Scotland is often associated with romantic images of but and ben abodes placed in the middle of nowhere and surrounded by nothing but some heather and the odd pheasant. Indeed, if you’re looking to take a well-deserved break and head for the hills, Scotland offers a variety of beautiful cottages for rent. So draft the mandatory ‘gone fishing’ note and head to one of the charming spots on our list.
Croft 103
Eco-Lodge, Cottages
Durness Croft | Courtesy Of Croft 103
Croft 103 is a sight for sore eyes and resembles a set from a Bond film. Bask in the glory of Scotland’s rugged landscape and natural beauty on the shores of Loch Eriboll near Durness in North West Sutherland. Although they do not resemble the quintessential Scottish cottages of popular imagination, these eco-friendly buildings represent the crème de la crème of craftsmanship and contemporary design. The brainchild of Fiona and Robbie Mackay, this family croft is the ultimate immersive cultural experience and stay. The stunning Hill Cottage has state-of-the-art everything and exhibits a fan shape that mirrors its surroundings. The outside bath, seven-foot feather-topped bed, Anta Tweed accents, and wood-burning stove are simply magnificent, and Shore Cottage is equally impressive with its bold barrel-esque design, sensational views of the surrounding mountains, and bespoke furnishings.
Those longing for a respite or a break from the relentless hum of city life should start packing and head for The Green House. This stylish hunter-green cabin in Glenelg gazes over the water to the Isle of Skye. It is no surprise that revered Scottish architect Ian Begg initially designed this retreat. French fabric curtains complement Spanish-esque stone floor tiles, a timber bath chest, a handmade four-poster bed, and furnishings by Jacquelyn Stone. Absorb the majesty of nature from the Finnish wood-burning hot tub on the large timber deck and enter into a welcome trance.
Just a stone’s throw away from Tobermory on the Isle of Mull sits Glengorm Castle. This 19th-century country estate stands tall before the great mass that is the Atlantic Ocean. Experience the awe-inspiring views for yourself by renting one of the few cottages, or stay in the castle bed and breakfast. Perhaps the most beautiful pick is The Lodge — a former post office for the estate — which is surrounded by rhododendron and foxglove flowers. With one double bedroom and a twin room, this cosy cottage can happily fit four people. Although all the modern amenities are on hand, there is something spectacular about sitting around the wood stove. It is no surprise that this critically acclaimed spot has been voted one of the best places to stay in Scotland.
Little Court is the kind of place that dreams are made of. Experience the fantasy of retreating to a cottage by the sea and leave all the unnecessary cares of the world behind. Blink and you may miss this beautiful little two-bedroom abode situated in North Berwick, a picturesque seaside suburb of Edinburgh. The wonderfully whitewashed walls and adorable design accents make this place a perfect getaway spot. Bask in the Scottish sun from the private courtyard graced with flowers or read that book from the nautical and nature-inspired bedroom. From nearby beaches to boats, hiking trails, and shopping, this cottage is the full package.
Once upon a time in Inverie, Knoydart sat a divine place by the name of Lochside Cottage. From the stunning setting to idyllic views, consider this the perfect spot to fall off the radar. Lochside Cottage sits before the enchanting Loch Nevis, or ‘heaven’ in Gaelic. The three Scottish-esque bedrooms — MacRae, Douglas, and Stuart — comfortably fit six people, and the two wood-burning stoves add that extra cottage-cosy feel. Swing by the Old Forge (the most remote pub in mainland Britain) and banter over a pint or two with the locals. The nearby tearoom is a prime pick to indulge in home-baked goods, too.
Blue Cabin By The Sea | Courtesy Of Blue Cabin By The Sea
Blue Cabin By The Sea is a most magical retreat. Those seeking a spot where barely any souls are to be seen will instantly fall in love with this delightful blue beach shack. Owned by prominent architect Ben Tindall, the talent behind the Queen’s Gallery at Holyrood Palace, it is no surprise that this true treasure attracts many a literary lover and writer. From the perfectly picked miniature library with books of local lore and history, to the myriad of maps adorning the walls, zany green bedrooms fit for fairies, and seaside accents, Blue Cabin is a thousand leagues ahead of the rest. Ocean lovers can get lost touring the sea caves, rock pools, private harbour, and smuggling tunnel.
