The Most Breathtaking Scottish Castles and Cottages with Hot Tubs

The Most Breathtaking Scottish Castles and Cottages with Hot Tubs

Europe is a treasure trove of scenery with the inclusion of more than a few castles with ancient histories and ornate decoration. However, there are castles in the U.K. that are just as incredible. Too often tourists forget about the beautiful castles that still stand in Scotland.

Scotland is known for a few things: kilts, bagpipes, a strong accent, and their constant fight for independence. Also the country is known for its many gray days, they also offer up a wealth of historical and literary knowledge as well as scenery that has most likely been included in some of your favorite TV shows and novels.

If you’re looking to castle hop, Scotland is one excellent place to do so. Some of the most breathtaking castles in the world will be at your fingertips. Get your cameras ready!

Dunrobin Castle

This French-inspired design makes Dunrobin Castle one of the largest and most beautiful castles in Northern Scotland, which sits picturesquely above a vast, green garden. In fact, one of the architects who designed this very castle, Sir Charles Berry, also designed the famous Houses of Parliament in London. The castle was built in the 1300s and features 189 rooms, so there’s a rich history and quite a lot to explore. Located in the northernmost region of Scotland, the castle is unlike any other in the country, and definitely a must-see for anyone who appreciates the meeting of Scottish and French architecture, or just pretty castles in general.

Drummond Castle Gardens

One of the most famous castle gardens in all of Europe, Drummond Castle Gardens has been featured in many a period piece, perhaps most famously in Outlander. This castle is not open to the public, but the gardens can be explored regardless. It’s also one of the largest in the country. Even if you can’t explore the castle, the views of the surrounding countryside and the castle itself are worth the trip to Perthshire, where the castle stands near Crieff.

Kilchurn Castle

This is one of the most photographed castles in the country, and for good reason. Standing at the edge of Loch Awe, Kilchurn Castle is as scenic as they come.

Castle Fraser

Though this castle has nothing to do with James Fraser on Outlander, it was used as a backdrop for The Queen and you probably want to be anywhere Helen Mirren has been. It is known for being one of the most picturesque castles in the world and has a romantic architectural edge that is truly breathtaking. Rumor is that the castle is also haunted by a princess who was murdered in the Green Room. It’s been reported that the sound of the piano can still be heard, however unexplained the sound may be.

Kelburn Castle and Country Centre

This castle is a bit of a deterrence from the usual castle. Painted entirely with murals and named one of the best urban art examples in the world, this is a castle you won’t see every day.