With striking landscapes and boutique hotels galore, Scotland is an obvious choice for a romantic getaway. But the only problem is there's just so much to choose from. So, whether you’re opting for a sexy city break in the capital, a cosy retreat on the Isle of Skye or a touch of luxe in the stunning St Andrews, we’ve rounded up six of the best staycations in Scotland.
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Edinburgh
For slinky holidays to Scotland, Le Monde is a gorgeous choice.
STAY: Le Monde - Located on the ever-lively George Street, Le Monde is the boutique hotel that promises a unique, romantic getaway in Scotland. Each room is themed on a cosmopolitan city from around the globe, with cutting-edge interiors and five-star service as standard.
EAT: Gaucho - For a dinner date to remember, head to city centre restaurant Gaucho. Specialising in all things Argentinian, the menu pays homage to premium cuts of beef, with rich sauces and fine wines to complement.
DRINK: The Raging Bull - No Edinburgh staycation would be complete without a round of cocktails at one of its many West End bars. The Raging Bull is one of our favourites thanks to its incredible espresso martini, boasting gingerbread, mint and berry twists on the classic sip.
DO: The Great Game Treasure Hunt - With so many iconic landmarks, stunning bits of architecture and cosy pubs, the ideal way to see the city is by doing an outdoor treasure hunt. Follow clues, solve riddles and hunt down prizes, with plenty of refreshment breaks along the way, naturally.
Glasgow
If you're looking for Scotland staycations near Glasgow, why not stay in the very centre of the city?
STAY: The Village Hotel - If you're looking for bargain weekend breaks in Scotland, Glasgow is a fantastic choice. And so is The Village Hotel. Nestled on the banks of the River Clyde, it not only boasts gorgeous views but also a fantastic location from which to explore the city. It even has its own pub downstairs slinging out tip-top food and drinks.
EAT: Cubatas - While Glasgow’s climes may be less than desirable at times, that doesn’t mean you can’t be transported to sunnier shores for an evening. Cubatas is a renowned Spanish restaurant, specialising in tasty tapas dishes. Chow down patatas bravas and seafood paella while sipping on sangria.
DRINK: West On The Green - Nestled in the East End, West On The Green is a proper place for a pint. With many of its brews created fresh on-site, plus boasting a mega beer garden and hearty German cuisine, it's a local favourite for a reason.
DO: Sloans Friday Night Ceilidh - What better way to really experience Scottish culture than with a traditional dance at one of Glasgow's most-loved venues? Get dressed up in your best tartan and burl around to classic tunes with a dram of whisky to hand.
Aberdeen
The best Highland staycation ideas? A trip to Aberdeen is certainly up there.
STAY: The Marcliffe Hotel & Spa - If you're looking to really relax on your holibobs, The Marcliffe boasts its very own spa with massages, body treatments and facials available. Expect nothing short of luxury, as there are spacious rooms fronting vintage furniture and gorgeous garden views.
EAT: Chaophraya - Toting grand, traditional decor and a lip-smacking menu of Thai treats, Chaophraya is certainly a must-visit. Pop along to wolf down fragrant stir-fries, sizzling curries and the like.
DRINK: BrewDog - The Union Square venue is a fab spot to kick off a getaway. The craft beer mavericks have achieved world domination in recent years while staying true to their roots, as all their signature beers are still created at their Aberdeenshire brewery nearby.
DO: Whisky Distillery Tour - Land of the famous firewater spirit, Scotland has more distilleries than you can shake a stick at. And lucky for you, there are plenty in and around Aberdeen. Our favourite has to be one of the oldest, Glen Garioch. Head on over to enjoy a sumptuous taste of Highland whisky.
Isle of Skye
Start the morning right with a stove-cooked coffee looking out over the beautiful landscapes.
STAY: Bothan Beileag Shepherds Hut - Connected to the mainland via a 500m bridge, the Isle of Skye is home to rugged landscapes, cosy lodges and historic castles. Top of our list when it comes to romantic getaways in Scotland, the small island is home to the charming shepherd hut Bothan Beileag. The quirky accommodation offers uninterrupted views, a roaring fire pit for those chillier evenings, and even some friendly donkey neigh-bours.
EAT: Kinloch Lodge - Formerly a 16th-century hunting lodge, Kinloch is now one of the island’s most prestigious restaurants. Headed up by Michelin-starred chef Marcello Tully, the kitchen offers a selection of tasting menus, lighter bites and afternoon teas, perfect for warming the cockles after a day of exploring the nearby Loch na Dal.
DRINK: Seumas’ Bar - A popular pub among Skye’s climbing community, Seumas’ Bar is the ideal place to rest your weary legs and warm up with a dram of something fiery. It’s home to a collection of over 400 malts, alongside a selection of real ales on tap produced by the adjacent Cuillin Brewery.
DO: Take A Dip In The Fairy Pools - No trip to this charming Scottish isle would be complete without a morning at its mystical Fairy Pools. Found close to Glenbrittle and easily identified thanks to their aqua-blue colour, these natural ponds are a must for any wild swimmer. Just be sure to pack your wetsuit, as the 6°C temperatures are not for the faint of heart.
Fort William
Stay in this gorgeous cabin near Ben Nevis before exploring all that Fort William has to offer.
STAY: Wild Nurture Luxury Off Grid Log Cabin - If you’re on the hunt for luxury holiday lodges in Scotland, then Fort William is a great place to start. Available to book via Airbnb, the Wild Nurture Offgrid Eco Cabin is perfect for escaping the stress of everyday life. Suitable for groups of up to five, it truly disappears into its surroundings, allowing you to curl up by the fire while watching the sun set behind Ben Nevis.
EAT: Crannog - Somewhat precariously balanced at the end of Fort William Town Pier, Crannog is the quaint restaurant that allows you to get just about as close to the sea as possible without getting your toes wet. Serving the very best in Scottish seafood, from Lochaber mussels to Ardshealach smoked salmon, it's a cracking spot for a casual dinner.
DRINK: Grog and Gruel - Found on Fort William’s high street, The Grog & Gruel is something of an institution. Pop by for a pint and spend your evening meeting friendly locals and listening to West Highland tales while sampling a lush lineup of craft brews.
DO: See The Glenfinnan Viaduct - Drive 30 minutes out of Fort William and you’ll find a very familiar-looking bridge. The Glenfinnan Viaduct has a starring role in the Harry Potter films, and fans come from near and far to see the iconic Jacobean train (AKA the Hogwarts Express) chug along the grand structure.
St Andrews
If it's luxury Scotland holidays you're after, The Fairmont Hotel is a great choice.
STAY: The Fairmont Hotel - St Andrews is a charming seaside town northeast of Edinburgh. While popular for its rich golfing heritage, it's also famed as one of the most romantic getaway destinations. If you’re looking for a staycation in Scotland with a hot tub, then we recommend booking a room at five-star hotel The Fairmont. Expect roaring fires, grand dining rooms and a spa set to the stunning backdrop of the bay.
EAT: Seafood Ristorante - The team of chefs at Seafood Ristorante use locally sourced sustainable produce to create a daily changing menu of classic dishes with an Italian twist. Book a table at this seashore eatery as the sun goes down to enjoy a dinner setting unlike any other.
DRINK: The Keys Bar - A favourite among the town’s locals and students (and perhaps even the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge), The Keys Bar is a homely, family-run boozer. Offering bags of charm and character, this is a gorgeous haunt to call in for a wee dram, with staff always happy to lend an ear.
DO: St Andrews Ghost Tours - An award-winning walking tour of the town, the St Andrews Ghost Tour is renowned as one of the best in the world. Not only will you get a unique guide to the area's most famous landmarks, but also the chance to see some ghouls...
Looking for more UK staycation inspiration? Check out our guide to the best romantic breaks on a budget here and sign up to our newsletter.
