9 Remote Hotels in Scotland to Unplug & Unwind
Whether you’re looking to unplug from the hurry and haste of everyday life, explore the majestic outdoors, or coorie up with a good book by a roaring fire, we can find the ideal place for you to experience one of life’s little luxuries – that feeling of contentment when you have found a home-away-from-home.
Ask any member of the Absolute Escapes team, and we’ll each have a unique top spot to relax in the Scottish wilderness, from the long stretches of the Caithness coast to the heart of Scotland’s largest national park and far-flung islands on the very edge of the Atlantic.
Let us help plan your journey to some of the most remote Scottish hideaways, where you can take the time to unplug and unwind.
Shieldaig Lodge Hotel, Wester Ross
Hidden away in a secluded corner of the west coast, Shieldaig Lodge is an idyllic place to recharge after a day exploring the magnificent vistas of Wester Ross and the remote Applecross peninsula. Still retaining many of its charming original period features, this former hunting lodge is nestled amid twenty-six acres of stunning scenery overlooking Shieldaig Bay.
Watch seals frolic at sunrise and take a stroll on white sandy beaches. Enjoy picnics on the lawn and wander through the flowering gardens surrounding the lodge. And when dusk settles, choose a cosy armchair and sit back next to a crackling log fire with a wee dram in hand.
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Monachyle Mhor, The Trossachs
Six miles down a single-track lane that winds along the wooded banks of Loch Voil, you will find the converted farmhouse and cabins that makeup Monachyle Mhor. Simply put, the location is spectacular, with a patchwork of enchanting forest sprawling across the hills and glens of Rob Roy Country.
This high-end foodie retreat offers a classy farmhouse conversion, stylish courtyard rooms and luxurious feature suites. You will also find five unique hideaways, from a whimsical showman’s wagon to an edgy eco-cabin, and an innovative treehouse. Immerse yourself in the great outdoors, taking the time to hike, swim, forage, and of course, eat. The award-winning restaurant and bakery will take care of this, offering exceptional food and drinks in a warm and welcoming setting.
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Scarista House Hotel, Isle of Harris
On the remote islands of the Outer Hebrides, far away from the grand stately homes on the mainland, you’ll find a smattering of exquisite small hotels. One of our favourites is the charming Scarista House Hotel, located on an isolated stretch of one of the most beautiful beaches on the coast of Harris. A combination of ferries and the long drive is certainly worthwhile in order to reach this edge-of-the-world location, backed by heather-clad hills and facing the wild Atlantic Ocean.
On arrival, you’ll receive a warm welcome from the hosts, who will make you feel at home in their traditional Georgian manse. Enjoy the views from the wrap-around windows, sleep to the sound of crashing waves, and wake to the smell of freshly baked bread. Stay a while, and you’ll soon become accustomed to the pace of island life. Discover it all on a tailor-made tour based on our Hebridean Island Hopping itinerary.
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Inverlonan Bothies, Glen Lonan
Accessible only by boat, foot, or buggy, after a drive through the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park, a stay at one of the three Inverlonan Bothies is an off-grid experience like no other. Nestled between ancient oak trees overlooking the shores of Loch Nell, these uniquely designed cabins have been finished with the highest quality natural furnishings, showcasing the finest Scottish craftsmanship. Each bothy has floor-to-ceiling windows and a private deck, where you can soak up the sunrise views.
Rejuvenate in the wood-burning sauna after a wild swim in the cool waters of the loch, and sip a sundown beverage in front of the cosy log fire. Here you can choose your level of luxury: enjoy a unique eight-course dining experience by a Michelin-trained chef or cook up a feast on your outdoor pizza oven with the very best local produce delivered straight to your bothy. This is your chance to switch off from the outside world, reconnect and immerse yourself in nature – the surefire way to hit reset!
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Reef Inn, Isle of Tiree
Escape to the Hebridean Isle of Tiree and discover the “Hawaii of the North”, so named for its record sunshine hours and incredible surf. The island is only twelve miles long and three miles wide, but the miles and miles of white sandy beaches, the lack of towns or traffic, hills or trees, make it feel like a long lost treasure.
It is here that you will find the contemporary Reef Inn, a boutique coastal retreat with just eight bedrooms designed with Nordic influences. Here the vibe is relaxed, the dress code is flip-flops, and time runs by the surf. If your idea of a wellness escape includes catching a wave, beach campfires at sundown, and stargazing under dazzling skies, this wild island paradise might be just the place for you.
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Kinloch Lodge, Sleat Peninsula
Tucked away on one of the lesser-known corners of the Isle of Skye lies Kinloch Lodge. The location is spectacular, often concealed in a veil of mist swept up from the sleepy southern banks of Loch na Dal, a sea loch in the Sound of Sleat. This whitewashed former respite lodge has been in the hands of the Macdonald clan for centuries. Today it holds a deep connection to the rich history of this famous isle, evident in the array of antiques, paintings and heirlooms that furnish the interiors.
Here you will find true Highland hospitality: open fireplaces, beds fit for kings, in-house well-being treatments, and some of the best food from the Scottish larder. Discover it for yourself on a tailor-made tour based on our Escape to the Highlands itinerary.
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Lundies House, Kyle of Tounge
If you embark on the magnificent North Coast 500 driving route, the road will lead you to the stunning Kyle of Tongue in the raw northwest corner of the country. Here you will find Lundies House, a 19th-century stone house, thoughtfully re-imagined as a boutique art hotel. This is a place where you can unwind and relax, a world away from the hectic pace of modern life.
Take the chance to explore the unspoilt Sutherland landscape. Whether you ride one of the hotel e-bikes along the dramatic coastline, climb Scotland’s most northerly Munro, or discover a secret wild swimming spot, this location will fuel your sense of adventure. Upon your return, select a book from the extensive collection of art, design, and literature within the house library, and curl up with a foraged herbal tea by the fireside.
Slow down and recharge, perhaps with an invigorating morning yoga session, or a bespoke massage in the comfort of your room. You will feel truly taken care of in this beautifully wild corner of the world.
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Forss House, Caithness
The far northeastern corner of Scotland is one of the wildest places in Britain – an area of vast open spaces, spectacular skyscapes, and dramatic coastlines. It is also home to Dunnet Head, the most northerly edge of the British mainland. A short drive away you will find the captivating Forss House Hotel. This traditional country house is hidden amongst twenty acres of glorious woodland at the foot of a waterfall on a twist of the river Forss.
The master bedrooms are exquisitely furnished and private entrances to the river houses provide a sense of privacy and seclusion. From here, you can take a day trip to the Orkney Isles and discover an abundance of birdlife and the beauty of the changing seasons. The area has a certain curative magic to it, kindled by an intriguing Pictish and Norse ancestry which echoes across the exposed landscapes. Travel here as the night draw in and you’ll witness starstudded skies and perhaps a dance of the dazzling northern lights.
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Killiehuntly Farmhouse, The Cairngorms
Set within the remote western pocket of the vast Cairngorms National Park, Killiehuntly Farmhouse is a secluded home-away-from-home, where guests are invited to stay a while and discover what makes this place so special. Outside, the mountains, lochs and ancient Caledonian forest wait to be explored. Inside, the distinct Scandi-Scot design reflects a warm and welcoming atmosphere, creating an inviting place to return to after a walk, fish, cycle, or forage in the wild.
Guests staying in one of the four stately suites have use of the whole house, including the honesty bar and cosy lounge. Breakfast and supper are served family style – a chance to exchange cultures, share stories, and enjoy the simple pleasure of conversation.
Lovers of nature, food and design will find solace in this upscaled farmstead – a beautiful, yet simple shelter from the hurry and haste of everyday life.
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Travel slow, stay a while…
Much is said about the restorative power of nature and we can help you discover some of the most beautiful places and the warmest of welcomes in our little corner of the world. With almost two decades of planning tailor-made self-drive holidays, we pride ourselves on our ability to handpick the best experiences for your dream holiday.
Get in touch with one of our Travel Specialists, and start planning your next escape today!
Shivani Marek
