International travel may be off the agenda for the foreseeable future but fret not, for there are a plethora of pretty places to explore right here on home soil. Not only is a staycation the safest holiday option at your disposal right now, but spending your money on Scottish tourism will help get our economy back on its feet. From mountains and glens to coasts and rolling countryside, we’ve made planning your next holiday a breeze with our edit of the best rural retreats.

PHEASANT COTTAGE
Nestled in the heart of the Perthshire countryside, Pheasant Cottage offers an off-the-grid haven for up to six people, where you can recharge your batteries and reconnect with nature. On the outskirts of the pretty hamlet of Kincraigie, the cottage boasts uninterrupted views of the surrounding scenery, while being close to some of the area’s best amenities, including Ballintaggart Farm and Loch Tay.
Kincraigie, Dunkeld

CROFTNESS COTTAGES
A 19th-century farm steading that has since been divided into three beautiful cottages, Croftness offers the ideal accommodation for get-togethers large and small. With hot tubs set against dramatic scenery and stylishly considered interiors, what more could you wish for? We’ll wait…
Aberfeldy

FOYERS LODGE
Overlooking Loch Ness, Foyers Lodge is a breathtaking Victorian retreat that has been painstakingly refurbished to impossibly high standards. Inside, the decor is almost as impressive as its view—traditional period details are only enhanced with a deep colour palette and modern accents, making it the ideal outpost for interiors enthusiasts.
Foyers, Inverness-shire

57 NORD
If slow living is what you seek, consider 57 Nord your sanctuary. Surrounded by mountains and sea, 57 Nord’s eloquently minimal interiors will whisk you away from the hecticity of day-to-day life. Hunker down in front of the sleek, wood-burning stove and leaf through your favourite novel, or take a walk in the wilderness and let your stress slip away with the tides.
Kyle, Scottish Highlands

GLEN DYE CABINS AND COTTAGES
As far as accommodation goes, it doesn’t get much cooler than Glen Dye. Set in a private estate of magical woodland forest, sitting snugly between the trees, you’ll find wooden huts, stone cottages, and even a 1950s silver airstream. Alfresco dining is the order of the day thanks to the on-site The Big Green Egg barbecues. Afterward, take a dip in an outdoor bath that’s big enough for two.
Banchory, Aberdeenshire

GUARDSWELL FARM
Found on a 150-acre grassland idyllically nestled between Abernyte and Kinnaird, Guardswell Farm has a beautiful 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.
Kinnard, Perthshire

PENTLAND COTTAGES
A mere stone’s throw from Edinburgh city centre, Pentland Cottage is the perfect place to unwind while being incredibly near all the Scottish capital has to offer. Explore the local countryside on bikes provided by the property then, once you return, treat yourself to a soak in the hot tub or a sauna session in the cottages’ wellness area.
Ninemileburn, Midlothian

NEWHALL MAINS
A stunning 18th-century coach house has been given an incredibly chic overhaul to become one of the Highlands’ most luxury stops. It has five boutique cottages to choose from, as well as four smaller suites perfect for parties of two. We guarantee, after just one stay at Newhall Mains, you’ll find any and every excuse to return with your loved ones.
Dingwall, Scottish Highlands

THE CROFTER’S HOUSE
Dating back to the 1830s, The Crofter’s House has been completely renovated to provide a calm and peaceful escape in the surrounding rugged landscape. The house enjoys a rural location near Camustianavaig Bay on the Isle of Skye, yet it is only five miles from Portree. Pack all of your essentials and cancel out the noise of modern life in one of the most awe-inspiring places you’ll ever visit.
Portree, Isle of Skye

WILLIAMSTONE FARM STEADINGS
Set in the rolling East Lothian countryside, in its own idyllic four-acre plot, you’ll find Williamstone Farm Steadings. A sprawling, private retreat; its original stonework and exposed beams, juxtaposed with sleek floor-to-ceiling windows and breathtaking glass passageways, showcase a period conversion at its finest. Choose from The Barn, The Byre, or The Bothy, all of which are suitably stylish. By day, hike the hills, or perhaps indulge in a spot of golf at one of the many nearby courses. Then, by night, sip wine under a starry sky.
North Berwick, East Lothian

Chic Scottish staycations that’ll ease the pain of your holiday cancellation