Scotland is the second-largest country in the United Kingdom (The UK) that borders with England to the southeast and the Irish sea to the south, circling the Atlantic ocean to the north and west and north sea to the northeast. It covers the northern side of the island of Great Britain.
Enhancing the beauty of this country are centuries-old stonework and medieval-era castles, manicured gardens in extravagant hotels, pleasant weather, rich culture, and gorgeous landscapes.
“Oh, I love Scotland. I love it FIERCELY!”
“Edinburgh is a fairytale in a true sense, and nothing is as fun as Glasgow city.”
“The rustic charm of ruined castles of Scotland perched on a hill; I find myself unable to forget them.”
These are what some of the globetrotters have said about Scotland, a country so beautiful.
Let us look at the 10 sublime establishments in Scotland that demand a visit in exchange for an idyllic and lifelong experience.
1. Glennapp Castle
Standing tall in 36 acres of woodland and garden, the luxurious Glennapp castle hotel is the epitome of period furnishings. The expanse boasts a well-manicured botanical garden while offering 17 guest rooms with sea views. Enjoy a stunning sea safari, a stellar walk to the one-and-only Dark Sky Park in Galloway forest, learn falconry lessons, or simply bask in the glorious view of Alisa Craig (a breathtakingly beautiful island in the middle of a sea). A Baronial style design, this young Castle hotel (built ‘recently’ in 1870) also houses an award-winning restaurant for you to gorge on Scottish cuisine.
Location: 15 miles from the city of Stranraer in Ayrshire.
2. Atholl Palace
Welcoming guests for more than a hundred years now, this beautiful palace hotel in Scotland stands like a crown over forested parkland grounds. Offering more choices in rooms including family, double, twin, and single boasting straightforward opulence; indulge yourself in a spa and other leisure activities or unwind at a bar overlooking gorgeous mountain views. One of the main features of this palace is that you will get the best of local produce like, fish, instead of regional or national supply, on the menu. And what’s more, the restaurant opens throughout the day, and you can book a traditional afternoon tea under a mesmerizing play of daylight, giving gleam to the tableware!
Location: Just a mile away from the small town of Pitlochry in the Scottish Highlands.
3. Inverlochy Castle
Overlooking Ben Nevis (the highest mountain in Scotland) and reflecting lush forest on the surface of the lake, this spectacular castle-turned-hotel is no less than a fairytale! Perhaps, that’s what made Queen Victoria, in 1873 wrote, never saw a lovelier or a romantic spot’ than Inverlochy castle.
A picture-perfect place for stay with 17 lavish suites and the Gate Lodge (private accommodation) on offer with exquisite dining inside a restaurant for culinary delights, Inverlochy Castle is one of the most charming places to be with your loved one.
Location: Near Fort Williams, a scenic place in the Scottish Highlands.
4. Glengarry Castle
One of the best castle hotels in Scotland, it is located in the heart of the Highlands. This Scot Baronial architecture, designed in the 1800s, is nestled at the banks of Loch Oich and surrounded by vast woodlands. All the 26 bedrooms are well-furnished with tea/coffee machines in places and offer spacious private bathrooms. With an extensive wine list along with offering three and two-course meals, the courteous staff gives you the vibe of a perfect destination for your stay.
Location: Just a 10-minute drive to Loch Ness and an hour drive to the Isle of Sky
5. Mar Hall Golf n Spa Resort
A grand mansion in the Scottish countryside, this ancient woodland estate oozes opulence like none other! Stay, spa, dine, golf, you choose your affair; their exceptional hospitality will ensure you get spoilt for your choice. Designed and crafted by Sir Robert Smrike, the veteran behind British Museum, London, Mar Hall is one of the best 5-star hotels in Scotland, an architectural masterpiece that dates back to 1828.
Mar Hall, one of the best hotels in Glasgow, Scotland, is also famous as a gorgeous wedding venue with Kilpatrick Hills as a backdrop and 53 luxury suites for the guests, including grand suites and junior suites. Be it a scintillating affair for an afternoon tea in the grand hall, exquisite dining under the glimmering chandeliers, or seeking adventure on an expanse 18-hole championship golf course, Mar Hall resort gives you the best of time!
Location: Just a 10-minute drive from Glasglow International Airport towards Glasglow.
6. The Chester Hotel
One of the busiest and most beautiful hotels in Aberdeen, the Chester Hotel, is a craftsman’s masterpiece with a rustic granite appeal. Along with free gym access, there are 3 suites options, a family room, grand king room, grand twin, and classic double room; the estate likes to host everyone! The famous IX restaurant of the estate hosts the Best-of-British dining festival regularly. It serves the finest cocktails, champagnes, afternoon teas, drinks for kids, and a famous bratwurst collection. A grand gastronomic affair awaits the visitors here.
Location: 3.2 Km away from Aberdeen Ferry Terminal and just a 20-minute walk from Aberdeen centre
7. Gleneagles Scotland
Famed as one of the most luxurious family resorts in Scotland, the iconic Gleneagles Hotel in Perthshire is a place for all ages. An 850-acre estate is a remarkable luxury hotel and a golfing destination also offering spa services, kids activities, and a merrier culinary experience for one and all. On-site falconry, croquet on the playground, a splendid afternoon tea setting with wondrous views, and a night of exotic thirst-quenching spirits and non-alcoholic beverages are just a few of the memorable experiences the hospitality offers here.
Location: A one-hour drive from towards the Scottish countryside from the Edinburgh Airport
8. SCHLOSS Roxburghe Hotel
A 19th-century fairytale hotel by the name of SCHLOSS Roxburghe, this is one of the top picks for Borders hotels. The property has a large spa facility, an expanse gold course, and brilliant interiors to set the right tone for a wonderful staycation. The luxury hotel is in a fabulous setting near the River Tweed at the backdrop of hills. The manor welcomes you warmly as the log of fire burns inside. The spacious rooms consist of wall-to-ceiling glass windows overlooking the pretty garden, and their ultra-modern bathroom tempts you in.
The finest bar has extensive wines and liquors on the menu, and a grand 3-course meal gives you a whole new dining experience.
Location: Near the market town of Kelso, just an hour's drive north of Edinburgh
9. Carmelite Hotel
One of the best budget hotels in Scotland, the Carmelite Hotel is also a unique property with each room sort of distinct from the other. Equipped with an ultra-modern bar and a restaurant with live music, a creative menu will keep your tastebuds working well. The ambience inside is lovely and sets the right tone for a lively night. Their exceptional hospitality will keep you spoilt. It’s a must-visit place when looking at a hotel near central Aberdeen. Go for it with your pals to have a memorable experience of staying in a boutique hotel.
Location: At the centre of Aberdeen’s famous Merchant quarter, well-connected to rail, bus, coach stations, and harbour.
Are you ready for a Scottish adventure? Explore the stunning countryside, view remarkable locations to encapsulate lifelong memories, venture into the historical city streets, sip the world-famous Scottish whiskies, stay at a grand manor, and more. Browse our specially curated Scotland tour packages to plan an adventurous and magical trip to this wonderland.
Disclaimer: These are the top luxury hotels that you must try when in Scotland. We are sure there are many other stay options here that are worth-visiting and if you know them, do drop it in the comments section below. We’d love to hear about them, and we’ll try to cover it in our next blog. Till then, stay tuned for more such write-ups from us.
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