Remote and Rural Escapes in Scotland for the Road Less Travelled
Want to escape on a remote or rural break in Scotland and in need of some inspiration on some of the best destination on offer? Whether you’re searching for remote cottage breaks in Scotland or rural retreats off the beaten track, Scotland’s dramatic landscapes and secluded coastlines offer unforgettable escapes. Having grown up in Scotland, Yvonne Dean from Country Cottages Online knows some of Scotland’s very best escapes for both rural retreats and remote breaks.
So Which are the Best Places to Go in Rural Scotland?
Aberdeenshire’s Unspoilt Castle Country
If you love unspoilt countryside and historic castles then head for Aberdeen's Castle country. Nestled in rural Aberdeenshire are historical gems like Aboyne Castle, the dramatic ruins of Dunnottar Castle, Huntly Castle and the ruins of Slains Castle in Cruden Bay and more. Some of the prettiest places to stay include Cruden Bay with its long stretch of golden sandy beach and the picturesque town of Alford which has its own ski centre and heritage museum.
Rent a quaint fisherman’s cottage in Cruden Bay for walks along the beach every day on holiday, or a secret lodge in the unspoilt Aberdeenshire countryside.
Ballater and Crathie in the Cairngorms
If you want to explore some of the places that were close to the heart of the late Queen Elizabeth II and fit for royalty, then the Cairngorms National Park is a natural choice. Discover charming historic villages like Ballater and Crathie by the River Dee and fascinating places to visit close by such as the Royal Lochnagar Distillery where you can enjoy a wee dram, and historic Balmoral Castle.
Rent a countryside lodge and enjoy exploring some of this stunning natural landscape on days out.
Discover Rural and Coastal Delights on the Magical Isle of Skye
There is something magical about the Isle of Skye and you have to visit to believe it. Whether it’s the tranquillity, the powerful presence of nature, the coast or the mountains, or the magical combination, Skye is an unforgettable place for a remote holiday. Many artists are drawn to the island for inspiration, and the wildlife watching is some of the best to be found in Scotland. Visit in summer for better weather. Portree is the main town in Skye, but if you want somewhere even more gloriously remote then Staffin with its lovely local beach and cliff walks, or Elgol are natural choices.
Coastal retreats and remote countryside escapes for nature lovers are popular choices for peaceful cottage holidays on Skye.
Head for the Black Isle in the Northern Highlands
For unspoilt wilderness, as well as wonderful dolphin watching opportunities, Scotland’s Black Isle is a natural choice. Here wonderful rural scenery combines with stunning coastal scenes. If it's peace and tranquillity you long for, opt for smaller quaint villages like Avoch or Munlochy.
Rent a cottage with a sea view for waking up to inspiring waterside views on holiday.
Explore Sutherland in the Scottish Highlands
For the road less travelled then Scourie in North West Sutherland could be a great choice. Renowned for its picturesque appeal, this crofting village has a strong history along with a stretch of white sandy beach.
For a truly remote escape off-the-beaten track, a stay in Scourie is hard to beat.
Remote and Rural Escapes
When it comes to finding remote escapes, Country Cottages Online is a great choice. From lochside retreats to countryside stays, discover our superb selection of remote escapes at Remote cottages in Scotland | Far-off Remote Retreats in Scotland.