For a small nation Scotland has a thriving tourist industry and with that comes a wide range of accommodation from budget B&Bs to sleek five star establishments offering every possible luxury you can think of! With a country of such a diverse landscape and so many different things to do and see, it is no surprise that it’s tricky to select your definitive list of the best hotels north of the border. Our guide to the best hotels in Scotland will enable you to select the perfect hotel whether you want to explore the Highlands, taste Michelin starred cuisine, or simply treat your other half to a spot of retail therapy via a city break to Edinburgh or Glasgow.
City breaks in Scotland generally mean a night or two in either Edinburgh or Glasgow, but let’s not forget Inverness, which has been thriving of late, or of course Aberdeen, Scotland’s third largest city.
Edinburgh is awash with places to stay; from city centre boutique hotels to trendy B&Bs slightly further out where comfort and service are the name of the game.
In Glasgow, despite the lively nightlife, designer shops and fabulous architecture, it is harder to get enthusiastic about a great deal of the hotels. Our current favourites are Blythswood Square and ABode Glasgow.
If a trip further north is your thing, how about a break at the Rocpool Reserve in Inverness? This chic, modern townhouse hotel overlooks the river, features the Chez Roux restaurant (overseen by Albert Roux) and is a short walk from the castle and city centre.
If Aberdeen is your destination, Marcliffe at Pitfodels is a grand hotel on the edge of town with elegant, spacious bedrooms, newly opened luxury spa and Conservatory restaurant specialising in seasonal local produce.
If luxury is not your style or simply out of your reach financially, our guide to the best hotels in Scotland can offer plenty of cheaper alternatives that don’t necessarily skimp on service or personal touch just because they’re not costing two arms and a leg.
Scotland’s reputation for its produce is well known: wonderful game, shellfish, beef and much more. There are now a growing number of establishments that are putting Scotland on the map not just for the standard of the produce, but also for the quality of the chefs that are using them. There an ever expanding number of Michelin starred eateries and many of the best hotels in Scotland offer top notch restaurants with AA rosettes to back up their claims; no longer do you have to equate Scottish cuisine with the deep fried mars bar.
Scotland is the ideal destination if a break away from it all is your holiday of choice. Drive an hour from the central belt and you can find yourself in the middle of nowhere with nothing but stunning scenery and wildlife for company. Journey even further and you can almost believe there’s no one else on earth but you!
In Wester Ross, you’ll find The Torridon, a country house hotel located on the shores of Loch Torridon. Surrounded by dramatic mountains and reached via 10 miles of single track roads, it will not disappoint. You’ll be welcomed into the lap of luxury with sumptuously decorated bedrooms, award winning food and a whisky bar that’ll leave you speechless – not just through over-indulgence – it features over 350 different malts!
The Colonsay is an unpretentious retreat on the island of the same name. Built in 1750 as an inn for the locals, it remains very popular with both islanders and visitors. Colonsay is a tiny haven off the west coast and only accessible by ferry from either Oban or Islay. The hotel enjoys a lovely position located on a hill above the harbour and has superb views over to neighbouring Jura. The feel is very laid back with comfy sofas, books and games, roaring log fires. There is certainly something for everyone here be it playing on the sandy beaches, spotting seals, fishing or simply a round of golf or game of tennis.
Looking for sheer indulgence, then Scotland can certainly deliver. There are an increasing number of luxury hotels where one’s every whim is taken care of! Some of the best hotels in Scotland offer pampering and delights more usually expected from properties in the capital or certainly those closer to other forms of civilisation.
So whether a boutique Edinburgh B&B floats your boat or you’re looking for a remote retreat on the West Coast swathed in tartans, our selection of the best hotels in Scotland offers a comprehensive list of all that is good about this country of myriad landscapes, buzzing cities and rich cultural heritage.
For comprehensive hotel collections throughout Scotland check out our recommendations for Perthshire, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Argyll or the Highlands and Islands.
Edinburgh (Prestonfield)
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.
Edinburgh (Southside)
Boutique guest house on southside of Edinburgh, 10-15 mins walk to the centre but on bus route. Good size rooms with luxury trappings and fabulous breakfast. Great views of Arthur's Seat. Friendly, laid back.
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