Best Hotels in the Highlands and Islands

The Highlands and Islands is a loose term for the most enormous swathe of Scottish countryside as varied as it is vast! It covers all ground from Inverness to the North and then west from Fort William out towards the rugged but spectacular coastline, then beyond to Skye and Harris. The land is covered with beautiful mountain ranges, magnificent beaches and glorious river valleys. Catch it in the right weather, then you'll be hard pushed to find a more magical place in the world. Many of the best places to stay in the Highlands and Islands have spectacular mountain or sea views, while some have both. Our selection of the best hotels in the Highlands and Islands echoes this variety with choices as diverse as foodie favourites on Skye, and one property set on a golf course!

For the Scrapbook

Shieldaig Lodge started out as a Victorian hunting lodge, but has been beautifully converted into an elegant feeling traditional Highland hotel, on the shores of Loch Gairloch. The 12 rooms have loch views, from large, wood panelled windows; there’s plenty of tartan upholstery and a vast whisky menu to keep you feeling you’re in a uniquely spectacular spot.
Located on a particularly dramatic Skye peninsula, the Flodigarry hotel and restaurant is another option with an epic view — on a clear day you can see all the way across the sea to the Wester Ross Mountains. The interiors are designed to complement the wild landscape, which translates to lots of natural materials, think slate and stone, and even pebbles, and plenty of wood. There are eleven rooms and suites, some romantically turned out, with antiques, four-poster beds and private balconies, and some more suited for families.

For a Highland Escape

Set in 20 acres of Scottish woodland just outside Thurso, Forss House is a charming country house built in 1810, now converted into a 14 room hotel. Elegant and still rather grand, this is the perfect base for all kinds of country pursuits, from mountain biking to walking, to shooting and fishing, and come the evening you’ll be pleased to return to the excellent restaurant and cosy, fire lit bar with its impressive whisky menu.
Glenmorangie House offers that classic Highlands combination of spectacular location — near the coastline and mountains — opulent feeling decor with a tartan twist, a restaurant with an indulgent traditional menu, numerous open fires, and an impressive whisky menu.

For an Island Escape

Scarista House is an old, Georgian manse on the Isle of Harris, perfectly positioned to make the most of the spectacular coastline minutes from its door. There are six rooms, decorated in a cosy, comfortable style — with plenty of hot water and fluffy towels. Supper is served in the original dining room, which also enjoys the incredible view, and it’s usually seafood in an excellent format. This is a labour of love for the owners, and you’ll probably love it too.
Highland Cottage in Tobermory on the Isle of Mull, is a charming six room guesthouse with Edwardian decor, two cosy lounges, a very good restaurant, a 24 hour honesty bar, and a complimentary full Scottish breakfast for all guests. There’s also a self catering, three bedroom cottage.

For The Views

The Machrie Hotel has really made the most of its spectacular setting, with epic expanses of glass all over the hotel, including in the 47 rooms and suites. The decor is a stylish blend of traditional Highland features against a minimal, Scandinavian canvas — and it all makes the very most of the light and the views. The location, slightly out of one of Islay’s towns, means that there’s space for a hotel golf course, and four private lodges. There’s also a small cinema, family suites and babysitting facilities. And you can bring a pet.
Loch Ness is your classic Scottish destination, and the elegant, intimate Loch Ness Lodge is perfectly positioned for optimum monster spotting opportunities day and night. Its seven rooms are sumptuous — all with magical views — the spa is small but top notch, with a hot tub and sauna, and while there’s no restaurant they do a seriously hearty breakfast and a beautiful afternoon tea.

For a Rural Retreat

The Torridon is a country escape, surrounded by 58 acres of park and woodlands, at the foot of Ben Damph, and on the shores of Upper Loch Torridon. There’s dozens of outdoor activities you can start right from the hotel’s doorstep, and inside there’s a 3 AA Rosette restaurant specialising in Scottish cuisine, an impressive whisky bar with a list 300 strong, and 18 opulent rooms and suites.
An elegant Victorian townhouse overlooking Loch Linnhe and the Ardgour Mountains — now converted into a luxurious three room guesthouse — The Grange is a welcoming spot to return to after a day’s hiking or exploring. The rooms are traditional yet stylish, with antiques and sumptuous bathrooms. Their breakfasts are a feast.

For Romantics

Inverlochy Castle sits regally at the foot of Ben Nevis, overlooking a mirror-like loch, and elegant grounds. Its 17 rooms and suites are quite regal too, with antique canopied beds, or four-posters, original art, and luxurious fabrics. The restaurant has 3 AA Rosettes, and it’s worth visiting just for a meal-with-a-view. There’s plenty to do onsite, for kids and adults.

For Foodies

Kinloch Lodge, just a short drive from Skye Bridge on Skye, is owned by food writer Clare MacDonald, and her husband Godfrey, who’s Clan Chief. So it’s got foodie, and historic credentials, and the result is a spectacularly beautiful, award winning restaurant, with 15 elegant, traditional rooms filled with natural light and beautiful antiques. The cosy sitting room has an open fire and an enviable collection of whisky, and the views are incredible.

For Families

So many of the hotels on this list have stunning outlooks, but the Summer Isles Hotel, with its views over Badentarbet Bay and the Hebrides is really something. Its restaurant, specialising in local seafood, has incredible views too. The rooms are all bright, white and airy, and there’s a separate cottage that sleeps six. There are so many activities on offer locally too, from sailing, kayaking, fishing and other watersports, to hiking, biking and birdwatching, that it's an ideal destination for all ages.
The Coll Hotel, on the Isle of Coll, has been run by the same family for three generations, and run with warmth and expertise. In addition to the stunning location, this hotel is cosy and comfortable, with boardgames for rainy days, buckets and spades for sunny ones, and telescopes for the evenings.
Kilcamb Lodge is a charming country house hotel in a serene spot on the shore of Loch Sunart — boasting ten traditional rooms with large windows overlooking the loch. In addition to the views, the rooms also feature just the right amount of chintz and tartan. The restaurant serves beautiful, award-winning food, and there are cosy lounges. The five rooms with direct garden access welcome dogs, and this is a great pick for families generally, with plenty to do, and babysitting services available.

For Luxury

Glencoe House is a handsome country house overlooking Loch Linnhe. Now a luxurious hotel with seven rooms-with-a-view, this was once the home of Lord Strathcona. All of the rooms and suites, and have high ceilings and separate sitting rooms, and bathrooms with free-standing baths. You can take your meals, including afternoon teas, in your suite. Some are suitable for families and/or dogs. The location is perfect for exploring the Highlands.

For Outdoors-folks

Links House is a really charming Highland hotel set on one of Scotland’s most picturesque golf links: Royal Dornach. Feeling distinctly Scottish, with tartan soft furnishings, the odd antler, and oil paintings depicting the changeable beauty of the Highlands, this hotel has just eight rooms and suites, plus a fine dining restaurant known for its local sourcing, and an extensive wine and whisky collection. Also perfect for hunting and fishing.
The Lime Tree is a stylish and affordable base in “the outdoor capital of the UK”: Fort William. There are just nine rooms, plus an award-winning restaurant and a contemporary art gallery. There are four golf courses in the area, a coast to kayak, watersports hubs, and the Nevis Range Outdoor Activity Centre, one of the best mountain biking centres in the Highlands.

For Great Value

Glenview is a cheerful B&B is a spectacular spot in the wilds of Skye. It has just three rooms, plus an excellent restaurant known for its local produce — and incredible views wherever you look!
Langass Lodge is a small, charming lodge in a spectacular, coastal spot in the Hebrides. The lodge restaurant is well known, and appreciated locally, for its fresh local fare, and if you stay you’ll be treated to comforting interiors, stunning surrounds, and lots to do on your doorstep. Great for families, and family dogs, as well as foodies.

Still not sure where to book?

Nothing here of interest, then expand your search to include our recommendations for the Inner and Outer Hebrides or peruse our Ultimate guide to the best hotels in Scotland.
Check out all our Wester Ross recommendations
Or contact one of our Gurus for more advice.

20 Best Hotels in the Highlands and Islands

Inverlochy Castle

Fort William

Elegance, romance and old-school service in sublime surroundings at the foot of Ben Nevis. Imposing rooms with heavy curtains, chintz wallpaper, antique paintings and four poster beds. The bathrooms are the height of modernity. Plus there's a fine dining restaurant. The perfect country getaway.

Families - Plenty of kit for the kids indoors including games rooms, DVDs, playstation plus endless outdoor activities.
Foodies - This fantastic restaurant has been awarded 3 AA Rosettes- utterly delicious!
Fishing - Fishing in Loch Na Marag in the Castle grounds or salmon and trout fishing further afield.
Great walks - Stunning scenery to be explored starting straight from the property.

from $425 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Check availability on Expedia

Loch Ness Lodge

Inverness (Loch Ness-side)

An elegant and intimate hotel in the heart of the Scottish Highlands overlooking the beautiful Loch Ness. Wonderfully warm service. Elegant rooms with antique furniture. Hearty breakfasts designed for a day outdoors. The perfect rural abode.

Active Holiday - Active guests can try their hand at deer stalking, archery, quad biking, shooting, 4x4 off-road driving and husky sledding.
Country Escape - A spectacular part of rural Scotland with dramatic views over across the water to a string of craggy mountains beyond.
Kayaking - Book a two hour kayak trip to explore the lake from the hotel's private stretch of Loch Ness shoreline.
Fishing - Anglers can book a fishing trip through the lodge, to catch trout and salmon further along the shores.

from $222 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Kilcamb Lodge

Argyll (Strontian)

Charming country hotel with a serene setting on the shores of Loch Sunart. Traditional rooms feature large windows with chintz and tartan fabrics and stunning views. An award winning restaurant uses local produce. Cosy living rooms for post outdoor unwinding. A true country getaway.

Active Holiday - With hearty meals and warm fires this is the perfect spot for those taking advantage of West Scotland's outdoor pursuits.
Back to Nature - A stunning country-house in magical surrounds with Loch Sunart at the end of the garden and Glas Bheinn rising beyond.
Fishing - The season runs from 1st June to the 30th September and Salmon, Sea-Trout and Brown Trout can be caught.
Great walks - Simply step out the door and find miles of rugged Scottish countryside awaiting.

from $311 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Kinloch Lodge, Skye

Skye (Sleat )

Stunning scenery, dazzling food and plenty of peace and quiet just a short drive from the Skye Bridge. The elegant and traditional rooms are filled with natural light. A cosy sitting room with an open fireplace is the ideal spot to unwind with a whisky, and the restaurant serves exceptional food.

Foodies - Foodies won't be able to resist the stunning award winning restaurant — check out the taster menu with excellent wine pairings.
Romantic Break - A picturesque south Skype romantic retreat offering excellent food, roaring fires, chic suites and long country walks.
Great walks - Venture on a Wild Walk with resident naturalist Mitchell Partridge, packed lunches are provided on request.
Fishing - The area won't dissapoint, keen anglers can fish for salmon, brown trout and rainbow trout.

from $355 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

The Torridon

Ross-shire (By Achnasheen )

Country escape on the shores of Upper Loch Torridon. 53 acres of park and woodland provide many outdoor activities. Scottish country house opulence twinned with contemporary designs. Seriously good restaurant and whisky bar.

Bar - Over 300 Malt Whiskies available in the Whisky Bar not forgetting their very own Arcturus Gin and Cushie Doos Tonic.
Restaurant - 3 AA Rosettes
Sailing - Sailing tours on S/Y a 13 m sailing yacht both within the loch and to the Isle of Skye and the Outer Hebrides.
Sights nearby - Boat cruises available off the west coast for dolphins and if you're lucky whale watching.

from $279 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Check availability on Expedia

Scarista House

Harris (Scotland)

Old Georgian manse on the Isle of Harris, now run as a charming hotel. Fabulous views over the stunning coastline. Rooms are cosy and comforting and the food is delicious: the freshest seafood imaginable. Perfect for a romantic escape away from it all.

Back to Nature
Hideaway
House party feel
Remote

from $266 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Glencoe House

Glencoe

Once the home of Lord Strathcona, this handsome country house is set in ravishing Highlands scenery overlooking Loch Linnhe. Family and dog friendly, comfortable, spacious suites, some with open fires and superb in-suite dining. There is plenty to entertain the hearty from fly fishing to walking.

Suites - The elegant suites with high celings and stunning views have separate sitting rooms and free standing baths
Private dining room - Exquisite meals are served in the comfort of the guests suites, including afternoon tea
Views - Wonderful views over the stunning countryside and lochs
Back to Nature

from $431 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

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The Grange, Fort William

Fort William

Victorian townhouse turned luxury guesthouse on the western edge of Fort William. Stunning views over Loch Linnhe to the Ardgour Mountains and more activities in the area than you can possibly imagine. Traditional yet stylish bedrooms with sumptuous bathrooms and views to die for.

Views - Stunning views over Loch Linnhe to the Ardgour Hills
Great walks - Plenty of Munros around or even attempt Ben Nevis
Sights nearby - Just outside Fort William in the heart of Glencoe
Restrictions on children - Adults only establishment

from $165 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Forss House

Thurso (Caithness)

A charming 1810 country house hotel set in 20 acres of Scottish woodland. The perfect launchpad for all outdoor pursuits particularly walking, shooting and fishing. Spend the evenings with a choice whisky in hand by the fireplace. A great country escape.

Back to Nature - A rugged coastline on one side and the inland forests and mountains on the other gives plenty of outdoor space to explore
Great walks - The local coastline and hills make for some excellent walking for both the ambler and the serious walker
Fishing - Both rivers and coastal fishing are accessible from the hotel
Full of character

from $126 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Check availability on Expedia

The Lime Tree

Fort William

This stylish hotel is situated in the heart of the North West Highlands. Being the 'outdoor capital of the UK' there are a plethora of activities on offer. The in-house gallery has contemporary art on show and the award winning restaurant serves seasonal, locally sourced food. A great country escape

Kayaking - The coast offers a number of paddling areas to get up close to nature
Sailing
Boutique
Fishing

from $89 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Check availability on Expedia

Highland Cottage

Mull (Isle of Mull, Argyll and Bute )

This 'cottage' (owners David and Jo do not call themselves a hotel) is located in the centre of Tobermory. Rooms are Edwardian in style with billowing, satin fabrics, ornate lamps and many with four poster beds. There's a cosy living room and dining room serving delicious locally sourced cuisine.

Great walks - With one roundabout and not a single traffic light you could say the island of Mull is almost made for walkers!
Birdwatching - Puffins, egrets and much more can be spotted on the nearby coastline.
Sailing - Take a boat to nearby Iona or Staffa for the day.
Restaurant - Informal dining for resident's only.

from $171 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Summer Isles Hotel

Ross-shire

A charming hotel, situated in beautiful scenery with stunning sea views over Badentarbet Bay and the Hebrides, and restaurant specialising in local seafood. Bright, white, airy rooms with sea or garden views. Separate cottage sleeps six. Breathtaking landscape & lots of outdoor activities on offer.

Great walks - The area is great for walking with stunning routes for all abilities.
Fishing - The hotel has its own boats for sea fishing. Loch fishing available.
Outstanding location - Situated in the most glorious position in North West Scotland
Views - Stunning views out to sea and over the Hebrides

from $216 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

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Links House

Dornoch

Delightful luxury hotel set on one of Scotland's most picturesque links golf courses. Rooms have a distinctly Scottish feel with tweed headboards and tartan patterned quilts. The fine dining restaurant serves an ever changing menu of locally sourced delights and an extensive range of wines.

Active Holiday - With golf on the doorstep, walking, shooting and fishing close by, it's the perfect spot for a weekend of country sports.
Country Escape - After a long day outdoors, head in to the roaring fires and cosy sofas of the library and sitting room.
Fishing - Great salmon fishing in the surrounding areas such as on the river Carron and Helmsdale.
Great walks - Beautiful walking in the surrounding Highland countryside.

from $323 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Check availability on Expedia

Glenview

Skye

A charming and homely B&B run by helpful owners, on the picturesque island of Skye. The rooms are cosy and comfortable with stunning views of the Trotternish peninsula. The superb restaurant focuses on local produce such as oysters and venison. Perfect for a remote getaway.

Back to Nature - Escape to the picturesque, wild Scottish island of Skye with it's dramatic landscapes and stunning wildlife.
Local exploring - The perfect base for exploring the amazing island of Skye, with cosy beds and hearty meals.
Sights nearby - Visit the iconic natural landmarks such as the Old Man of Storr, Kilt Rock and the Trotternish Ridge.
Great walks - There is superb walking around the nearby Trotternish Peninsula.

from $114 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Glenmorangie House

Ross-shire (Ross-shire )

A luxury rural property located in an outstanding location near the coast in the Scottish Highlands. Opulent rooms feature plush fabrics, sink into beds and antique furniture. Evenings are equally indulgent with pre-dinner drinks held besides the fire and sumptuous three course meals. Glorious.

Country Escape - A luxury country house complete with excellent whisky list, superb food, log fires and stunning surrounds.
Sights nearby - Make a trip to the majestic Cawdor Castle dating back to the late 14th century.
Great walks - The Scottish Highlands offer some of the UK's best walking routes.
Remote

from $247 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

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Langass Lodge

North Uist (North Uist)

A charming lodge set in a beautiful coastal spot in the Hebrides. Renowned for its restaurant that serves creative fare using the freshest local ingredients. Interiors are comfortingly traditional, all the family are very welcome (including the dog), and there's a multitude of activities nearby.

Foodies - One of the best restaurants in the Hebrides - the chef uses the fantastic produce to create creative and delicious dishes
Families - With large family rooms, plenty of activities for everyone and even the dog welcome - this is a perfect family escape
Country Escape - Set in wild and rugged countryside, beside the coast, this is the perfect place to escape for a tranquil rural break
Active Holiday - Fishing, shooting, stalking, surfing or cycling - you name it, they've got it

from $121 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Coll Hotel

Coll (Isle of Coll)

A charming 3 star hotel situated on the stunning island of Coll. Family run for three generations this is a slick and friendly operation where everything has been thought of from boardgames for rainy days, buckets and spades for the beach and telescopes for star gazing. A special stay.

Country Escape - Located on a beautiful and rugged island. The perfect rural hideaway.
Restaurant - AA rosette for culinary excellence (2023 & 2024). Awarded GOLD status from VisitScotland for excellence within our grading.
Great walks - Take long walks around the island admiring the unspoilt countryside.
Birdwatching - Spot Corncrake, Skylarks and Lapwing at the RSPB reserve on Coll.

from $152 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Flodigarry

Skye (Flodigarry )

Tucked away on a peninsula, this hotel and restaurant have breathtaking views across the sea to the Wester Ross mountains. Interiors reflect the wild landscape, with a palette of greens and browns and the use of natural materials. Rooms feature four posters and large windows to enjoy the views from.

Active Holiday - Ideal for an outdoorsy holiday with a host of activities such as wildlife walks, guided mountain rambles, fishing or boat trips
Great walks - Climb the Old Man of Storr, an iconic rocky hill, or head up on the wonderful mountain walks in the Cullin range
Local markets - Explore the markets, boutiques and cafés of the quaint and picturesque harbourside town of Portree
Sights nearby - Head to stunning natural landmarks such as Kilt Rock and the Trotternish Ridge

from $203 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Machrie Hotel

Islay

A chic property set in the dramatic landscapes of Islay. A recent renovation is a complete triumph with scandi-chic interiors offering light open spaces and maximising the epic views from large expanses of glass. Tee-off on the property's own golf course or simply unwind in the spa.

Golf - Featuring its own 18-hole course along with a Wee course of 6 par-3 holes. Suitable for all abilities
Country Escape - Modern facilities in a spectacular rural setting
Great walks - Set off directly from the property and explore the island's dramatic landscapes
Views

from $222 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Check availability on Expedia

Shieldaig Lodge

Ross-shire (Scotland)

A restored Victorian hunting lodge is the setting for this Highland hotel, nestled on Loch Gairloch. Guestrooms boast loch views from original wood-panelled windows, while luxury tartan upholstering adds a refined finish. Unwind with a whisky by the hotel's wood-burning fire; a sophisticated lodge.

Active Holiday - Set within a huge country estate, this lodge is a popular starting point for activities like hill walking and deer stalking.
Country Escape - With a spectacular location on the banks of Loch Gairloch, this heritage hotel offers an authentic Scottish country retreat
Romantic Break - Couples rate this cosy former hunting lodge highly for a romantic break; book a suite with loch views
Fishing - Enjoy acess to 26,000 acres of first-class fly fishing, with salmon and sea trout fishing available on the nearby loch and river

from $241 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Check availability on Expedia

20 Best Hotels in the Highlands and Islands

For the Scrapbook

For a Highland Escape

For an Island Escape

For The Views

For a Rural Retreat

For Romantics

For Foodies

For Families

For Luxury

For Outdoors-folks

For Great Value

Still not sure where to book?

20 Best Hotels in the Highlands and Islands

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