17 Stunning Places to Mini-Moon in Scotland

Are you considering a mini-moon in the UK instead of or before a honeymoon? Take a closer look at Scotland – our 21^st Century Bride survey revealed it to be the most popular destination for a mini-moon: 60% of couples chose to mini-moon in the UK, with 41% opting for Scotland.

When you think of the beautiful scenery, the rich history and the abundance of whisky, is it any wonder it’s the most popular destination? We’ve picked out some gorgeous places to stay on your mini-moon to Scotland.

Springkell, Dumfriesshire

Over £2.5 million was spent on the renovation of Springkell, so you know you’re going to have the finest quality when it comes to your accommodation. This beautiful venue has three luxury en-suite rooms and five deluxe doubles with private bathrooms to choose from for bed and breakfast. You can also discuss having lunch and dinner on site during your stay, and take advantage of the well-stocked bar.

Each bedroom was individually decorated by the same interior design company who furnished The Goring in London, which is where Kate Middleton chose to spend her last night as a single woman! The hotel is close to Gretna Green too – it’s a perfect pit stop if you’re planning on eloping.

Kingsmills Hotel, Inverness

There are a choice of rooms at Kingsmills Hotel, whether you want to keep it simple with a classic room or you want a more luxurious place to stay complete with a patio – there’s even a selection of ‘retreat rooms’ that are more private and boast luxurious features such as a personal balcony and a standalone bath.

There’s a spa on site so if you want really unwind on your escape, but if you want to get out and about, the hotel is just one mile from the centre of Inverness so you can explore the historic old town, take in the sights of the modern city centre and visit local whisky distilleries, all whilst taking in the breath-taking natural beauty of the Scottish Highlands.

Norton House Hotel & Spa, Edinburgh

Norton House Hotel & Spa in Edinburgh effortlessly blends the classic and the contemporary together to provide you with an unforgettable experience. The hotel is set within 55 acres of grounds and has a 3 AA Rosette fine dining restaurant, as well as a brasserie and spa café bar.

The hotel dates back to 1840 and was once the home to the Ushers family, who are behind Glenlivet Whisky and the Ushers Brewery. It still has the appearance of a private country home, but you can stay in one of the striking bedrooms – choose from a feature bedroom or a suite to really make the most of your trip – and relax in the luxurious spa. There’s plenty to see and do in nearby Edinburgh city centre, providing you’re able to tear yourselves away from the hotel!

Read more: What to Do on a Stag Do in Edinburgh

Achnagairn Castle, Inverness

What could be fancier than having your mini-moon at a castle? At Achnagairn Castle that’s a possibility! You can hire the whole castle exclusively, but if you want something a bit more low-key for your break, you can just have a bedroom within the castle or in one of the lodges.

Each bedroom has its own theme and corresponding décor, and the castle itself is located in the picturesque Highlands so you’re surrounded by beauty. Loch Ness and the Culloden Battlefield are just a few miles away. If you and your partner love golf, there are three championship golf courses with a half hour drive of the castle too. There’s plenty to see and do nearby, including dolphin watching, distillery tours and canoeing.

Borthwick Castle, Midlothian

Throughout the year you can experience Borthwick Castle on one of their specially designed breaks, which allows you to stay at the castle without having to exclusively hire the building. Each of their breaks has a different theme and includes fascinating activities, experiences and amazing food so you get the most out of your mini-moon.

There are 10 unique bedchambers to choose from and each one has its own story to tell. They’ve all been exquisitely refurbished to ensure maximum comfort and a seriously luxurious stay, whilst still showing off all the fabulous historic detail that gives the castle so much character.

Atholl Palace, Perthshire

Who wouldn’t want to have their mini-moon at a palace? You’ll feel like you’re leaving the real world behind as you drive up the grand, tree-lined path up to the majestic building, before making one of their fairytale-worthy Turret Suites your home for the duration of your stay.

There’s a choice of accommodation but the Turret Suites at Atholl Palace include a bedroom and a lounge and offer panoramic views of the Perthshire Highland landscape. There’s plenty to see and do in the surrounding area too – including a putting green, woodland walks, tennis and even a Highland safari.

Read more: The Best Wedding Venues in Scotland

The Glasshouse, Edinburgh

This stylish hotel in Edinburgh started life as a Georgian church, 160 years ago, before being transformed into a sleek city hotel without losing any of its historic charm. It boasts spectacular views of World Heritage Site Calton Hill and has a secret rooftop garden which is perfect for pre-dinner drinks.

Almost every room at this 77-bedroom boutique hotel has floor-to-ceiling windows, offering dramatic views of Scotland’s capital. Some of the rooms have private terraces, whilst others provide instant access to the two acre roof terrace. There’s a range of packages and breaks to choose from at The Glasshouse, including a whisky experience and a romance package.

Barony Castle, Peebles

If you want a Scottish mini-moon that allows you to really chill out and relax, consider Barony Castle. You can be pampered from head-to-toe in the spa and dine on local produce in the onsite restaurant, before retiring to one of the gorgeous bedrooms.

Why not treat yourself and stay in a suite? You can benefit from complimentary use of robes and slippers, a Nespresso coffee machine and additional toiletries to make your stay even more relaxing. Discover more about the rich history of the castle and explore the grounds, which includes the Great Polish map of Scotland.

Old Course Hotel, Fife

This AA five star-awarded hotel has 144 rooms, including 35 suites and overlooks the Old Course in Fife. Many of the suites were designed by French designer Jacques Garcia and blend classically elegant details with contemporary style.

Take advantage of their Little Luxuries service, which includes extras such as a rose petal turndown to a specific menu to really add some extra romance whilst you enjoy your mini-moon at the Old Course Hotel.

Dalmahoy Hotel & Country Club, Edinburgh

This elegant country club and hotel is just seven miles from the centre of Edinburgh, making it the perfect place to stay if you want an elegant escape away from the hustle and bustle of the city, but would still like plenty to do.

The four star Dalmahoy Hotel & Country Club is situated within 1,000 acres of parkland and offers views across to Edinburgh Castle and the Forth Bridges. There are two golf courses and a leisure club to take advantage of, as well as a nature trail through the grounds, outdoor tennis courts and two bars and restaurants.

Roulotte Retreat, Borders

Roulotte Retreat is the only place in the UK that has a collection of French, hand-carved roulottes – stay in the wildflower meadow and enjoy the surrounding nature whilst you stay in your roulotte, complete with silk and velvet adorned bedrooms, en suites, kitchens and retro style barbecues.

There are six French roulottes to choose from and one Dutch one, as well as an authentic Gypsy bowtop caravan called Ruby, which comes with Horseshoe Cottage.

Read more: Unusual Mini-Moon Destinations in the UK

Harvest Moon Holidays, East Lothian

What could be more exciting than glamping in a treehouse or a safari tent by the beach? If you choose to stay in a treehouse at Harvest Moon Holidays then you can enjoy a panoramic view of the coast, whilst the safari tents are nestled under the trees by the beach.

All the treehouses and tents have wood-burning stoves, en suite WCs and hot showers making them the ideal choice if you’re not so sure about camping but definitely love the idea of glamming it up. Listening to the sea lap the shore as you sit under the stars – it’s such a romantic way to spend your mini-moon.

Ardanaiseig Hotel, Argyll

This 19^th century country house in western Scotland is the perfect setting for a romantic escape. The Grade II listed Ardanaiseig Hotel is on the picturesque shores of Loch Awe, surrounded by the dramatic and romantic Highlands scenery.

You can arrive by seaplane if you really want to make an entrance, and enjoy exquisite meals in the loch-side restaurant, which is one of only a handful in Scotland to have received three AA Rosettes. Stay in the Boatshed, the hotel’s luxury honeymoon suite which has a glass wall overlooking the water.

Mar Hall Golf & Spa Resort, Glasgow

Fancy staying in a four-poster bed in a five star, award-winning luxury hotel? Consider Mar Hall Golf & Spa Resort, located just 10 minutes from Glasgow city centre. The beautifully decorated bedrooms offer the perfect place to sit back and relax after a busy day, whether that’s spent taking advantage of the leisure facilities, playing golf or exploring your surroundings, including the 240 acres of wooded estate that surrounds the hotel.

Blair Castle, Perthshire

Stay in the shadows of the beautiful Blair Castle, one of Scotland’s most magnificent Highland castles, located within an impressive 145,000 acre estate. There is a range of self-catering accommodation in the grounds to choose from for your stay, including woodland lodges, highland lodges and a caravan park.

You can embark on a Land Rover Safari, go hiking, cycling or fishing – it’s the perfect destination for outdoorsy couples who want to get away.

Read more: The Best Edinburgh Hen Do Ideas

Inverlochy Castle Hotel, Fort William

A castle that also happens to be one of Europe’s best luxury hotels – what could be better? Inverlochy Castle is located amongst the glens, lochs and mountains of the West Highlands of Scotland.

If you’re a foodie couple, you’ll love the restaurant – Albert and Michel Roux Jr at Inverlochy Castle. The legendary father and son duo create the finest dishes using local ingredients, and have been awarded 3 AA Red Rosettes. You can also enjoy a delicious afternoon tea, and stay in a decadent suite.

If you are thinking about marrying in Scotland too, you can browse Scottish wedding venues on Hitched to find the perfect setting for your big day.