St Conan’s Escape – Glass-Fronted Lodges with Loch Awe Views

Tucked on the slopes of Ben Cruachan above Loch Awe, St Conan’s Escape is two self-catering lodges built for one thing: the view. Floor-to-ceiling glass and bifold doors open straight onto Scotland’s longest loch, with Ben Cruachan rising behind you and the southern Highlands stretching out below.

This is Argyll at its quietest. No road noise, no neighbours, just hills, water, and the chance of seeing ospreys, otters, and if you’re lucky, sea eagles drifting over the loch.

The Lodges

There are two lodges, Columba and Odhrán, each sleeping two adults. Both are self-contained and dog-friendly.

Columba has a fresh, modern feel with whitewashed walls and clean lines.
Odhrán leans rustic, with darker woods and cosier tones.

Inside each you’ll find:
Open-plan living area with comfy seating and a log burner
Kitchenette with hob, fridge, and all the basics for self-catering
Bedroom area with a double bed
En suite shower room and loo

The layout is simple by design. You’re meant to spend your time looking out, not in. Even the bed is positioned to face the glass front.

Things to Do Nearby

Walk straight onto Ben Cruachan
You’re staying on the side of Argyll’s highest Munro at 1,126m. The path starts minutes from the lodges. It’s a proper mountain day, so only go if you’re equipped, but the views from the lower slopes alone are worth it.

Loch Awe and kayaking
At 25 miles long, Loch Awe is Scotland’s longest freshwater loch. Bring your own kayak or hire locally and paddle out for a quiet morning on the water. The shoreline around St Conan’s is quiet and perfect for spotting wildlife.

St Conan’s Kirk
A 10-minute drive takes you to St Conan’s Kirk on the loch shore. It’s one of the most unusual churches in Scotland, built in bits over 40 years by one man. Worth a stop even if you’re not into churches.

Lochawe village
Grab supplies, a coffee, or a meal in Lochawe. It’s small, but it’s the nearest hub with a pub and shop.

Practical Info

Getting there: St Conan’s Escape sits above Lochawe village on the A85 between Oban and Tyndrum. The last stretch is a single-track hill road, but it’s manageable in a standard car. Drive slowly and use passing places.
Parking: On-site parking at the lodges.
Dogs: Welcome, with enclosed outdoor space so they can run safely.
Mobile signal: Patchy. Treat it as a digital detox. WiFi is available but not fast.
Best time to visit: May to September for long days and milder weather. Winter is quiet and dramatic if you’re prepared for short days and wet conditions.

Why Stay Here

Most glamping in Argyll is about the pod or the hot tub. St Conan’s Escape is about the location. You’re high enough to get the full sweep of Loch Awe and the surrounding Munros, but private enough that it feels like you’ve got the glen to yourself. It works for couples wanting a quiet break, walkers using it as a base for Ben Cruachan, and anyone who wants to wake up to sunrise over water without sharing it with anyone else.

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THE LODGES

Both lodges sleep 2 people and are dog friendly.