10 scenic stays for nature lovers

Set in the heart of the Kintail mountains, this retreat is ideal for groups of outdoor enthusiasts. With access to the famous Five Sisters of Kintail ridge and the picturesque Loch Duich, this is the perfect base for hillwalking, kayaking, and soaking up the Highlands’ natural beauty and wildlife.

Wildlife spotter’s guide: Kintail

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Found on the island of Arran (frequently described as Scotland in miniature), this bunkhouse is ideally positioned for access to the beach, Goat Fell and Brodick town centre. 

Arran offers a wealth of outdoor activities, including hill walking, mountain bike trails and sea kayaking along the coast.

Wildlife spotter’s guide: Goatfell

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Located on Scotland’s stunning west coast, Inverewe is a botanist’s dream. The world-famous Inverewe Garden is home to a thriving collection of exotic plants, thanks to the effects of the Gulf Stream. 

Garden Lodge offers spectacular views of Loch Ewe and the surrounding mountains – a memorable escape for a family or group of friends to delight in a tranquil retreat in the heart of the Scottish Highlands.

Inverewe has a diverse range of habitats, ranging from the sea, coastline, forest and hill to the sky. We’re thrilled that each of Scotland’s Big 5 has made their home here!

Wildlife spotter’s guide: Inverewe

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Stay amidst the grandeur of the Mar Lodge Estate – one of the UK’s National Nature Reserves. This vast expanse of ancient Caledonian pine forest, heather-covered moors, and towering peaks is one of the best spots in the UK for wildlife watching, including red deer and golden eagles. 

Wildlife spotter’s guide: Mar Lodge Estate

Choose from a variety of accommodation within the estate, from luxurious apartments to the Mar Lodge Bunkhouse.

‘We had a lovely stay. The flat was extremely comfortable, beautifully decorated and spotlessly clean. We were lucky enough to have good weather so were able to enjoy the gorgeous scenery, walking round the estate and spotting wildlife (including a golden eagle sighting).’ – Patricia, staying in the Macdui apartment, May 2022

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Set within the grounds of the fairytale-like Craigievar Castle, these cosy cottages are surrounded by lush woodlands and rolling hills. Nature lovers can enjoy peaceful strolls through the estate or venture further to explore the Cairngorms National Park.

Wildlife at Craigievar

‘Property was very nice, had everything you required and was in an excellent setting. A castle visit is a must, lovely staff. Nice walks around the estate which our wee dog loved. Beautiful countryside to explore and we would recommend a visit to Leith Hall. 5 stars!’ – Andrew, staying in North Mains Cottage, September 2024

‘There are woodland walks and wonderful views over the surrounding countryside. At night it is very quiet. The sky is incredibly dark, and the stars were beautiful. It was very special to see the Milky Way so clearly. We saw lots of wildlife and heard owls and foxes at night. 5 stars!’ – Rebecca, staying in South Mains Cottage, August 2024

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Sitting at the foot of the Torridon Hills is this bright and airy holiday home, the ideal base for a family adventure in the Scottish Highlands.

Natural beauty encompasses the property, which boasts a breathtaking backdrop of rugged sandstone peaks, sloping hills and hulking Munros. 

The wildlife makes this a truly exceptional gem. Spend an afternoon relaxing in the enclosed garden, enjoying the serene setting and perhaps even spotting local wildlife such as deer, otters and golden eagles.

Wildlife spotter’s guide: Torridon

‘It was brilliant and everything we expected and more! Lovely last evening watching deer in the garden! Internet was brilliant for such a remote house! 5 stars!’ – Conor, August 2024

‘A wonderful experience staying at Glen Cottage! The scenery is breathtaking and there are lots of wonderful walks and places to visit. The deer in the garden was an added bonus. Perfectly kitted out and really not much more you could ask for as a self-catering break in the most beautiful part of Scotland (the most beautiful country in the world). Our dogs did not want to leave – it was truly tremendous. We would love to return at some point.’ – Lisa, July 2023

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Find a welcoming getaway at the National Trust for Scotland’s Ferry Cottage, a former waiting room for passengers travelling by sailing boat and steamer from Balmacara.

This cottage is steeped in rich history, offering a unique stay in Scotland for a couple, small family or group of friends at any time of the year.

Wildlife spotter’s guide: Balmacara Estate

‘Superb location on the edge of Loch Kyle. Views, wildlife (including watching the otter!) and convenient for Skye, Plockton, Eilean Donan Castle, Applecross, Glenelg, etc. Accurate description of property in listing. First-class holiday.’ – Richard, April 2023

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This secluded, whitewashed two-storey house rests on the shores of the Urr estuary in the coastal hamlet of Rockcliffe. Boasting unrestricted coastal views and a private beach, it is a beautiful base for exploring Dumfries & Galloway. 

The region features an undulating coastline of rocky shoreline and sandy beaches, the UK’s first Dark Sky Park and an abundance of outdoor activities and cultural attractions for you to discover.

Wildlife spotter’s guide: Rockcliffe

‘A wonderfully warm, quiet and comfortable house in a lovely spot. We really enjoyed our stay – the sound of curlews and oystercatchers was special. 5 stars!’ – Philip, October 2024

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Set within the grounds at the entrance of the 17th-century House of the Binns estate, on the outskirts of Linlithgow, is the beautiful single-storey Gate Lodge.

Take advantage of your superb location with a walk around the extensive parkland that surrounds your holiday home, where you may spot the resident sheep, cattle and the famous House of the Binns peacocks!

Continue through the woodlands to the Binns Tower, where you can soak up breathtaking panoramic views of Central Scotland.

‘Lovely property in a good location for visiting beautiful areas in the southern half of Scotland. 5 stars!’ – David, March 2023

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Once home to the estate workers of the National Trust for Scotland’s Culzean Castle, including William Kirkland, a shepherd who lived here with his wife and four children, the two Segganwell cottages now offer a beachfront base from which to explore this beautiful area of Scotland.

Culzean Country Park offers plenty of natural wonders well worth exploring at any time of the year, including around 600 acres of woodland and formal gardens, and 3 miles of varied coastline; it is a true haven for wildlife watchers.

Wildlife spotter’s guide: Culzean Country Park

‘Absolutely magical place. Our aim was to unwind and rest, which the location and cottage was perfect for. Access to the castle grounds, Dolphin coastal walk and Swan Pond was a treat. The beach was amazing as was the view, well worth the 127 steps down to the snug warm cottage.’ – Samantha, March 2023

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