Out-of-the-ordinary places to stay in Scotland
There’s something beguiling about Scotland’s vast remote spaces, big skies and wildlife-rich landscapes. The country lends itself to places with stories to tell, places that buzz and hum with character. From slick and sleek contemporary spaces themed on pictish brochs to a masterfully renovated 14th-century defence tower, an 1800s tabernacle and a Scottish Baronial house, here is a surprising and unusual selection of places to stay in bonny Scotland.
Balbinny Broch, Angus
An adventurous approach over gorse-covered moorland to a narrow lane and Balbinny Farm. Two beautifully designed, minimalist spaces resemble pictish brochs (not overlooking each other) and are built from stones saved from the old steading with grass roofs, curved walls and a glass-front for wrap-around views. Walk into a good sized hall then an open-plan living room, a sleek and well thought-out kitchen.
View-filled bedrooms are simple with underfloor heated bathrooms. There are floating bean bags for the pool, a tennis court in the garden (maybe a distant hum from the A90), treatments if you want them, walks galore, fishing in the South Esk or a visit to Glamis Castle.
“The accommodation was outstanding. Great sound system at the pool. We didn’t want to leave, everyone unwound and relaxed in the wonderful setting.” – Guest, Lori
The Five Turrets, Scottish Borders
Stay at this spectacular Scottish Baronial-style house with valley views and stroll to good restaurants, explore the stunning scenery and discover the history of the Borders — Hadrian’s Wall is within striking distance. Although this house was built in 1870 the interiors are very much 21st-century, with airy open-plan kitchen, dining and living areas to spread out in.
There’s a mezzanine library with hundreds of books, Netflix to escape to and a piano in the entrance hall. Gethin and Carolynn live across the road and leave a welcome pack of seasonal local food. They can arrange a chef to cook for you if you want a special dinner, or tours of the Borders, a Land Rover safari, alpaca trekking and archery.
“We’ve really enjoyed our week exploring the Borders. Loved the accommodation, loads of space for everyone and we even made use of the piano!” – Guest, Mark
The Tabernacle, Highland
A serene spot for this 1800s corrugated iron tabernacle, gorgeously furnished inside and with wide views over Loch Lyon and the river Tay. Vast arched windows allow light to pour into the living space, cosy with wooden floors and filled with lovely things from the owners’ travels in Tibet, China and India. Two big sofas, books, games, fluffy blankets and sheepskin rugs will make rainy days feel like a stroke of luck and there’s an Esse wood-burning stove if you want an extra blast of heat.
On fine days you’ll be eating outdoors, swimming in the loch or easing into the hot tub and admiring the views. Mature trees filled with birds and romantic night lighting surround you. Nothing disturbs the peace.
“A delightfully warm and wonderful place to stay in a fabulous spot overlooking the long valley. Very special indeed.” Inspector, Nicola
The Wash House, Midlothian
Come to hike and wild swim in the Pentland Hills from this sleek, minimalist Scandi pad for two; one of five properties created out of ancient buildings on a 3,000 acre working hill sheep farm. You walk straight into the living room with free-standing wood burner, wildlife books, OS maps and a lovely window seat with sheepskin throws, scattered cushions – the views are stunning and this will be a calming place to sit even if you’re stuck indoors.
One, simple double, made private by the ash screen which allows light to filter through, has a thick wool mattress, feather pillows and cosy robes for late night trips to the wood-fired sauna, neatly tucked in a spa yurt next to a spring water outdoor plunge pool, a spoiling 4 hour private session is included with every booking.
“I’ve seen an array of properties but this one is something super special. The sleek interiors and muted tones provide a calm environment in which you can sit back, and relax.” – Inspector, Nicola
Barns Tower, Scottish Borders
Steeped in history and romance, with a great big sleigh bed and open fires, this 14th-century defence tower perched above the river Tweed is a hideaway of exceptional interest; a bolthole for two with original features and every modern comfort. Enter the iron ‘yett’, wind up the narrow stone stair, and there is the well-equipped kitchen. Up a wooden spiral stair to the sitting room, with its lovely open fire.
Up again, to the romantic bedroom with a huge bed under high rafters and an open-plan bathroom and loo. High above the banks of the Tweed, the tower has small windows for green views to woods and river where brave souls can dip into the safe ‘swimming hole’ when the weather is kind. The castle has a colourful history that dates to 1190 and a bonus of staying here is you get a private tour.
“You have ‘escaped’ as soon as you step inside Barns Tower. It is the perfect romantic bolthole!” – Inspector, Louisa
The Stable Cottage, Argyll & Bute
This 300-year-old cottage in a secluded, magical setting just one field away from the shores of Loch Fyne, the longest sea loch in the UK, will excite walkers, dreamers and nature lovers. You’re in a tiny hamlet and surrounded by wildlife: watch out for deer, red squirrels, seals, dolphins and osprey. Nip down to the little beach of rock and shale for a bracing swim or to launch your canoe or paddle board and bring binoculars for a myriad of sea birds at low tide.
The living room is upstairs to make the most of the views and there’s a proper wicker hamper full of delicious local stuff for your first breakfast. Wild weather days are for staying by the wood-burning stove and watching the unfolding drama of sky and sea through many windows.
“A truly magical spot with endless possibilities for days out and a gorgeous cottage to return to after a day in the great outdoors. Thoroughly enjoyed by all the family!” – Guest, Siobhan
