Experience Winter Magic in 4 Unique and Cozy Scottish Hideaways

Anar Rafiq
3 min readAug 27, 2023

Do you long to escape your humdrum routine during the coldest time of the year? As the temperatures nosedive and daylight is elusive, the lure of charming holiday destinations is irresistible.

Winter holiday destinations are as abundant as snowflakes in December. You start to debate between skiing holidays in snowy wonderlands and sunbathing on exotic tropical beaches.

Would you prefer a more off-the-beaten-path spot for your upcoming winter getaway? Let us present some unusual, top-notch winter holiday getaways that are not yet on your radar.

1. Loch Tay Highland Lodges

You’ll find Loch Tay Highland Lodges in the heart of Perthshire, one of Scotland’s most breathtaking regions. Mountains, lochs, and rivers surround us. Imagine admiring views of Loch Tay and Ben Lawers tucked cozily in bed or snuggled on the couch!

Here, you can choose from an exciting range of self-catering holiday lodges, award-winning glamping wigwams & GeoDomes — all set amidst scenery that will take your breath away!

If you want to shop or enjoy an evening out, Edinburgh, Stirling, and Glasgow are just a short, easy drive away.

2. Dalhousie Castle and Spa

Bonnyrigg, Midlothian

Dalhousie Castle and Aqueous Spa near Bonnyrigg is just 8 miles from Edinburgh’s bustling city center.

This splendid 13th-century fortress, the seat of the Earls of Dalhousie, is set on the banks of the River Esk. Relish the classic nostalgia perfectly combined with extravagant opulence at Dalhousie Castle and Spa.

This castle offers its guests the perfect fusion of historical magnificence and modern relaxation. You can savor fine cuisine in the castle’s dungeon or indulge in various spa treatments to relax and unwind in the ultimate winter getaway.

Muckrach Castle

Dulnain Bridge, Morayshire

Imagine having a fully restored sixteenth-century castle circa 1598 at your disposal for a tranquil winter holiday! Set on an acre of private grounds, with awe-inspiring views of the Cairngorm mountains in the background, Muckrach Castle is a holiday destination like no other!

This elegantly furnished and completely equipped residence, with its 4 bedrooms, can accommodate 10 people comfortably. It’s the perfect family and friends holiday spot.

Step into a fairy tale setting in this castle with winding staircases and lofty vaulted ceilings. You will feel like royalty in the master bedroom with its luxurious four-poster bed and a freestanding roll-top bath.

4. North Ronaldsay Lighthouse Keepers’ Cottage No 1

North Ronaldsay, Orkney

Discover the North Ronaldsay Lighthouse Keepers’ Cottages. Nestled alongside a functioning lighthouse, it creates the ultimate romantic winter hideaway for a few peaceful days.

The former Lighthouse Keepers’ cottages have been renovated to offer guests accommodation of the highest standard. This unusual self-catering holiday home boasts 3 stars. It is one of four of its kind in all of Scotland and the only one that’s on an island.

The original features of the cottages have been retained, along with many of its original fittings and fixtures. However, new bathrooms that maintain the old-style look have been installed too.

The National Trust for Scotland advertises these unique cottages on its website.

Conclusion

Where you stay during your holiday can shape your entire experience, and we understand how difficult it is to make that choice.

So why not grab a cup of your favorite beverage, sit back, and explore these charming Scottish holiday options we’ve put together?

We’re certain you will find that perfect magical winter holiday destination you’ve been looking for!

--

--

Anar Rafiq

Daydreamer, dogged optimist, cat lover, and writer.