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✅ How to book your XL Escape
1. Choose your dates – Use the calendar below to check live availability and prices. Dates in green show when the property is available.
The green underlined numbers on the calendar mark the valid arrival dates for these stays. If a date is green but not underlined, it can’t be booked as a start date.
2. Submit a booking request - Fill in your details to send a request directly to both XL Escapes and the property host.
3. We’ll confirm everything within 24 hours - The host will respond to confirm availability, the deposit required to secure your stay, the full balance remaining, and when it’s due (typically 4-6 weeks before arrival).
4. Pay your deposit and secure your stay - You’ll receive a Stripe payment link by email. Once the deposit is received, your booking is confirmed and your dates are locked in.
Kim & Chris Ewen
We are SO excited to welcome you to our home! As the founders of XL Escapes, we pour our hearts into creating a space where you can relax, unwind, and make lasting memories.
With two rescue dogs—Holly from Bosnia and Buddy from All Bullie Rescue—and Nala, our beautiful ginger cat (and undisputed Queen of the house), we understand how important it is to feel not just at home, but truly content and relaxed—especially when traveling with your furry companions.
Our goal is to offer more than just a holiday; we want to provide a home away from home where you can escape daily pressures, have a laugh, and enjoy quality time with loved ones. Whether it’s a cosy night in, exploring the local area, or simply making time for yourself, we’re here to make your stay special.
If you have any requests—big or small—just let us know. We’re always happy to help (and we love an excuse to bring a smile to your face, drink in hand, of course!).
Meet Your Hosts
Hillside Havens was created with one goal in mind—to offer a luxurious glamping experience where guests can truly escape, unwind, and reconnect with nature. This labour of love was designed for those looking to step away from the daily grind, whether it’s for a peaceful retreat after a busy workweek or a cozy base for exploring the stunning landscapes of Moray Speyside.
Nestled in the heart of Scotland’s whisky country, Hillside Havens is perfectly positioned for adventure, with distilleries, castles, beaches, golf courses, rivers, and mountains all within reach. Whether you’re here to explore or simply relax under the dark, star-filled skies, your hosts have ensured that every detail is taken care of.
With high-end private pods, featuring ensuite shower rooms, underfloor heating, Netflix-enabled TVs, Bluetooth speakers, and fire pits for marshmallow toasting, Hillside Havens is a place where comfort meets the outdoors. Your hosts take pride in offering a warm welcome, a peaceful escape, and a luxury glamping experience that keeps guests coming back time and time again.
XL Escapes Peace Of Mind Promise
We protect your money — and your peace of mind.
Your payment is held securely in a separate account and only released after you’ve checked in. Every property is personally verified — whether we’ve visited it ourselves, received site plans, or had extensive conversations with the owners. We ask the questions we know matter, because as owners of XL reactive dogs ourselves, we get it! So you can book with total confidence, knowing everything is as promised.
Cancellation Policy
We know that sometimes things don’t go to plan, which is why our cancellation policy is clear and fair:
- Cancel more than 4 weeks before your stay: You’ll receive a full refund, including your deposit.
- Cancel within 4 weeks of arrival: The booking is non-refundable.
Refunds - If you’re due a refund, we’ll process it promptly to your original payment method.
Need help? - If something unexpected has come up, just get in touch. We’ll always do our best to help.
Home Rules & Useful Information
- Hillside Haven only allow check ins on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.
-Hillside Haven only allow check outs on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays
- Check in: 3pm
- Check out: 10am
- Unregistered guests are not permitted
- Free parking on site.
- Clean up after them in the garden before departure.
Ghillies Neuk Glamping Pod with Hot Tub – Hillside Haven
⚲ Dufftown, Scotland
4 guests (2 adults, 2 Children) · 1 bedroom · 1 bathroom · 1 bed & 1 sofa bed · 2 dogs allowed · Enclosed garden · 5ft fence · All breeds welcomed
Tucked beside Beaters Bothy, Ghillies Neuk is a charming glamping pod that blends privacy, comfort, and luxury. With its own enclosed garden, wood-fired hot tub, and all the modern touches you need, it’s perfect for a cosy couple’s break or a family escape in the heart of Speyside.
Full Property Description:
At Ghillies Neuk, life slows down. Step outside to your private garden, light the BBQ, toast marshmallows by the fire pit, or relax in your own wood-fired hot tub, sheltered beneath a gazebo so you can enjoy it in every season.
Inside, the pod is warm and welcoming with underfloor heating, a plush double bed, and a sofa bed for kids or extra guests. The micro kitchen has everything you need to cook, while the Netflix-enabled TV and free WiFi keep you connected and entertained.
The garden here may be slightly smaller than Smugglers Retreat’s, but it’s still fully enclosed and secure, giving peace of mind for both children and dogs. And with Beaters Bothy right next door, it’s a great choice for couples or families travelling together who want the perfect mix of shared fun and private space.
Full Property Description:
At Ghillies Neuk, life slows down. Step outside to your private garden, light the BBQ, toast marshmallows by the fire pit, or relax in your own wood-fired hot tub, sheltered beneath a gazebo so you can enjoy it in every season.
Inside, the pod is warm and welcoming with underfloor heating, a plush double bed, and a sofa bed for kids or extra guests. The micro kitchen has everything you need to cook, while the Netflix-enabled TV and free WiFi keep you connected and entertained.
The garden here may be slightly smaller than Smugglers Retreat’s, but it’s still fully enclosed and secure, giving peace of mind for both children and dogs. And with Beaters Bothy right next door, it’s a great choice for couples or families travelling together who want the perfect mix of shared fun and private space.
Paw of Approval
Photos from real stays, with dogs who gave it their paw of approval.
Amenities:
At Hillside Havens, dogs aren’t just welcome—they’re truly valued guests! 🐶 All breeds, including XL Bullies, are accepted because the hosts don’t discriminate against dogs—only irresponsible owners.
- This pod comes with a fully enclosed and secure garden with a 5ft fence.
- Dogs must be on a lead at all times when outside their private garden.
- Max 2 dogs per pod (£20 surcharge per stay).
- Guests should bring their own bedding & bowls for their pup’s comfort.
- With secure spaces, stunning countryside walks, and a welcoming policy for all breeds, Hillside Havens is the perfect luxury glamping retreat for dog owners. 🏡🐾✨
Neighbourhood Overview:
Nestled in Speyside, Dufftown is known as the Malt Whisky Capital of the World, home to six distilleries, including the famous Glenfiddich. Beyond whisky, history lovers can explore the ruins of Balvenie Castle and Auchindoun Castle, while outdoor enthusiasts can hike Ben Rinnes for breathtaking views.
The town’s Highland Games bring Scottish tradition to life every July, and the Whisky Colours Festival celebrates its rich heritage. With scenic cycling routes, warm community spirit, and stunning countryside, Dufftown is the perfect blend of history, adventure, and whisky culture. 🥃🏡✨
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