Summer is the perfect time to get off the beaten track, escape the crowds and discover some of Scotland’s best kept secrets; quiet corners of our beautiful country that are the ideal places to relax, unwind and reconnect. With a vast array of accommodation, from luxury spa hotels and beachside cottages to farm stays and glamping sites, booking great value breaks could not be easier.
Why not include a festival, foodie event or cultural experience while you’re away?
Here are some of our favourite places to head to this summer.
From a Buddhist retreat to the isle where Orwell wrote 1984, pointers to plan the perfect summer getaway
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National Gallery of Scotland,
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This is a caption, this is a caption, The film is Dune (1984)
getaways in Scotland
are good for the soul
Cultural Short Breaks
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Island Escapes
Discover a place of beauty, tranquillity and architectural magnificence dating from the 17th century. Explore its stunning collections and wander through the majestic grounds with nature trails and scenic walks.
Hopetoun House & Grounds, South Queensferry, West Lothian
Step back in time at this elegant Georgian country house as costumed guides lead you through its history, then immerse yourself in the interactive Angus Folk Collection in the courtyard. Relax in the glorious formal gardens and look out for red squirrels as you enjoy the woodland walks and stunning views overlooking Montrose Basin.
House of Dun, by Montrose, Angus
Scone Palace was once the crowning place of Scottish kings, and it breathes history like nowhere else in Scotland.
See where the Stone of Scone – known as the Stone of Destiny – once stood, admire the needlework skills of Mary Queen of Scots and discover the desk where French queen, Marie Antoinette, wrote her letters.
Scone Palace and Gardens, near Perth
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BBC Countryfile presenter Kate Humble is drawn to Shetland by its incredible wildlife, beautiful landscapes, warm welcome and thriving communities.
Her “must do” activities here include exploring the volcanic landscape and dramatic cliffs at Eshaness in Northmavine, a visit to the lighthouse at Sumburgh Head and watching otters in the wild.
Kate Humble’s Shetland
Set in the open landscape of Caithness and Sutherland, this vast and important expanse of blanket bog, sheltered straths, moorland and mountain is the UK’s newest natural Unesco world heritage site.
It’s also the ideal place to slow down, take in the unique scenery, see local nature and wildlife and gaze up at the night sky.
UNESCO Flow Country and Forsinard Flows Nature Reserve, North Highlands
One of the oldest operating distilleries in Scotland, Glen Garioch – pronounced Geery in the Doric dialect spoken here – has been making its malt whisky since 1797.
Visitor experiences include Warehouse No.4, a behind-the-scenes tour and warehouse cask tasting experience, and A Rare Pair whisky and cheese tasting.
Glen Garioch Distillery, Oldmeldrum, Aberdeenshire
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active short breaks
Choosing sustainable travel options – like trains, buses, coaches, going by bike or on foot – for short breaks makes it super easy to do your bit for the environment.
Scotland has a great range of public transport options that will take you to the heart of where you want to be without breaking a sweat.
Making eco-friendly choices doesn’t just help protect our beautiful landscape, it can help protect the pounds in your pocket too.
Check out Good Journey for savings of up to 25 per cent on entry to selected attractions and accommodation providers, when you arrive car-free.
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Scotland Loves Local is an innovative national initiative inspiring everyone to think local, celebrating and supporting the incredible businesses and communities that make Scotland so special. Why not treat a friend or family member to a Scotland Loves Local Gift Card? It's a great way to discover and enjoy local shopping, dining, experiences, and attractions, while helping our communities thrive. Give the gift of local and make a difference. Find out more at lovelocal.scot
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To find out more about the fantastic range of short breaks and events to enjoy this summer, go to visitscotland.com/summer
Image: VisitScotland/Kenny Lam
Image: Rosebank Distillery
Image: VisitScotland/Aga Urbanska
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The Isle of Arran from Ballast Bank, Troon
Taste The Place, Glasgow 850
Scone Palace and Gardens, near Perth
Golf in Fife
Island
VisitScotland/Luigi di Pascale
Kagyu Samye Ling Buddhist Temple, Eskdalemuir, Dumfries & Galloway
This award-winning attraction features magnificent Victorian Gothic architecture and design together with contemporary craftsmanship. Inside, design inspired by astrology, art and mythology dazzles while the 300 acres of gardens are home to rhododendron and magnolia in spring and golden birch and maple trees in autumn.
STAY
Accommodation on the Isle of Bute.
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Blow the cobwebs away with Bute Boat Tours, explore Rothesay Castle or play a round of golf on three courses.
WHAT'S ON
ButeFest – Wild West, Rothesay: July 25
Bute Highland Games, Rothesay: August 23
Mount Stuart, Isle of Bute
STAY
Accommodation in West Lothian.
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Explore Blackness Castle, whose mighty fortifications make
it look like a “ship that never sailed,” or set sail for Inchcolm Island and Abbey in the Firth of Forth from South Queensferry.
WHAT'S ON
Spectacular Jousting, Linlithgow Palace: June 28 – 29
Party at the Palace, Linlithgow: August 2 – 3
STAY
Accommodation options in and around Montrose.
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Tee off at Montrose Golf Links, the fifth oldest golf course in the world, stroll
along secluded Lunan Bay Beach or check out
the Gin Bothy at Glamis.
WHAT'S ON
The Angus Show, Brechin: June 7
Glamis Proms 2025, Glamis Castle: August 23
STAY
Accommodation options in the Perth area.
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Visit the Black Watch Museum, a five-star visitor attraction, and
Perth Art Gallery, featuring works by modern Scottish artists like Joan Eardley.
WHAT'S ON
Gold Cup Day, Perth Racecourse, Scone Palace: June 8
GWCT Scottish Game Fair: Scone Palace, Perthshire: July 4 – 6
Once home to prominent artists including EA Hornel, Jessie M King, her husband EA Taylor and Charles Oppenheimer, many examples of their work can still be found in the town.
Discover the work of today’s artists and makers in exhibitions at the town’s galleries, or watch them at work at the studios in the Tolbooth Art Centre.
Nearby Wigtown was officially designated as Scotland’s National Book Town in 1998 and is a book lover’s haven.
Kirkcudbright Artists’ Town and
Wigtown Book Town, Dumfries & Galloway
STAY
Accommodation options around Kirkcudbright
and Wigtown.
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Check out Kirkcudbright Dark Space Planetarium
and explore Broughton House & Garden, a real treat
for art lovers.
WHAT'S ON
Kirkcudbright Jazz Festival: June 12 – 15
Wigtown Book Festival: September 26 – October 5
STAY
Accommodation options in Caithness and North Sutherland.
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Explore magnificent Dunrobin Castle, which resembles a French château, or test your skills on the renowned championship links course
at Royal Dornoch Golf Club.
WHAT'S ON
Caithness Show, Wick: July 18 – 19
Dornoch Beer & Music Festival: July 26
STAY
Accommodation options in Mainland Shetland.
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Explore fascinating exhibits at Scalloway Museum and
experience spectacular wildlife on a Seabirds-and-Seals Boat Tour.
WHAT'S ON
Shetland Fiddle Week: August 4 – 8
Rising North Music Festival: August 14 – 17
From the world-famous Old Course in St Andrews to the rolling fairways of Ladybank, Fife is home to more than 50 fantastic golf courses, each delivering a unique experience for everyone from beginners to golf tourists and pros.
Explore each one of these incredible courses and stay a night or two so that you can really savour the Home of Golf.
STAY
Accommodation options in East Neuk of Fife.
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Step back in time and book a round at Kingarrock Hickory Golf or treat yourself to a wine safari and forest feast
experience at The Rhynd.
WHAT'S ON
Robert The Bruce Festival, Pittencrieff Park, Dunfermline: May 31 – June 1
Pittenweem Arts Festival, Pittenweem: August 2 – 9
Golf in Fife
STAY
Accommodation in the Oldmeldrum area.
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Treat yourself to delicious food and drink at Barra Farm Shop & Kitchen near Oldmeldrum and
explore the brilliant Garioch Heritage Centre in Inverurie.
WHAT'S ON
Tall Ships, Aberdeen: July 19 – 22
Taste of Garioch Food Festival, Inverurie Town Hall: August 31
A short break on the beautiful Isle of Arran is perfect all year round; it’s a great place to escape to and enjoy delicious locally produced food and drink.
Try cheeses and ice cream made using the finest quality milk from the dairy cows at Tigheanfraoch Farm, Arran oat cakes, whisky from the distilleries at Lagg and Lochranza, and use the roadside honesty boxes to buy tatties, eggs and honey.
Arran – Scotland’s Foodie Island, Ayrshire
STAY
Accommodation on the Isle of Arran.
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Embark on a half-billion year journey through history at the newly designated Arran Unesco World Geopark, and don’t
miss the fabulous Arran Cheese Shop.
WHAT'S ON
Arran Folk Festival, Brodick: June 6 – 8
Brodick Highland Games: August 9
Moray Speyside has a well-deserved reputation for its iconic offers – from whiskies from over 50 local distilleries and world-famous shortbread to tasty Cullen Skink soup.
This brilliant trail will take you on a journey that showcases almost 100 food and drink businesses across the region.
A Taste of Moray Speyside Food & Drink Trail
STAY
Accommodation options in Moray Speyside.
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Explore Speyside Cooperage, the only working cooperage in the
UK, and head to Brodie Countryfare for Scottish gifts and clothing.
WHAT'S ON
Forres Highland Games: July 5
Speyfest, Fochabers: July 25 – 27
Set in a quiet rural location, this large Tibetan Buddhist temple and monastic community is a peaceful, tranquil retreat in which to relax and reconnect.
The grounds and temple are open to visitors, with a range of weekend courses and teachings including mindfulness, Tai Chi, yoga and therapy to boost wellbeing, along with accommodation for those looking for a longer break.
Kagyu Samye Ling Buddhist Temple, Eskdalemuir, Dumfries & Galloway
STAY
Accommodation options in the Langholm area.
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Head to Galloway Activity Centre for outdoor adventures and eco-lodges or
enjoy the spectacular Grey Mare’s Tail waterfall walk near Moffat.
WHAT'S ON
Eden Festival 2025, Moffat: June 12 – 15
Galloway Country Fair, Drumlanrig Castle, Thornhill: August 9 – 10
As part of Glasgow's 850th anniversary celebrations, Taste the Place offers locals and visitors the chance to learn about the history of Glasgow's hospitality scene – by eating their way around the city at over 40 eateries presenting 23 different cuisines.
Highlights include a 100-year-old ice cream parlour, an Eastern European bakery, and African stews and Southeast Asian pulled noodles served from a hole in the wall.
Taste The Place, Glasgow 850
STAY
Accommodation options in Glasgow.
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Book a tour of Clydeside Distillery or explore the
Hunterian Museum, with collections spanning arts, sciences and humanities.
WHAT'S ON
Glasgow Mela: June 22
World Pipe Band Championships: August 15 – 16
Rediscover your zest for life as you greet the sun, breathe in the fresh air and listen to birdsong while practising yoga – then enjoy sunset and stars while easing aches and pains in a wood-fired eco-sauna in the evening.
Watch wildlife in the meadow and relax as you soak in an outdoor copper bath tub – this spot really is the ideal place to boost your wellbeing.
Roulotte Retreat, Melrose, Scottish Borders
STAY
Accommodation options in and around Melrose.
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Discover the fascinating Trimontium Museum or explore
picturesque Melrose Abbey and relax in
the Harmony Garden.
WHAT'S ON
Common Ridings: June 5 - Hawick; June 13 - Selkirk;
June 15 – 21 - Peebles Beltane Festival; June 16 - Melrose Festival
Borders Book Festival, Melrose: June 12 – 15
This heavenly hotel faces the Atlantic, with unbroken views of dunes, sea and sky.
Discover two wood fired hot tubs, a cold tub, an outdoor sauna and a range of relaxing spa treatments. Explore the seven-mile long beach on a fatbike or try your hand on The Hebrides, a brilliant new “social golf” course, then tuck into freshly landed seafood served on the terrace.
Another Place: Machrie Hotel & Golf Links, Isle of Islay
STAY
Accommodation on site and on the Isle of Islay.
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Hop aboard an Islay Seafood Trip for stunning coastal scenery, wildlife and the freshest seafood,
or look out for golden eagles on an RSPB guided walk.
WHAT'S ON
The Machrie Open: June 27 – 29
Tarbert Seafood Festival: July 5 – 6
The long, narrow Isle of Jura is known for its soaring mountains, whisky, the swirling Corryvreckan whirlpool and an estimated 7,000 wild roaming deer, which far outnumber the island’s 200 or so residents.
Animal Farm author George Orwell came here for peace and quiet to complete his most famous book, 1984.
Take a Jura Boat Tour to see some of the abundant
wildlife and pop into Jura Distillery.
Isle of Jura
STAY
Accommodation options on the Isle of Jura.
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Hire bikes from Jura Cycles to explore the island, or
chill out at the Bothan Jura Wellness Retreat in your very own Swedish wood fired hot tub.
WHAT'S ON
Jura Music Festival: September 26 – 28
Gigha might be just a short ferry trip from the mainland – but it could be a world away. Explore its beautiful white sandy beaches, Achamore Gardens – established by Sir James Horlick, of the malted hot drink – and search for the Ogam stone near the ruins of the 13th-century Kilchattan Chapel.
Isle of Gigha
STAY
Accommodation on the Isle of Gigha.
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Enjoy panoramic views from the nine-hole golf course and round off the stay with a
fabulous meal at The Boathouse Restaurant.
WHAT'S ON
The Sound of Gigha (music, culture and creativity): June 6 – 8
The Boathouse Restaurant Raft Race: July 26
The ideal destination for island adventures. Climb all 22 MacPhies (hills), hire bikes for cycling or try paddleboarding. Local wildlife includes seabirds, golden eagles, wild goats and rabbits.
Colonsay House dates back to the 18th century and is home to an outstanding collection of floral species and unusual trees and shrubs from all over the world. Head north for the island’s finest sandy beach, the breathtaking Kiloran Bay.
Isle of Colonsay
STAY
Accommodation options on Colonsay.
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Head to the Wild Island Distillery to sample gins
crafted from island botanicals and try delicious smoked salmon at Colonsay Smokery.
WHAT'S ON
Colonsay Golf International Open: August 17 – 18
Ceól Cholasa: September 19 – 22
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A Highland blend
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Arran Brewery
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VisitScotland/Paul Tomkins
VisitScotland/Kenny Lam
VisitScotland/Paul Tomkins
Summer is the perfect time to get off the beaten track, escape the crowds and discover some of Scotland’s best kept secrets; quiet corners of our beautiful country that are the ideal places to relax, unwind and reconnect. With a vast array of accommodation, from luxury spa hotels and beachside cottages to farm stays and glamping sites, booking great value breaks could not be easier.
Why not include a festival, foodie event or cultural experience while you’re away?
Here are some of our favourite places to head to this summer.
VisitScotland/Kenny Lam
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