Log Cabin Holidays

Every American schoolchild knows that Abraham Lincoln grew up in a log cabin, but log cabins are not such a pivotal part of British history. Yet log cabins are an important part of the modern holiday in the outdoors, and there are several places in Britain where holiday makers can enjoy nature while having an affordable self catering holiday in a log cabin.

The origins of the log cabin are somewhat mysterious. However, it's assumed that they made their way to Europe and America via the Swedes, who have been building sturdy log cabins for centuries, both for homes and for saunas. Early settlers in America did the same and the cabins were also popular with hunters.

Back in Britain, the log cabin has become a great way to enjoy the outdoors in a secluded setting, though modern log cabins have come a long way from their humble and rustic beginnings. Here are some examples of the log cabin holidays that are available around Britain.

The Island Lodge in Cirencester in the Cotswolds has traditional Finnish log houses and wooden lodges set around a private and secluded lake. The log houses are spacious, with two large double bedrooms, a living room, shower, bath and fully fitted kitchen/diner. There's also central heating and television. In fact, you can enjoy all the facilities that you would have at home, while benefiting from a beautiful natural setting. Wildfowl and dragonflies abound and the lake remains tranquil thanks to a ban on motor boats.

The Balquhidder Braes Holiday Park in Perthshire, Scotland is a four star holiday park with log cabins that sleep up to six people. Located in the middle of Scotland, this holiday park is near Loch Earn and is within an area of spectacular natural beauty, the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park. It's a great place to view wild orchids and to spot osprey, deer, otters and red squirrels. The cabins are fully equipped and can include DVD players and WiFi access. Water sports, fishing, cycling and golf are just a few of the other activities available in case you’re feeling energetic.

Log cabins at Penycoed Holidays can sleep up to eight. They have central heating, double glazing and are fully equipped. The cabins are not far from the historic market town of Owestry, as well as the Llynclys Hill nature reserve. These private log cabins have their own gardens and facilities for barbecuing, and are ideally located for those who enjoy walking through Shropshire.

Oak Wood Lodges in Rhayader, Wales is between the Brecon Beacons and Snowdonia, and Aberystwyth and Hereford. As such, it has stunning views and outstanding natural beauty. The Norwegian log cabins are suitable for both winter and summer self catering holidays. The biggest log cabins have three bedrooms (sleeping eight), fully equipped kitchens, central heating, television and DVD players. Whether you're interested in bird watching, fishing, archaeology or history, this area has a lot to offer.

These are just a few examples of the log cabin holidays available in Britain. They are a great option for luxurious self catering holidays in beautiful, natural locations.

Check out these and other Log Cabin Holidays available on the Self Catering Holidays Guide.