beauty.
The town itself offers a mix of independent shops, cafés and restaurants along the main street. Bracklinn Falls is just a short drive away – a spectacular series of waterfalls that’s worth the walk even in typical Scottish weather.
Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park surrounds Callander, with countless walking routes and cycling paths. Many luxury lodges near Callander provide bike storage if you bring your own wheels.
History fans should check out the Roman Camp Hotel gardens and the old St Kessog’s Church. The Callander Crags offer amazing views over the town and beyond to Ben Ledi – perfect for working up an appetite before heading back to your self catering accommodation for a soak in the hot tub.
Callander ranks as one of Scotland’s most dog friendly towns. Many holiday lodges and log cabins in the area welcome four-legged guests, often with minimal extra charges. Some even provide dog beds, bowls and treats.
Dogs love the numerous walking trails around Callander. The Callander Meadows path along the River Teith is flat and accessible for all dogs. For more adventurous pups, the trails up Callander Crags offer more challenging terrain.
After your walk, several cafés in town welcome dogs inside. Mhor Bread and The Lade Inn both provide water bowls and dog-friendly staff. The Lade Inn even has a special menu for dogs!
If you need emergency vet care during your lodge stay, Callander’s local vet practice operates Monday to Friday with emergency weekend cover. Keep their number handy just in case your dog decides to eat something questionable on your holiday.
1. Bracklinn Falls and Callander Crags – These dramatic waterfalls and woodland walks offer some of the best scenery in the area. The circular route takes about 2 hours at a leisurely pace. Free entry, though parking costs £3 for the day. The falls are particularly impressive after heavy rain and the wooden bridge provides the perfect photo spot. Visitors consistently rate this 5/5 on TripAdvisor.
2. Hamilton Toy Collection – An unexpected gem housing over 50,000 toys from the past 100 years. Located in Callander’s main street, it’s perfect for rainy days when the hot tub at your lodge needs a break. £7 adults, £3.50 children. Open 10am-5pm daily except Wednesdays. Kids love the interactive displays, while adults enjoy the nostalgia trip.
3. Rob Roy & Trossachs Visitor Centre – Learn about Scotland’s famous outlaw and the local area. The centre provides context for all the amazing landscapes you’ll see during your lodge holiday. £4 per adult, children free. Open daily 10am-4pm. The staff know everything about local walks and attractions.
4. Loch Katrine – Just a 20-minute drive from most Callander lodges, this stunning loch offers boat trips on the historic steamship Sir Walter Scott. Cruise tickets £16 adults, £8 children. The loch inspired Sir Walter Scott’s poem “The Lady of the Lake” and the scenery will inspire you too. Bike hire available to cycle the loch shore.
5. Deanston Distillery – Located in an old cotton mill, this whisky distillery offers tours showing how Scotland’s famous drink is made. Tour prices from £12 including tastings. Open daily 10am-5pm. The warehouse tour is particularly good value and the café serves excellent local food.
Attraction | Activity Type | Estimated Pricing | Suitable for |
---|---|---|---|
Bracklinn Falls | Scenic Walk | Free (£3 parking) | Everyone, Dog Walkers |
Hamilton Toy Collection | Museum | Adults £7, Children £3.50 | Families, Rainy Days |
Rob Roy Centre | Visitor Centre | Adults £4, Children Free | History Fans |
Loch Katrine Cruise | Boat Trip | Adults £16, Children £8 | Everyone |
Deanston Distillery | Whisky Tour | From £12 | Adults |
Callander Meadows | Riverside Walk | Free | Everyone, Dog Walkers |
Inchmahome Priory | Historic Site | Adults £7.50, Children £4.50 | History Fans |
Doune Castle | Historic Castle | Adults £9, Children £5.40 | Film Fans, Families |
Blair Drummond Safari Park | Animal Park | Adults £18, Children £15 | Families |
Callander Golf Club | Golf | From £25 per round | Golfers |
1. When’s the best time to visit Callander?
Spring and autumn offer the best balance of decent weather and fewer tourists. Summer brings longer days but more visitors. Winter can be magical with snow on the hills and your hot tub at the lodge feels even better in cold weather!
2. Do I need a car in Callander?
While buses connect Callander to Stirling, a car gives you more freedom to explore the area and reach the best lodges with hot tubs. Many holiday cabins are outside the town centre.
3. Where’s the best place to eat in Callander?
Mhor Fish serves outstanding fish and chips. The Riverside Inn offers great pub food with local ingredients. For coffee and cake, Apple Tree Café can’t be beaten.
4. Can I go swimming in the lochs?
Yes, wild swimming is popular but be aware of cold water shock even in summer. Loch Lubnaig and Loch Venachar are popular spots. Then warm up in your lodge’s hot tub afterwards!
5. Are the midges bad in Callander?
Midges can be annoying from May to September, especially at dawn and dusk. Pack repellent for your lodge holiday. The good news: they don’t like hot tubs!
6. Where’s the nearest supermarket?
Callander has a Tesco Express and Co-op for essentials. For bigger shops, Stirling (16 miles away) has all major supermarkets. Many lodges offer welcome hampers if arranged in advance.
7. Is Callander good for fishing?
The River Teith offers excellent trout and salmon fishing. Permits available from the Post Office. Many log cabins near Callander have fishing rights included.
8. What if it rains during my lodge stay?
Besides enjoying your hot tub (even better in the rain!), visit the Hamilton Toy Collection, Deanston Distillery, or drive to Stirling Castle. The Woodland Café offers great shelter and cake.