5 Unique Places to Stay in Scotland
Fashioned from converted castles, country houses and centuries-old buildings, VisitScotland have assembled a list of unorthodox lodgings to stay in.
These five traditional accommodation options all come with intriguing histories that will wow your friends and family, from historic blackhouses that were once the hub of family life to majestic castles and country estates that have seen many grand parties and get togethers over the years.
Browse these options to find historic places to stay that will transport you to times gone by and unusual accommodation that you won’t find anywhere else.
A HISTORIC BLACKHOUSE OR BROCH
If your heart soars at the thought of staying in a place with thick stone walls and deep Scottish connections, a stay in a traditional blackhouse (a stone built dwelling with a thatched roof) will make your holiday truly unique. The Gearrannan Blackhouse Village on the Isle of Lewis in the Outer Hebrides dates from the 1800s and has three historic blackhouse cottages and one large bunkhouse to choose from. Similarly, with their exposed stone walls, modern ‘broch’ properties take their inspiration from historic broch fortifications (such as Mousa Broch on Shetland) but throw in a whole heap of home comforts.
Inverlochy Castle Hotel, ©Inverlochy Hotel Group
A MAJESTIC CASTLE
If you fancy staying somewhere with a serious dose of drama, choose an epic Scottish castle. Situated near Fort William, on Scotland’s mountainous west coast, Inverlochy Castle Hotel was built in 1863 and is set in beautiful lush grounds beside its own private loch. Do you belong to an ancient Scottish clan? If so, you might be able to stay in your ancestors’ historic stronghold. Many of Scotland’s castles have clan connections.
The Drovers Inn, Loch Lomond, ©Gryffe Studios
A TRADITIONAL INN
If cosy log fires, hearty food and an on-site pub are more your style, a stay in a traditional Scottish inn will be right up your street.Inns are packed with history and date back to the days when people used horse-drawn stagecoaches to get around the country. These traditional watering holes were popular stopping places for travellers as they made their way across the country and to this day you’ll still find inns located in some of Scotland’s most beautiful places. The Drovers Inn at Inverarnan, just north of Loch Lomond, is over 300 years old and makes a great base for exploring the beautiful National Park and surrounding area.
The Torridon, Wester Ross
A VAST COUNTRY HOUSE OR LODGE
Looking for a countryside retreat? A country house or historic lodge will give you plenty of space to spread out, with easy access to outdoor activities in Scotland’s beautiful landscapes. The Torridon in Wester Ross is a former shooting lodge which was built in 1887. Nowadays you can expect plush hotel rooms and lots of exhilarating ways to enjoy the great outdoors, including guided walks and sea kayaking.
Newton Farm Holidays
A WORKING FARM
Get a taste of authentic farming life in Scotland with a stay on a working farm. Farming has deep roots in Scottish culture. From centuries ago until the present day, generations of farming families have based their lives around their farms, producing succulent meat, hearty crops and fresh produce. Nowadays, some farms even offer cosy accommodation where you can immerse yourself in farming life. Enjoy the fresh air at Newton Farm Holidays in Angus, near Dundee, where you can take a farm tour to meet the animals, including sheep, cows, goats and gentle alpacas.
For more holiday inspiration, places to stay, local tips and more, head to VisitScotland.