13 Superb Ideas for Couples Holidays in Scotland

One of the most beautiful cities in the world, couples on holiday in Scotland never fail to be impressed with the romanticism of this cosmopolitan capital.

Visiting during the winter? Why not spend the evening gazing at the stars at the Royal Observatory, Enjoying an August break? A visit to one the famous “Fringe Festival shows is a must.

Let the romance begin

​Walk hand-in-hand on Portobello beach, go ice-skating, or cuddle up on a scary ghost tour.

Make your own chocolates at Coco’s Chocolate School or cuddle up to a cat and enjoy a scrumptious cake at Maison de Moggy.

Finish your day by splashing out on a candlelit meal at the Witchery, where you can dine in Baroque opulence at one the UK’s most romantic restaurants, in the shadow of the castle

The Highlands offer everything needed for a Scottish romantic getaway. Scenic walks, crystal clear lochs, majestic castles and a warm Caledonian welcome.

What to do in the Scottish Highlands?

No trip to Scotland would be complete without a trip to a whiskey distillery and Old Pulteney in Caithness offers a 2-hour tour with tasting at the end and is one of the best.

Visit the super-cute baby polar bear and get up close and personal with amazing creatures at Highland Wildlife Park, visit Urquhart Castle or experience the awe-inspiring views from the Nevis Range Gondola.

There are so many dining options in the Highlands that you will spoilt for choice and whether you stay in a grand country house, pitch up a tent or stay in a croft you are guaranteed to make memories that will last a lifetime.

Home to the most famous wedding venue in the world

Paris, Rome, Venice; all places that spring to mind for romantic short breaks, so you may be surprised to learn that Dumfries and Galloway can hold its own amongst them all.

Miles of deserted beaches, pretty fishing villages, woodland wonderlands, cosy country pubs and a huge choice of accommodation, this exceptional region has something for all tastes, ages and budgets.

Activities for couples taking a romantic break

Loved-up adrenaline junkies can enjoy a double ride with Laggan Outdoors on one of the longest zip-wires in europe or perhaps go horse-riding on the beach together.

Off course, Dumfries and Galloway is also home to possibly the most romantic place on earth and whilst you don’t need to get married at Gretna Green this picturesque town is well worth a visit. Don’t forget to have your photo taken outside the famous Blacksmith Shop, one of the most visited attractions in Scotland.

Whether you are watching the magical sunset from the bay at Talisker, enjoying a meal at the world-famous Three Chimneys or exploring the enchanted “Fairy Pools” The Isle of Skye offers the ultimate romantic break in Scotland.

Take a boat trip from Portree with the fantastic Stardust you may be lucky and see the majestic sea eagles, or even Minke Whales from viewpoints at the north of the Island.

​Spend quality time together

​Take a leisurely stroll to Neist Point lighthouse, if you are looking for something more energetic to do together why not climb the Cuillin, the 12 munroes here offer the best walking and climbing in the Country. Check out Walking Highlands for all the routes available for various levels of ability.

Of course water-sports are never far away on this idyllic island paradise, why not try sea kayaking or view the island from above with an exciting plane tour.

The Cairngorms are a magical place to escape too at any time of the year. Visit in Autumn as the leaves change to magnificent shades of red, brown and orange, or brave the region in Winter when the scenery never fails to impress and provides photo opportunities galore.

Spend a day being pampered at the Cairngorm Beauty Therapy and Spa where you will feel your stresses melt away.

The more adventurous can experience one of the wealth of outdoor activities on the doorstep from skiing to white-water rafting, off road driving to a leisurely day’s fishing.

The perfect picnic spot

Take your camera and head to the Lin of Dee, this breathtaking river location is a popular spot to propose, or you could simply drink in the views together and enjoy a posh picnic.

For couples who want to get away from it all, there is no better spot for a Scottish couples break than the Isle of Mull. Surrounded by incredible scenery and teeming with wildlife it’s the perfect place to recharge your batteries.

Nature Scotland runs photography courses, wildlife tours and star-gazing experiences, ideal for couples and the glorious beaches will have you thinking you’re in the Caribbean.

Explore the islands

Take the 10-minute ferry ride to Iona, where you can explore the famous Iona abbey, and stroll hand in hand amongst the quaint white-washed houses and shops. Discover Fingal’s cave on Staffa or the stunning Treshnish Isles

You can enjoy some of the best seafood in Scotland at Cafe Fish in Tobermory. Marvel at the spectacular sunset as you tuck into langoustines and delicious fresh lobster.

Famous for the “Glasgow kiss” (one you do not want to experience) you may be surprised to learn there are tons of romantic places to visit and things to do in this vibrant city. Enjoy a picnic in Kelvingrove Park which is absolutely lovely on a dry day and don’t miss the fascinating Kelvingrove Museum and Art Gallery.

Stroll down Ashton Lane, Glasgow's prettiest street, packed with quirky shops and restaurants, ideal for a romantic meal.

Perfect at any time of year

In the winter there’s nothing better than relaxing in front of a toasty fire in a cosy pub and booking a romantic weekend break in Glasgow gives you plenty of options.

Head to Cubatos for tapas and cocktails or for the ultimate in opulence treat yourselves to a glass of bubbly at Champagne Central which can be found in the stylish Grand Central Hotel.

The enchanted landscape surrounding Inverness is perfect for a romantic hideaway in Scotland. Home to fairies, haunted castles and the infamous “Nessie” it is the ideal place to spend quality time together whatever the time of year.

Enjoy some retail therapy in the quirky Victorian Marketplace, its unique shops are the perfect place to pick up a special gift. Take a luxury cruise on Loch Ness with Jacobite where you can snuggle up with a hot drink, and whilst you probably won’t spot Nessie you will certainly view unforgettable scenery.

The food of love

Enjoy a romantic meal on the balcony overlooking the loch at the world-class Mustard Seed restaurant. End your evening with a stroll across one of the illuminated bridges and perhaps steal a kiss under the moonlit sky.

There are few places in Scotland more romantic than Loch Lomond. Walk hand in hand along the shore or explore the beautiful walled gardens and parks together.

Take a serene boat trip on the loch, during the summer months there is an evening sunset cruise

The more energetic may wish to participate in the vast array of water-sports available such as water-skiing, kayaking and wake-boarding. For more information and details, check out Loch Lomond Wakeboard.

Make memories that will last a lifetime with a sea-plane trip across the loch and the Trossachs National Park enjoy a glass of Prosecco and view the jaw-dropping scenery from a different perspective.

Tying the knot?

There are numerous wedding venues around Loch Lomond if you want to get hitched, and a host of places to stay for a romantic Scottish break. These include luxury self-catering cottages with hot tubs, spa hotels, holiday parks and charming bed and breakfasts. 

With the river walkway called Lover’s Walk is it any wonder that Stirling is a popular choice for couples holidays in Scotland. It offers fantastic views of the Wallace Monument and is perfect for a summer’s evening stroll.

Step back in time

Steeped in mystery and intrigue Scotland’s grandest castle dominates the skyline and is wonderful day out for history buffs.

Explore the sumptuous interiors and marvel at the spectacular views from the ramparts where you on a clear day you see the Trossachs and beyond

There is no shortage of fine dining in Stirling. Head to Brea, this award-winning restaurant serves the best of Scotland’s larder or Hermanns where you can enjoy Scottish- Austrian fusion food

Choose to stay in a 5-star luxury hotel such as Culcreuch Castle or if you are looking for bargain weekend breaks in scotland for 2, then check out Blair Drummond Caravan Park.

Just north of the border, the picturesque towns, idyllic villages and rolling countryside of the Borders is a great choice for weekends in Scotland for couples.

There are tons of romantic things to do here. You can visit Abbotsford, the exquisite home of Sir Walter Scott, or take a chocolate master class at Cocoa Black’s Chocolate and Pastry School in Peebles.

Luxury in the Borders

Head to Melrose Abbey in search of Robert the Bruce’s heart or spend the day at Roxburghe Hotel and Golf Course.

Here you can have a go at some quintessential Scottish country pursuits such as fly-fishing, clay pigeon shooting with Bisley Shooting. Afterwards settle down in front of a roaring fire for a delicious afternoon tea.

If you’ve ever wanted a romantic castle stay, check out Dalhousie Castle in Bonnyrigg, on the banks of the River Esk, where you will find a host of country pursuits on offer, a luxury spa and world-class dining.

Nature-loving romantics should head to the Moray Firth, the North of Scotland offers seclusion and jaw-dropping scenery.

Take a boat trip out to the bay which is home to over a 100 bottlenose dolphins. No visit to the area would be complete without a visit to Scotland’s “most romantic castle” Dunrobin. Home to the Earl of Sutherland, this fairytale castle is a fantastic day out for couples.

A golfer’s paradise

There are luxurious places to stay aplenty here, including the Knockomie Hotel a 19th century villa with lavish rooms and four poster beds, and eating out in the area is a delight with locally caught salmon and game on many a menu.

The only whiskey trail in the world is a stone’s throw away, plus there is fishing and a host of world-championship golf courses within easy reach.

Named the “romantic place in Britain” in 2015 by Mills and Boon (who know a thing or two about romance)

In summer, the days seems to last forever giving you plenty of time to explore and a must see attraction for couples visiting the Orkney Islands is the Italian Chapel on Lamb Holm.

Even in winter; Orkney is magical, if you’re lucky you may see the famous Northern Lights and nothing is more romantic than cuddling up together in front of a roaring fire with a wee dram.

Say “I do”

Lots of couples choose to get married on Orkney, the island boasts some of the finest jewellers in Scotland and there are some fabulous locations to tie-the-knot,.

When it comes to Scottish couple breaks Orkney is top of the list and you are guaranteed a warm Orcadian welcome.