by Is there any better way to relieve strenuous hiking endeavors – whether that’s climbing Munros or tackling cities – than with a top-of-the-line treatment in one of Scotland’s best Spas? Whether it’s the pool with a view, thermal rooms and Scottish seaweed (or cashmere) wraps, or the appeal of new-fangled ice fountains, light therapy and nutritional counseling, it’s easy to find a hotel spa to de-stress, detox and indulge to remove from it. Here’s our insider’s guide to the best spa hotels in Scotland, including the top for infinity pools, expert treatments, saunas and outdoor hot tubs, in places like the Scottish Borders, Highlands, Argyll, Edinburgh and Glasgow.
How we review
Each hotel on this curated list has been visited by one of our expert reviewers, and is usually hosted on a free basis. They stay for at least one night, test at least one meal and try other experiences the hotel may have.
The Spa at Gleneagles, where a Scottish baron meets a French chateau, is probably the best spa hotel in Scotland; a sublime haven of cyborg pleasures with an added element of health, offering complementary and alternative therapies delivered by professional practitioners and therapists. The range of ESPA offers covers every face and body treatment possible. For the sake of total well-being, indulge yourself in one of the signature treatments. With saunas, steam rooms, a hydrotherapy ‘vitality’ pool and stunning relaxation areas, you won’t want to leave.
• The best hotels in Scotland
Where James Bond would stay in Scotland: A 19th-century Scottish Baronial style mansion on a private island accessed by bridge, set amidst glorious west-west scenery. The renowned spa (which also has a 17 meter swimming pool) uses ESPA products, as well as the increasingly popular Scottish Ishga range. There are many activities on offer, from putting and croquet on the lawns to archery and clay pigeon shooting. A six- to nine-hole golf course (depending on terrain), walking trails through mixed woodland, and tennis in an indoor sports hall provide entertainment in all weathers.
• An expert guide to a weekend in Edinburgh
The views from the Sheraton are unbeatable, with Edinburgh castle rising behind and Arthur’s Seat lurking in the background. The facilities are also impressive, particularly the spa – said to be the biggest and best in Edinburgh – with a hydro pool on the roof, a thermal room, a plunge pool, a wide range of treatments and, for those is in Hurry, the Now by One Spa professional salon. services. The themed afternoon teas are completely indulgent and the bar is the best place to enjoy gin in the city. The quality and ambition of the restaurant will also surprise you.
• The best hotels in Border Scotland
Although a prominent Edinburgh landmark for over a century, there’s nothing old-fashioned about this flagship Forte. Sumptuous bedrooms, a Michelin-starred restaurant, sumptuous afternoon teas in the Palm Court are a sophisticated 21st century version of a truly grand hotel. The Ritual Spa offers Rocco Forte and ESPA treatments, as well as a 15 meter swimming pool, sauna, steam room and gym. Food-wise, the Michelin-starred Number One restaurant always delights with great Scottish ingredients (whiskey-smoked salmon, Inverurie hogget), delivered with refined delicacy and a pleasingly patent complexity.
• The best spa hotels in Edinburgh
This soothing destination spa, an hour away from Edinburgh, has an exclusive and exclusive feel. Its style is very much a game of two halves: there is a clear contrast between the warm colors and decorative opulence of the living side with the sleekly contemporary spa. This luxury enclave, which offers a comprehensive range of treatments, therapies and activities in a smart, skilful modern addition. While it may not be a destination for foodies, the spa is so impressive you probably won’t notice.
• The best hotels in the Cairngorms
Built on the site of an old railway station, this hotel boasts one of the most iconic views in the world of golf. But there is much more to him than golf. The spa, which focuses on innovative and sophisticated water and bath therapies, features world-class facials and massages using Comfort Zone, Voya and Phytomer products and Margaret Dabbs manicures and pedicures. Dining here is also a relaxing experience as you watch the empty golf course gradually become full of players, horses galloping along the beach and the sky turning blue.
• The best hotels in Edinburgh
Port an Madaí is situated on the shores of a sea lake at the end of a single track road on the Comhaltaigh peninsula, a place known as ‘Secret Argyll’. Although only a few hours’ drive from Glasgow, it is a peaceful hideaway amongst the hills and forests, with romantic views across Loch Fyne to the hills of Kintyre and the Isle of Arran. It is a £10 million spa and leisure complex boasting a 16-metre indoor pool, saunas, gym, outdoor spa pools and Scotland’s largest outdoor heated infinity pool (pictured). Panoramic windows guarantee saunas and relaxation rooms with a view.
Contributions by Gavin Bell, Fiona Duncan & Robin McKelvie
