Located on the southern fringes of the Scottish Highlands, Pitlochry can be something of a tourist bottleneck, but there’s a good reason for this. Surrounded by some stunning scenery and world class whiskey distilleries, it’s a charming town that makes for an excellent base from which to explore perhaps the most dramatic landscape of the British Ilse.
It’s perhaps a surprise to the first time visitor, but Scotland’s hotel game is strong. Perhaps it has something to do with the country’s frequently inhospitable weather conditions that make it a land of cosy interiors, perfect places to return to after bracing walks. A tourist hotspot like Pitlochry has plenty of great ones to choose from, but we’ve distilled them down even further to make sure you find one perfectly in tune with your tastes.
From £85/ night
A cosy and warm budget option for those passing though Pitlochry on their way further north. It’s relaxed here in this Victorian building with pleasant views of the surrounding countryside, and less than a five-minute walk from the centre of town, should you want to take in the sights. En suite bathrooms come as standard to all rooms at the hotel, as well as TVs, telephones, and tea and coffee making equipment, so you can greet the day at your own pace.
From £60/ night
A little out of Pitlochry itself, this large guest house is surrounded by its own sumptuous grounds, and further by the stunning scenery of the start of the Highlands. Guests are invited to take nearby river walks, play badminton on the lawns, or just relax in the three large guest lounges, supping on tea and warming themselves by the open fire. There is WiFi throughout, beautiful cosy rooms, and the option of dinner which will be laid on for guests so long as they call before arrival.
From £95/ night
A hotel of some pedigree, the building dates back to the 1660s, this luxury place to lay your head offers one of the real bargains of Pitlochry. Its individually designed rooms are boosted with en suites and high-quality complimentary toiletries (stretch your budget and there are also four poster beds and spa-style bath tubs on offer!). Then, there’s the highly recommended Scottish breakfast in the morning and the onsite Fisherman’s Bar at night with its seasonal menu, complete with locally sourced fish and game. Self-catered cottages are also available for the more independently minded.
From £90/ night
As pleasant as any B&B in the land, this Victorian building is crammed brim-full with original features and boasts a sunny interior that’s perfect for relaxing in at any time of year. There’s a homely elegance here, and a large garden in which to wander: a real boon, given the house’s central location. And B&B it may be, but it’s got all the amenities of a good hotel: WiFi, TVs, bathrooms; and the breakfast buffet is one not to be missed.
From £96/ night
The Scottish Highlands are renowned for their beautiful scenery, and an ancillary of truly appreciating them, is exercise. Indeed, heavy Scottish breakfasts, whiskey tasting, and the occasional deep fried Mars Bar notwithstanding one of the benefits of a holiday to this part of the world is its impact on your health, and what better way to extend that impact beyond the hikes than to stay in a hotel with a leisure club on its premises? Complete with sauna, steam room, and pool, a stay here is bound to leave you refreshed and add years to your life. It’s also ridiculously comfortable, clean, and centrally located in Pitlochry. A base and a destination of its own!
