What better way to escape the drudgery of grueling excursions like climbing the Munros or conquering the cities than indulging in a head-to-toe treatment at one of Scotland’s best spas? Whether it’s a pool with a view, thermal suites and Scottish seaweed (or cashmere) wraps, or newfangled ice fountains, light therapy and engaging nutritional advice, it’s easy to find a hotel spa to de-stress, detox and enjoy. Our insider’s guide to the best spa hotels in Scotland, including infinity pools, expert treatments, saunas and outdoor hot tubs in places like the Borders, Highlands, Argyll, Edinburgh and Glasgow.
How do we examine
Every hotel on this curated list has been visited by one of our expert reviewers, who are often hosted free of charge. They stay at least one night, test at least one meal, and try other experiences the hotel has to offer.
Where Scottish Baronial meets French chateau, the spa at Gleneagles is arguably the best spa hotel in Scotland; A magnificent haven of sybaritic pleasure with an added health dimension, offering complementary and alternative therapies delivered by professional practitioners and therapists. ESPA’s product range covers every type of facial and body care imaginable. Enjoy one of the special treatments for complete happiness and overall health. You won’t want to leave with its saunas, steam rooms, hydrotherapy ‘vitality’ pool and magnificent relaxation areas.
• Scotland’s best hotels
Where James Bond would stay in Scotland: A 19th-century mansion in Scottish Baronial style on a private island accessible by bridge, set amidst spectacular western highland scenery. The acclaimed spa (which also has a 17-metre swimming pool) uses ESPA products as well as the increasingly well-known Scottish Ishga range. Many activities are offered, from playing croquet on the lawns to archery and clay pigeon shooting. A six- to nine-hole golf course (depending on waterlogged terrain), walking trails through mixed woodland and tennis in the indoor gym provide all-weather entertainment.
• Expert guide to a weekend in Edinburgh
The views from the Sheraton are second to none, with Edinburgh castle in the background and Arthur’s Seat lurking in the background. The facilities are also impressive; The spa is said to be Edinburgh’s biggest and best, especially with its rooftop hydro pool, thermal suite, swimming pool, a wide range of treatments and the Now by One Spa professional salon for those in a hurry. Services. The themed afternoon teas are extremely indulgent and the bar is the best place to enjoy gin in the city. The quality and claim of the restaurant will surprise you.
• Best Scottish Borders hotels
Despite being an Edinburgh landmark for over a century, there’s nothing old-fashioned about this flagship from Forte. Luxury bedrooms, a Michelin-starred restaurant, lavish afternoon teas in the Palm Court add to the sophisticated 21st-century version of a truly grand hotel. The spa offers Rocco Forte Rituals and ESPA treatments, as well as a 15-metre lap pool, sauna, steam room and gym. When it comes to food, the Michelin-starred Number One restaurant always delights, with great Scottish ingredients (whisky-smoked salmon, Inverurie hogget) presented with both exquisite flavor and palate-pleasing complexity.
• Edinburgh’s best spa hotels
This relaxing destination spa, an hour’s drive from Edinburgh, certainly has an air of exclusivity. Its style is a game of two halves: the warm colors and decorative richness of the residential side contrast markedly with the sleek and contemporary spa. A smart, expertly executed modern addition houses this luxury enclave offering comprehensive treatments, therapies and activities. Although it’s not a destination for foodies, the spa is so impressive you probably won’t notice.
• Best hotels in the Cairngorms
This hotel was built on the site of a former train station and overlooks one of the golf world’s most iconic views. But there’s so much more to it than just playing golf. Focusing on innovative and sophisticated water and bath therapies, the spa offers excellent facials and massages, as well as Margaret Dabbs manicures and pedicures, using Comfort Zone, Voya and Phytomer products. Dining here is also a fascinating experience as you watch the empty golf course slowly fill with players, horses cantering along the beach, and the sky turning blue.
• Best hotels in Edinburgh
Portavadie is located on the shores of a sea loch at the end of a single-track road on the Cowal peninsula, known as ‘hidden Argyll’. Although only a few hours’ drive from Glasgow, it’s a tranquil hideaway among hills and forests, with romantic views from Loch Fyne to the hills of Kintyre and the Isle of Arran. Its jewel is the £10 million spa and leisure complex, which includes a 16-metre indoor pool, saunas, gym, outdoor spa pools and Scotland’s largest heated outdoor infinity pool (pictured). Panoramic windows guarantee sauna and relaxation suites with views.
Contributions by Gavin Bell, Fiona Duncan and Robin McKelvie