Charming Castle and Manor Hotels
Scotland
Scotland and the Highlands – this destination promises mystery and magic. The northernmost part of Great Britain has many loyal fans for that very reason. They are also drawn to the country’s historic and often opulent places to stay – the castle and manor hotels. You’ll find them all across Scotland, yet some possess a truly unique charm. Step inside & Fàilte!
Charming Castle and Manor Hotels
Scotland
Scotland and the Highlands – this destination promises mystery and magic. The northernmost part of Great Britain has many loyal fans for that very reason. They are also drawn to the country’s historic and often opulent places to stay – the castle and manor hotels. You’ll find them all across Scotland, yet some possess a truly unique charm. Step inside & Fàilte!
Roughly halfway between Glasgow and Edinburgh lies Cromlix, an impressive manor house set on nearly 14 hectares (35 acres) of land. The property is owned by former tennis pro Andy Murray and his wife Kim, who is the driving force behind the hotel’s development. Guests can choose from ten rooms, six suites, and the Laurel Gate Lodge. The design blends Scottish tradition with contemporary flair, featuring plenty of floral patterns on sofas, cushions, and walls. Cromlix also places great emphasis on gastronomy. Currently, The Glasshouse is the hotel’s only restaurant, serving international fine dining with subtle Scottish influences in a bright, window-filled space. From May 2026, a second restaurant with 80 seats will open on the grounds, while The Glasshouse will be transformed into an event venue and will become the new setting for afternoon tea. Further additions include another small fine-dining restaurant, three new suites, and a wellness cottage. Cromlix will be closed for renovations between January and April 2026. Good to know: the hotel is ideal for sports enthusiasts. Andy Murray has installed a tennis court in Wimbledon colors, and there are also pickleball courts and walking trails. Guests can book additional activities such as falconry or foraging.
Trade Contact: Emily Shields, Head of Sales & Marketing
The slightly fairytale-like Douneside House & Health Club is a great choice for hiking enthusiasts, as it sits on the edge of Cairngorms National Park – home to five of the ten highest mountains in Great Britain. Part of the Luxury Scotland collection, this country house lies on a 6.8-hectare (17 acres) estate that also includes three self-catering cottages with two or three en-suite bedrooms. Guests seeking something smaller can choose from 13 rooms and six apartments in the main house. As is common across much of Scotland, dogs are welcome to stay here. Almost directly in front of the hotel begins the famous Castle Trail, which leads to 19 of Aberdeenshire’s most iconic castles and fortresses, including Balmoral, the King’s summer residence. Golf lovers enjoy complimentary access to the nearby Tarland Golf Course, and afterwards, guests can unwind in the Health Club with pool, sauna, and steam room, soon to be expanded with a new spa and treatment rooms. Douneside House is also a delight for gourmets – its six-course dining experience at The Conservatory restaurant has received multiple awards, and in November, the "November Wine Weekend" with wine expert Tarquin de Burgh offers tastings and a Riedel Wine Masterclass.
Trade Contact: Alexandra Anderson, Front House Manager
ANZEIGE – Seit 1986 steht die australische Scenic Group für einmalige Kreuzfahrten voller Komfort, Entdeckergeist und Liebe zum Detail. Auch an Bord der Scenic Eclipse ist all dies garantiert, etwa bei einer 11-tägigen Reise durch die traumhafte Südsee – von Neuseeland über Australien, Neukaledonien und Vanuatu bis Fidschi. Weiße Strände, aktive Vulkane und vielfältige Kulturen machen diese Route zu einem unvergesslichen Erlebnis. Jetzt Ihren Kunden das Frühbucherangebot für 2026 sichern – für magische Kreuzfahrtmomente in der Südsee.
Ihr Kontakt: Achim Weber, Head of Sales | Telefon · E-Mail · Website
In the Scottish Lowlands, Glenapp Castle turns fairytale dreams into reality. Set amidst lush countryside and just minutes from the sea, the castle immediately transports guests back in time with its majestic façade and sense of grandeur. Inside, the atmosphere deepens – the interiors are elegantly traditional, filled with antiques, rich fabrics, and period details that make the building’s royal history almost palpable. The newest highlight is the Glenapp Castle Penthouse Suite, a 418-square-metre (4,499 square feet) residence occupying the entire top floor, that can be reached via a private lift. It offers four bedrooms, a sauna, spa treatment rooms, a lounge area, and a fully equipped kitchen – along with the services of a private chef and butler for a truly bespoke experience. In addition to the penthouse, the property features 20 beautifully appointed rooms and suites. For those seeking more privacy, Glenapp Castle can also be reserved as a full buy-out. Nature lovers shouldn’t miss the Hebridean Sea Safari, an unforgettable adventure aboard the hotel’s private boat. The journey leads to remote Scottish islands in search of seals, whales, dolphins, and puffins, with an overnight stay in elegant glamping tents at the Glenapp Jura Camp. As always, the hotel’s attentive concierge team ensures that every detail is perfectly taken care of.
Trade Contact: Jill Chalmers, Managing Director
Set at the foot of Ben Nevis – Great Britain’s highest mountain – Inverlochy Castle Hotel perfectly combines Highland grandeur with timeless elegance. The member of Small Luxury Hotels and Luxury Scotland is located near Fort William, one of the most picturesque towns on Scotland’s west coast, making it an ideal base for exploring the rugged Highlands. The surrounding area is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with scenic hiking trails that wind past waterfalls, Highland cattle, and through valleys immortalised in the Harry Potter movies near Glencoe. Loch Ness, home to the famous mythical creature, lies only about 40 minutes away. In the hotel, guests can choose from 17 individually designed rooms and suites with views over the Highlands, nearby lochs, or the walled garden. The two-bedroom Gate Lodge provides extra space and privacy for families or small groups. Interiors are filled with rich fabrics, antique furnishings, and elegant details that create a true castle atmosphere – with one modern twist: the TVs are cleverly hidden behind mirrors. For a culinary highlight, the fine-dining restaurant Seasgair, led by Michelin-starred chef Michel Roux Jr., serves sophisticated modern British cuisine inspired by Scotland’s best seasonal produce – the perfect finale to a day spent in the Highlands.
Trade Contact: Norbert Lieder, Managing Director, ICMI Luxury Collection
ANZEIGE – Quark Expeditions ermöglicht Ihren Kunden mehr Abenteuer als jeder andere Anbieter von Polarexpeditionen. Unter anderem können sie zwischen Kajakfahren in Spitzbergen, Stand-up-Paddling in der Antarktis und Mountainbiking in Grönland wählen. Die Polarexpedition lässt sich durch eine Vielzahl einzigartiger Exkursionen individuell und aktiv gestalten. Die Reisenden haben die freie Wahl, was sie erleben möchten.
An impressive 25 million pound was invested in Mar Hall Golf Resort & Spa last year before its grand reopening in May – under the new ownership of JA Hotels & Resorts. The historic Scottish estate near Glasgow, dating back to 1828, marks the UAE-based hotel group’s first step into the UK market. The brand has also recently opened The Bruntsfield Hotel, a boutique property in Edinburgh. Set on 97 hectares (239 acres) of parkland along the River Clyde, Mar Hall combines a tranquil countryside feel with easy access to the city. The guest rooms are elegantly understated, featuring a timeless design accented by bold wallpapers that add a distinctive touch. Beyond rooms and suites, the resort offers Classic Lodges for extra privacy, while new Woodland Lodges – opening this autumn – will provide spacious, light-filled accommodations surrounded by nature. A wide range of outdoor experiences showcases Scotland’s adventurous side: guests can try axe throwing, archery, pony trekking, or enjoy a distillery tour. More leisurely options include a picnic with whisky or gin tasting and a perfectly matched cheese pairing. Golfers will find plenty to enjoy too – the resort’s own championship course offers a scenic par 70 challenge. After a day outdoors, guests can relax at one of two restaurants, unwind with drinks at the bar, or indulge in a traditional Afternoon Tea served in The Gallery.
Trade Contact: Fiona Gallagher, Commercial Director
Up in the far north, where the Highlands grow ever wilder, the landscape becomes more dramatic with sea lochs, rugged mountains, and narrow winding roads – this is where The Torridon is located. Situated north of the Isle of Skye on the edge of the Applecross Peninsula, the estate also sits along the famous North Coast 500 scenic route. A proud member of Luxury Scotland, The Torridon holds the title of being the northernmost five-star hotel in the country. Guests love the picturesque estate not least for its remarkable whisky bar, which boasts an impressive 365 varieties of fine malt whisky, including several rare bottles. Prefer gin? No problem – the property has been producing its own Arcturus Gin since 2017. Tastings for both whisky and gin are held several times a week. The accommodation is just as impressive as the spirits selection. Guests seeking the ultimate in privacy and views will find it at The Boathouse on the shores of Loch Torridon – a two-bedroom retreat complete with kitchen and living spaces. The Stables, once the estate’s stables, now houses twelve charming guest rooms, while the main building offers eighteen individually designed, colourful rooms that combine a traditional manor house feel with playful modern touches. And for those who like to stay active, there’s no shortage of outdoor adventures: archery, hiking, gorge walking, and even snorkelling.
Trade Contact: Allan Paterson, Commercial Manager
Exceptional Scottish Hideaways
Ardbeg House, Islay
Another must for whisky lovers: For a year now, the Ardbeg distillery – part of LVMH and based on the southern Hebridean island of Islay – has had its very own hotel. Located in Port Ellen, just five kilometres (3,1 miles) from the distillery itself, Ardbeg House has been completely renovated and reimagined. From the outside it appears modest, but inside, bold and unexpected design choices create plenty of surprises. The twelve rooms and suites, each individually styled in the distinctive Ardbeggian design, tell the story of the brand in their own unique way. And fittingly, there’s a special whisky served at Ardbeg House that can’t be found anywhere else.
Contact: Stuart Smith, Head of Brand Homes
Glenmorangie House, Tain
Same concept, but a completely different setting: For 25 years now, the Glenmorangie distillery – also part of LVMH – has operated Glenmorangie House in the Highlands north of Inverness. Once used for board meetings, the property now welcomes guests to six luxurious, individually designed rooms. Those seeking more privacy can opt for one of three charming cottages. Guests enjoy exclusive access to rare Glenmorangie whiskies available only here. A highlight is the communal dining concept – in the evening, everyone gathers around a large table in the stylish dining room.
Contact: Wilfried Kloepping, European Representative Luxury Scotland Hotels
The Witchery by the Castle, Edinburgh
Often described as the most romantic hotel in the world, The Witchery by the Castle is steeped in centuries of history that can be felt in every room of this 16th-century building. Located at the upper end of Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, it has also earned a stellar reputation among gourmets. Guests can enjoy fine dining by candlelight in The Original Dining Room or opt for a more relaxed atmosphere in the hidden Secret Garden. Naturally, dinner wouldn’t be complete without one of the 600-plus wines from the hotel’s impressive cellar. The Witchery features nine suites, each individually designed in a lavish, Gothic-inspired style.
Contact: Steven Allam, General Manager
Let's Ask the Industry
Can Scotland make luxury travelers happy?
"We introduced our Scotland program last year with the aim of specifically targeting the high-end segment. In our core destination, North America, we are already well established in this market – and we are now transferring that expertise to Scotland. More and more of our clients are choosing Scotland as a destination and opting for luxurious accommodation. Castle and manor hotels play a particularly important role for our guests. These properties impress not only with their unique locations – whether it's close to the city or deep in the Highlands – but above all with their individuality and exclusive character. Excellent on-site service is just as important to our guests as the opportunity to arrange bespoke activities and excursions directly through the hotel. Whether a private whisky tasting or a guided Highland safari, the combination of comfort, heritage, and authentic experiences makes these hotels especially appealing to our clientele. For our guests, culture is the main reason to travel to Scotland. They want not only outstanding service but, above all, genuine and meaningful experiences. That’s why we work closely with carefully selected, often smaller providers. This allows us to offer unique experiences – such as private sheepdog demonstrations on a farm near Aberdeen or individual bagpipe lessons. Many hotels in the Highlands feature excellent concierge services that can organize day trips and outdoor activities, though most of our guests prefer to have these experiences arranged in advance through us. Whether for two people or a larger group, almost anything is possible in Scotland. For family gatherings, for instance, we can arrange the private rental of a castle – complete with chef and housekeeping staff if desired. We then create a bespoke itinerary that might include private whisky tastings, Highland safaris (particularly impressive in autumn when red deer and capercaillie can be observed), traditional Highland Games, scenic hikes, or guided foraging tours. We see Scotland as a luxury destination with tremendous potential – even if it is not always perceived that way yet in our market."
Judith Brandner, Senior Product Manager, Argus Reisen (Germany)