Stay in a Castle in Scotland!

Best Vacation Castles in Scotland

Every Scottish castle hotel or B&B is unique and offers it's own memorable experience. To make it easier for you to find the Scottish castle stay of your dreams, I've divided them up into three categories you can see below.

Scottish castle spa hotels

• Airth Castle Hotel & Spa
• Dalhousie Castle Hotel & Aqueous Spa
• Fonab Castle Hotel & Spa
• Stobo Castle & Spa
  
  

Castle Bed & Breakfast in Scotland

• Barcaldine Castle
• Buittle Castle
• Duncraig Castle
• Faside Estate
• Glengorm Castle
• Kilmartin Castle

Stay in a castle in the Scottish Highlands

• Aldourie Castle Exclusive hire or self-catering cottages only
• Barcaldine Castle
• Crossbasket Castle
• Dalhousie Castle & Spa
• Dalmunzie Castle Hotel
• Dornoch Castle Hotel
• Duncraig Castle Bed & Breakfast
• Fonab Castle Hotel
• Glenapp Castle
• Glengarry Castle Hotel
• Glengorm Castle Bed & Breakfast
• Kilmartin Castle Bed & Breakfast
• Kincraig Castle Hotel
• Inverlochy Castle Hotel
• Mingary Castle
• Stonefield Castle
• Tulloch Castle Hotel

Scottish castle hotels in the Lowlands & Borderlands of Scotland

• Airth Castle Hotel & Spa
• Buittle Castle Bed & Breakfast
• Faside Estate Bed & Breakfast
• Sherbrooke Castle Hotel
• Thirlestane Castle
• Traquair Castle

Scottish castles available for exclusive hire

• Aldourie Castle Estate
• Eisenhower Hotel at Culzean Castle
• Kincraig Castle
• Kilmartin Castle Bed & Breakfast
• Mingary Castle
• Sherbrooke Castle Hotel
• Thirlestane Castle

Airth Castle Hotel & Spa - Stirlingshire

Airth Castle

History:

Airth Castle ('Airth' from the Celtic 'ardd' meaning 'hill') was built in the 14th century, on the site of an earlier stronghold of the 'de Erth' (Airth) family who owned much of the land in the area. It has views across across low lying ground towards the River Forth. 

Steeped in ancient history, this castle was once owned by the family of Robert the Bruce, and the 14th century tower, known as Wallace's Tower, is said to have gained that name after William Wallace rescued his uncle who being held prisoner there during the Wars of Independence.

The castle has seen MANY additions, changes, upgrades and renovations over the centuries and today's Airth Castle Hotel & Spa blends charismatic history with comfort and elegance. 

Location:

Set on a hill above the banks of the River Forth, approximately six miles from Falkirk, and thirty miles from Edinburgh.

Amenities:

Airth Castle Hotel has 125 rooms and suites decorated in a variety of styles from vintage to contemporary, and all have en-suite bathrooms, satellite TV, and free wi-fi.

Fine dining is available in The Grill Room, with an extensive and delicious menu.

A luxury spa and fitness club is on the grounds with state-of-the art equipment, treatment rooms, jacuzzi, steam room and much more.

Activities nearby:

There's something to keep everyone happy. If you're into history and culture, you can visit The National Wallace Monument, the Bannockburn Heritage Center, Callendar House and other fascinating sites. For nature lovers there's the gorgeous Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park is just under 30 miles from where you are. There  are also many other parks, a cycling center and cruises available on Loch Katrine. There's a nearby golf course and plenty of shopping opportunities for all tastes.

CLICK HERE to visit the Airth Castle Hotel & Spa website

Aldourie Castle - Loch Ness

Aldourie Castle

History:

Originally built in the early 1600's as a relatively simple two story construction, Aldourie Castle has seen additions and renovations many times over the years. It is now a beautiful, fairy tale castle with wings, turrets and balustrades. If you want to rent an entire castle in Scotland, this is one of only a handful of hotels that are exclusively available for single-party hire.  Aldourie Castle's location in Scotland's stunning Highlands on the world-famous Loch Ness, plus recent meticulous renovations and upgrades make it a 5-star luxury experience you won't forget.

Location:

Aldourie Castle sits on the southern bank of Loch Ness, with views out across this famous and enigmatic loch. Inverness is only five miles away.

Amenities:

Aldourie Castle has 13 luxurious bedrooms, each with it's own name, identity and decor. There's something for every age or taste! Even the bathrooms have their own names and unique styles. You have access to the entire castle including the drawing room, dining room, library, wine cellar, Main Hall and more. If you really want to splash out you can also pay for the services of the entire catering and household staff so you don't have to lift a finger on your once-in-a-lifetime Scottish castle vacation.

Outdoors, the 500 acres of grounds and gardens are lovingly cared for and offer a beautiful, peaceful place to relax or explore. Aldourie Castle is also a perfect location for weddings, private corporate retreats, family reunions and more.

Activities nearby:

As Aldourie Castle is right on the bank of Loch Ness, that's an obvious choice to explore. Boat trips are available from the castle's private marina, including Nessie Hunter tours and speedboat rides. A visit to Loch Ness's other (uninhabitable) castle, Urquhart Castle is absolutely worth doing. The ruins date back to the 13th century and are steeped in history.

The Loch Ness area is a good location for walking, hiking or cycling. Group activities including clay pigeon shooting and archery can be arranged for your stay at Aldourie Castle, as well as falconry displays. Venturing a little further afield, a short five mile drive gets to you Inverness, the cultural capital of the Highlands, where there are historic sights to see, shops to visit, and numerous places to enjoy Scotland's food and drink!

CLICK HERE to visit the Aldourie Castle website

Barcaldine Castle - Oban

Barcaldine Castle

History:

Barcaldine Castle (aka the Black Castle) was built at the very beginning of the 17th century by 'Black' Duncan Campbell. Like all of Scotland's castles it's rich in history and intrigue, and is said to be haunted.

During Scotland's famous massacre, the Massacre of Glencoe (between Clan Campbell and Clan Stewart) in 1692, Steward of Alpin was murdered by Donald Campbell in Barcaldine Castle.

Donald was the brother of Duncan Campbell, who had built the castle, and it is his ghost who is said to haunt the castle.

Location:

Barcaldine Castle is a Highland castle and sits on the southern shore of Loch Creran, on the north west coast of Scotland. The unofficial capital of the West Highlands is the town of Oban, which is less than 10 miles from the castle.

Amenities:

Barcaldine Castle offers Bed & Breakfast accommodation in six luxury rooms, some with beautiful vintage or antique furnishings, others with more contemporary decor and furniture. Five of the rooms accommodate two people, and one can accommodate three. En-suite bathrooms, free wifi and other modern day amenities and stunning views make all these B&B rooms a wonderful place to spend some time. Eating your traditional breakfast in the Great Hall isn't bad either!

The castle is also available as a wedding venue, or for exclusive hire for family trips or reunions, corporate retreats, anniversaries and more.

Activities nearby:

The region of Argyll and Oban has so many things to offer, and there's lots to see and do. Visit majestic Glencoe, the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct, or one (or more) Highland Castles such as Castle Stalker or Dunstaffnage Castle. Play a round on Glencruitten Golf Course, visit Oban Distillery (one of Scotland's oldest malt Scotch Whisky distilleries) or Inverawe Fisheries Fly-fishing center. Take a boat trip or just enjoy the stunning scenery and wildlife the area has to offer.

Oban itself is a coastal town with  plenty of shops and restaurants, and is considered to be the seafood capital of Scotland.

CLICK HERE to visit the Barcaldine Castle website

Buittle Castle - Dumfries and Galloway

Buittle Castle

History:

Buitte Castle (aka Botel or Botle Castle) is one of Scotland's ancient castles, having been first built in the 13th century, although it's possible an earlier, wooden, version of the castle was erected in the 12th century. It was built, and owned by the Lords of Galloway, and then by the Balliol family. For all but sixty years since then it has been owned by their descendants.

Location:

Buittle Castle is located approximately five miles from the coast in southwest Scotland, near the River Urr (aka Urr Water). The old and historically interesting town of Dumfries is less than twenty miles from the castle.

Amenties:

Buittle Castle has two room available for Bed & Breakfast guests, each one has it's own uniquely themed decor, and can accommodate two guests. A full cooked Scottish breakfast (the menu made my mouth water) is served in your room, and guest have access to the castle grounds, gardens and moat walk. There is a tea-room in the original medieval kitchen of Buittle Castle where you can enjoy delicious homemade food. Touring the rest of the castle can be arranged.

Activites Nearby:

If you like to fish, Buittle Castle offers private fishing access on Urr Water where salmon and trout are plentiful. If you'd like to visit more than one castle, there are several others to check out in Dumfries & Galloway, including Caerlaverock Castle, Threave Castle and Drumlanrig Castle.

Nature lovers will enjoy Galloway Forest, the scenic Mull of Galloway, the Logan Botanic Gardens or the Castle Kennedy Gardens. The town of Dumfries itself offers shopping, dining and historical sites such as Robert Burns house, where the world-famous Scottish bard wrote some of his works.

Crossbasket Castle - Glasgow

Crossbasket Castle

History:

Crossbasket Castle as it exists today began with a tower house which was likely built either at the end of the 15th, or early in the 16th, century. A Victorian mansion house was added in the 1800's, and the castle has had many owners over the years, including Charles Macintosh the inventor of waterproof cloth and who gave his name to the iconic macintosh raincoat.

At one point in the early 2000's the castle became run down and practically fell into ruin. Luckily it was bought in 2011 and the new owners have spend millions of £'s restoring it to it's former glory... only better. Crossbasket Castle is now a five-star hotel and event center which has succeeded in blending  unique historical features with contemporary luxury. It's literally the best of both worlds. 

Whether it's a family vacation or reunion, a wedding, birthday celebration, corporate event or just about anything worth celebrating, Crossbasket Castle is a fantastic destination.

Location:

Crossbasket Castle sits on wooded grounds with a view of River Calder in East Kilbride, approximately 15 miles from the vibrant city of Glasgow.

Amenities:

There are nine impressively elegant bedroom suites in the castle itself and two self-contained lodges in the grounds, making it easy to find the perfect accommodation for everyone. All are beautifully decorated, superbly comfortable and stylish, with en-suite facilities, flat-screen TV's, free wi-fi and much more.

One of the highlights of staying at Crossbasket Castle is the incredible restaurant overseen by the award winning chef Albert Roux, and his son Michael Roux Jr. The icing on the cake if you're a whisky drinker is the huge collection of whiskies available here, including rare varieties.

Activities Nearby:

Practically on Glasgow's doorstep, Crossbasket Castle is perfectly located for you to enjoy everything this busy city has to offer. From historical landmarks and buildings, to theaters and museums, plus wonderful shopping and dining opportunities. If you enjoy nature and want to be outdoors there are parks and botanical gardens, as well as golf courses, fishing and other sporting activities locally. There are also tours and yacht charters that can be arranged. 

CLICK HERE to go to Crossbasket Castle website

Dalhousie Castle & Spa - Midlothian

Dalhousie Castle

History:

The original Dalhousie Castle was built in the thirteenth century with the traditional towers, courtyard and moat. It was extended and altered in  the 15th, 18th and 19th centuries, the oldest part of the castle still standing is the drum tower which was added in the 15th century using the gorgeous local red stone you can see in the photograph.

Another castle said to be haunted, Dalhousie Castle has several ghosts including a 'Grey Lady', Sir Alexander Ramsay's ghost and apparently even a dog!

Dalhousie Castle has had it's share of famous visitors over the centuries, including Mary Queen of Scots who spent one night at the castle in 1563, Sir Walter Scott in 1808 and Queen Victoria on several occasions. Today it is Scotland's oldest inhabited castle and has been owned by the same family for over 800 years.

In 1972 Dalhousie Castle with it's stunning towers, staircases, secret passages and gorgeous grounds was transformed into a luxury, award-wining hotel, and it has been charming guests ever since.

It's available for corporate retreats/meetings/events, weddings and other functions.

Location:

Dalhousie Castle sits on the banks of the River Esk, surrounded by beautiful wooded parkland. The bustling and picturesque city of Edinburgh is only eight miles away.

Amenities:

Dalhousie Castle has twenty-nine one-of-a-kind luxury rooms and suites, decorated in a gorgeous blend of period and contemporary furniture, accents and fabrics. All the rooms have en-suite bathrooms, flat-screen TV's and other modern accompaniments. There's an award winning dining room serving delicious meals, and a wonderful spa offering luxury facilities and a range of treatments and options.

Activities Nearby:

For those who love the outdoors there are numerous parks and gardens to explore in the area, and Edinburgh is a mine of wonderful things to see and places to go including, of course, Edinburgh castle, as well as many historic buildings, art galleries and museums to Harry Potter tours (JK Rowling did a lot of her writing in Edinburgh) and a host of shops and restaurants. There are lots of golf courses too.

CLICK HERE to go to Dalhousie Castle website

Dalmunzie Castle Hotel - Perthshire

Dalmunzie Castle Hotel

History:

What is Dalmunzie Castle Hotel today is not the original Dalmunzie castle which historians believe dated back to the 1500's. It would seem that the original castle had fallen into total disrepair by the 17th century and over the years since then several buildings have been erected, enlarged and renovated to create the stunningly beautiful Scots baronial style turreted mansion that carries the name. 

Location:

Dalmunzie Castle is located in the Highlands, just inside the Cairngorms National Park, in what was once a heavily wooded glen. Set in 6500 acres of grounds, it is surrounded by magnificent scenery that is so unique to the Scottish Highlands. It's a serene and unspoiled location, perfect for getting away from it all. This area is rich in history and artifacts, some dating back to the Bronze Age. Dundee is just under forty miles away as is Perth, and Edinburgh Airport is just under 100 miles.

Amenities:

Dalmunzie Castle Hotel has seventeen rooms, including singles, doubles, suites, four-poster rooms and family rooms. Each is decorated in a traditional yet comfortably updated style and have en-suite facilities, flat-screen TV's, free wi-fi and other amenities. You can enjoy delicious 'Scottish Estate Contemporary cuisine' in the Michelin-Guide-recommended dining room. 

Activities Nearby:

If you're into active, outdoor activities, Dalmunzie Castle Hotel is the perfect location for you! There's hiking, mountain biking, or clay-pigeon shooting nearby, and for the sporty ones there's the Dalmunzie golf course, an on-site tennis court, and ski-ing for all abilities in the winter months. There's fishing too. If you'd like something a little more relaxing or energetic, there are four other castles you can visit and tour, including the Queen's retreat Balmoral Castle. 

CLICK HERE to visit the Dalmunzie Castle Hotel website

Dornoch Castle Hotel

Dornoch Castle

History:

Dornoch Castle Hotel was built sometime during the 15th century, on the site of what was likely the original Bishop's Palace of St. Gilbert. Ownership of the castle was transferred in 1557 to the Earl of Sutherland and his family, this was intended to be temporary, but the church never again owned the castle. Over the centuries it saw use as a school, a jail, a courthouse and a hunting lodge. In 1947 new owners turned it into what is now the Dornoch Castle Hotel.

Dornoch Castle lays claim to the ghost of a thief called Andrew McCornish who was jailed and then executed there, and was featured on the Travel Channel (US) in 2002 in a show about ghostly sightings. The ghost hasn't been seen since the late 1800's, so he may be at rest now.

Dornoch Castle Hotel is available for weddings, and offers amazing atmosphere and some stunning locations for photographs.

Location:

Dornoch Castle Hotel is located in the historic Highland town of Dornoch on the north east coast of Scotland. It is directly opposite Dornoch Cathedral which was built in the 1224 by the Bishop of Caithness.

Amenities:

Dornoch Castle Hotel has twenty-two bedrooms, each one with it's own decor and character, and en-suite bathrooms. Choose from Standard or Superior rooms (including a family room option), or opt for the Deluxe rooms located in the oldest part of the castle and featuring four poster beds and other authentic touches. Enjoy delicious meals in the castle restaurant 'Grant Macnicol at the Castle', or the fine dining in 'The Vault' (as of writing the vault is not open due to social distancing but that is expected to change).

Activities Nearby:

There's something for everyone when it comes to finding things to do in and around Dornoch. Walking, hiking and cycling are popular in this beautiful area and there's something available for every ability. Dornoch's sandy beach is just five minutes from the hotel too! Golfers can enjoy with two world-class golf courses nearby. If you'd like a day trip, visit Dunrobin Castle, or even Loch Ness where you can be on the lookout for Nessie, and visit Urquhart Castle and Drumnadrochit.

If you're a whisky fan, there are a handful of excellent distilleries that you can visit, including the Dornoch Distillery on the castle  grounds. For those who would like a little retail therapy Dornoch itself has a variety of stores featuring unique, antique,  handmade items as well as the more mainstream stores. Of course there are plenty of places to eat/drink as well! If you need to unwind after all that sightseeing and shopping, check out Aspen Spa. 

CLICK HERE to visit the Dornoch Castle Hotel website

Duncraig Castle - Ross-shire

Duncraig Castle

History:

Duncraig Castle is one of the Scottish Highland's 'newer' castles, having been built in 1866 for Scottish MP (Member of Parliament) Alexander Matheson. The castle estate includes forty acres of land, and two islands. The Matheson family owned the castle and estate until the 1920's, after which it was used as a naval hospital and then a small college which closed in 1989. After that the castle fell into disrepair until bought by the Dobson family from England in 2002. They began renovations and operated as a B&B for two years, before they sold it again. The new owner undertook extensive and lavish renovations (which took eleven years to complete!) and upgrades and Duncraig Castle is now offers beautiful and comfortable bed & breakfast accommodation in stunning surroundings. 

Location:

Duncraig Castle sits in a slightly elevated position on the south-west  shore of Loch Carron in Ross-shire, and three miles from the village of Plockton. Surrounded by gorgeous wooded grounds and overlooking the blue waters of Loch Carron.

Amenities:

Duncraig offers twelve stylish and comfortable bedrooms, each one uniquely designed to be tasteful and classic. All rooms have en-suite bathrooms and a host of contemporary touches such as under-floor heating in the bathrooms, wi-fi, Nespresso coffee machines and more. Breakfast is served in Sir Alexander Matheson's grand dining room, or outdoors on the patio if weather permits. There are beautiful gardens to explore and a private beach.

Activities Nearby:

Outdoor activities abound near Duncraig Castle, including numerous water sports, biking, hiking, fishing and boat trips. Local wildlife is stunning and numerous including seals, and even dolphins and porpoises.  You can take a trip to visit the Isle of Skye and while there why not take a tour of the Talisker Distillery? The pretty village of Plockton is only three miles from Duncraig castle and offers local shops, a pub, restaurant and a fish-and-chip shop. If you'd like to see the most photographed Scottish Castle,  Eilean Donan Castle is only about eleven miles from Duncraig.

CLICK HERE to visit the Duncraig Castle website

Eisenhower Hotel at Culzean Castle - Ayrshire

Culzean Castle

History:

Culzean Castle (pronounced 'Cullane') was created by the 9th Earl of Cassillis (Sir Thomas Kennedy) by rebuilding a 16th century fortified tower house originally called Coif Castle. In the 17th century it became known as Cullean Castle, and eventually became Culzean Castle during the rebuild in the 18th century.  After Thomas died, his brother David decided to significantly upgrade his brothers vision for the castle and employed a popular architect to design and imposing and stylish stately home. It took fifteen years, but the efforts were worthwhile because Culzean Castle is stunning, both inside and out. 

In 1945 the Kennedy family (the Kennedy Clan is one of the oldest in Scotland and Robert the Bruce was one of the clans earliest ancestors) gave Culzean Castle to the National Trust for Scotland, on one condition... which was that the top floor was to be offered to General Dwight Eisenhower in gratitude for his role in WWII. Eisenhower stayed at Culzean Castle four times, and the floor that was gifted to him has now been turned into the Eisenhower Hotel. As well as being open to individual guests and families, the hotel is available for corporate events, anniversaries, weddings and more.

Location:

The spectacular Culzean Castle sits high on the cliffs of the southwest coast of Scotland, looking across the Firth of Clyde towards the Isle of Arran. Glasgow is around fifty miles north of the castle, and Galloway Forest Park under thirty miles south-east.

Amenities:

The Eisenhower Hotel at Culzean castle has six bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms and a private, circular, Drawing Room occupying the top floor of the castle, which is reached using a 1920's elevator. Each room has it's own unique style and name. A full Scottish breakfast is served seven days a week, and on Fridays and Saturdays guests can enjoy a three-course dinner made with locally sourced ingredients. Comfortable surroundings, stunning views, free wi-fi and more. There is also an 'Exclusive Use' package with some added extras.

Activities Nearby:

You can enjoy the gorgeous scenery and explore outdoors at Culzean Country Park which features woodland, footpaths a pond and plenty of local wildlife. If you're on a family vacation, the Adventure Cove and Wild Woodland play parks will give the kids a chance to work off some energy. If the ocean is more your thing, check out the cliffs paths, sandy shoreline and rock pools on Culzean beach. Or take a wander around the castle's walled garden which dates back to the 18th century, and isn't just beautiful to look at. It also supplies home-grown produce for the castle's dining room. 

The remains of the 12th century Dunure Castle, once an important Kennedy-built fortress, sit on coastal cliffs just a few miles north of Culzean Castle, and is partly accessible to visitors.  An hour's drive takes you to Glasgow, Scotland's largest city and cultural capital. There is so much to see and do there that it will keep everyone busy!  

Learn more at Culzean Castle visit aboutscotland.com/culzean/

Faside Castle Estate - Edinburgh

Faside Castle

History:

Fa'side Castle was first built in the 12th century, by Robert de Quency. During the 13th century the castle and it's land was lost to Robert the Bruce, who gave it to the Seton family, and the Fawsyde family (there have been many variations on the spelling of this name over the centuries) obtained it from them towards the end of the 14th century.

The earliest part of the castle that still exists today is the 14th century tower that was constructed by the Fawsyde family. Rebuilding, an extension and renovations also happened during the 15th/16th century time period, but by the 19th century the castle had fallen into serious disrepair, and by the mid 1900's it was due to be demolished.

A local man and his wife bought Faside in 1976 and undertook some serious restoration work! The castle was sold on in the 1980's, and then again to the current owners, Ian and Sue Brash in 1989. 

There's a lot of history in Fa'side Castle, as it's linked to Robert the Bruce, the Battle of Pinkie Cleugh (the final battle between Scotland and England in 1547) and Mary, Queen of Scots who spent her last night of freedom at the castle on the night of June 14th, 1567 before heading off to the Battle of Carberry Hill the following morning.

Fa'side Castle may even have a ghost, 'The Green Lady', who is said to have been glimpsed in several parts of the castle.

Location:

Sat on a hilltop with panoramic views all around, Fa'side Castle is only eight miles west of Edinburgh. A beautiful rural setting, surrounded by woodland and farmland.

Amenities:

Bed & Breakfast is available in The Tower Vault bedroom, on the very top floor of the 14th century tower. You'll fine a comfortable oversized bed, en-suite bathroom, flat-screen TV and free internet, plus a rooftop walkway that gives you spectacular views. Guests have access to the Great Hall, with log burning fireplace and comfortable seating. 

Activities Nearby:

Being only a stone throw from Edinburgh, means that all the attractions and amenities of this iconic city are within easy reach. Tranent itself has some historical sites to check out, including the Tranent War Memorial and Massacre of Tranent Monument and the Fraser Center. For outdoor lovers, the Pentland Hills Regional Park is only a dozen miles away, and offers you just under 40 miles of gorgeous Scottish scenery to explore. Horse riding and fishing are also offered here.

CLICK HERE to visit the Fa'side Castle website

Fonab Castle Hotel & Spa - Pitlochry

Fonab Castle

History:

Fonab Castle was built in 1892 as a family home. As with so many Scottish castles, Fonab Castle has had several roles over the years, and has seen many changes. Once home of the Sandeman Port & Sherry Empire, it has also been a Red Cross hopsital and the HQ of one of Scotland's Hydro Electric Boards (who changed it's name to Port-na-Craig House during their ownership.

In 2002 it was bought by the Clark family who spent a lot of time and money on restoration and renovation, turning Fonab Castle into an incredible, luxury 5-Star hotel & spa. With an intuitive blending of history and contemporary design, a stay at Fonab Castle is something very special. In 2022 the Castle was acquired by a hotel and management company and is only going to get better, and better.

Location:

Situated in Pitclochry, and nestled in the Tummel Valley in the Scottish Highlands, on the shore of Loch Faskally, Fonab Castle is surrounded by stunning views of waterways, forestland and mountain peaks. Pitlochry is one of the most beautifully scenic towns in the Scottish Highlands and a tourist destination in itself. Iconic Edinburgh is only 70 miles south, and the Cairngorms National Park a mere 25 miles.

Amenities:

Fonab Castle offers twenty-six luxurious and unique bedrooms, including four suites and a penthouse suite on the castle's fourth floor. Many rooms have stunning views. Each one is lavishly decorated and include flat-screen TV's, free wi-fi, en-suite bathrooms and much more. There are a host of dining options including fine dining, casual dining and afternoon tea.

Fonab Castle's 'Woodland Spa' is the perfect place to relax and unwind, with a swimming pool, sauna, hot tub and more, plus a whole range of spa treatments. This really is a one of a kind Scottish castle stay experience.

Activities Nearby:

You will never have trouble finding things to do in the area around Fonab Castle, and there's something for every taste and energy level. Pitlochry is the heart of the Scottish Highlands and opportunities for hiking, climbing, cycling, fishing, water sports and more abound.  Pitlochry Golf Club, several whisky distilleries, and an active annual events calendar plus plenty of shopping and dining opportunities will keep you busy locally. Further afield you can visit Edinburgh, the Cairngorms National Forest, Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park, Blair Castle, and more.  Fonab Castle Hotel also offers a wide variety of sightseeing tours.

CLICK HERE to visit the Fonab Castle Hotel & Spa website

Glenapp Castle - Ayrshire

Glenapp Castle

History:

The Glenapp Estate grounds and gardens were established in the 1830's, there are no records dating back earlier there may have been an original house on the land at this time. The estate was bought in the 1960's by Mr James Hunt who commissioned an Edinburgh architect to design a grand home for  him. This became Glenapp Castle. Over the years the castle changed hands a few times, undergoing renovations and restoration along the way. In 1994 the McMillan family bought Glenapp Castle and spent six years restoring it, and creating a 5-star luxury, award-winning hotel. 

Location:

Situated on the coast of northwest Scotland, Glenapp Castle has stunning views out across the estate to the Firth of Clyde, and on a clear day you can see the Isle of Arran and possibly even the hills of Northern Ireland! Glasgow is approximately 75 miles north of Glenapp.

Amenities:

Glenapp Castle  offers seventeen bedrooms suites with many of on the first and second floor having enviable sea views (note in the UK 'first floor' is the same as second floor in the USA, with the USA first floor being the 'ground floor' in the UK). There's also a fantastic four bedroom Penthouse apartment. All are tastefully renovated and feature period/vintage furniture and decor, combined with the best of contemporary amenities. There are multiple options for dining, with two restaurants, a Tea Room in the walled gardens, and private dining spaces for events. Outdoors there are thirty-six acres of castle grounds and gardens to enjoy. Glenapp Castle is also available for exclusive use (private hire) and can accommodate up to 42 guests.

Activities Nearby:

There is so much to do and see when you stay at Glenapp Castle that you'll never be bored! On the Glenapp Castle Estate you'll find tennis courts, a croquet lawn, French boules, jogging and hiking paths, archery, clay pigeon shooting, falconry and so much more. Off-site is equally entertaining with fishing, pheasant shooting, curling, kayaking and multiple other options, including the unique experience of taking a fishing trip by boat accompanied by a Fish Eagle who will demonstrate it's skill for you. There are also historical sites, castles and monuments to visit including the Robert Burns Museum, Culzean Castle and Lochnaw Castle. You can also arrange a variety of tours and excursions from the hotel.

CLICK HERE to visit the Glenapp Castle website