Best spa hotels in the Scottish Highlands 2023

If we told you to close your eyes and picture the Scottish Highlands, what would come to mind? For us, it would undoubtedly be a neverending, undulating landscape peppered with romantic castles and shimmering lochs.

Technically defined as “a mountainous region encompassing northwest Scotland”, the Scottish Highlands are ideally placed for your next holiday. You could go dolphin spotting in Moray Firth, hike Ben Nevis, the highest peak in the UK, or spy red deer as they roam Glencoe Valley.

Alternatively, you could visit one of the many locations throughout the Highlands that have been featured on the silver screen. Think the Glenfinnan Viaduct from the Harry Pottermovies or Glen Etive, which provides the backdrop for hits such as Braveheart and Skyfall. You could even go in search of the legendary Loch Ness monster – the Loch, along with the Urquhart Castle ruins, sit right in the middle of the Highlands and are definite worth a visit.

But as much as there is to see in this part of the world, it’s also a wonderful place to stop and just relax. Thankfully, to help you soak up the scenery, there’s a number of spa retreats to choose from.

Whether you’re looking for a place to unwind after battling the North Coast 500, or are simply looking for a getaway that really does let you get away from the hustle and bustle of normal life, we’ve found the best spa hotels in the Scottish Highlands.

Neighbourhood: Loch Fyne, Argyll

This glossy, £10m development on the banks of Loch Fyne comprises loch-view apartments and Scotland’s largest outdoor heated infinity pool, as well as an indoor pool, gym and sauna, steam room and hydro pools heated by a woodchip biomass generator. Swimming in the outdoor pool at dusk, on the edge of the glistening water, marvelling at the mountains of Arran is an unforgettable experience.

After a morning or afternoon (or both) spent soaking, tuck into local venison or seafood at one of the marina’s two restaurants. Accommodation includes dog-friendly bungalows and apartments, the 11-bedroom Lodge and Tighnamara, a retreat for two on the lake shore with a wood-burning stove and panoramic deck. There is also easy access to the picturesque fishing village of Tarbert via ferry, where a popular seafood festival takes place in early July.