Glamping with hot tubs near Rothesay

Visitors making the short ferry trip from the mainland to the Isle of Bute arrive in the island’s principal town of Rothesay. While Rothesay is not quite the bustling holiday resort town it once was, over recent years the town has been springing back to life and many of its pretty Victorian-era buildings have been restored to their former glory. Before heading off around the rest of the island, visitors can explore the impressive Rothesay Castle in the centre of town and take a wander along the attractive seafront along Rothesay Bay. Campsites are limited on Bute, but wild camping is always an option.

Just behind Rothesay, the steep summit of Canada Hill views over Rothesay Bay to the Firth of Clyde and the Cowal Peninsula. Set on the hill, Roseland Touring and Camping Park is the only organised campsite on the island and has pitches for caravans, motorhomes, campervans and tents.

For your best chance of good weather, visiting the Isle of Bute between May and September is ideal. Visitor numbers are at their highest in summer, however, especially on weekends and during the school summer holidays. Autumn, particularly early September, is a good time to visit as it avoids the peak summer tourist season, while still having milder temperatures and longer hours of daylight. Winter visitors can be sure of a crowd-free (and chilly) experience but some businesses may be closed.

• If you choose to wild camp, be sure to adhere to the Scottish Outdoor Access Code. 
• There is a limited bus service that can get you to most places of interest on the Isle of Bute. Cycling is also an option—you can hire a bicycle in Rothesayd.
• There are a number of small supermarkets in Rothesay. However, bigger purchases should be made on the mainland.
• The weather is always unpredictable. Even in summer, you should bring warm, wet weather gear.