7 cosy country retreats across Scotland you’ll never want to check out of
Embrace the ever-darkening evenings and bitterly cold mornings by holing up in one of Scotland’s chicest destinations. From the hotel that’s currently commanding headlines to the off-the-beaten track bothy with breathtaking views out of every window, make October the month you rediscover the wonders on your own doorstep…
The Fife Arms, Braemar
Easily the most anticipated hotel opening in Scotland in recent years, The Fife Arms is so much more than the hype it has subsequently (albeit duly) garnered. A passion project undertaken by art dealers Hauser and Wirth, with works by Pablo Picasso and Lucian Freud decorating its walls, and with a monstrous Louise Bourgeois ‘spider’ keeping watch over the courtyard, to say it's an art-lover’s dream would be a grave understatement. Steeped in royal heritage, too, with a sketch drawn by Queen Victoria herself hanging in the hallway, this country retreat has depth in every doorknob—the tales of which the highly knowledgeable staff will gladly divulge to you over a bowl of garden pea risotto in The Flying Stag pub. Truly fascinating.
Double rooms start from £250, Breakfast included. Thefifearms.com
The Gleneagles Hotel, Auchterarder
One need only utter the word Gleneagles and immediately you’re transported to a world of luxury. Scotland’s most famous hotel (rightly so) lives up to expectations—and then some. First class service comes as standard, while the glamorous yet relaxed ambience ensures your time there feels deservedly special, but not in the slightest bit intimidating. An ideal getaway for two but equally as inviting for refined family time, memories of a weekend spent at Gleneagles will stay with you for a lifetime.
Double rooms start from £295, breakfast included. Gleneagles.com
Pheasant Cottage, Dunkeld
Having undergone renovations throughout 2017, Pheasant Cottage is now one of the chicest holiday lets you’ll find in our fair nation. Sleeping up to six adults, natural beauty envelops this tranquil abode, making it the perfect place to unwind. That said, there’s nothing basic about its interior. Sumptuous sofas lay in wait for you after a day’s walking, while walk-in showers and banqueting tables ensure luxury is very much a part of the experience. If we could live here permanently, we would.
From £110, minimum 3 night stay. Pheasantcottage.co.uk
Killiehuntly, By Kingussie, The Highlands
This 17th-century estate, which boasts a farmhouse and several cottages, has been restored beyond comprehension by an army of Scottish craftspeople, resulting in a potent blend of Scandi-croft design. The attention to detail needs to be seen first hand to be believed. Expect raw oak, sheepskin rugs, walls painted in a medley of grey and taupe, and a pile of cosy Norwegian jumpers from which you can borrow to save yourself from the Highland chills.
Double rooms start from £240 per night, on a full-board basis. Killiehuntly.scot
The Grandtully Hotel by Ballintaggart, Strathtay
A chic outpost run by the same family who own Ballintaggart Farm – a cookery school with rooms a few miles off the beaten path – The Grandtully is certainly deserving of its reputation. Perfectly positioned between picturesque Pitlochry and the market town of Aberfeldy, this stylish, cosy and comfortable hotel boasts rooms as beautiful as the food you’ll find on its plates.
Double rooms start from £110 a night in the low season, breakfast included. Ballintaggart.com
Bealach Uige Bothy, Isle of Skye
The bothy is synonyms with rural Scotland, proving a safe haven for walkers and climbers who encounter adverse weather on their trails. However, this is no ordinary bothy. The Bealach Uige Bothy is pure luxury. With a fully-equipped kitchen and power shower, plus unspoilt views towards the Quiraing, it makes for the ideal escape for those wishing to go off-the-grid on one of Scotland’s most beautiful Isles.
The bothy starts from £130 per night. 01470 562434
Guardswell Farm, Kinnaird
For those truly wishing to switch off from the modern world, consider Guardswell Farm your sanctuary. Found on a 150-acre grassland idyllically nestled between Abernyte and Kinnaird, the farm has a choice of self-catering options, from romantic cabins for two, to a rustic-chic farmhouse that can sleep 10. There’s no wifi on-site, so instead bring with you books to read by candlelight, and whisky to toast with your nearest and dearest into the wee hours.