It’s been a long time coming but better days are arriving. If you’ve been missing family and friends over the past year, why not invite them along on holiday? Scotland is home to a whole host of large holiday homes from seaside cottages to large country estates, so we have plenty of room at the inn for everyone to relax and, most importantly, get a good night’s rest.
To make it easier for you, we’ve pulled together a list of some of our favourite accommodation places for large groups, offering great value for money and cool features including indoor swimming pools, games rooms and even outdoor BBQ areas. With so much to see and do, you can split up to enjoy your activities during the day and meet up together for an evening of fun.
1. Black Isle Lodge, Munlochy, Highlands
Experience the wild beauty of the Scottish Highlands with a stay at Black Isle Lodge. This Scandinavian style self-catering log cabin sleeps five people across three bedrooms and is tastefully furnished throughout with a newly fitted kitchen and an open plan living-dining room area. During those cold winter months, make sure to turn up the heat with your very own wood burning stove to make things extra cosy.
Of course, we can’t forget to mention the wonderful things to see and do nearby. Outdoor enthusiasts will be in their element with Fairburn Activity Centre offering everything from archery to mountain biking; climbing to bubble football. It’s a great way to try something new while on holiday.
A jam-packed day full of adventure can sure be thirsty work. Head to Glen Ord Distillery and sample three delightful whiskies, ranging from twelve to eighteen years old. Don’t worry if you’re the designated driver, you’ll be able to take the whisky samples back to your accommodation.
Black Isle Lodge is also situated along the North Coast 500 route. A perfect place to rest your head if you’re looking to hit the road and discover the north of Scotland’s awe-inspiring landscapes.
2. The Coach House at Lochend Chalets, Port of Menteith, Stirling
The Coach House at Lochend Chalets awaits the chatter of friends and family. Sleeping up to 10 guests, this stunning traditional cottage has bags of space for everyone to relax in. Inside you’ll find five bedrooms, four bathrooms, a conservatory lounge and a spacious kitchen-dining area, perfect if you’re looking to cook up a delicious feast while you’re away.
Lochend Lodges certainly know how to do fun while on holiday too. On a nice day, head outside for some al fresco dining in your own private garden and enjoy a soak in the hot tub where you will be treated to stunning views.
With Lochend situated at the south eastern corner of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, get stuck into a range of activities suitable for all the family. Castle Rednock Trekking Centre offers pony trekking and Segway-treks, or why not take a leisurely stroll along Lochan Spling? Kids can also let off some steam at Aberfoyle play park filled with slides, swings and flying foxes. To round off the day, treat the family to a three-course meal at Lake of Menteith Hotel. Enjoy dinner with a view as you tuck into delicious Scottish produce. Haggis bon bons and pan-roast hake on chorizo are amongst some of the most popular dishes with diners.
3. Mill of Dess Lodge, Aboyne, Aberdeenshire
Head to Aberdeenshire for a luxurious stay at the Mill of Dess Lodge. It all begins in the entrance, with the accommodation split into two wings – South and North. There is plenty of room for extended families or large groups of friends sleeping up to a whopping 20 people. With 10 bedrooms and 10 ensuite bathrooms, you’ll find all the essentials in the comfort of your own bedroom including Sky TV, Wi-Fi, a room safe, tea and coffee making facilities and much more. There are even complimentary bathroom products by Scottish Fine Soaps and fluffy white bath robes. The lodge also opens the invitation to four-legged friends, accepting up to two well-behaved dogs.
This accommodation might be self-catering, but you’ll be easily swayed by the team at Mill of Dess Lodge’s tasty food offerings. Enjoy lunch upon special request and sample some of the finest Scottish produce. The food is so appetising that it’s even been accredited a Taste Our Best award. For dinner, book a table at The Boat Inn serving hearty pub food as well as some of your favourite tipples.
If you’re looking to tick off another epic road trip off your bucket list, check out the North East 250 and look out for picturesque seaside villages, royal castles and whisky distilleries along the way.
4. Uig Lodge, Isle of Lewis
A castle on the beach? You’re not dreaming! An escape to the Isle of Lewis will almost feel like a holiday to the Caribbean with its turquoise waters and white sandy beaches. Inside, luxury is laid on thick. Uig Lodge offers eight bedrooms sleeping up to 17 people, a well-equipped kitchen, six bathrooms and downstairs loo, as well as a large comfortable sitting room with an open peat fire. In the morning, wake up to picture-perfect postcard mountain and sea views.
As with most remote islands, some of the best adventures are to be had in the water. Brave the cold temperatures and go wild swimming or try your hand at wild kayaking where you may be fortunate to see a few rare seabirds and marine life.
5. The Farmhouse at Tower Farm Holidays, Cockburnspath, Scottish Borders
If you’ve been longing for a reunion, get-together or family escape, The Farmhouse at Tower Farm Holidays might be calling your name. This self-catering home which sleeps 10 has been going the extra mile for guests to provide a spacious and comfortable stay. On the ground floor, you’ll find a well-equipped kitchen and large sitting room with comfy sofas and a coal fire, a TV and DVD player, a double bedroom and a small toilet. Upstairs, it’s bedrooms galore with three twin rooms and a master bedroom where you’ll wake up to stunning views of the Berwickshire coastline each morning. Freshen up before breakfast in the bathroom or shower room. Outside, enjoy your own garden oasis with a barbeque area and outside tables and chairs, perfect for those summer evening soirees.
With just a 20-minute drive to Dunbar in East Lothian, you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to planning days out. Make friends with the animals at East Links Family Park, head to John Muir’s Birthplace to discover the legacy behind the ‘Father of the National Parks’, or take a tour around Belhaven Brewery, Scotland’s oldest surviving brewery.
6. Glencarron Lodge, Strathcarron, Highlands
Bring together family and friends at Glencarron Lodge. Located in Wester Ross on the western edge of the Highlands, this former Victorian shooting lodge has turned into a fantastic holiday home. Sleeping 20 guests in 11 bedrooms, the lodge oozes elegance and character, yet comes wired for the modern world.
Relaxation is easy here. Show your competitive side with a game of snooker or table tennis in the two games rooms or while away the hours in the garden which brings a true spectacle of colour, scenery and wildlife throughout the seasons. There’s even a dedicated children’s TV room with lots of comfy sofas, perfect for watching a film.
The Highlands is your oyster when it comes to outdoor adventure. Fill your lungs with fresh air and enjoy a leisurely stroll with a mix of gentle flat walks around the estate. Why not fill your camera roll with stunning pictures of Scottish wildlife on a nature spotting walk? We can’t guarantee you’ll get to see all the animals who reside here but keep your eyes peeled for roe deer, foxes, mountain hares, badgers and much more.
7. Donnini Apartments, Ayr
Sleeping up to 13 people, Donnini Apartments will no doubt warm your hearts with its welcoming atmosphere. Expect tastefully designed rooms with the latest high-tech gadgets including free access to Netflix, so you can catch up with your favourite TV shows and films while on the move. Put your culinary skills to good use in the kitchen and when the sun breaks through the clouds, enjoy an al fresco dinner on your private balcony. After a day of exploring, put your feet up and relax in the lounge area and sleep the sleep of your life in the comfy king-size bed.
The apartments are situated on the Ayrshire coastline, offering an abundance of things to see and do. Feel the sand between your toes on a scenic beach walk, explore historic sites or take a wander in a country park.
8. Tay View, Killin, Perthshire
Bring friends and family back together at Tay View. Situated in the picturesque village of Killin in Perthshire, this house packs a fair punch within its four walls. There’s room for 16 here with eight bedrooms, all with super king-size beds and if you’re lucky to bag one of the bedrooms on the ground floor, you’ll have your own private patio area.
Tickle your tastebuds without leaving the house by cooking up a storm in the spacious open plan kitchen on the electric Rangemaster and dish up your delicious meals in the dining room. There’s even a Bose speaker if you want to play some background music while eating dinner. Take your family games night up a notch by heading to the games room on the second floor. From table football and Xbox to board games, it will entertain everyone from the young to the young at heart.
The indoors at Tay View is beguiling, but you won’t be stuck for fun outside. Killin is in the heart of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, where you’ll find lots of scenic walks during your stay here. Enjoy a leafy stroll along Acharn Forest or explore more of the village along the Historic Killin route.
9. Craiglea Lodge, Wick
How do you like your slice of silence? A secluded retreat in the Highlands, boasting spectacular views and an abundance of wildlife? That’s Craiglea Lodge! Get ready to pack your bags and enjoy the delights of what the north of Scotland has to offer.
Sleeping up to 16 guests, Craiglea Lodge is more than just stunning scenery. It’s a modern dream with a fully equipped kitchen and built-in appliances, including a washing machine and dryer, and high-end fixtures and fittings everywhere you look. Make the most of your Highland adventure by visiting a few local attractions nearby. Head to Dunrobin Castle, the most northerly of Scotland’s great houses or set foot along the enchanting Latheronwheel Fairy Glen with lots of fairy neighbourhoods to explore, before returing to the cottage to catch your favourite shows on the big plasma TV, surf the web with the high-speed Wi-Fi, pour the drinks, hog the remote, or simply stare at the views.
Cook up a storm in the kitchen or out in the garden on the barbie. When the weather isn’t looking too promising, make a splash in the indoor heated swimming pool or put on your game face for a table tennis match. When you hit the land of nod, you’ll be encased in crisp linen and oblivious to the wider world.
10. Belmont House, Unst, Shetland
If you were ever unsure about how to spoil yourself, Belmont House should provide some clarity. Indulge, chill, pamper and retreat from the real world and relax in one of the most peaceful places imaginable. Sublime and secluded, this 4-star self-catering stay comes with lush green gardens that pay homage to the island’s natural beauty. On a sunny day, laze and lounge in the front and back garden areas while you listen to sweet bird song.
The entrance gives way to spacious communal rooms, bathrooms and a dining room. If you have a creative spark while on holiday, jot down your ideas from pen to paper in the venetian writing room. Sleeping 12 people across five bedrooms, dream sweet dreams in the rural silence tucked up in comfortable bedding and soft pillows to rest your head.
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- 6 Best Self-Catering Holidays in Scotland | VisitScotland
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