Scotland is often considered to be one of the most beautiful countries in the world and who are we to disagree? Dramatic mountains landscapes, white sandy beaches, lush forests; you’ll find them all and more in our wee section of the island.
The following gifts are for those people who are always off to some corner of it, discovering its hidden beaches, secret trails and best views. The best thing about Scotland is there’s always even more to discover. Check out recommendations from our Christmas Gifts Page below.
Dunollie Hotel, Isle of Skye
The Isle of Skye, the second largest island in Scotland (Lewis and Harris is biggest), has a stunning array of scenery, which includes the jagged Cuillin Hills mountain range, the dramatic Quiraing landslip formation, the sparkling fairy pools, the towering sea cliffs with the Kilt Rock waterfall thundering over the edge, and lots lots more. Skye is the kind of island that requires repeat visits; you could spend weeks exploring it. Our Christmas gift is for a two night stay at The Dunollie Hotel which sits at the foot of the hills that lead up to the Cuillins, and many of the rooms offer views across the bay to islands Pabay and Scalpay.
£99 for a 2 Night B&B Mini-Break with Dinner on 1st Night + Late Check-Out at The Dunollie Hotel, Skye, on the 5pm Christmas Gifts Page.
Bridge of Orchy Hotel, Argyll
When it comes to scenery and exploring, the location of the Bridge of Orchy Hotel can’t be beaten. Nestled in the nook of the Scottish Highlands, you only need to step outside to be confronted with spectacular views. It’s right on the path of the West Highland Way, one of Scotland’s most famous hikes. Near to Glencoe and Crianlarich, there’s skiing, climbing, canoeing, white water rafting and munro bagging opportunities nearby. Or you can just go for a walk, taking in one of the most scenic mountain ranges in the world (don’t get lost though).
£99 for a 2 Night Break for 2 at Bridge of Orchy Hotel, Argyll on the 5pm Christmas Gifts Page.
Isle of Mull Hotel and Spa
We don’t know about you but we think there’s something particularly exciting about getting on a ferry – it feels like you’re going on a proper adventure. The ferry to the Isle of Mull is an easy one, just forty five minutes from Oban, and it leads to the third largest island in Scotland and the most varied scenery in the Inner Hebrides. With rugged ridges stretching to munro Ben More, tons of cycling paths, whale watching opportunities, the cute pastel town of Tobermory, and white sandy beaches you’ll have all to yourself, there’s loads of Mull to explore.
£159 for a 2 Night Break with 6 Course Taster Dinner on Both Nights + Rasul Mud Room Spa Treatment for 2 at the Isle of Mull Hotel and Spa on the 5pm Christmas Gifts Page.
Culzean Castle, Maybole
The historic (President Eisenhower stayed there) Culzean Castle sits on top of one of Ayrshire’s most dramatic sea cliffs and directly on the path of the Ayrshire coastal walk. The walk, which takes in the entire Ayrshire coast, takes around a week to complete in its entirety but the section at Culzean Castle is one of the most sceni, with superb view of Arran, the Mull of Kintyre, Ailsa Craig and even Northern Ireland on a clear day, as well as a mixture of shoreline, coves and cliffs.
£159 for an Overnight Stay for 2 at The Eisenhower at Culzean Castle. £269 for 2 Nights at Culzean Castle on the 5pm Christmas Gifts Page.
Knockomie Hotel, Forres
Moray is a magical part of Scotland, with white sandy beaches, bottlenose dolphins and historic tales of local witches. Knockomie Hotel in Forres has plenty of exploring opportunities. There’s walking trails at Culbin Forest, the River Nairn and the River Findhorn and biking trails at the Speyside Way and Spey Valley Forest. If crumbling Scottish castles are your bag you’ll also find a few near the hotel, including Cawdor Castle (home of Shakespear’s Macbeth), Brodie Castle and Castle Urquhart.
£139 for a 2 Night Mini-Break + Cream Tea & Prosecco at the award-winning Knockomie Hotel, Forres on the 5pm Christmas Gifts Page.
For even more accommodation gifts in gorgeous locations in Scotland, check out our 5pm Christmas Gifts Page.