Vacation rentals in Scotland
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Top-rated vacation rentals in Scotland
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Magical cottage surrounded by trees and waterThe Coach House at Rivendell is an idyllic stone cottage set on the banks of a quaint river, surrounded by woodland, wildflowers and even a miniature waterfall. Set in a private lush green valley with acres to wander around. A charming retreat for four (sleeping in two superking beds, or four singles on request ) very easy access to beautiful walks around Hadrian's Wall, the Lake District to the west or Northumberland to the east, or you could just enjoy the scenery from your own doorstep!
Pretty cottage in tranquil, forest settingWester Lix Cottage is set in a tranquil location surrounded by the beautiful scenery of Glen Dochart. Ideally situated for accessing local Munros and only 2 miles from the village of Killin and the wonderful Falls of Dochart. The cottage is geographically placed in the centre of Scotland so you can relax by the cosy open fire after a day exploring our beautiful country.
Family friendly lodge, Glasgow with Hot tubTalwin Lodge is located just 20 minutes from Glasgow. Situated in the Old Kilpatrick hills you can enjoy stunning views across the Clyde. Private residence with balcony decking with hot tub(lay-z-spa). Private, secure garden with children's play equipment. There is plenty to explore nearby with Bowling Canal basin only 5 mins drive, 20 mins to Loch Lomond and close to many walks and cycle paths.
Other great vacation rentals in Scotland
Top-rated things to do in Scotland
Unique activities hosted by local experts vetted for quality
- Start your holiday with us and let us give you inside knowledge on what to see, where to go, and things to do! The Walks focus on the historical, cultural, and architectural heritage of Edinburgh. Most of the major historical sites of interest are covered, including the world-famous Royal Mile in the Old Town, the National Museum and Greyfriar's Kirkyard as well as exploring the eclectic array of closes and wynds that pepper the immediate areas surrounding this main thoroughfare of the city. With the skirl of the pipes, and the interesting anecdotes expertly told by our equally expert guides, your time in Scotland's capital will be like no other! On our Group Walking Tours, we have an absolute maximum of 10 walkers to ensure you have a first-class experience. We feel strongly that tours of 30, 40 or 50 more, just cannot give you the same experience. And where better to start those walks than the Usher Hall, Scotland’s premier concert hall, donated to the city in 1896 by Andrew Usher, our guides' great great uncle. See the city's hidden secrets and experience first-hand authentic, really authentic, Edinburgh history brought to life! Other things to note Please dress according to prevailing weather conditions. Accessibility for wheelchair users is difficult as there are some stairs. Children under 12 travel free. Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level. This tour/activity will have a maximum of 10 travelers.From Price:$44 / person
- When you arrive, we will greet you with a cup of tea or coffee and homemade sourdough bread all made here in the farm kitchen. Then we will get you suited up in gear suitable for being out with the animals. We will provide waterproofs if required and usually have spare welly boots to fit if you'd like to stay as clean as possible. We will then head out to the barn, where we will walk you through how to hand milk our dairy cow, Honey. She is a lovely natured cow who will stand while you give milking a go. We will also visit our small herd of milking goats for various goat shenanigans. We will then head to meet BoyBoy and Loretta our adorable KuneKune pigs, who love company and a good scratch. After feeding the pigs, we will head to the chicken coops where you can collect eggs and meet our range of chickens, ducks and geese. If you aren't allergic, you can see our bee hives and our extensive veg garden, before we head inside for one last cuppa before you head off. Other things to note Please contact us if you have allergies. We follow stringent COVID guidelines and have out extra cleaning and disinfecting procedures in place. We have indoor and outdoor seating for tea and coffee and ask that while inside of the farm shop or workshop space, you keep your mask on until seatedFrom Price:$35 / person
- Do you want to explore Edinburgh's top sights in one evening AND discover gruesome secrets about the city that Scotland would rather keep hidden? Well, there's no better tour for you. Explore the Old Town of our beautiful Capital with your fearless tour guide and marvel at its Medieval beauties. But, don't let the quaint cobbled streets fool you. There is a dark and grisly underbelly to this city, one which comes out at night. Follow the floating unicorn back through the centuries and you will discover a different Edinburgh, shrouded in secrecy and revealed only by those guides brave enough to confront the city’s twisted crimes and cruel punishments, its witches, its ghosts, and its downright sadistic characters. Our tales will disturb, horrify and crack your sides with laughter. We begin at the Duke of Wellington statue, with a stunning view of Edinburgh castle. Then, we brave one of the world's most haunted graveyards before hiding up a darkened close and marching down the infamous Royal Mile. Finally, we will visit the beautiful St Giles’ Cathedral, spit on the Heart of Midlothian, and discover where Edinburgh believed the world ended. This tour has been modified to keep you safe during COVID-19. Expect the same stomach-churning tour, but with smaller group sizes, social distancing, face coverings and (more) crowd-free stops. Other things to note The majority of the tour is uncovered so prepare yourself for all weathers - this is Scotland after all. There is also a steep hill near the end of the tour.From Price:$21 / person
- Hidden secret gardens, 'baby' Giant Sequioa, Rogues, Vikings and possibly even a monster are the things you'll hear about and see during our walk around the Craigmonie Woodland and Balmacaan Estate. Meeting at my house we'll head towards the old estate and wind our way through a mix of oak and native Scots pine woodland on the path up to the viewpoint. Along the way you'll hear the history of the area from visits by Robert the Bruce, the legend of a Norse Prince who lent his name to a couple of landmarks and a Bard that got into a spot of bother with the local clan chief. The viewpoint itself will give spectacular views over Drumnadrochit and Loch Ness where you can pause and soak up the scenery. We'll stop here for a while to have a dram of malt whisky and toast the scenery before meandering back home under the crag and through Hazel woods. Other things to note The path is mostly good quality singletrack and forest path and there is a fair amount of ascent involved so a reasonable amount of fitness is required.From Price:$17 / person
- We will meet in Killin (Loch Tay). Having checked weather conditions we will prepare for a day on the water. Due to the circumstances of Covid-19 all equipment will be sprayed with antibacterial cleaner before we begin and after use. Let's not let it spoil the fun though. I will familiarise you with the equipment and describe our route once at the waters edge. You will be using a packraft which suits a wide weight/height range. The river Lochay offers a still and sheltered environment for access to Loch Tay. When we are ready we will get you comfortable in the packraft and adjust back support. Then its time to get on the water. I offer coaching and guidance but won't bombard you with the technicalities. The best way to learn is to relax and take your time. Loch Tay is surrounded by mountains and offers an impressive backdrop to your experience. We will go at your own pace as we explore the west end of Loch Tay and there are two islands. The sense of peace and freedom is wonderful here. There are some lovely, small beaches where we can have lunch. This is a day away from the stresses of daily life and an immersion in nature. You will feel very safe, stable and comfortable in the packraft due to their design. I will take plenty photos. Please also note that if you're looking for a day where I'm not scheduled it's worth checking with me anyway.From Price:$84 / person
Welcome to Scotland
Every corner of Scotland seems to have a dramatic story to tell: This is an ancient landscape marked by crumbling castles, green hillsides where clans once battled, and, of course, deep lochs said to hide at least one mythical monster. The northernmost country in the United Kingdom claims rugged mountains, craggy shores, and cities that look like medieval fantasies. Yes, you’ll probably notice a few kilted street performers puffing on bagpipes as you explore heritage sites like Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, the historic heart of the regal capital. But there’s a lot more to this proud nation than its most visible clichés.
In the Lowlands, the majority of the Scottish population resides in Edinburgh and Glasgow, the largest city. Together they form an area known as the Central Belt. Where Edinburgh delivers on Scottish landmarks and grandeur, Glasgow gives you counterculture hot spots. As you move into the Highlands, some of Scotland’s most romanticized vistas come into view, with villages wedged into narrow valleys and towering mountains like Ben Nevis reaching monumental heights. As you explore the mysterious ruins, misty islands, and sprawling national parks, you’ll find Scotland retains some of Western Europe’s wildest and most remote places.
How do I get around Scotland?
The main airports in Scotland are both in the Lowlands: Edinburgh Airport (EDI) and Glasgow International Airport (GLA). The main air hub in the Highlands is Inverness Airport (INV) in Inverness. Flying between Scotland’s major and regional airports is, of course, the quickest way to get around. But the comprehensive rail network — locally operating as ScotRail — is a far more scenic and sustainable way to go. While many tour companies offer guided coach trips through the major outdoor sites, you’ll want a car to explore wild places such as Cairngorms National Park and the many miles of twisty highways through the most northern reaches.
When is the best time to book a Scotland vacation rental?
Scotland is a country known for its internationally famous festivals, culminating in August with the Edinburgh International Festival and Edinburgh Festival Fringe taking over the capital for a month of performances and events. Summer is also the warmest and driest season, when Scotland’s northerly position makes for long, sunny evenings and a festive vibe wherever you go. Crowds are noticeably thinner in spring and early fall, when you can experience the major cities and tourist sites more like a local. Winter gets unrelenting rain and occasional snow, but you’ll still find plenty of cozy indoor hubs, historical and otherwise, where you can stay warm.
What are the top things to do in Scotland?
Glasgow’s West End
Glasgow’s fashionable and leafy West End comprises several low-key neighborhoods filled with art museums and galleries, locally owned shops, and some of the most celebrated Scottish restaurants. Take a gander at Argyle Street or duck in cobbled Ashton Lane to get the pulse of Glasgow’s resurgence as a cultural epicenter. This is also home to one of the city’s favorite greenspaces, Kelvingrove Park, where you’re treated to views of the iconic gothic architecture of Glasgow University.
Eilean Donan Castle
Cross a stone bridge to a tiny tidal island, where several castles have stood guard since the 13th century. In the early 20th century, reconstruction efforts turned the foreboding ruins into one of the most photographed landmarks in Scotland. Its scenic position at the meeting point of several sea lochs makes Eilean Donan Castle alone worth the detour to the Western Highlands to witness the sight for yourself. It’s a popular stop on the way to the nearby Isle of Skye, a magical place with several of its own photogenic castles as well as the iconic Fairy Pools, a series of waterfalls in the Glen Brittle forest.
North Coast 500
From Inverness, take one of Scotland’s most scenic drives along the narrow, twisting roads looping through the lesser-traveled North Highlands. The 516-mile (830-km) trip, designated as a touring route in 2015, passes some of the United Kingdom’s most remote fishing villages and harbor towns. You’ll see barren beaches, jagged coastal cliffs, and islands just offshore. While you could drive the North Coast 500 in a day, take a slower roll and give yourself several days to sightsee castles, trek natural trails, and maybe even spot the Northern Lights here at the tip of Great Britain.