Scotland has long been a land of sweeping landscapes, ancient castles, and timeless romance – but for those seeking something truly exceptional, it offers far more than just scenery. When it comes to romantic getaways, Scotland has a lot to offer. From romantic stays in the rugged highlands or remote islands to special hotel stays in interesting cities across Scotland or quiet countryside cottages. There truly are a lot of hidden gems that are well worth a visit. So here are my recommendations (and yes I have stayed at a lot of them with my husband) for places to stay on a romantic trip to Scotland.
Romantic getaways in Scotland
What are the most romantic places to stay in Scotland? Good question – and this of course depends on what you consider to be the ultimate romantic experience. In this guide I have included options ranging from luxurious castles and spa hotels to remote cottages and countryside estates. Personally I love escaping to somewhere quite remote, perhaps in Perthshire and sit by a fire as it rains outside, that would probably be my ideal romantic getaway here in Scotland. But a city staycation could be just as charming and taking the time to explore some good restaurants or wine bars.
What is the best season for a romantic trip to Scotland?
Every season in Scotland has its own charm. A spring trip is a great way to have something to look forward to after winter. It’s also a great time for a trip as there is often lots of daffodils, cherry blossoms or wild garlic around and the birds have started chirping in the mornings again. The summer is great for green and leafy landscapes and long days. Autumn is one of my personal favourites as I just love escaping to a cottage when temperatures start to drop and the landscape changes colours. A romantic trip to Scotland in winter can also be incredibly cosy – and especially if you get snow! Imagine sitting by a fireplace with a glass of wine in hand, whilst snow is falling outside. What a dream!
♥ If you are visiting Edinburgh, I’ve even written a full guide to the best season in the city which you can find here.
Luxury & boutique hotels with a romantic atmosphere
There are so many romantic places to stay in Scotland and I’ve been lucky enough to visit quite a few on my trips throughout the years. So here I have put together a list of some of the most romantic hotels, cottages and castles that I personally consider for my own getaways in Scotland.
Islay
Islay is probably my favourite place on earth – and it’s definitely one of the most romantic places to stay in Scotland for a getaway. I think about running away to the island for a week to just do nothing and enjoy the landscape, whisky and remoteness at least once every week. It’s a great location for a romantic Scotland trip and there are two hotels – with very different vibes – that I would highly recommend for your stay.
Islay rewards the slow travel approach that we love most – three days here is the right starting point, but you’ll want a week.
The Machrie
The Machrie is an elegant hotel with a golf course which sits near the airport. There are plenty of big windows around to admire the dunes stretching toward the sea and if you wish to head down to the beach then it’s only a short walk away. And what a beach – a big sandy strip that seems to stretch for miles. There is also a little Scandinavian garden spa area with hot tubs, a plunge pool and a sauna which is a lovely spot to relax. I love The Machrie as it feels really remote but is one of those hotels where you appreciate spending time just at the hotel itself.
Prices from £275 / per night.
♥ Read my full review of The Machrie here
Ardbeg House
If you wish for a stay with a lot of character then Ardbeg House is as quirky as it gets on the island. This Ardbeg-themed hotel has twelve rooms – all individually designed and inspired by the island or the distillery. The hotel is located in Port Ellen and has a lovely restaurant and bar as well. As an Ardbeg fan girl I was so thrilled to be one of the first people to experience the hotel after the renovations. And it did not disappoint!
Prices from £230 / per night.
♥ Read my review of Ardbeg House here.
Isle of Skye
The Isle of Skye is a popular destination for romantic trips in Scotland. It’s an excellent spot to go for walks through the dramatic landscape, try fantastic fresh seafood and cuddle up in a charming hotel when the rain eventually starts… But don’t make my mistake and go camping in 40mph winds and sideways rain. I should’ve just booked a nice hotel instead.
♥ Read our guide to the best restaurants and cafés on the Isle of Skye here.
Three Chimneys Isle of Skye
The Three Chimneys is a charming hotel and restaurant on the Isle of Skye which is a great place to escape. Time seems to slow down a little in this remote part of the world and even though there might not be a lot of people around, there might be a sheep or two outside your window when you wake up in the morning. And I’m telling you that from experience!
Prices from £275 / per night.
♥ Read my full review of the Three Chimneys
Kinloch Lodge
Kinloch Lodge is the perfect spot for a luxurious and romantic getaway on the Isle of Skye off the west coast of Scotland. This is also another wonderful spot for culinary experiences and the restaurant is well worth a visit on its own. I discovered Kinloch Lodge through a friend of mine who is a luxury travel writer for publications like The Times and Condé Naste as it’s her favourite hotel in Scotland. And it’s not hard to see why as this elegant hotel with loch views makes every stay feel effortlessly luxurious.
Prices from £580 / per night.
the Three Chimneys
Perthshire – the best area for romantic getaways in Scotland?
Perthshire is one of my favourite areas of Scotland. Deep forests, wild rivers and a very relaxing atmosphere makes it an excellent location to visit. Furthermore, this might be my top choice amongst the romantic places to stay in Scotland, as I just never get tired of Perthshire. It’s also so convenient to get to from Edinburgh and Glasgow as it’s within a couple of hours drive and you get the most incredible nature all around you.
The Grandtully Hotel
The Grandtully Hotel by Ballintaggart is located in Perthshire by the river Tay. The Ballintaggart team are known by their fantastic food so make sure to also book in to the restaurant if you are staying here. Or book in for one of the Feast Nights at Ballintaggart Farm to explore a table set with sharing bowls of seasonal Scottish produce.
For self-catered accommodation by the same team, do check out Ballintaggart Farmhouse or East End Cottage.
Prices from £200 / per night.
The Taybank
The Taybank is located in Dunkeld and is a charming boutique hotel which now also has a sauna on the River Tay which is open during the winter months. This is another spot known for their food and the Sunday Roast is very popular so make sure to book a table in advance.
The team behind The Taybank are about to open a sister hotel ‘The Birnam’ in the nearby village of the same name.
Prices from £220 / per night.
Gleneagles
Gleneagles is one of the most romantic places to stay in Scotland if you are looking for luxury. It’s a popular resort for golf and there is also an spa on site as well as an abundance of activities. I would highly recommend the afternoon tea here and a wee glass of champagne (the 2014 Vintage is really lovely!). Gleneagles is an iconic hotel in Scotland for a reason, and I just adore the breakfast here. It spans across multiple rooms and I always wish I could stay for longer just so I could have more opportunities to explore the breakfast.
Prices from £595 / per night.
Fortingall
The Fortingall Hotel is a luxury boutique hotel located in Perthshire which has a lovely elevated highland feel. If you are looking for a luxurious and romantic hotel in Scotland for your getaway, The Fortingall is sure not to disappoint. The interior design of the rooms is absolutely gorgeous and I always wish I could incorporate such elegance and style into my own home, in particular the soft colours and antiques. Also, who doesn’t like a hotel which has its own pub? My recommendation is the pie of the day which is really hearty and delicious – perfect fuel for exploring the gorgeous nature around the hotel.
Prices from £270 / per night.
Monachyle Mhor
Monachyle Mhor feels like a hidden gem as it’s tucked away in a valley with not much else around. I’ve seen one of the most incredible sunsets here and equally important the hotel has a great approach to local produce and sources everything as near to the hotel as possible.
Prices from £320 / per night.
Central Belt
Although you might be thinking of remote cottages and boutique hotels when looking for the most romantic places to stay in Scotland, there can be plenty of romance in or near the cities as well.
» For a romantic city break don’t miss my Edinburgh weekend itinerary!
Prestonfield House
Prestonfield House is probably in my opinion the most romantic hotel for a trip to Scotland. However, I am biased as I spend two nights here after my wedding and had the best time. I love the gothic interior design that feels so moorish and that it’s located near to town, but it feels like it’s in the countryside. If you wish to stay closer to the city centre in Edinburgh, they also have their sister hotel The Witchery, located right by Edinburgh Castle.
Prices from £310 / per night.
Marine North Berwick
The Marine Hotel in North Berwick is a great destination for a romantic getaway. This coastal town is such a charming place to hideaway for a night or two from time to time. They also have a spa on site where you can explore different saunas and an outdoor heated pool where I could just sit for hours. Should you wish for a little more city life, then Edinburgh is about half an hour away on the train. The Marine & Lawn portfolio also has lovely hotels in St Andrews, Troon and Dornoch as well.
Prices from £260 / per night.
Mar Hall
Mar Hall can be found just outside of Glasgow. This golf and spa resort has recently been going through a big renovation and the new look is particularly charming. The restaurant is worth visiting on its own and I can’t wait to return and try the afternoon tea someday soon.
Prices from £200 / per night.
Speyside
Tucked in between Aberdeen and Inverness you will find Speyside. This region might be mostly known for its fantastic whisky distilleries, but there is plenty to do in the area for non-whisky people too.
» Read our guide to things to do and see in Speyside
The Craigellachie
The Craigellachie Hotel is a charming dog-friendly boutique hotel in Speyside which has a particularly great whisky bar and restaurant. The iconic yellow building sits near Craigellachie and a short walk away is the Craigellachie Bridge, built by Thomas Telford. Lastly, don’t miss a charming lunch in the Spey Inn here on your romantic trip. It is the oldest drovers inn in Scotland, dating all the way back to 1703.
Prices from £250 / per night.
Rothes Glen
Rothes Glen is a castle tucked away right outside of Rothes in Speyside. Although it is available for private hire most of the year, they also arrange fantastic themed weekends. During these weekends you can book by the room with all activities and food included! I’ve written more about the themed weekends further down in this guide.
♥ Read my review of the Rothes Glen Gourmet Weekend here.
The Dowans Hotel
The Dowans Hotel is located right on the outskirts of Aberlour. This country house has rooms named after different whisky distilleries. My favourite room is the Aberlour Suite because it has the most magnificent turret bathtub. If you are a whisky enthusiast there is also an excellent whisky bar here. You can also find its sister Hotel 1881 of Speyside nearby in Archiestown.
Prices from £280 / per night.
♥ Read my full review of The Dowans Hotel
The Borders
The Borders often seem to be an overlooked area of Scotland as a lot of visitors seek to go north, but there are plenty of charming castles and cottages to visit here.
Schloss Roxburgh
Schloss Roxburgh offers both hotel rooms and cottages as well as a lovely spa with an outdoor heated pool along with plunge pools and saunas for optimal relaxation. Personally I always prefer when there is an outdoor area at a spa. There is something so incredibly enjoyable about being in the fresh air and enjoying whatever weather the season is bringing. There is also a charming swing on the grounds which is the perfect spot to enjoy sunrises or sunsets.
Prices from £200 / per night.
North Scotland
The journey to north Scotland might be a long one, but if you’re looking for remote and wild wilderness, this is where you find it.
Links House by Royal Dornoch
Links House is one of my favourite hotels in Scotland and it’s very well suited for a romantic getaway. This stunning building is elegantly decorated with antique details that give the rooms such a charming character indeed. The restaurant Mara has never disappointed me so far and I’ve particularly enjoyed the seafood here. The hotel is located right by the golf course and the beautiful beach is only a short walk away.
Prices from £250 / per night.
Cottages & castles to escape to
I love escaping to the middle of seemingly nowhere with my husband to just enjoy some quiet time alone. We travel a lot in both of our work so staying within a couple of hours drive here in Scotland is one of my favourite things when we have the opportunity for a romantic getaway.
Mayen Estate
Mayen Estate is located near Huntly in the Speyside area and is a great location for exploring both Speyside and the east coast. Besides staying in lovely cottages you can also book in a private picnic in the summer house or bridge lodge on the estate. The estate also has beautiful walled gardens and there are also highland coos in the fields.
Prices from £260 / per night.
♥ Full review coming soon — stay tuned!
Monzie Estate
Monzie Estate near Crieff is a lovely countryside destination with multiple cottages available. Guests staying at the cottages can also enquire about a tour of Monzie Castle. The tours are available between April and October.
- The one bedroom Burnside Cottage
- The two bedroom Gardeners Cottage
- The charming and historic East Lodge which is a turreted lodge built in 1790
- Or if you prefer a cottage with a hot tub there is Brae Cottage as well
Prices from £230 / per night.
The Dell of Abernethy
The cottages at The Dell of Abernethy are located right outside Nethy Bridge and is a lovely option for a woodland escape. Go for long walks, roast marshmallows over the fire or perhaps try your hand at jewellery making with local artist Amy Niven. There is also a little grocer on site so you can stock up on little goodies that are sourced from local and small producers.
Prices from £180 / per night.
Neidpath and Barns Estates
Located in the Scottish Borders, not too far from Edinburgh, you’ll find historic accommodation like the Neidpath Castle Cottage, Queen Marys Chamber, Barns Tower or Barns Library. Mary Queen of Scots herself stayed at the chamber in August 1563. So here you can follow in her footsteps and enjoy a little taste of the 16th century along with some more modern amenities for comfort. There is also the Townhead holiday home with a wood-fired hot tub. A historical stay can really make a romantic trip to Scotland memorable when the place you stay is full of fascinating character.
Prices from £190 / per night.
Dunskey Estate
Dunskey Estate is located in the Dumfries & Galloway area in the southeast. There are a variety of lodges available on the estate. One that is sure to make the stay memorable is the charming ‘Selkies Haven’ which sits right by the beach. You can also book in to try your hand axe throwing or for something less dramatic perhaps an afternoon tea in the glasshouse or a lunch by a secluded beach.
Prices from £160 / per night.
Banchory Farm
Banchory Farm is located in Fife. It’s a great location for exploring places like St Andrews whilst still not being too far away from Edinburgh. The farm itself grows barley for the whisky industry in Scotland as well as other grains and they have a lovely selection of cottages and farm houses that are ideal for a romantic getaway. A couple of nights stay in a lovely cottage surrounded by Scotland’s barley fields can be just as romantic and cosy as staying in a hotel in the city.
Prices from £220 / per night.
Penicuik Estate
Penicuik Estate is located just south of Edinburgh and offers a variety of houses and cottages which have been beautifully decorated. The Estate has used the same interior designers as The Rectory in Northumberland where I have previously stayed and I just love their style. You can read my review of staying at The Rectory here. A lovely oasis to hideaway in and appreciate the nature around you. This is definitely a great option if you are looking for romantic places to stay in style in Scotland.
Prices from £300 / per night.
The Church Tower Crieff
The Church Tower in Crieff is conveniently located for exploring both the bigger cities nearby or the lovely nature around Perthshire. A stay here gives you an extensive choice of everything the surrounding area has to offer. And should you wish to add a little extra luxury to the experience you have Gleneagles nearby as well.
Prices from £360 / per night.
Riverbeds Glen Coe
Riverbeds Glen Coe offer a cosy stay where you can hide away in your little lodge and admire the wild nature around you, with the convenience of a private hot tub. To enhance you stay you can also order a breakfast hamper to arrive discreetly to your lodge so you can enjoy breakfast in bed or on the veranda with a view!
Prices from £475 / per night.
Eastside Cottages
I was once lucky enough to win a stay at Eastside Cottages through a competition and we had such a lovely weekend here. The cottages are located just outside of Edinburgh by the Pentlands. This area has stunning landscapes and there are plenty of walks to explore. Although we mostly just stayed by the cottage and relaxed. You can also book a time in the woodland sauna right behind the cottages which also has a plunge pool. A very relaxing and wholesome stay.
Prices from £240 / per night.
Looking for a romantic getaway experience in Scotland?
If you are not just looking for the most romantic places to stay on your trip to Scotland. But instead would prefer a full experience with an itinerary, perhaps this would suit you.
Themed weekends at Rothes Glen | romantic trip to Scotland
Rothes Glen is a gorgeous castle in Speyside and they arrange themed weekends with a focus of things like food or whisky but also have a special Christmas-themed weekend for ultimate festive vibes in the winter.
♥ Read my review of a Gourmet Weekend at Rothes Glen here.
FAQ – Romantic getaways in Scotland
If you are looking for a romantic hotels with a spa in Scotland, then do check out Gleneagles, Marine North Berwick or Schloss Roxburgh.
Prestonfield House hotel is one of the most romantic places to stay on a trip to Scotland if you ask me. It’s located just outside the city centre so it feels secluded, but is still near to everything. And it has the most gorgeous gothic interiors that feels like they are right out of a romance novel.
If you want something that is not too far away, but with lots of options then Perthshire is a great destination for a romantic getaway in Scotland.
Personally I would say that the most romantic island in Scotland is Islay, but Isle of Skye is very popular and Isle of Arran is another lovely island which is also quite easy to get to.
Need more inspiration for your trip?
- Edinburgh: A local’s guide and recommendations to things to do and see
- The best hotels in Edinburgh: 19 luxurious recommendations from a local
- Where to go for a whisky tasting in Edinburgh: Scotch whisky tours & distilleries
- The best time to visit Edinburgh: A seasonal travel guide
- A whisky writers guide to Speyside in Scotland
Meet Moa, our multi-talented writer from Sweden who now calls Edinburgh, Scotland home. With over a decade exploring Europe’s hidden corners—from Nordic landscapes to alpine villages—Moa brings a unique perspective shaped by her years as a travel guide in the Swiss and Austrian Alps. As a whisky book author and freelance drinks writer, she has an eye for exceptional food and beverage experiences, while her background as a photographer ensures she never misses a scenic moment. Whether she’s discovering old European cities or chasing golden hour in mountain villages, Moa’s stories blend cultural insight with a dash of adventure and plenty of authenticity.
