13 Amazing places to stay on Scotland's UNESCO Trail

Plan a relaxing escape up north with a visit to Scotland's newest UNESCO designation: the Flow Country. Start your adventure with a stunning train journey on the Far North Line, watching the scenic landscapes unfold and taking you right through the Flow Country - there's even a stop right at RSPB Forsinard Nature Reserve, where you can stretch your legs, connect with nature and learn more about this unique habitat. 

Jump back on the train and complete the journey up to Thurso, where you can book a restful stay at Forss House Hotel. It's around 45 minutes' drive from the heart of the Flow Country and just 5 miles outside of Thurso, set within atmospheric woodlands with access to River Forss and falls just beyond the garden. Unwind in elegant accommodation with plush furnishings and make sure you book in a visit to the award-winning hotel restaurant, an AA Two Rosette establishment. The house is the perfect base for exploring the rich natural landscapes of the Flow Country, but also beyond to the rugged beauty of the wider Caithness and Sutherland area. 

Escape to the Galloway and Southern Ayrshire Biosphere and enjoy an eco-friendly off-grid stay at Loch Ken Eco Bothies. Choose from four bothies, sleeping from 2 – 8 people, all of which are uniquely designed, beautifully furnished and guarantee a luxurious and tranquil stay. With each bothy featuring its own log burning hot tub and kayak, you’re in for a great wilderness retreat.

There is also plenty to do nearby, including sailing, windsurfing, kayaking, canoeing, fishing, and mountain biking at Galloway Activity Centre, as well as many walking trails and cycle paths.

Located in the heart of the New Lanark World Heritage Site, this charmingly restored 18th century cotton mill village is a characterful place to stay. Less than an hour from Edinburgh and Glasgow, choose from the 4-star New Lanark Mill Hotel, Waterhouse self-catering cottages or Wee Row Hostel.

The hotel has fantastic views of the River Clyde and quality facilities including a heated indoor swimming pool and spa treatments. Cosy into the self-catering cottages for a romantic stay on the banks of the River Clyde, or stay in the hostel for a budget-friendly accommodation option.

Enjoy a camping trip with a stunning backdrop just north of Glasgow, and near Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park. With a variety of camping styles available across 16 campsites, remote greenfield sites, hammock, bivvy spots and large sites close to amenities, it’s the ideal place to stay for family getaways, big groups or even a solo trip. 

If you’re planning a big holiday with lots of friends and family, the Campsie Cabins may be for you. A step up from camping, these cosy cabins can sleep up to 22 people and boast a large BBQ and stunning views of the Campsie Hills. The surrounding area is also a beauty to explore, with lush green landscapes, plenty of onsite outdoor activities to enjoy, walking and cycling trails and more.

Located in a stunning location in the north west Highlands, Kylesku Hotel is a charming place to stay which offers not only relaxing accommodation, but delicious local seafood and produce in their restaurant, too. 

Unwind after a day uncovering Highland gems in the hotel’s boutique rooms which boast a modern and luxury feel, complete with all the essentials. You can even bring your pooch along to enjoy the tranquil surrounding of this award-winning hotel.

Elsewhere in the Scottish Highlands, Kinlochewe Hotel offers a warm and welcoming stay in the heart of the Torridon mountains. You’ll be surrounded by immense views as you snuggle into your accommodation after a day exploring the awe-inspiring landscapes around you.

It’s an ideal place to base yourself if you’re looking to venture around the area on foot or by bike, with hundreds of trails to follow and wildlife to spot along the way, too.

Have you ever camped out in the grounds of a Scottish castle? At Dundas Castle in South Queensferry, you can delve into a glamping retreat with a stay in sizeable luxury tents. With a kitchen, a BBQ grill, comfy beds, a full shower, a fire place and more, you’ll feel right at home here. 

There’s plenty on your doorstep to keep you busy, including The Forth Bridge, Port Edgar, Deep Sea World, Edinburgh city attractions and more. It’s an ideal spot for a family holiday.

Head to Glasgow for a glamourous city centre stay at the Grand Central Hotel. Located in the heart of the city, the historic and impressive building has seen a colourful array of guests through the years, including Winston Churchill and Frank Sinatra!

Offering a range of rooms to suit everyone, they have luxury bedding, welcoming essentials, comfortable furnishings and added extras, so you can indulge in a city stay with plenty of attractions to see on your doorstep.

With alpacas, goats and more as your next-door neighbours, you don’t get a more unique stay than Newton Farm Holidays. Located just outside Dundee, this accommodation option is ideal if you’re looking for a city break with the tranquil atmosphere of the countryside mixed in. Choose from a farmhouse B&B or cosy cottage, both of which have been awarded 4 stars, to enjoy after a busy day exploring Dundee’s attractions, sights and experiences.

You’ll be met with a warm welcome and quality service in the farmhouse, including free WiFi and a delicious Taste of Angus breakfast included. Or book in for a self-catering holiday in the three-bedroom cottage, which is a great choice for families and pet-friendly with an enclosed garden.

Relax into an eco-friendly stay at Dene Cottage on the incredible Orkney Isles. Enjoy a peaceful retreat with arresting views, located just a short walk from the village of Dounby. Powered by a wind turbine and solar panels, the cottage has earned a Gold Green Tourism award for its dedicated eco credentials. 

Dene Cottage is a great location to base yourself for a trip exploring all of Orkney’s hidden gems and mesmerising landscapes. With Skaill Bay, the Standing Stones of Stenness, Maeshowe and Ring of Brodgar nearby, you’ll have plenty to see and do on your holiday.

Offering contemporary style and comfort, this city hotel is perfect for exploring Edinburgh’s top attractions and experiences.

The Place Hotel is a 4-star stay on York Place, just a 10 minute walk from Edinburgh’s Princes Street, and boasts intricate Georgian architecture and design, with a modern feel and added luxuries. Indulge in the hotel’s restaurant and bar for succulent dishes, tastebud-tingling cocktails, and a variety of drinks.

Escape from the daily grind with a getaway at the luxurious Blue Reef self-catering cottages on the Isle of Harris in the Outer Hebrides. Set in the village of Scarista, you can enjoy panoramic coastal views out to sea and across the island as you relax in your private jacuzzi and sauna. Perfect for a romantic getaway, these cottages are remote but close enough to local amenities and things to do.

Recharge your batteries as you watch the sun set (or rise!) over the bay, with plenty of vantage points to find, places to walk and cycle, beach day locations and more, making it the ideal place for a retreat. Boat trips depart from the Isle of Harris to St Kilda, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

This stylish 4-star hotel will make you feel right at home! Centrally located in the Old Town by Surgeon’s Hall, each room has modern furnishings, a contemporary design and all the essentials you need for your stay. You can even choose which type of mattress you prefer!

Enjoy a delicious meal or drink in the hotel’s restaurant with a spot of fine dining, or venture out into the city where you’ll be met by incredible architecture and award-winning attractions.

Get back to nature with a stay at Braewick Camping & Caravan Park, situated at Eshaness on the west coast of Shetland. Wake up to magnificent views overlooking the shores of Braewick Bay before heading out to explore all the fantastic things on offer around this ancient island. As well as excellent toilet and shower facilities, the park accommodates motorhomes with equipped pitches, and has four Wigwams to stay in if you fancy something different.

There is also a café onsite, serving up delicious homemade goods and dishes created using fresh, locally sourced produce.