An Insider’s Guide to Where to Stay in Scotland

Gleneagles Townhouse

Scotland doesn’t announce itself slowly, it hits you at once. Ruined castles, morning fog covered lochs, and jagged coastlines compliment a country that is compact enough to drive across in a few hours. Edinburgh’s medieval Old Town is stacked against its Georgian New Town, while the Castle looms over everything. Glasgow has a music scene, restaurant culture, and arts infrastructure that would feel notable in a city three times its size. The Highlands have the deepest pull, with single-track roads, village pubs, and stunning landscapes found nowhere else. The islands bring this energy to cliffs that crash into the ocean, large bird colonies, and herds of Highland cows roaming the hills. Scotland offers the kind of trip where an unscheduled day is remembered just as much—if not more than—a packed day of sightseeing. The weather is famously uncooperative and changes rapidly, but this is what helps make the atmosphere epic.

Gleneagles Townhouse

The beloved Perthshire resort’s Edinburgh outpost occupies a handsome George Street address. The clubby interiors—think tartan accents, taxidermy, and open fires—deliver the same country-house warmth in a decidedly urban setting. When you book with me, you'll receive Fora Perks, which include a $100 food and beverage credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade, and extended check-in/out whenever possible.

The Balmoral Hotel

The clock tower has kept time over Waverley Station since 1902—set, by tradition, three minutes fast so travelers never miss their train. Inside, expect kilted doormen, a whisky bar stocked with rare malts, and some of Scotland’s most decorated fine dining. Book with me to receive Fora’s Rocco Forte Knights, which partner perks include a $100 food and beverage credit, daily breakfast, and an upgrade whenever possible.

Virgin Hotels Edinburgh

In the heart of the Old Town, this irreverent addition to the hotel scene brings with it the brand’s signature Chamber concept—spaciously dividing the sleeping and dressing areas. The rooftop is the star, though, with unobstructed views toward the Castle. Book with me to receive Fora’s Preferred Platinum partner perks, which include a $100 hotel credit, welcome amenity, daily breakfast, an upgrade, and extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Aberdeenshire The Fife Arms

As much art destination as hotel, with over 14,000 works—including pieces by Picasso and Lucian Freud—woven throughout the interiors. The two bars, the restaurant, and the wood-paneled drawing rooms each feel distinct, and the surrounding Cairngorms make it one of the most compelling bases in the Scottish Highlands. When you book with me, you'll receive Fora Perks, which include a $100 food and beverage credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade, and extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Highland Inverlochy Castle

With Ben Nevis as its backdrop and the etiquette of a private estate near Fort William, this Victorian castle was once declared by Queen Victoria as having one of the most beautiful settings she had ever seen. Book with me to receive Fora Perks, which include an on-site experience, daily breakfast, an upgrade, and extended check-in/out whenever possible.