Romantic getaways in Scotland for couples
They say romance is dead but here at Snaptrip, we say that romance is well and alive! But nothing says ‘I love you’ like a romantic break away with your loved one and what’s more romantic than a dream getaway to Scotland? We’ve scoured Scotland’s highlands, shorelines and metropolises to find the best spots for a romantic getaway in Scotland for couples.
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Glen Isla
Location: Angus Glens
Best for: Outdoor adventures
Romantic activity for two: Hike to Reekie Linn Falls
If you’re looking for the rugged natural beauty of Scotland then the Angus Glens are the place for you and your partner to get closer to nature. Glen Isla is the most westerly point and offers beautiful walks and stunning locations to enjoy nature and wildlife. From the impressive Reekie Linn Falls to the magical wildlife reserve at the Loch of Lintrathen, it’s the perfect retreat for two.
Featured property: The Fortalice
If budget is no problem and you’re prepared to splash the cash for a luxury retreat then The Fortalice is for you. This stunning country house is steeped in history and charm. While it can host up to 12 guests, one lucky couple could call the whole place home for a luxury getaway in the Scottish outback. If you’re planning long lie-ins in a grand four-poster bed or evenings spent curled up in front of a roaring fire then this is the perfect place.
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Edinburgh
Location: Central eastern Scotland
Best for: History and arts
Romantic activity for two: Stargazing at the Royal Observatory
Edinburgh is world-renowned for its fascinating history, beautiful architecture and famous Fringe Festival. But Auld Reekie is also incredibly romantic. Wander hand-in-hand through the city’s picturesque cobbled streets, visit the famous Princes Street and embark on a venture to climb the world-famous Arthur’s Seat. Take a pew in the audience of a critically-acclaimed play or cuddle in a cosy corner in one of Edinburgh’s many intimate dining spots and atmospheric award-winning restaurants.
Featured property: Stockbridge Apartment
This charming Edinburgh Apartment is in a prime position in Stockbridge, offering you the opportunity to explore Edinburgh easily on foot. The first-floor flat has two bedrooms – one with a King-size bed – and shares access to a courtyard garden. The period property, with high ceilings and feature fireplaces, is in a bustling spot just a short walk from top restaurants and quaint cafes.
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Aberdeen
Location: Aberdeenshire
Best for: Beautiful beaches and coastal cliffs
Romantic activity for two: Watch the sunrise
Aberdeen is a vibrant port city on the east coast of Scotland. The cosmopolitan city is surrounded by the rolling hills and farmland of Aberdeenshire. This makes it a magical couple’s retreat for those who like the best of both worlds: city life and country life.
But the real highlight in this part of Scotland is the coastal cliffs and stunning beaches. Head to Aberdeenshire for a break from life and breathe in the fresh sea air. The rugged coastline offers visitors lots of walking routes and hiking options, while the area is dotted with pretty towns and lots of attractions to visit.
Featured property: Glamping Pod
The luxury Glamping Pod is the perfect place to call home for a romantic getaway for two. The park offers visitors the choice of caravans, camping pitches, lodges or log cabins. The small but sweet pod boasts a modern kitchenette, shower and toilet room, plus pull-down double bed. Each pod has its own outdoor decking area so you can enjoy the fresh air during your stay. If you’re looking for a luxury glamping experience, then this is the place for you.
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Fife
Location: East Scotland
Best for: Golf, golf and more golf!
Romantic activity for two: Golf lessons at St Andrews
Fife is an easy area to explore from Edinburgh. Located just north of the city, Fife runs from the doorstep of Auld Reekie up to the globally-renowned greens of St Andrews. Known as ‘The Home of Golf’, Fife houses 50 courses, making it the perfect place for any couple looking to learn a new skill. This beautiful area is also home to historic castles and palaces, interesting museums and galleries, picturesque fishing villages and coastal towns.
Featured property: The Sailmaker’s Loft
The Sailmaker’s Loft is a stunning chic duplex in the pretty seafaring village of Anstruther. The loft boasts sea views from the living room, with romantic beach walks on the doorstep just a stone’s throw away. Sailmaker’s is situated in a charming, historic building but has been renovated to an extremely high standard with a contemporary flare. The traditional stone walls and high beamed ceilings create a warm and cosy hideaway for any couple seeking solace.
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Inchnadamph, Sutherland
Location: North West Highlands
Best for: Breathtaking views
Romantic activity for two: Fishing
Inchnadamph is a tiny hamlet in Sutherland, in the North West of the Scottish Highlands. A long way from Scotland’s fast-paced cities and bustling towns, this remote area is named after the Gaelic Innis nan Damh, meaning ‘meadow of the stags’. It’s as idyllic as the name makes it sound. Surrounded by spectacular mountain scenery, it’s the perfect base for active couples who enjoy hiking and exploring.
Featured property: Ghillies at Riverside
This handcrafted shepherd’s hut may be small but it’s certainly delightful. Set in a large garden in a secluded area, right on the River Traligill, Ghillies at Riverside makes a great spot for salmon and trout fishing. The hut has a small kitchen area and a full-size double bed with a shower room at the far end. For summer visitors, a fire pit doubles as a barbecue for a romantic al fresco dinner for two under the stars.
Lanarkshire
Location: Central Scotland
Best for: Walks along the river to Clyde Falls
Romantic activity for two: Visit Little Sparta gardens
Lanarkshire lies in the Lowlands, South East of Glasgow. The county’s central location makes it a pretty rural spot that’s quick and easy to reach from Edinbrugh and Glasgow. You could enjoy a romantic walk along the River Clyde to the beautiful Clyde Falls, jump on a bike to explore the country lanes and hills or wander through the whimsical Little Sparta gardens.
Featured property: Sweetpea Cottage
The appropriately named Sweetpea Cottage is the perfect place to spend some quality time with your sweetheart. The annexe, situated in the quiet hamlet of Wiston, is a stone’s throw away from Scotland’s two largest cities. Yet it boasts miles of beautiful countryside on your doorstep. The cosy cottage comes with a woodburning stove in the sitting room and French windows opening onto the walled garden – the perfect setting for a retreat away from the rest of the world.
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John O’Groats
Location: Caithness
Best for: Stunning scenery and wildlife spotting
Romantic activity for two: Whale watching
The small coastal village of John O’Groats stands at the country’s northern extremity – 874 miles from Land’s End in Cornwall. The small farming community retains its quaint charm despite becoming a popular tourist attraction. The village’s main landmark is the famous signpost and visitors can also enjoy excursions to see birds, dolphins, whales and seals out at sea.
Featured property: John O’Groats 1 Bed Penthouse
John O’Groats 1 Bed Penthouse has been beautifully restored to feature bespoke self-catering apartments with a luxury finish. The lush one-bedroom penthouse, which boasts breathtaking 180-degree views of the Pentland Firth, is split over two floors. These are connected by a spiral staircase with a beautiful freestanding copper bath. This is the perfect spot for a romantic break in a Scotland cottage set in the heart of a world-famous village.
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Isle of Skye
Location: Inner Hebrides
Best for: Walking and climbing
Romantic activity for two: Climb the Culling Range
The Isle of Skye, situated off the west coast of Scotland, is the biggest island of the Inner Hebrides. The isle has a rich history and boasts stunning scenery and fascinating attractions to keep visitors busy. Skye is well-known for its walks and climbs, including the Cullin Range and Trotternish Ridge. The walks offer tourists the chance to catch a glimpse of the island’s wildlife, such as the White-Tailed Sea Eagle, and take in breathtaking views.
Featured property: Birdsong Cabin
The pretty picturesque Birdsong Cabin is set in a tranquil and peaceful setting in the small hamlet of Breakish. The cosy holiday cabin has stunning mountain and sea views. It’s just a few minute’s walk from the shore where you can spot seabirds, otters and seals. Ashaig Beach is a pretty spot for a stroll or a romantic picnic, while there are lots of visitor attractions, historic sites and things to do nearby.
Loch Ness
Location: Inverness
Best for: Loch Ness monster hunting!
Romantic activity for two: Loch Ness cruise
Loch Ness is a 23-mile long freshwater lake, set inland from Inverness, and best known for the mythical monster that allegedly swims beneath the surface: Nessie. But the area has lots more to offer from the commanding Urquhart Castle, the pretty Divach Waterfalls and the bustling Fort Augustus. Visitors should also drive the road that runs along the shores of Loch Ness, stopping at the viewing points to take in the stunning views of the towering trees and glistening loch.
Featured property: Bona Lighthouse Stables
Bona Lighthouse Stables is attached to the iconic Bona Lighthouse, built almost 200 years ago to guide ships into the Caledonian Canal. The beautiful holiday cottage is a unique place to call home while you explore the Great Glen Way. Set on the banks of the Caledonian Canal, the glass-fronted lounge offers unrivalled views over the loch and the intimate one-bedroom cottage. With its wooden floors, stone walls, log-burner and deep bubbly bath, it’s the ideal place for a romantic retreat.
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