The Lazy Duck

Deep in Abernethy Forest, The Lazy Duck gathers several small structures around a quiet clearing in the Cairngorms National Park: three off-grid huts, a shared bunkhouse for small groups, and a more conventional forest cottage. Each is built with wood-burning stoves and fireplaces, and the site adds a sauna, trail access straight from the door, and Wi-Fi for those who need to check in on work.

The off-grid huts range from fully rustic, with compost toilets and outdoor bucket showers, to gentler introductions to the style for couples who want quiet without giving up every comfort. The Traveller's Cottage is the more standard option, suited to families or groups of friends who still want to be surrounded by forest and hills. A small co-working space on site lets remote workers get a few hours done between walks.

Days here are built around the surroundings: forest trails, wildlife and birdwatching, nearby lakes for swimming or kayaking, and a well-being hut where massages or story walks can be booked. The site sits about 25 minutes by car from Aviemore, or is reachable by train to Aviemore followed by a local bus or taxi — useful for guests arriving without a car.

Stays start on Mondays, Tuesdays or Fridays, and booking runs directly through the Lazy Duck website. Pets are not permitted anywhere on site, a rule tied to the sensitive forest habitat and ground-nesting birds nearby. The location suits couples, families and remote workers looking for a slower pace in a working landscape rather than a resort setting.