Unusual Places to Stay in Scotland: Top 12 Picks

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Scotland is bubbling with history, culture, and lochs a-plenty, and for those who love exploring the weird and wonderful corners of the world, the Gaelic country doesn’t disappoint.

If you’re planning a trip to the land of all things tartan – and don’t want to rest your head in a Premier Inn – we have whipped up a list of the most unusual places to stay in Scotland.

Quirky Places to Stay in Scotland 

Check out these cute ‘n’ quirky options, many of which are in rural areas that will require vehicle hire.


Midfearn Cottage, Wester Fearn 

Forget hotels, forget B&Bs – a traditional English-style stone cottage is the cosiest way to hunker down after a day of those chilly Highland winds in your hair!

Providing stunning lake and garden views, Midfearn Cottage is the ultimate holiday home for those looking for some peace and quiet – and space! (603 ft). As for nearby attractions, the cottage is 46 km from Strathpeffer Spa Golf Club, 23 km from Carnegie Club Skibo Castle, and 38 km from Dunrobin Castle.

Popular amenities include:

  • Free parking
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Family rooms
  • Full-equipped kitchen
  • Bathtub
  • Laundry facilities

Quirky Cottage, St. Andrews

As well as being home to one of the most prestigious universities in the UK, St. Andrews is a golfing haven and a peaceful beachside area.

If you like a little more space than the average hotel suite or hostel can provide, you can revel in all 75 square meters of this traditional stone-built cottage, which sleeps 4 people.

Nearby attractions include the University of St. Andrew’s (4-minute walk), St. Andrews’s Golf Course (11-minute walk), and the St. Andrew’s Cathedral (12-minute walk).

Popular amenities include:

  • Pet-friendly
  • Fireplace
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Kitchen
  • Washer
  • Outdoor space

Eleven Stafford Street Townhouse, Edinburgh

This boutique-style hotel in central Edinburgh oozes both quirkiness and class – and is a couple of minutes walk from the city’s historical Princes Street, making it ideal for those who want to stay in the heart of the action.

Other nearby locations include George Street (7-minute walk) and Edinburgh Castle (19-minute walk).

Popular amenities include:

  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Virtual front desk
  • Great location

Unusual Places to Stay in Scotland With a Hot Tub

Sometimes a hot tub is non-negotiable!


Dollar Lodge, Easter Sheardale

Cosy lodge with Netflix and a hot tub? Err, yes, please! This comfortable 2-bedroom lodge can be found in the quiet Dollar Lodge Park in the heart of the village (making it ideal for stag/hen dos and friendcations).

An ideal spot for lovers of walking and hiking, those visiting can take in the local sights of Dollar Academy, Castle Campbell, and the Knockhill Racing Circuit. Owing to being a fairly rural location, hiring a car is advisable.

Popular amenities include:

  • Hot tub
  • Pet friendly
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Kitchen

Macdonald Forest Hills Hotel & Spa, Aberfoyle

The prestigious Macdonald Hotel is the ultimate way to enjoy rural Scotland without sacrificing comfort or glamour – and yes, a jacuzzi awaits at the end of your long day exploring!

Not only is the hotel situated in the quiet countryside, but it features some of the best views of the Scottish hills, lochs, and forest. Nearby attractions include Loch Lomond Trossachs National Park (which is within walking distance). Attractions that are further afield will require a car.

Popular amenities include:

  • Restaurant & bar
  • Fitness centre
  • Spa & indoor swimming pool

Port Glasgow Holiday Home

This ultra-glam super-king lodge, which is just a mere 50-minute drive from Glasgow, adds a touch of 5-star swankiness to cabin life and features a balcony, garden, separate dining area, fireplace, and a private hot tub.

The lodge is also just a stone’s throw away from the coast, just FYI, beach lovers!

Popular amenities include:

  • Pet friendly
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Laundry facilities

Most Unique Places to Stay in Scotland 

Altido Observatory House, Edinburgh

Feel like resting your head in a real-life castle?! No problem! Contrary to popular belief, you don’t have to venture far into the Scottish woodland to find the most enchanting chateaus. 

This beauty is within walking distance from the city’s historical Palace of Holyrood. And the best part? You get it all to yourself!

Featuring 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and a boatload of space, Altido is the only way to enjoy an Edinburgh stay and feel like royalty!

Popular amenities include:

  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Fully-equipped kitchen
  • Towels & linen provided

Anneth Glamping Pod, Isle of Skye

Scotland is the unsung hero of glamping culture, so anyone wanting to enjoy nature’s bounty with a little style and grace can do so within the walls of this island cabin.

Within walking distance is the Museum of the Isles, Armadale Ferry Terminal, and Armadale Castle. Hebridean public transport isn’t always the most reliable, so it is wise to rent a vehicle.

Popular amenities include:

  • Free parking
  • Free Wi-Fi

The Penny Black Apartment, Slamannan

A stylish apartment decked out in twinkle lights and with a minibar?! Where do we sign up?!

This one-bed apartment comes with a hot tub, fully-equipped kitchen, and a housekeeping service, and is ideal for those wanting accommodation a little more edgy and rock ‘n’ roll (but still super swanky!).

Popular amenities include:

  • Free parking
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Hot tub

Unusual Dog Friendly Accommodation in Scotland 

Eden Locke, Edinburgh

Dubbed an ‘aparhotel’, meaning you get the best of both worlds: the privacy and space of an apartment and the luxury and convenience of a hotel.

Also, what looks like a trad Georgian townhouse on the outside is the lovechild of Greek revival and contemporary chic on the inside. And the best part? You can start each day by heading down to the chic café for fresh coffee and bagels!

Popular amenities include:

  • Pet friendly
  • Facilities for disabled guests
  • Restaurant

The George Hotel, Inveraray

Blending modern and traditional decor, with a dash of gothic romanticism, the George Hotel is ideal for a loved-up weekend away with your sweetheart.

This 3-star hotel, which is perfect for lovers of the Great Outdoors, features evening entertainment, a buffet/continental/á lá carte breakfast, and a peaceful garden to enjoy your morning coffee.

Popular amenities include:

  • Restaurant & bar
  • Free parking
  • Free Wi-Fi

Unique Places to Stay in Edinburgh Scotland

The Raeburn, Edinburgh

Featuring some of the most beautiful decor you ever did see – as well as bathrooms with traditional claw-foot tubs – The Raeburn in the historical Old Town is one of the most comfortable ways to enjoy the city.

As well as a brasserie-style restaurant that features freshly prepared food from local produce, there is a bar area where you can enjoy a tipple in front of a warm fire. On sunny days, why not take your meal outside and dine under a parasol?

Popular amenities include:

  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Family rooms
  • Room service
  • Facilities for disabled guests

Unusual Places to Stay in Scotland: FAQs

Where not to miss in Scotland?

There is no shortage of incredible places to visit in Scotland, and just some of our favourites include:
– Edinburgh Castle
– Cairngorms National Park
– Isle of Skye
– Glasgow
– Glencoe
– Shetland

What is the best part of Scotland to stay in?

This really depends on your personal preference. Are you a city slicker or a country bumpkin? Either way, there are so many options. For cities, we recommend:
– Glasgow 
– Edinburgh
– Inverness

For rural options, take a peek at:
– Loch Lomond
– Trossachs National Park
– Ben Nevis
– Isle of Staffa
– Arthur’s Seat
– Loch Ness

Where is the most beautiful city in Scotland?

Perhaps Voyaging Herbivore is a tad biased here, as it is our home turf, but we have the biggest soft spot for Edinburgh. The history, architecture, vegan food scene, cocktail bars, and shopping options make for the best city to enjoy a vacay in.

What is the best time of year to visit Scotland?

We recommend visiting during the months of April to October, as this is when you will be able to visit all the locations you want. Some places, such as the Three Lochs Forest Drive, aren’t open during the winter, so bear that in mind when planning a trip.
Also, because Scotland is in the far north of the Northern Hemisphere, the weather can be particularly unpleasant during the colder months.

Is Scotland dangerous for tourists?

Scotland is one of the safest countries to visit – especially the more rural areas, such as The Highlands. Crime is generally low, food and sanitation are exemplary, organised crime and corruption are virtually nonexistent, and you won’t see anyone (even the police) with a gun.

Can you stay in a castle in Scotland?

You most certainly can! And you are more than spoiled for choice as to where to stay. Many of the castles offer accommodation, and you can even tie the knot in them!


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