20 of Scotland's Most Romantic Hotels

Scotland's ingredients of dramatic coast and sea, deep lochs, rolling fields and rugged hills and mountains are second to none when it comes to natural beauty. Added to that are historic monuments, colourful towns, vibrant cities and a slew of very excellent restaurants — some in the least likely of places — creating an often heady mix. Scotland has castles (some of which have been converted into hotels) and beautiful manor houses turned country house hotels, with their promise of peace and privacy. Some of Scotland’s most romantic hotels are isolated, surrounded by stunning views and miles of uninhabited countryside, while other top picks are right in the thick of the action in Edinburgh and Glasgow. We all have a different idea of the romantic idyll but our Gurus have done a great job assessing decor, sampling menus, trying out four-poster beds and testing the water in roll top baths and hot tubs, and have come up with some seriously special properties. Perfect for just the two of you.

For a City Break

• Edinburgh's The Witchery by the Castle is superbly located right by the gates of the castle, on the Royal Mile. It’s an intimate, nine room hotel with Gothic details — think wood panelling and plenty of velvet and candlelight. The food is Scottish and the restaurant is highly recommended.
• The Dunstane Houses is ideally located just a short walk from Haymarket and yet only 15 minutes from Edinburgh Airport. Book the Dunstane suite for truly romantic time and luxuriate in the copper bath with a view!

• The Balmoral is sophisticated and stylish, with a 4AA Rosette fine-dining restaurant, a comprehensive spa and wonderful views of Edinburgh. There are 168 rooms, and the location is unrivalled, you’re close to everything.
• Prestonfield is an opulent option just five minutes from the Royal Mile, yet surrounded by 20 acres of parkland. Glamorous and romantic there are 23 divine bedrooms (each different) ready to spoil you. There’s also a fine dining restaurant and the hotel is adults only.

For a Romantic Rural Escape

• The Fife Arms is located in Braemar (famous for its royal Highland Games), Aberdeenshire and what might look like an austere Victorian pile on the outside has been transformed into a luxury hotel which is dripping with glamour and opulence. Individually themed rooms are decadent to stay the least and the walls are covered in fabulous artworks from Picasso to King Charles. A stunning find and perfect for a really special romantic getaway.
• Surrounded by stunning scenery, Kinloch Lodge on the Isle of Skye, is a cosy, 15 room escape filled with natural light and benefitting from a superb restaurant. Book this one for understated elegance, a fantastic friendly atmosphere and glorious views.
• Also on the Isle of Skye is 19th century hunting lodge Duisdale House, whose surprisingly modern decor includes four poster beds and eye-catching wallpaper. Expansive gardens and stunning local sites make for lots of romantic exploring.
• Overlooking the idyllic Loch Glendhu in the depths of the Scottish Highlands, Kylesku Hotel boasts excellent rooms, delicious food and a bar with real atmosphere. One for those looking for a remote, romantic getaway.
• A 17th century coaching inn has been transformed into The Inn at Loch Tummel, located in the heart of Perthshire. Impossibly scenic hill walks and glorious views can be followed by drinks in the cosy bar and delicious dinners of locally sourced fare. Cosy and intimate.

Scotland’s Most Romantic Country House Hotels

• Cavens Hotel is an impressive country house in a stunning location, surrounded by 20 acres of lawns and woodlands close to Dumfries. There are eight traditional, homely rooms with open fires, chintz fabrics and beautiful views. There’s also an excellent Scottish restaurant. Perfect for lovers of the great outdoors.
• Located on the shores of Upper Loch Torridon is The Torridon, a grand Scottish country manor set within 53 acres of park and woodland. When you're not enjoying the scenery, or the luxurious accommodation, the 300-strong whisky bar makes for a superb visit and the fine dining restaurant is the icing on the cake.
• Not just a country house but an actual 17th century turreted caste, Barcaldine Castle can be found in a beautiful location on Loch Creran's shores. Think roaring fires, Victorian antiques and suitably dramatic scenery.

For a Weekend of Outdoor Activities

• The picturesque cottages of the Meikleour Arms are a stone's throw from the river Tay, and fishing, boating, horse riding and golf can all be enjoyed during your stay. Cosy and full of character, it's a great choice for an active couple.
• With incredible sea and island views, The Pierhouse Hotel is a place to make the most of its west coast location, with sailing, kayaking, mountain biking, birdwatching and more nearby. Don't miss the extraordinarily good seafood either.
• Foyers Lodge is a beautifully restored 19th century hunting lodge overlooking the iconic Loch Ness. It's surrounded by amazing countryside, perfect for hiking, biking and loch based activities. Return to your boutique bolthole for cosy dinners, open fires and a very grown-up, romantic vibe — no kids allowed here!
• Another West Coast favourite, Airds is situated on the shores of Loch Linnhe, in the pretty village of Port Appin. After days on the water or exploring the countryside on foot or two wheels, you can expect luxurious rooms and suites decorated in a range of designer fabrics and wallpapers (the best with stunning views of loch or mountains), boasting Bulgari toiletries and Frette linens as standard. The highly acclaimed restaurant champions local seafood.

Romantic Scottish Hotels with Hot Tubs

• Blythswood Square in Glasgow’s West End is a landmark building and luxury, five star hotel and spa. There are a hundred rooms and suites, including vast, glamorous penthouses. The award-wining basement spa has hot tubs, saunas and even a mud chamber.
• If you’re looking for your own private hot tub you can head north to Inverness and the Rocpool Reserve, which offers two ‘extra decadent’ rooms both of which have their own hot tubs. This stylish ‘modern townhouse affair’ in the centre of town has 11 guest rooms with carefully chosen decor and views over Inverness and the river. There’s also an award-winning restaurant.

If those properties appeal to you why not check out our Gurus' full collection of 17 of the Best Hotels with Hot Tubs in Scotland.

Scotland’s Most Affordable Romantic Hotels

• If you’re searching for an affordable escape it’s hard to go past the Ardanaiseig, a glorious country house hotel with stunning views, remotely located on the banks of Loch Awe. The restaurant has a 3 AA Rosette rating and there’s superb fishing. For total privacy book the boat shed.
• Banchory Lodge is a gorgeous retreat overlooking the River Dee in Banchory. As well as being a great spot for keen fisherfolk (you can literally cast your fly from the bottom of the garden), it's a perfect for romance and certainly won't break the bank, especially if you choose to visit off-season. Rooms are individually designed and elegantly dressed, however romantics should book one of the Top Notch ones — some have four poster beds and all have indulgent bathrooms.

For a romantic B&B

• No 26 By The Sea is a boutique B&B with stunning interiors and equally amazing sea views. Located on the outskirts of Oban, it's a good base for anyone wanting to explore Scotland's Western Isles, or simply a couple wanting an intimate getaway in a beautiful property with luxurious extras like clawfoot tubs and fluffy towels — some rooms boast four posters and a private terrace.

Still not sure?

• Consult our Ultimate Guide to the Most Romantic Hotels in the UK.
• Browse through our list of all the best places to stay in Scotland.
• You could consider our Guru's lists of 10 Scottish Country Escapes, or 17 of the Best Hotels with Hot Tubs in Scotland.
• Alternatively you could contact one of our friendly Gurus for personalised advice.

  • The Witchery by the Castle Edinburgh (Old Town) 9 rooms from €421

    
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    Foodies  -  Serving Scottish beef, lamb, game, the Witchery's famous steak tartare, briny-fresh seafood platters and even some haggis.

    Romantic Break  -  The glamourous, plush yet cosy interiors with love seats, four poster beds, and plenty of candles are perfect for couples

    Sights nearby  -  In the heart of the Old Town on Edinburgh's famous Royal Mile

    Full of character  -  Theatrical red & gold, velveted rooms

    

    Recommended by  -  Frommers, Good Hotel Guide

    Superbly located at the gates of the Castle, on the Royal Mile, sits this intimate, Gothic hotel. The rooms are luxurious, romantic & eccentric – think candlelit, wood paneling and plenty of velvet. Enjoy delicious Scottish food in the equally atmospheric restaurant. See More

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  • Prestonfield Edinburgh (Prestonfield) 23 rooms from €290

    
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    Romantic Break  -  This hotel oozes glammour, romance and seduction, with its wildly opulent canopied beds, rich fabrics and roaring fires.

    Local exploring  -  The best of both worlds- set in 20 acres of spectacular parklands, yet within spitting distance of Edinburgh.

    Great walks  -  Don't forget your welly boots, there are 20 acres of parkland to explore.

    Restrictions on children  -  Adults only

    

    Recommended by  -  Frommers, Good Hotel Guide, Kiwi Collection

    Opulent extravagance at the Prestonfield just 5 mins from the Royal Mile in Edinburgh. Come for attentive service, divine bedrooms and spoiling galore. Fine dining is served in an ultra romantic setting. The concierge have a 'nothing's too much' attitude. Best for a truly indulgent stay. See More

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  • The Roseate Edinburgh Edinburgh (West End) 35 rooms from €252

    
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    Sights nearby  -  Easy access to all of Edinburgh's top attractions including the Royal Mile, Old Town and Prince's Street

    Restaurant  -  The Dunstane Restaurant & Bar serves fine dining dishes created from seasonal, local ingredients

    Great walks  -  Climb Arthur's seat for a great view over the city and beyond.

    Designer  -  Uniquely designed interiors

    

    Recommended by  -  Good Hotel Guide, Fodors, Mr & Mrs Smith

    In a peaceful corner of Edinburgh’s West End, a short walk from Haymarket and 15 minutes’ drive from Edinburgh airport, The Roseate is an independent, 5 star, 35-bedroom boutique hotel spread over two stately Victorian townhouses. Smart interiors and great food present the ideal city base. See More

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  • The Fife Arms Braemar, Aberdeenshire 46 rooms from €369

    
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    Other Activities  -  Stalking and shooting all available by arrangement

    Artworks  -  Picasso, Freud, Bruegel to name just a few

    Opulent  -  Check out the Royal Suites

    Fishing  -  Fishing on the Dee

    

    High Victoriana meets modern luxury at the miraculously reinvented Fife Arms in Braemar. A destination as much as a place to stay, come here to celebrate and relax, or to walk, stalk or fish. Hotel of the Year, The Sunday Times. See More

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  • Kinloch Lodge, Skye Isle of Skye 15 rooms from €323

    
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    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.

    

    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. See More

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  • The Balmoral Edinburgh (Princes Street) 168 rooms from €240

    
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    Sights nearby  -  Visit the nearby Edinburgh Castle and the Scottish National Portrait Gallery.

    Great walks  -  Walk to the summit of Calton Hill and enjoy the panoramic views.

    Views  -  Wonderful city views towards Arthurs Seat.

    Swimming Pool  -  Indoor Pool

    

    Recommended by  -  Tablet, Fodors, Frommers, Kiwi Collection

    Quietly confident, stylish, sophisticated and efficient.THE place to stay in Edinburgh. Part of Rocco Forte Collection and boasting a Michelin starred restaurant, comprehensive spa and over 150 bedrooms. The old railway hotel transformed into a grande dame. True indulgence. See More

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  • Rocpool Reserve Inverness 11 rooms from €449

    
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    Private Hot Tub  -  Two rooms feature private outdoor hot tubs

    Restaurant  -  Recommended.

    Sights nearby  -  Well located for major sights.

    

    Recommended by  -  Good Hotel Guide

    A restored Georgian mansion turned chic townhouse hotel overlooking the river in the centre of town. Slick rooms are contemporary in style with bold colour schemes in some and the best featuring private outdoor hot tubs. Complimentary drinks and canapes are served every evening. An indulgent pick. See More

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  • Blythswood Square Glasgow (Blythswood Hill) 100 rooms from €236

    
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    City Style  -  An elegant 5 star hotel in a great location, with red velvet alcoves and fringed lamp shades nodding to the square's shady past!

    Spa breaks  -  Indulge yourself at in the award-winning basement spa with mud chamber, sauna and extensive treatments.

    Suites  -  Also penthouses with private lift, terrace, bar, dining room, rooftop views

    Swimming Pool  -  Indoor pool

    

    Recommended by  -  Fodors, Good Hotel Guide

    A luxury 5 star spa hotel in Glasgow's West End. Its landmark heritage creates an imposing facade. The contemporary interiors and wellness spa have all the modern comforts. The glorious penthouses and many private rooms are ideal for corporate or social entertaining. A chic choice. See More

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  • Cavens House by Dumfries, Dumfries and Galloway 6 rooms from €207

    
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    Country Escape  -  A charming country house set in 20 acres of woodland and lawns, with excellent walking and warm fires to great your return.

    Romantic Break  -  A cosy hideaway for two in this enchanting part of the country, with charming suites and romantic dining.

    Birdwatching  -  Pack the binoculars as there are two nearby reserves RSPB Mersehead and WWT Caerlaverock.

    Sights nearby  -  Explore the 17th century Drumlanrig Castle and the 13th century Sweetheart Abbey.

    

    Recommended by  -  Sawdays, Good Hotel Guide

    An impressive country house set in a stunning location. Traditional rooms feature large sash windows and tastefully upholstered furniture. Good Scottish cuisine with award winning service. Plenty of country pursuits in the surrounding area. An ideal country escape with all the comforts of home. See More

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  • The Pierhouse Hotel Port Appin (Argyll) 12 rooms from €161

    
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    Views  -  Breathtaking views over Loch Linnhe towards the islands of Lismore and Mull

    Great walks  -  Great walking for all abilities and plenty of munros in the area for serious types

    Restaurant  -  Award winning restaurant serving the freshest of Scottish seafood and game

    Outstanding location  -  Appin lies at the heart of the Lynn of Lorn National Scenic Area.

    

    Originally the pier master's house, The Pierhouse hotel now offers twelve comfy bedrooms in the most outstanding west coast location. The vibe is friendly and laid back, but the real star of the show is the food - the freshest seafood and game imaginable! Perfect for foodies & outdoor active types. See More

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  • Duisdale House Sleat, Skye 18 rooms from €194

    
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    Traditional  -  A nineteenth century hunting lodge that has been converted into a hotel

    Great walks  -  Skye is renowned for its fantastic walking for all abilities.

    Restaurant  -  The fine dining restaurant boasts two AA Rosettes

    Views  -  Great views from hotel

    

    Escape to this rural nineteenth century hunting lodge on Skye's stunning south-east coastline. Explore the extensive gardens and local beauty, before retreating back to cosy four poster beds in surprisingly modern interiors. Look out for statement wallpaper. Great for a romantic weekend away! See More

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  • The Torridon Ross-shire 18 rooms from €254

    
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    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.

    

    Recommended by  -  Good Hotel Guide, Sawdays

    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. See More

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  • Banchory Lodge Banchory 28 rooms from €252

    
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    Romantic Break  -  With its beautifully stylish accommodation, superb food and stunning location, it's perfect for a romantic getaway

    Fishing  -  Fishing on the Dee is some of the finest in Scotland, and there is a beat at the bottom of the garden!

    Local exploring  -  A great base from which to explore Banchory and the surrounding Royal Deeside area.

    Great walks  -  There is superb walking for all abilities and the Deeside Way can be accessed from the hotel's grounds

    

    Overlooking the banks of the river Dee, Banchory Lodge is a true Scottish retreat. Elegant rooms, an atmospheric bar and an excellent restaurant all come together to form a superb hotel. A great spot for keen fisherfolk who can cast a fly from the bottom of the hotel's garden. See More

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  • Kylesku Hotel Sutherland 11 rooms from €210

    
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    Sights nearby  -  Visit nearby Eas a’ Chual Aluinn, Britain’s highest waterfall.

    Fishing  -  Take yourself off for a days trout fishing in nearby hill lochs.

    Great walks  -  The surrrounding area is full of superb walking trails.

    Romantic  -  Good for couples.

    

    Kylesku Hotel is a sublime establishment in the depths of the Scottish Highlands. It's hard to look past the hotel's magnificent setting overlooking Loch Glendhu. Inside you'll find excellent rooms, superb food and an atmospheric bar. A highland idyll. See More

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  • The Inn at Loch Tummel Pitlochry 6 rooms from €230

    
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    Sights nearby  -  Looking out on the Queen’s View, salmon jumping the ladder in Pitlochry, to Blair Castle of Clan Murray

    Great walks  -  Allean Forest is a few minutes drive with marked routes and stunning panoramic views

    Local exploring  -  Nature walks, birdwatching, sailing and also many historic sights close by

    Views  -  The Queen's viewing point is minutes away, but the Inn also boasts impressive views of its own

    

    Recommended by  -  Good Hotel Guide

    Originally a coaching inn from the 1800s, this historic, stylish property offers six ensuite rooms softly furnished in rustic, earthy tones. Wonderful location in the heart of Perthshire. Come for hill walks and stunning views followed by drinks in the cosy bar and locally sourced hearty food. See More

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  • Meikleour Arms Blairgowrie, Perthshire 11 rooms from €150

    
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    Active Holiday  -  A great base for an active holiday of walking, fishing and horse riding.

    Families  -  The hotel's cottages are a great option for family trips.

    Fishing  -  The Meiklour Arms runs fishing trips on both the Tay and the Isla.

    Sights nearby  -  Take a trip to Scone Palace, the ancient seat of Scottish Kings.

    

    Offering charming cottages and lovely rooms, the Meikleour Arms is a delightful place to stay. Just a short walk from the river Tay, the hotel also features an excellent restaurant and a cosy pub that's a great spot to enjoy a dram. The cottages are perfect for a family holiday. See More

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  • No 26 By The Sea Oban 9 rooms from €183

    
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    Romantic Break  -  Claw-foot tubs, bay windows with soaring sea views, rainfall showers & fluffy duvets offer the perfect setting for romance

    Cooking classes  -  Taught by the property's executive chef, intimate 4-course cooking classes are taught at the on-site cookery school

    Back to Nature  -  Super stylish base for exploring the stunning landscapes & impressive wildlife found along the West Coast

    Great walks  -  One of the best ways to explore the dramatic Scottish coastline is on foot; ask for a wide range of trails in the local area

    

    Upmarket boutique B&B with fab location on the Oban coast. Carefully curated rooms are the pinnacle of contemporary chic; bold prints & colours give a distinctive feel. Start active days with hearty breakfasts before returning to a fireside lounge or sea-facing terrace. Romantic seaside retreat. See More

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  • Barcaldine Castle Benderloch, Argyll 6 rooms from €230

    
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    Views  -  Look out over scenic Loch Creran & the snow-capped peaks of Glencoe in the distance. Book The Barcaldine Room for sunsets

    Back to Nature  -  National Parks, dramatic coastal views & wild open landscapes make this a dream destination for outdoor lovers

    Weddings  -  The ideal choice for those after an intimate Scottish castle wedding with a stunning natural backdrop

    Exclusive use  -  Rent out the entire property with friends & families for an idyllic country weekend or special event

    

    17th century turreted castle B&B with a beautiful location on Loch Creran's shores. Pretty rooms are decorated with Victorian-era antiques and look out over dramatic scenery. Expansive yet cosy living areas with roaring fires make this ideal for groups of friends, families or events. See More

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  • Foyers Lodge Foyers, Inverness-shire 6 rooms from €326

    
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    Romantic Break  -  Serene yet sexy rooms with rolltop baths & loch views will appeal to those looking to rest, recharge & reconnect with partners

    Active Holiday  -  A great base for endless outdoor activities; the area offers riding, kayaking, golfing, walking, climbing, cycling & fishing

    Back to Nature  -  A quiet & peaceful rural paradise; spend relaxing days soaking in the surrounding scenery

    Views  -  Views over Loch Ness - from rooms, living areas, garden & terrace - are unparalled

    

    Beautifully restored 19th-century hunting lodge with a stunning Loch Ness-facing setting. Set within manicured gardens, amazing views compete with magazine-worthy interiors; bold tones combine with traditional Scottish country house furnishings to spectacular effect. Grown-up owner-run boutique gem. See More

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  • Airds Port Appin 11 rooms from €426

    
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    Active Holiday  -  Enjoy horse riding, mountain biking, great walking, climbing and more.

    Local exploring  -  Within 30 mins of the area's top attractions

    Restaurant  -  3 AA Rosettes

    Views  -  Wonderful views down Loch Linnhe and stunning sunsets

    

    Recommended by  -  Good Hotel Guide, Relais & Chateaux, Sawdays

    An intimate hotel in a tranquil lochside setting with exceptional food See More

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Written by Kat Parr Mackintosh

posted Wednesday, 3rd July 2024