Best Boutique Hotels in Scotland

Located on a tree-lined street in Glasgow’s West End, away from the hustle and bustle, the One Devonshire Gardens is a luxury boutique hotel with a class that is part of the Hotel du Vin family. Peaceful and classic, this hotel is a nod to the culture and elegance of centuries past. There are just 49 rooms and suites in the five adjoining townhouses that make up the hotel, and guests can enjoy unparalleled service from some of the world’s best hotel staff.

Believe it or not, this boutique hotel was once an Episcopal Church, which lends culture and heritage to the beautiful space. It may have once been a church, but Malmaison is anything but austere. The crowd tends to be young and hip, and each of the rooms are lush and contemporary. Dine at the onsite brasserie for fusion fare or head to the Malbar for an upbeat vibe and wild cocktails that sets the tone for a night of excitement.

Part of a boutique chain with an emphasis on epicureanism, the Hotel Du Vin provides a glamorous yet contemporary place to stay, right in the heart of the city. Just 36 rooms and suites give this Victorian-built hotel a more intimate flair. Each comes with its own custom-built bed with Egyptian cotton sheets, a Lavazza coffee machine, a rainfall shower or rolltop bath and Miller Harris toiletries. The French cuisine served in the onsite bistro is a highlight as are the breakfast pastries (arguably best enjoyed in the hotel’s idyllic courtyard).

Five minute’s walk from the island’s main town of Portee, this four-star Manor Hotel, puts you a little further toward the busier parts of Skye. However, set on a hill and surrounded by mature gardens, with views across the coast, you can still enjoy a sense of peace. 34 bedrooms come with Nespresso coffee machines, Bose sound systems, Highland Soap toiletries and 300 thread count sheets. Seafood is the focus at the Chargrill Restaurant, which provides excellent views, seasonal menus and a wood-burning stove for cosy evenings eating beside the fire. During warmer months, guests can dine and drink out on the hotel’s terrace, overlooking the Cuillin Hills.

Back in the 16th-century, this was a hunting lodge. Now it’s a well respected, family-owned and run hotel in a remote part of Skye (although, most of Skye is by nature remote). Local craftspeople have been employed in the process of decorating this hotel, giving it a distinctly Scottish, yet upscale look. Homely rooms are all individually designed, with views of the nearby loch, fluffy robes and L’Occitane bath products. Guests can go foraging with the lodge’s own ghillie, take part in traditional country pursuits, play board games, dine on menus constructed to include ingredients from the Kinloch’s kitchen garden and drink at the honesty bar.

Overlooking the 18th hole and clubhouse of the world-famous Old Course in St Andrews, the 5-star Seaton House provides the famous Scottish golfing town with its most refined hospitality experience to date. Formerly The Scores Hotel, the property has reclaimed its original name, following a sensitive restoration of its two Georgian townhouses which date back to 1864. The Luxury Editor spent a weekend at Seaton House, so read on to discover why this is, without doubt, St Andrews’ most sophisticated new address. Positioned on ‘The Scores’, St Andrews’ most iconic road, Seaton House offers 42 luxurious guest quarters, including expansive garden and terrace suites, destination dining by celebrated Edinburgh’s seafood restaurant Ondine Oyster & Grill, Bar and outdoor alfresco dining terrace and a further all-day dining experience, The Board Room.

Dating back to the mid-1800s, this castle overlooks the peaceful Sound of Mull. Its imposing exterior gives way to a cosier interior; glowing fires, wood panelling, country house decor, a complimentary array of whiskies and just five bedrooms. The incumbent owners (Tom and Marjorie Nelson) live in a private wing within the building. But they’re on hand to meet guests’ needs, including the supply of a hearty daily breakfast taken sociably, at a 16th-century trestle table. It’s a great choice for families seeking a more intimate stay, and pet pooches are most welcome to join too.

Found beside a canal, in a little fishing village where the sea meets Loch Fyne, it follows that this hotel would be the go-to place for seafood. Freshly caught shellfish is served at the relaxed Crinan Seafood Bar (don’t miss the huge local prawns and Colonsay oysters ). Guests can also eat in-house at its L’Assiette Michelin fine dining establishment, The Westward, Lock 16 Restaurant on the top floor and a cafe laden with home-baked goods. The hotel itself is family-run, with a total of 20 bedrooms – each themed on a Scottish artist, and all with ocean views. Any visiting artists have access to an onsite studio and there’s a magical secret garden at the rear.

Ultra boutique with just 15 rooms, Links House has a prime location, just steps away from the Royal Dornoch’s first tee and a short walk to the beach. Clubs are available to borrow if you’re unable to bring your own, along with a range of other activity supplies. Play the neighbouring course ranked #2 in Scotland and #4 in the world by Golf Digest, as well as a further four championship courses nearby. It’s not only golf that’s the highlight of a stay at Links House – the two AA Rosette-awarded restaurant offers some of the finest food in the region. The 19th-century hotel also benefits from two honesty bars and sumptuous furnishings.

Dating back to the 18th century, this former coaching inn has taken on a new lease of life as a fine-dining waterfront hotel. Just 11 rooms ensure the boutique feel remains intimate and there are plenty of homely touches, such as bikes, free newspapers, wellies and waterproofs for guests’ use. A croquet lawn at the front provides elegant recreational opportunities, while local excur. The hotel is dog friendly and has self-catering cottages within the grounds, for those preferring a more private retreat. Or if you’re planning a large get-together why not hire out the whole place to yourselves?

Built in 1887 by the then Earl of Lovelace, this 18-bedroomed baronial hunting lodge is filled with original features. While the hotel’s design certainly harks back to the building’s former life, the decor has splashes of bright accented colour. A kitchen garden supplies a multitude of organic produce, along with local meats and fish. And Highland cows can often be spotted wandering past the grounds. If travelling with kids, or those seeking some thrills, Torridon Outdoors is conveniently located on the doorstep, providing a range of outward-bound activities. Be sure to take a peek at the hotel’s drawing room, with its unusual zodiac-designed ceiling and to sample the hotel’s own Arcturus gin.

Just 14 bedrooms give this lodge close to Gleneagles, an exclusive and intimate feel. The baronial building has a modern twist, with plush textiles, rich amber hues and statement lighting. High-end self-catering accommodation is also available. But for those not wishing to cook, there’s the Garden Room restaurant, serving afternoon teas, Sunday roasts and a la carte meals. And if you’re planning a special occasion, you can devise a bespoke menu with the executive chef, for your group’s private enjoyment. Take a seat in a brown leather upholstered chair mid-morning for a coffee and the day’s papers, or after dinner, to enjoy a sophisticated tipple.