Scotland’s rich blend of rural islands, windswept coastlines, metropolitan cities and mythical mountainous regions make it the perfect destination for a variety of vacations. Whether you’re looking to hunt the Loch Ness Monster, visit ancient castles, or sample Scotch whiskies, a spa hotel providing massage treatments, fitness facilities and cozy accommodation can offer the perfect backdrop to enjoy a scenic escape in Scotland.
No stay with a spa hotel in Scotland would be complete without an excursion to some of the many cities which make Scotland such an attractive getaway. Discover medieval Edinburgh, beginning with the castle that dominates its skyline. A fortress dating all the way back to the 12th century, Edinburgh Castle has witnessed the Wars of Scottish Independence and endless sieges throughout its long and turbulent history. Today it is the most popular tourist site in the city and houses the crown jewels. The Neoclassical New Town is where you’ll find Princess Street Gardens, a former lake that was drained to make space for a lush park – a favorite among locals. In December the city comes alive as Hogmanay welcomes in the New Year with street parties and an impressive firework’s display. Many of the country’s cultural highlights can be found in Glasgow. Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum is a must-visit for culture vultures with a spa hotel in Scotland, not only for its extensive collection of works by the Old Masters but also for its impressive architecture. When it comes to nightlife, Glasgow excels with a fine collection of local pubs, student bars and clubs mostly concentrated around Buchanan Street. The port city of Dundee charms with an extensive collection of castles and the impressive Tay Rail Bridge. An excursion to Dundee is also encouraged for this city’s access to the stunning Cairngorms National Park; where hiking, biking and exploration dominate the itinerary here.
Spa hotels on Scotland’s coastline can provide a true sense of tranquility. Alongside spa facilities and comfortable rooms, the wild and rural nature of the Scottish coast creates the perfect backdrop for a relaxing vacation. The seaside town of St Andrews is one of the best places for spa hotels in the United Kingdom. Home to the Old Course and British Golf Museum, sports’ enthusiasts will love this beachfront destination. The University of St Andrews is another highlight of the city. Founded in 1413, it is Scotland’s oldest university whose alumni include physician Edward Jenner (who pioneered the world’s first vaccine), and is the place where Prince William and Kate Middleton met. In Ayr, it’s all about stunning coastal sunsets and lively events. The Scottish Grand National is held here annually, and it is also the place where famous poet Robert Burns was born, providing you with a true taste of Scottish history. Of all of Scotland’s 790 islands, Skye, located in the Inner Hebrides, is one of the oldest and largest. The island’s history has scarred the landscape; with ruins, castles and stunning geological wonders to be discovered at every turn. The Storr and Quiraing are idyllic sites to get back to nature. A spa hotel on Scotland’s islands is a true escape to a quiet and ancient land.
Scotland is known for its dramatic landscapes, and few places are more perfect for a spa hotel in Scotland than the Highlands. Located in the far north of the country, it’s here – in the very heart of the region – that you’ll find the world famous Loch Ness. In 1933, reports began to surface of a monster lurking in the depths of the vast lake, which have since made the area a popular destination for monster hunters around the world. The beautiful and medieval Urquhart Castle is another attraction of this Loch. A mountainous region, the Highlands is also where you can find Ben Nevis; the UK’s highest peak. Adventurous travelers can spend the day hiking this mountain (and many others) before returning to their spa hotel in Scotland to replenish. If you’re looking to taste Scotland on vacation, then this is the perfect spot to sample some traditional haggis before slinging back some of the many single malt Scotch whiskies available.