The Most Incredible Hotels in the Scottish Highlands

Opened in 2022, Dornoch Station sits on four acres in Dornoch exuding old-world charm – it’s an alternative location to Inverness – only an hours drive away. The design is inspired by the Scottish Highlands and hunting cabins around Loch Ness – the lobby at Dornoch Station uses the original wood panelling and celebrates the historic design features. The hotel is just a short walk from the first fairway of Royal Dornoch Golf Club, the crown jewel of golf in the Scottish Highlands. Ranked the second-best golf course in the world by Golf Digest, golf lovers from around the world make the pilgrimage to Dornoch to play the beautiful, historic course that Old Tom Morris helped design and where Donald Ross learned to play the game.

When it comes to fairytale getaways, you can’t get much better than Inverlochy Castle. Queen Victoria stayed here in 1873, writing that she “never saw a lovelier or more romantic spot” – and there’s no doubt she’d feel the same way today. This luxury hotel lies in the foothills of Ben Nevis – next to a private loch – and features 18 bedrooms and suites, each with views of the spectacular grounds. It’s the place to stay for those who appreciate a bit of grandeur in both their natural surroundings and accommodations.

This five-star hotel and spa – on the banks of Loch Faskally – was refurbished in 2013, offering swanky contemporary rooms in a tranquil setting. There are plenty of ways to relax and treat yourself here – with a spa area, swimming pool, steam room and sauna all on the grounds. Fonab Castle even has two on-site restaurants and on warmer days, diners can enjoy a meal on the terrace overlooking the loch. Doesn’t all that sound like a slice of heaven?

For something that’s not quite a five-star hotel yet not quite camping, try glamping at one of RiverBeds’s “wee lodges” in beautiful Glencoe. Each en-suite cabin comes with a hot tub, a kitchenette and a private veranda perched above a river. Rustic yet luxurious, staying here is ideal for anyone who seeks to connect with nature – albeit with their creature comforts. If you fancy some exercise, the nearby Dragon’s Tooth Estate features a golf course, walking trails and cycling tracks.

This former shooting lodge provides a peaceful escape in the northwest Highlands, on the shore of Loch Torridon. Surrounded by 58-acres (23ha) of parkland, the Torridon features 18 bedrooms and suites that blend Scottish heritage with Victorian features. Many rooms even boast majestic views of the loch and the mountains. And for those who want to get outdoors during their stay, the surrounding ancient woodland offers walks aplenty.

Set among rolling barley fields, this Highland getaway in Tain is owned by Glenmorangie Distillery – but you don’t have to love whisky to enjoy a stay here. More of a country home than a hotel, Glenmorangie House has manicured lawns for your strolling pleasure and, steps away, a private beach where you can breathe in the sea air and watch for seabirds. The comfortable bedrooms feature classic Scottish decor with rich tweeds and tartans – while common areas such as the Morning Room and the Buffalo Room encourage guests to mingle and exchange stories.

Who knew you could stay overnight at a nature reserve? Alladale Wilderness Reserve is a nature lover’s dream and a true gem of the Highlands. The 23,000-acre (9,308ha) reserve has three fully catered lodges – varying from an all-inclusive luxury stay at the Victorian lodge to self-catered cottages. No matter your choice, you’ll feel at one with nature and the Highlands here. Keep an eye out for majestic red deer and other wildlife while you take in the rugged, colourful terrain around Alladale.