Hotels in Scottish Highlands

Whispers of the Highlands: A Journey Through Castles and Rivers

The Scottish Highlands beckon with breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and a touch of mystique. Nestled among the foothills of Scotland, this enchanting region boasts stunning lochs like Loch Lomond and Loch Torridon, while majestic Ben Nevis stands as the UK’s highest peak. Explore ancient castles, including the storied Inverness Castle, and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of the Highlands. From serene river valleys to rugged mountains, the Highlands offer a romantic escape and an adventure for nature lovers, making it a perfect off-the-beaten-path destination for those seeking both tranquility and thrill. For the best hotel rates near Scottish Highlands, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay near Scottish Highlands

The Scottish Highlands offer a diverse range of hotel accommodations, from luxurious castles to charming inns. You'll find remarkable hotels that provide stunning views and exceptional service, perfect for a relaxing getaway. For golf enthusiasts, there are several top-notch golf hotels nestled among breathtaking landscapes. Whether you're staying at a historic castle or a cozy lodge, the Highlands promise an unforgettable experience immersed in natural beauty and rich Scottish culture. Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels near Scottish Highlands:

1. Kintail Lodge HotelOpens in a new window: Kintail Lodge Hotel is a 2.5-star hotel located approximately 12.0 miles away from the Scottish Highlands. This lodging option is ideal for travelers seeking an adventure or pet-friendly vacation experience. Guests can enjoy various adventure sports and recreation activities both onsite and nearby, including birdwatching, sailing, fishing, horse riding, and hiking. The hotel is pet-friendly, allowing some pets onsite with specific amenities such as dogs only, free pet permissions, and in-room pet allowances.
2. The Cluanie InnOpens in a new window: Situated about 11.0 miles from the Scottish Highlands, The Cluanie Inn is a 3.5-star hotel that caters to travelers looking for a comfortable stay with pet-friendly policies. The hotel allows pets onsite with certain restrictions, ensuring a welcoming environment for furry companions. Guests can benefit from amenities including food and water bowls for pets, along with a service animal fee waiver.
3. The Tomich HotelOpens in a new window: The Tomich Hotel is a 3.0-star hotel located approximately 13.0 miles from the Scottish Highlands. This establishment is perfect for those who enjoy adventure activities and are traveling with pets. Guests can partake in horse riding, birdwatching, and fishing nearby. The hotel has a pet-friendly policy, allowing pets with amenities such as dogs only and a service animal fee waiver, making it a great choice for pet owners.

Things to do near Scottish Highlands for first time

A three-day adventure in the Scottish Highlands offers travelers breathtaking landscapes of rugged mountains, serene lakes, and lush forests. Engage in activities like hiking, boating, and cave exploring while surrounded by picturesque rivers and majestic castles. This enchanting region promises unforgettable experiences in nature's embrace. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Scottish Highlands:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at the breathtaking Glen Affric, renowned for its stunning landscapes and rich wildlife. Take a leisurely hike through the ancient Caledonian pine forests, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere. Next, head to Loch Liath, where you can enjoy the serene waters and capture some postcard-perfect photographs. As the day winds down, make your way to Plodda Falls, where you can marvel at the impressive 46-meter waterfall cascading into the lush surroundings—perfect for a late afternoon picnic.
• Day 2: Kick off your day with a visit to the iconic Eilean Donan Castle, perched on an island at the intersection of three lochs. Explore the castle's fascinating history and enjoy the stunning views surrounding it. Afterward, take a relaxing stroll through Attadale Gardens, where the beautifully manicured landscapes and vibrant flora will surely enchant you. Conclude the day with a scenic drive along Loch Carron, where you can revel in the breathtaking coastal views and perhaps catch a glimpse of local wildlife.
• Day 3: Start your morning in Glen Shiel, known for its dramatic mountains and scenic beauty—ideal for hiking enthusiasts. After a refreshing trek, visit Glen Affric Nature Reserve, where you can immerse yourself in nature and enjoy the diverse flora and fauna. Wrap up your day at the Well of the Seven Heads, a historic site steeped in legend, where you can take a moment to reflect on the rich history of the Highlands before heading back to your accommodation.

5 tips to find a great Scottish Highlands hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit the Scottish Highlands is during January, February, and December, when hotel prices are significantly lower. If you're an international traveler, it's wise to book your flight at least one month in advance to secure cheaper fares. For a budget-friendly trip, plan to stay for at least 1-2 days to fully enjoy the breathtaking landscapes, including picturesque rivers and historic castles. This allows you to experience great value for money while exploring the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the region.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: Last-minute deals to the Scottish Highlands can offer fantastic savings for spontaneous travelers. To uncover these offers on Hotels.com, head to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section, where you could find discounted hotel rates as your travel date approaches. Also, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to keep informed about flash sales and exclusive last-minute promotions, ensuring you don’t miss any chances to save.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. Therefore, if you're flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses near the Scottish Highlands.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your vacation, keep your location in mind. Staying nearer to major attractions or city centers can offer convenience, but it usually tends to come with a higher price tag. For more affordable options, consider hotels in less central areas or neighborhoods, striking a balance between cost and ease of access to the places you wish to visit.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Make your next reservation near Scottish Highlands and be a part of Hotels.com's free One Key program, which enables members to take advantage of reward points for hotel bookings. Progress through the tiers of Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum to unlock advantages like room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and exclusive offers for members. Start earning reward points now.

What to eat near Scottish Highlands

Here are a few popular dining spots near Scottish Highlands, Scotland, United Kingdom:

• Classroom Restaurant: This popular eatery in Fort William is celebrated for its commitment to local ingredients, offering a menu that features contemporary Scottish dishes infused with seasonal flavors. The culinary team showcases the best of Highland produce, creating innovative plates that reflect the region's rich heritage.
• Eeusk: Located on the picturesque shores of Mallaig, this seafood restaurant is known for its creative approach to traditional Scottish fare, focusing on fresh catches from local waters. Their menu highlights the flavors of the Highlands, combining innovative cooking techniques with time-honored recipes.
• Coast Restaurant: Situated in the charming village of Nairn, Coast Restaurant emphasizes sustainability and local sourcing, providing a delightful menu that celebrates the bounty of the Scottish coastline. Diners can enjoy imaginative dishes that reflect the region's culinary traditions while indulging in a taste of the sea.

Best time to go to Scottish Highlands

Scottish Highlands experiences its lowest average temperature in February, at 41.9°F (5.5°C), while July and August are the hottest months, with an average temperature of 55.9°F (13.3°C). January tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Scottish Highlands are June to August, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly cloudy, accompanied by light rainfall. In contrast, January, November, and December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by light rainfall and mostly cloudy conditions.