The lap of luxury: six sumptuous places to stay in Scotland
Bags of style, huge comfort, spoiling treats and the warmest of welcomes is what makes each one of these places tip the scales towards a luxurious stay. The word luxury can feel overused in the travel industry but for us it simply means indulgent and cosseting. From deluxe linen to an endless supply of fluffy towels, or a sumptuous welcome hamper, to owner’s that treat you like royalty, this selection of luxury places to stay in Scotland are here to make you feel well and truly spoiled.
Fauhope House, Scottish Borders
Come for bucolic bliss in the Scottish Borders: stunning views, luxurious rooms and fantastic hosts who give you afternoon tea or sherry on arrival. Near to Melrose Abbey and the glorious St Cuthbert’s Walk, this solid 1890s house — elegant, fire-lit and serene with an eclectic mix of art — gazes out to the Eildon Hills. Bedrooms are warm with deeply coloured walls, pale tartan blankets and soft velvet and linen; bathrooms are modern and pristine.
Breakfast is served with smiles at a flower-laden table, overlooking those purple hills. A short walk through the blooming garden and over a footbridge takes you to the interesting town of Melrose, with shops, restaurants and its own theatre.
“Sheila and Ian run one of the best B&Bs we’ve ever stayed in. The breakfast is outstanding and the setting is beyond compare.” – Guest, Tom
The Meikleour Arms, Perth & Kinross
An hour from Edinburgh, this vast estate wrapped in ancient woodland and steeped in history is a super outdoorsy retreat run by delightful French Scottish owners. With their own ale, over fifty malts and a bevvy of artisan gins, you’ll find a toast for every occasion at this lovely country inn. Much of the food in the restaurant comes from the estate – vegetables and herbs grown in the walled garden, scallops hand-dived on the west coast and venison from the Meikleour Forest.
Walk to the river for a morning’s salmon or trout fishing on the Tay – book a fly-fishing lesson with the head ghillie. Spot ospreys, otters, kingfishers. You stay in the 19th-century coaching inn or the serviced cottages in the grounds – a short drive or walk from the main building. The cottages have small kitchens, but you can wander over for breakfast in the restaurant each morning.
“This is a hidden gem of a place; cosy, friendly and immaculately clean. Claire the owner is absolutely delightful and friendly.” – Guest, Ouma
The West Nest, Isle of Skye
Come for big skies, grand walking and hilly cycling. Style and comfort abound in this well-designed cottage set on the hillside with views to North Uist. With underfloor heating and a wood-burner you’ll feel cosy even if the weather is blowing a hooley – lovely to sit back on the huge L-shaped sofa and watch the drama unfold through the picture window. Colours are muted while clever lighting illuminates a mix of modern and mid-century furniture and a swish kitchen.
It’s a generous place too: Skye gin and Talisker whisky are waiting, the logs are unlimited (you’ll find loads in the stack outside) and Ishga organic soaps and shampoos scent the bathrooms. Spill onto the decking for spectacular sunsets, light the fire pit, open the wine and watch each star turn into a blanket. Sleep under soft wool throws from Skye Weavers – the next door neighbours.
“A beautiful home with a gorgeous view from the lounge window out to the Uists. An excellent location close to the village store and the lovely Café Lephin.” – Guest, Laura
