Hotels along the journey to the Scottish Highlands
When planning a road trip to the stunning Scottish Highlands, it’s essential to have convenient overnight stops along the way. The routes to the Highlands are filled with picturesque landscapes, and finding the right hotel can enhance your travel experience. Here are some recommended hotels that are easy to reach and ideal for travelers in transit.
1. Muthu Newton Hotel, Inverness
Located near the A9, Muthu Newton Hotel offers a peaceful retreat with beautiful surroundings. It’s a perfect stop if you’re heading towards Inverness, providing ample parking and comfortable rooms for a restful night’s sleep.
2. The Atholl Palace, Pitlochry
Situated just off the A9, The Atholl Palace in Pitlochry combines easy access with scenic beauty. Its amenities include a spa and a restaurant, making it a luxurious stop for weary travelers.
3. Holiday Inn Express, Perth
This hotel is conveniently located along the A9, providing a comfortable stay with modern facilities. It offers free parking and a complimentary breakfast, making it an excellent choice for an overnight stop.
4. Macdonald Aviemore Hotel, Aviemore
Located close to the A9 and in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park, this hotel offers a family-friendly atmosphere with an array of amenities. It’s a great choice for travelers wanting to explore the natural beauty of the region.
Popular highways in the Scottish Highlands and hotels along the way
The journey to the Scottish Highlands can take you through various scenic routes, each offering unique landscapes and experiences. Here are some popular highways and tips for choosing the best hotels along these routes.
1. A9 Highway
The A9 is one of the main arteries leading to the Scottish Highlands, stretching from Perth to Inverness. When choosing a hotel along this route, consider those with secure parking, proximity to fuel stations, and amenities like a restaurant or 24-hour reception.
Recommended Hotels:
- Drumossie Hotel, Inverness: A quiet and comfortable stay just off the A9, offering ample parking and a restaurant.
- Dunkeld House Hotel, Dunkeld: Nestled in the woods and close to the A9, it provides a relaxing environment and excellent facilities.
2. A82 Highway
The A82 offers a more scenic but slightly longer route, taking you through Glencoe and Fort William. Hotels along this road should offer easy access to nearby attractions and provide amenities for travelers looking to explore the outdoors.
Recommended Hotels:
- Isles of Glencoe Hotel & Leisure Centre: Located on the shores of Loch Leven, this hotel offers stunning views and easy access to the A82.
- The Moorings Hotel, Fort William: Positioned near Ben Nevis and along the A82, it’s perfect for travelers looking to explore the Highlands’ natural beauty.
3. M90 Motorway
If you’re traveling from Edinburgh or the south, the M90 offers a quick route to Perth, where you can connect to the A9. Choose hotels that are close to the motorway exits for convenience.
Recommended Hotels:
- Dunfermline Queen Margaret: Located just off the M90, it offers comfortable accommodations and free parking.
- Travelodge Perth Broxden Junction: A budget-friendly option with easy access to the M90 and A9, perfect for a quick stopover.
Attractions and local cuisine in the Scottish Highlands
While the primary goal may be reaching the Highlands, the journey offers several interesting stops and opportunities to experience the local culture and cuisine.
Beaulieu House and Gardens
Situated near Inverness, this historic mansion offers beautiful gardens and a fascinating glimpse into Scotland’s past. It’s an ideal stop to stretch your legs and enjoy some fresh air.
Blair Castle
Located near the A9, Blair Castle is a must-see attraction with stunning architecture and extensive grounds. It provides a historical insight into the region and offers an excellent place to rest.
Local Cuisine
When traveling through the Highlands, take the opportunity to try traditional Scottish dishes. Haggis, neeps, and tatties are a must-try, often available at local inns and hotels. Don’t miss out on fresh seafood, particularly in coastal areas, or the famous Scottish smoked salmon.
Booking a hotel in the Scottish Highlands
When planning your road trip, booking your hotel in advance can save you time and ensure you have a comfortable place to stay after a long drive. Here are some tips for booking a hotel for your journey to the Scottish Highlands with HelloRoadTrip.com:
1. Consider the Distance
Plan your stops based on how many hours you’re comfortable driving. HelloRoadTrip.com allows you to input the distance or hours you wish to travel before stopping, giving you tailored hotel recommendations along the route.
2. Check Amenities
Ensure the hotel has essential amenities such as secure parking, free Wi-Fi, and breakfast options. For those traveling with pets, look for pet-friendly hotels.
3. Read Reviews
Reading reviews from other travelers can give you insights into the hotel’s service quality and what to expect.
4. Book Early
Popular hotels, especially during peak travel seasons, can fill up quickly. Booking early through HelloRoadTrip.com ensures you get the best rates and availability.
Frequently asked questions about hotels in the Scottish Highlands
Yes, many hotels along the A9 and A82 offer family-friendly amenities such as larger rooms, extra beds, and on-site restaurants. Examples include the Macdonald Aviemore Hotel and The Moorings Hotel.
Yes, several hotels along popular routes to the Highlands are pet-friendly. Always check the hotel’s pet policy in advance, and consider staying at places like the Isles of Glencoe Hotel & Leisure Centre, which welcome pets.
The best time to visit the Scottish Highlands is during the late spring and summer months (May to September) when the weather is milder and days are longer. This period is ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Yes, there are several budget-friendly options available. Hotels like Travelodge Perth Broxden Junction and Holiday Inn Express Perth offer affordable rates without compromising on comfort and essential amenities.
Most hotels in the Scottish Highlands offer breakfast, either included in the room rate or available for an additional fee. It’s advisable to check with the hotel during booking to confirm breakfast availability and options.
Many hotels along the main routes to the Scottish Highlands provide late check-in options, especially those catering to road trippers. However, it’s important to check with the hotel in advance and inform them of your estimated arrival time to ensure a smooth check-in process.
Yes, a growing number of hotels in the Scottish Highlands and along the routes leading there are offering EV charging stations for guests. It’s advisable to check the hotel’s website or contact them directly to confirm the availability of EV charging facilities before booking.
Absolutely! Many hotels are located near popular scenic viewpoints and attractions. For example, The Moorings Hotel in Fort William offers proximity to Ben Nevis, while the Isles of Glencoe Hotel provides stunning views of Loch Leven. Staying at these locations allows you to enjoy the natural beauty of the Highlands with ease.
For more information and to book your ideal hotel along your route to the Scottish Highlands, visit HelloRoadTrip.com.