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From luxury castles to rustic brochs – seven of the most unique overnight stays across Scotland

From luxury castles to rustic brochs – seven of the most unique overnight stays across Scotland

Scottish Sun07-06-2025

Scroll down to find the seven most unique overnight stays across Scotland
RELAXING RETREATS From luxury castles to rustic brochs – seven of the most unique overnight stays across Scotland
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SUMMER has officially arrived, and if a trip abroad isn't in the cards, then there are plenty of unique staycations to choose from.
With the season starting off rather dreich, a getaway is often the perfect remedy for the June gloom.
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If a trip abroad isn't on the cards, then a staycay is often just as good
Credit: Alamy
From luxury castle stays to rustic brochs or even monasteries, here are seven of the most unique overnights across the country.
Fingal Hotel, Water of Leith, Edinburgh
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Fingal Hotel is a Northern Lighthouse Board Ship turned floating hotel
Credit: Alamy
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Each room is beautifully decorated
Credit: Visit Scotland
This former Northern Lighthouse Board ship, now a floating hotel, features 22 luxurious cabins that promise an unforgettable stay.
Permanently berthed along the picturesque Leith waterfront, this five-star vessel offers breathtaking views of twinkling city lights as you drift off to sleep.
Each room is beautifully decorated and comes equipped with a lavish king-size bed and rain showers.
The onboard Lighthouse Restaurant is a culinary gem, recognised with 2AA Rosettes.
The Brochs of Coigach, Achiltibuie, Highlands
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The Brochs of Coigach are situated in one of Britain's most stunning National Scenic Areas
Credit: Visit Scotland
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Both properties feature saunas and expansive panoramic observation areas
Credit: Visit Scotland
Nestled in one of Britain's most stunning National Scenic Areas, The Brochs of Coigach offer an unparalleled luxury getaway.
These roundhouse buildings are modern interpretations of ancient brochs, offering views of the rugged coastline and majestic highland mountains.
Set on four acres at the end of a private farm track, each broch is decorated with original works from renowned contemporary Scottish artists.
Inside Binky Felstead's getaway to Spencer Matthews' lavish Scots family estate
Both self-catering properties feature saunas and expansive panoramic observation areas, ideal for wildlife watching.
Despite their secluded setting, the charming retreats are conveniently close to a highly-rated restaurant.
You can also enjoy various activities such as hill climbing, sea kayaking, sailing, surfing and motor cruises.
The Monastery, Fort Augustus, Highlands
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The Monastery in Fort Augustus is a the perfect retreat to unwind and recharge
Credit: Visit Scotland
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It is a spacious one bedroom apartment
Credit: Visit Scotland
Situated in a striking monastery building in Fort Augustus, this venue is an exceptional retreat to unwind and recharge.
The spacious one-bedroom apartment boasts a double-height living room with Gothic-style windows, an open-plan kitchen and a stunning master bedroom offering breathtaking views over Loch Ness.
The luxurious bathroom features a soaking tub and underfloor heating for added comfort.
On-site amenities include a heated indoor pool, a games room, and captivating vistas.
Guests can explore nearby whiskey trails, take scenic countryside walks to the local pub or even try their luck at spotting Nessie.
The Suites at Urquhart Church, Elgin, Moray
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The Sanctuary Apartments at the Suites at Urquhart Church sleep up to 11 guests
Credit: Visit Scotland
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Each apartment is thoughtfully designed with cosy furnishings
Credit: Visit Scotland
The Sanctuary Apartments at the Suites at Urquhart Church are the perfect place for a bit of peace and quiet.
The apartments sleep between two and eleven guests, making it an ideal retreat for couples, families or groups of friends.
Each apartment is thoughtfully designed with cosy furnishings and modern amenities.
The converted church is surrounded by nearly two acres of rolling farmland.
The picturesque gardens include a pond, a charming waterfall, and a stream that meanders through the landscape.
In the Moray region, there are plenty of attractions to explore, such as centuries-old whisky distilleries, the historic Elgin Cathedral and beautiful white sandy beaches.
Chaffeur's Apartment, Lochinch Castle, Stranraer
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The Chaffeur's Apartment is located in the Victorian Stable Courtyard of Lochinch Castle
Credit: Alamy
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It was originally the residence for the Earl and Countess of Stair's chauffeur
Credit: Visit Scotland
The Chaffeur's Apartment, located in the Victorian Stable Courtyard of Lochinch Castle in Stranraer, is a newly refurbished three-bedroom self-catering accommodation.
Originally serving as the residence for the Earl and Countess of Stair's chauffeur, it maintains some of its historical features while incorporating modern upgrades.
Guests will enjoy breathtaking views of the White Loch and the turreted Lochinch Castle.
The apartment includes three spacious bedrooms, an open-plan living room with a log fire and all essential amenities.
Guests have unlimited access to the stunning Castle Kennedy Gardens, which are open to the public from 10am to 5pm, February to October.
Visitors can partake in a variety of activities, such as pony riding, exploring a nearby chocolate factory or mountain biking in the surrounding area.
Rua Reidh Lighthouse, Gairloch, Wester Ross
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Rua Reidh Lighthouse is a functioning lighthouse located at the entrance to Loch Ewe
Credit: Alamy
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The former Keepers' Quarters have been converted into a cosy retreat
Credit: Visit Scotland
Rua Reidh Lighthouse is a functioning lighthouse located at the entrance to Loch Ewe - making it perfect for a secluded getaway.
First lit in 1912, this Stevenson lighthouse provides breathtaking views across the Minch to Skye, the Shiants and the Outer Hebrides.
The former Keepers' Quarters have been converted into a cosy retreat featuring two ensuite bedrooms, both with stunning sea views.
It's a dream destination for nature lovers as sightings of whales, dolphins and basking sharks are not uncommon.
Bracken Treehouse, St Andrews, Fife
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Bracken Treehouse is a romantic adults-only hideaway
Credit: Alix McIntosh
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It features a stargazing window and is designed to maximise natural light
Credit: Visit Scotland
Nestled among the treetops, Bracken Treehouse is a romantic adults-only hideaway set in an ancient 36-acre woodland.
It sleeps two guests and features a stargazing window and is designed to maximise natural light.
Modern amenities include a fully equipped kitchen, a flushing toilet and a shower with panoramic views of the surrounding canopy.
While it offers a serene and tranquil retreat in the beautiful Fife countryside, there's easy access to the picturesque East Neuk, St Andrews, and Dundee is just a short distance away.

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