Scotland Breaks

Inspirational Ideas for Hotel Breaks in Scotland

Boasting swathes of dramatic scenery, from the remote wilderness of the Highlands to the rolling hills of Dumfries and Galloway, Scotland is full of astounding sights and things to do.

Whether you’re enjoying the buzz of city life in Glasgow and Edinburgh or riding a husky through Perthshire, you’ll be sure to satisfy your wanderlust cravings here.

We've put together a great list of inspirational things to do when you take a short hotel break in Scotland together with the nearest Best Western hotel where you can relax after you've enjoyed a great day out.

Book now

Stand in awe at Loch Awe, Argyll and Bute

Visit Scotland Loch Awe

With a name like Loch Awe, the expectations are high for Scotland’s third largest freshwater loch. But we’re pleased to report that it doesn’t disappoint. With a name like Loch Awe, the expectations are high for Scotland’s third largest freshwater loch. But we’re pleased to report that it doesn’t disappoint. Take a well-earned weekend hotel break in Scotland and explore Kilchurn Castle plus there’s world-class trout fishing here as well as awesome views.

Nearest hotel: Best Western The Crianlarich Hotel, Crianlarich

Ride on a husky sledge in Perthshire

Scotland Husky Sledge

Take an exhilarating dogsled ride at Bowland Trails in Blairgowrie. As you speed along the scenic trails, you’ll take in spectacular views of the Scottish countryside. After your ride you’ll be able to make a fuss of the huskies as they cool down. Although it’s generally a winter activity, rides do take place throughout the year.

Nearest hotel: Best Western Queens Hotel, Perth

See The Kelpies lit up at night Falkirk

Scotland see the Kelpies

The world’s largest equine sculpture is a sight to behold. The shimmering steel Kelpies are illuminated with LED lights an hour after sundown every night. They’re part of Helix Park - a huge urban green space where you can also enjoy walks and bike rides – and are an absolute must-see when taking short breaks in Scotland.

Nearest hotel: Best Western Plus Dunfermline Crossford Keavil House Hotel

Enjoy traditional music hall entertainment in Glasgow

Britannia Panopticon auditorium

Opened in 1857, the Britannia Panopticon soon became the place for recreation, with 1,500 people squeezing on to the wooden benches for every show. Today, the auditorium is the world’s oldest surviving music hall and regularly hosts music shows, comedy and exhibitions.

Nearest hotel: Glasgow Argyle Hotel, BW Signature Collection

Explore Camera Obscura in Edinburgh

Explore camera obscura edinburgh

Enter a mysterious world filled with optical illusions, puzzles, mirror mazes and a vortex tunnel that play tricks on the mind and eyes. Getting hands-on with everything is positively encouraged here. Camera Obscura has five floors of photography, magic and science fun. And the views from the roof are wonderful.

Nearest hotel: Ten Hill Place, BW Premier Collection, Edinburgh

Paddle down the whisky river in the Highlands

Have a drink on whisky river

A tour of a distillery is a must if you’re a whisky aficionado. But for an experience with a difference, why not take to the water? Embark on a canoe trip down the River Spey, where distilleries line the banks, and enjoy a wee dram or two for your efforts. Taking to the water not your thing? Walk the Speyside Way instead.

Nearest hotel: Best Western Inverness Palace Hotel, Inverness

Stroll (or run) along West Sands Beach, St Andrews

Scotland West Sands Beach

Although St Andrews is best known for golf and its university, the beaches of this historic town shouldn’t be overlooked. Backed by dunes, West Sands Beach is glorious. You can relive the opening scenes of Chariots of Fire here as this is where they were shot.

Nearest hotel: Best Western Dundee Woodlands Hotel

Go stargazing in Galloway Forest Park

Scotland Stargazing

Scotland has some of the darkest skies in Europe, so you can enjoy a stellar experience as you scour the sky for faraway galaxies and the Milky Way. On a clear night in Galloway Forest you can enjoy wonderful stargazing without the aid of a telescope.

Nearest hotel: Sure Hotel by Best Western Lockerbie

Book direct with us for our lowest rates

There’s no need to hunt around for deals because you will always get the lowest price exclusively when you book direct** on the Best Western website, via our call centre or direct at one of our hotels thanks to our brand new  ‘Rewards Rates’ which offer you a discount off the same rates found anywhere else.

To benefit from the very lowest rates around, you need to be a Best Western Rewards member, but don’t worry – if you’re not already a member, you can join today. Simply join for free during the booking process.