Where to go and what to do on a spa break in Scotland

The many and varied aspects of Scotland have been attracting visitors for centuries. From the rugged Highlands to dramatic lochs, buzzing cities to picturesque towns and villages. From R&R to outdoor activities, here are some of our top things to do and spa hotels to stay at in Scotland.

Things to do in Scotland

Scotland is a big place and there are obviously many incredible sites to see, places to visit and activities to enjoy. To give you a taste of what you can look forward to, here are a few favourites.

Visit historic sites

From the historic Royal Mile and the spectacular Edinburgh Castle, set atop an extinct volcano, to The Scottish National Gallery, The Burrell Collection, or Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum set within Kelvingrove Park in Glasgow. From The Real Mary King's Close - one of Edinburgh's top attractions and only preserved 17th-century street - to the mesmerising views at the Glenfinnan Monument in the Highlands. Scotland is brimming with a history that's so rich you can practically feel its presence. Make sure you have some time to take in as much as you can.

Explore Scotland's nature reserves

Scotland's natural beauty is widely reported, so strolling in its nature reserves is a must. From geoparks in the Highlands and RSPB reserves in the Outer Hebrides, see the wonders of Forsinard Flows in Caithness, the dramatic Knockan Crag in the first UNESCO Global Geopark, or maybe the array of waterside wildlife at St Abbs.

Paddleboard on the lochs

The lochs are synonymous with Scotland, but why not explore them in a slightly different way? Get closer to nature with tranquil travel via stand-up paddle board (SUP), and boost your health at the same time. Find operators at the likes of Kenmore, Ganavan Bay, the River Almond near Edinburgh, Loch Kinord in Royal Deeside, Loch Lomond, the Forth of Firth, the Union Canal and more.

Hike the world's only UNESCO Trail

Scotland is the first country in the world to bring together 13 UNESCO sites into one trail, so for walkers it's total paradise. The whole thing takes you around sites from the south of Scotland to the islands of the Outer Hebrides, Orkney and Shetland, the north, and then back to central Scotland. You probably won't be doing the whole thing in one trip, but that’s just a good reason to come back time and again.

See the Northern Lights

One of nature's most theatrical performances, the Aurora Borealis is a sought after sight that you can sometimes see from the Isle of Skye between October and March. Northern Scotland sits on the same latitude as Stavanger in Norway and Nunivak Island in Alaska, giving you a good chance of spotting the unique display. Keep an eye on the Aurora Forecast to discover the best time to visit.

Explore Edinburgh's many neighbourhoods

Edinburgh is a city of many characters, from the enchanting Dean Village to the shores of Leith - the port district in the north of the city, home to hip creatives, waterfront bistros and traditional pubs. A popular feature is the former royal yacht, Britannia, famously beloved by the late Queen Elizabeth II.

Go to the beach

Edinburgh is not known for its beach, but head to the coastal suburb of Portobello and you will discover a jewel in Scotland's town. A beautiful beach, lined with cafes, bars and restaurants as well as the opportunity to visit unique independent shops on the high street.

Shop 'til you drop

What would a spa break be without a little retail therapy? Edinburgh’s stylish, St James Quarter is a gem for shopping and dining. Meanwhile, Glasgow is home to a wonderful shopping scene, from independent shops at The Hidden Lane, to vintage and pre-loved outlets like Glad Rags Thrift, not to mention weekend markets like Merchant Square Craft & Design Fair every weekend.

Enjoy a gin or whisky experiences

What would a trip to Scotland be without a little whisky? Across the country you will find gin and whisky experiences at distilleries including the popular Johnnie Walker Princes Street to The Port of Leith Distillery as well as Lind & Lime Gin.

Have a night out

Alongside the beautiful restaurants and bars at Scotland's hotel spas, its cities really do know how to have a good time. From Scotland to Glasgow and beyond, there are chic bars, city pubs and a wide array of foodie options to enjoy.

Go to green spaces

Whether you travel into the Highlands or stay in the cities, there's always green space to reveal in. For example, Glasgow is home to over 90 parks and gardens, from cooking up a little culture as you take the Charles Rennie Mackintosh Trail or the Contemporary Art Trail, hop on a boat to take it all in from the water or even meeting friendly Highland cows at Pollok Country Park.

Listen to the music

The Scots have a talent for music that's deeply rooted in their culture and it's celebrated in all forms today for everyone to enjoy. For example, Glasgow is one of the 19 UNESCO cities of music in Europe, so it's the perfect place to enjoy live events at iconic music venues like the Barrowland Ballroom, which also features on a Glasgow Music City Tour.

Scotland spa hotels to stay in

Amongst the many things Scotland is known for, hospitality is definitely one. Excellent pubs, beautiful inns, charming restaurants - they all abound, but alongside them there are also some spectacular spa hotels. Here's a little taste of what to expect.

Mar Hall, Glasgow

In this five-star grand mansion you’ll feel like royalty, thanks to the grandeur of the architecture, the plush furnishings and the opulent surroundings. The wooded estate offers plenty of outdoor trails for walking or running but it’s the spa that gives you the ultimate in relaxation. With first-class facilities, including a thermal suite (in the Garden Spa) and 25-metre swimming pool, a luxury menu of spa therapies is available to help you unwind and feel utterly spoiled.

The Address, Glasgow

A four-star hotel in the heart of the city, The Address Glasgow is a stylish getaway perfect for any occasion, welcoming groups, couples, business travellers and those visiting for leisure. They have a range of wellbeing facilities, including a beautiful Himalayan sauna, where their wellbeing magic is at its pique. It's worth noting there are no spa treatments available.

One Spa at the Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa, Edinburgh

Located in the UNESCO World Heritage city centre of Edinburgh, Sheraton Grand Hotel and Spa is a luxurious hotel that’s perfect for romantic breaks, special occasions or simply just because. An urban resort, it offers everything you could want from a city spa break, complete with modern luxury surroundings and a full hydrotherapy suite and a rooftop hydro pool, where you can enjoy an indoor-outdoor warm water whole body experience.

Murrayshall Country Estate, Perthshire

Set in 365 acres of Perthshire countryside, including 27-holes of parkland golf, Murrayshall Country Estate is a four-star retreat surrounded by towering trees and total tranquillity. Alongside stately rooms and suites and award-winning dining, it's an opportunity to explore nature, enjoy outdoor activities and then unwind with a treatment or two using Scottish organic seaweed products from Ishga.

AWAY Spa at W Edinburgh, Edinburgh

In the impressive St James Quarter of Edinburgh, AWAY Spa at W Edinburgh is a five-star hotel with cosmopolitan style. It's romantic, contemporary, and has a buzzing atmosphere, but also offers rest and relaxation. Alongside stylish rooms, some of the most impressive spaces are in the restaurants. Head to SUSHISAMBA for panoramic city views while you tuck into Japanese, Brazilian and Peruvian fare, and the unique rooftop W Deck at the W Lounge with 360-degree views of the city. The cherry on top is the AWAY Spa, which brings Hollywood-style glamour to Scotland. The treatment rooms are a particular feature, drawing on the healing powers of nature's elements and incorporate them into the treatments and surrounding environment.

Gleneagles, Perthshire

A magical retreat famous for its golf, Gleneagles is a go-to wellness destination as well as a luxury hotel in Perthshire. Five-star all the way, it was first conceived as design homage to the French aristocracy’s chateaux tradition, and that sense of decadence remains today. Vast in its range of opportunities, it has multiple dining experiences including the intimate two Michelin-starred gastronomic delight, Andrew Fairlie and The Century Bar with its collection of whiskies. Meanwhile, the spa offers wellness and decadence, with a specialist team of osteopaths, physiotherapists, acupuncturists, beautiful facilities, and ESPA treatments. There's also the separate Bob & Cloche, set within the grounds, offering beauty inspired by the Jazz age and the perfect space for private group gatherings.

Fairmont St Andrews, St Andrews

In a lofty position on the cliffs above St Andrew’s Bay, the five-star Fairmont St Andrews, is a luxury destination and well known for its two championship golf courses. Set within 520-acre it has a variety of dining experiences and serves a superb afternoon tea. The hotel spa is a destination in its own right, inspired by land, sea, and the Celtic lore of myths and magic, its facilities include a gym, 16-metre pool, sauna, and steam room. Meanwhile, treatments use a combination of ESPA products and Ishga Skincare, famous for its use of hand-harvested seaweed from Hebridean Islands off the North West coast of Scotland.

Spa at Charlotte Square, Edinburgh

Overlooking one of Edinburgh’s prettiest private garden squares, Charlotte Square Hotel is a haven of luxury where you can enjoy culture, style and some time for yourself in the contemporary spa. Made up of seven interconnecting Georgian townhouses in the heart of the New Town, a UNESCO world heritage site. Inspired by the golden age of travel, its restaurant, BABA, is especially popular. The spa offers the best of modern wellness and fitness facilities, from a stylish gym to treatments using natural, organic ingredients in the OSKIA and Ishga skincare ranges. Oskia is known for its luxurious and potent ingredients, while Ishga was developed on the Isle of Lewis using Scottish seaweed.