Burnmouth Cottage (Isle of Hoy) WILD CAMPING

We would give this place 6 stars if we could as Show more

We would give this place 6 stars if we could as this is what we think camping is all about. Not for the light-hearted or overloaded, the campsite next to the beach in the croft house grounds is a good 1/4 mile walk from the car park with no way to drive down to, so only bring what you need, but as mentioned previously, there is nothing nearby to buy from so bring supplies and leave what you can afford for others in the croft house. A really nice couple helped us with a few things in the cafe/bar back in Hoy but the nearest other shop we found was in Lyness where you can get a ferry from Houton. Light a camp fire, listen to the ocean, walk to the ‘Old Man’ or surrounding mountains, or just spend time on the fabulous beach. A magical place and a must for any true camper. Spend as long here as you can. We loved it!

Type of accommodation: Tent
Date: 26/06/2008

23 of 25 found this review to be helpful.
Show less

A superb location. The bothy, provided by the Hoy Show more

A superb location. The bothy, provided by the Hoy Trust, is a wonderful, simple shelter, ideal for cooking and socialising. An open fire can be maintained using driftwood and seaweed from the adjacent beach. The scenery is breathtaking, beside the Ocean, surrounded by cliffs. Excellent, easy walking all around. Highlights include the Old Man of Hoy, Ward Hill, Dwarfie Stane, Berriedale and the local croft called Craws Nest. Best of all though is the campsite and bothy - very hard to leave! Facilities include running water (untreated), toilet (paper too) and washing soap, use of the bothy and a stone walled grass camp plot, big enough for a dozen tents. Fires and BBQs are common. Note: I left plenty of tinder and fuel for a fire - please consider others and replennish this supply. "Leave it a little better than you find it". The fireplace is in poor condition, so treat carefully and avoid setting fire to the place - especially the lovely heather thatched roof. Donations for upkeep can be left in an honesty box. Please do help. Rackwick Bay is beautiful. It is 4/5 miles walk from the Moness Pier (ferry to Stromness) and the Pub there is very handy. No shops. Bring enough food for extra days!!! A telephone and a scattering of houses are nearby, in emergency, but it is otherwise quite remote. A very popular bothy and camp site - expect other people, even in winter - and groups must book in advance. Hoy is magic! Go, enjoy, and respect the fragile nature all around. Tred gently!

Type of accommodation: Unknown
Date: 31/07/2005

76 of 79 found this review to be helpful.
Show less