Imagine trading the bustling streets of South Africa for the serene landscapes of Scotland.
That’s exactly what Lottie and Kevin Reeves, along with their two children and Lottie’s mother, have done.
They’ve made the exciting move to the Scottish countryside, setting their sights on opening an off-grid glamping site near the charming town of Castle Douglas.
The Journey to Scotland
The Reeves family relocated during the Covid-19 pandemic, taking a leap of faith that led them to their new home.
With a £25,000 loan from a local British bank, they’re busy building four cozy wooden cabins on their beautiful seven-acre property at Glenlochar House.
Nestled beside the stunning Galloway Forest Park in the picturesque Scottish lowlands, this location is perfect for their glamping venture.
Embracing the Night Sky
Galloway Forest Park holds a special title; it became one of the first International Dark Sky Parks in 2009.
This means it’s designed to limit light pollution and protect the beauty of star-filled nights.
Today, it’s part of a worldwide network boasting over 100 similar parks, offering visitors a breathtaking view of the cosmos.
Disconnect to Reconnect
In line with their off-grid vision, the glamping site will have no Wi-Fi, inviting guests to unplug and immerse themselves in nature.
The eco-friendly timber pods will feature luxurious touches, such as hot tubs and fire pits, ensuring a cozy and memorable experience.
Located alongside Loch Ken, guests can indulge in water sports and wild swimming, all while enjoying the serene and scenic surroundings.
A Life of Travel and Community
Before finding their place in Scotland, Lottie and her family spent nearly ten years traveling across South Africa.
During that time, they engaged in community development projects and supplemented their income with remote web development work.
Five years ago, they moved to Surrey in southern England to be closer to family.
However, it was during the lockdown that Kevin discovered their dream home in Castle Douglas, sparking the idea for their glamping business.
A Dream Realized
“I’ve always been passionate about nature and wellness, and I believed that combining these elements with tourism would be the perfect venture for us,” Lottie shared with the Scotland Herald.
“Kevin found the house in Castle Douglas during the lockdown, and I decided to take the plunge into a new town—and a new country—without even visiting it first.
But it turned out to be perfect, and the ample land was just right for our glamping cabins.”
Overcoming Challenges in Tourism
While the family has faced challenges with rising building costs, they are eager to welcome their first guests soon.
A senior manager at the British Business Bank noted that the Start Up Loans program has supported nearly 200 entrepreneurs in Dumfries and Galloway since its inception in 2012.
“The staycation market is booming,” he said.
“Galloway Glamping will be a fantastic spot for families looking to experience the great outdoors and enjoy a night under the stars.”
What’s Next?
As the Reeves family prepares to open their glamping site, they are excited to share their love for nature and create lasting memories for visitors in the heart of the Scottish countryside.
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