The Best Boutique Hotels to Book in Inverness, Scotland

These boutique hotels in Inverness offer historic charm and top-notch dining
These boutique hotels in Inverness offer historic charm and top-notch dining | © David Lichtneker / Alamy Stock Photo

Nestled in the Scottish Highlands at the mouth of the River Ness, Inverness brims with fascinating history and stunning natural landscapes. A 30-minute drive will land you on the site of the Battle of Culloden or the shores of Loch Ness, but there’s plenty to keep you in the city itself. Whether you spend time exploring the 18th-century Fort George and Inverness Cathedral, sipping Scotch at Tomatin Distillery or admiring the blooms at Inverness Botanic Gardens, these boutique hotels in Inverness will imbue your stay with style and personality. Book with Culture Trip today.

1. Craigmonie Hotel Inverness by Compass Hospitality, for residential relaxation

Boutique Hotel, Budget Hotel, Independent Hotel

Double bed in purple-and-cream room at Craigmonie Hotel Invernes, also containing armchair, chaise longue, desk and chair
Courtesy of Craigmonie Hotel Inverness / Expedia

This is the perfect hotel in Inverness if you’re keen to trade river views for quiet, residential relaxation. That said, the hotel’s heated indoor swimming pool checks off the waterside box and you can walk to the River Ness in a matter of minutes. An afternoon of relaxation at the on-site hair and beauty salon is a must, followed by a Scottish dinner at Conservatory Restaurant, where you’ll be convinced to stay in with a glass of Glenmorangie for company.

2. Ness Walk, for reconnecting with the riverside

Luxury, Hotel, Boutique Hotel

Two adjoining single beds in room with desk, chair, two upholstered armchairs and garden view at Ness Walk
Courtesy of Ness Walk / Expedia

Located along the River Ness, the posh Ness Walk is an Inverness luxury hotel so alluring that even the shyest of sea creatures would readily pay a visit. Despite being in the city centre, this 19th-century home will connect you with nature under a canopy of trees. The Cedar Rooms were certainly built for those who need a breath of fresh air; these ground floor suites have river views and private garden seating right outside the patio door.

3. Glenmoriston Townhouse Hotel, for the extensive whisky bar

Hotel

Room at Glenmoriston Townhouse Hotel with large bed, bedside lamp, red armchair and curtains and quilt in red-and-brown tartan print
Courtesy of Glenmoriston Townhouse Hotel / Expedia
On the tree-lined banks of the River Ness, this hotel is ideally placed to explore the surrounding area. Glenmoriston has built up an enviable reputation over the years but, rather than resting on its well-earned laurels, it continues to push for the best service possible. The brasserie prides itself on using the freshest of ingredients and is well placed for those visiting nearby Eden Court Theatre. The signature whisky bar not only has more than 260 different malts to tempt you, but also 30 gins, and is renowned for its cocktails.

5. Bunchrew House, for a 17th-century mansion stay

Hotel

The exterior of Bunchrew House, Inverness, with dusty red walls and grey slate turrets.
© Jen Owens / Alamy Stock Photo
A 17th-century mansion, Bunchrew House is in an excellent location for those seeking peace and tranquility, while being only 2mi (3km) from Inverness itself. The hotel is set on 20 acres (8ha) of beautiful grounds and woodland on the picturesque Beauly Firth shore, so is ideal for spotting wildlife, including dolphins. With a restaurant, cocktail lounge and drawing room, Bunchrew allows guests to relax in luxurious comfort. Each room is different, and the whole country house can be hired for special events, such as weddings.

6. Rocpool Reserve Hotel, for next-level dining

Hotel

A double room at Rocpool Reserve Hotel decorated in cream and brown, with a work desk, TV, bedside tables and separate living area
Courtesy of Rocpool Reserve Hotel / Expedia
In the heart of Inverness, Rocpool Reserve Hotel and the on-site Chez Roux Restaurant have made a name for themselves as spectacular places to stay and to eat. The hotel is pure elegance, with four kinds of room to choose from, each with an emperor-sized bed and a range of impressive amenities. The bar is one of the best cocktail destinations in the north of Scotland, and the legendary Albert Roux restaurant serves fresh and local Scottish ingredients with a French twist. There are options for corporate guests and also for unforgettable weddings.

None of these stylish hotels quite catching your eye? See the best hotels in Inverness for a more diverse collection in the Highlands city, bookable with Culture Trip. On a budget? Discover our guide on the best budget-friendly hotels in Inverness.

Nick Dauk contributed additional reporting to this article.

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