A 2 nights break in Scotland is the perfect way to explore the rich culture and breathtaking history of this magnificent country. It is also home to buzzing bars and restaurants, boutique shopping, and some of the best outdoor adventures in the world. But if you’d rather relax in a country inn, holiday home in Scotland country break will be more your style. Here are some recommendations to make your Scotland break a memorable one:
Loch Lomond Arms
The boutique hotel in Luss is located near Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park. It combines its original features with modern conveniences. Each of the 14 rooms at Loch Lomond Arms has its own character, including Egyptian cotton bedding and feather pillows. Breakfast is hearty and served at the bar in the cosy bar. Local dishes are served in the restaurant. Guests can order packed lunches to take along to local attractions.
The Loch Lomond Arms Hotel is a convenient location for visiting Helensburgh and Alexandria. It is just a short drive from the Trossachs National Park. The hotel offers a two-night break with a chilled bottle of Prosecco on arrival. For a romantic getaway, book a two-night break with dinner and a private view of the loch.
This luxury hotel has 14 en-suite bedrooms, with private balconies or decks overlooking the loch. Each room has a flat-screen TV with Freeview channels and a modern bathroom. Breakfast is complimentary and features locally sourced ingredients. Guests can choose from a range of hot and cold drinks, as well as pastries and other breakfast items. If you prefer a lighter breakfast, opt for the lighter options.
Macbeth Arms
Book a stay at the Macbeth Arms in Lumphanan, Scotland, and enjoy free WiFi and free public parking. The bar has a pool table and dartboard for your enjoyment, and each room comes equipped with a flat-screen TV and tea and coffee making facilities. Breakfast is continental, and includes hot and cold beverages, cereals, pastries, and toast. You can also choose lighter breakfast options.
Clovenfords Country Inn
Staying at the charming and affordable Clovenfords Country Inn in the Scottish Borders is the perfect way to experience the beauty of Scotland’s National Park. This charming country inn is within 10 miles of Old Gala House, the Torwoodlee Golf Club, and the city of Melrose. Guests are treated to garden views, free WiFi, and express check-out and luggage storage. Free self-parking is available onsite.
The sub-continent to me stood for a land of energy, mystery, spirituality, colour and love. I fantasised about riding around on trains and smelling the heat and energy of the place. Of seeing elephants and tigers, colourful saris, prayer ceremonies on the banks of the ganges, chaotic streets blocked by slow moving cows and so much more.
But beyond that, Incredible India has just always held an inexplicable draw for me. It has tugged at my heart strings. And I know I’m not the only one.
Six years on from that first time visit to India – and many subsequent solo trips to India, this is what I’ve learned. Over the last 6 years I’ve spent over 18 months travelling and staying in India. India has even become a part of me – and I’ve come to learn a little of what to expect travelling India and how to prepare for travel in India – whether it’s for the first or tenth time.
So grab a cup of something hot and keep reading to find out what you need to know to plan the trip to India you’ve always dreamed of.
India Travel Update 2022
After almost 2 years of closed borders to International tourism, India officially removed all travel restrictions and quarantine requirements for inbound travellers to India in March 2022. Regular scheduled international flights have now resumed, and tourist visas are being issued.
Prior to travelling to India, passengers are required to fill in a form via the Air Suvidha portal (check the latest instructions with your airline) in addition to any requirements put in place by your carrier. Travellers are advised to self-monitor their health on arrival in India for 14 days.
Since travel rules are subject to change, do (continue to) check with official sources for updates on Covid-19 travel protocols, such as your government’s travel advisory.
For how to plan a trip to India in the current time, find all my planning resources for India here.
First Time India: What to Expect.
The Average travel advice for India is full of cliches such as “expect the unexpected”, or even “prepare to lose yourself”. Unhelpful as they might sound, there’s a reason for these cliches. Over my journeys to India I’ve come to realise that life somehow seems much “larger” there – there’s the chaos, the bustle, the beauty, but also the sheer number of people somehow ensure, that whatever your opinions on what to expect from your first trip to India, you’ll never be quite right.
So here are my own versions of the cliches, based on this traveller’s experiences:
Boarding my flight from Bangkok to Delhi, I posted on my Facebook page “Ready for India… I think” one of my friends wrote back “You are never ready for India. But the good thing is, India is always ready for you!”
Leave your expectations on the plane. It’s one thing to read about India in books and see pictures. It’s another to be there. Prime example: the Taj Mahal (a must for any visitor, despite its overburdening popularity). No matter how many pictures of the Taj Mahal we’ve all seen, there is nothing that prepares you for the actual beauty of the place To Places in Pune. Glistening white in the morning sunshine, rising from the misty river banks behind. Just like the Taj, first time India is an experience best enjoyed without expectations and pre-judgements.
India will teach you patience. This is one of the few things you can be certain of. Getting frustrated when things don’t go to plan or you discovered you’ve been ripped off in some transaction does not serve us well. Understanding up front that ‘staring’ is not considered particularly rude by many, and that you may attract quite a few stares during your trip, will help keep your patience in tact too. In short—in a country where the lateness of trains is measured not by hours late but by quarter, half or full day late—adapting an open, go with the flow attitude makes travel in India a lot more enjoyable. Which brings me to my next point…
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Seaton Estate
If you are planning a family holiday, a 2 nights break at Seaton Estate in Scotland would be perfect for you. The resort is situated amongst deep woodlands and boasts stunning sea views. A family holiday at Seaton Estate is perfect for all the members of the family as the estate offers activities such as pony trekking, cycling, beachcombing, and more. You can also enjoy a day trip to Arbroath, which is a nearby town.
The estate also offers private static caravans that guests can rent. These offer comfortable accommodation and sea views. Guests can also make use of the estate’s golf course or children’s adventure trail. There are numerous other activities for families at Seaton Estate. The property is also located within walking distance of a beautiful sandy beach. The living room has a wood-burning stove and WiFi, so you can stay connected to the internet and get your work done.
During your stay at Seaton Estate, Scotland, you can take advantage of the 25% discount for two nights. The holiday village offers panoramic views of the sea and is located 30 minutes away from the capital, Edinburgh. There are many things to do in the area, including golfing, hiking, and fishing. If you’re looking for a relaxing break, you’ll be pleased to know that there are plenty of other options available.
Stirling’s Hotel Colessio
Located in the heart of historic Stirling, 2 nights at Stirling’s Hotel Colessia will take you back in time. This classic Victorian hotel has been beautifully renovated to include modern amenities. The spacious rooms feature plush furnishings, modern bathrooms, and plasma TVs. Free Wi-Fi is available in public areas. Parking is free. A complimentary continental breakfast is served daily.
The elegant Grill Room and the contemporary cocktail bar are the perfect places to start your day. Afterwards, enjoy afternoon tea in the hotel’s elegant lobby. If you plan to travel in winter, some facilities may be closed, so call ahead to check on the hotel’s schedule. The hotel is located close to Stirling Castle, so you can enjoy the sights and sounds of the city while enjoying a romantic evening.
Guests can choose from two options: the Lost Guest House Stirling, which has more traditional, yet inexpensive accommodation. Rooms at this hotel include free toiletries, a kettle, and air conditioning. The rates are based on a two-night stay for two people. The hotel is situated on the edge of the city, but is within walking distance of the city centre. Although the hotel is a small city, everything is within ten minutes’ walk.
Grassmarket pub crawl
If you are planning a break in Edinburgh, you should not miss the Grassmarket pub crawl during your 2 nights break in Scotland. Located at the foot of Castle Rock, the Grassmarket offers breathtaking views of Edinburgh Castle and city. It is also famous for its cosy pubs, independent shops, and markets. Visitors and locals alike will be drawn to this lively area. My personal favourite is Biddy Mulligans, an Irish pub with a stunning rooftop terrace.
On your trip to Edinburgh, be sure to try out the famous Adam Lyal tour, which takes you through the old town. You will get to hear about the city’s dark past, including hangings, plague, and witchcraft. You’ll also hear stories about Grassmarket ghosts and spooky occurrences. You won’t want to miss the chance to explore the Grassmarket’s ghosts.
The White Hart Inn is the oldest pub in Edinburgh. Legend says that King David I hunted a white stag in the pub’s cellar. Visitors can enjoy the history behind the pub’s name while enjoying a drink at the bar. You can drink real ales or malt whiskies in this historic building. If you’re a big drinker, Grassmarket is the perfect place to stop for a few pints and a hefty beer.
3 Isles Tour
On a 3 Isles Tour 2 nights break in Scotland, you can see the most beautiful sights, while enjoying the most popular Scottish cuisine. On your trip, you will also see the iconic Scottish landmarks including the city of Edinburgh and the castle of Edinburgh. The castle features medieval decor, and is where the first Harry Potter book was written. Bagpipes are one of the sounds that will truly make you feel like you are in Scotland. During your stay, you can see bagpipe players performing demonstrations and lessons and entertain you with songs and dancing throughout a three course meal and drinks.
If you are planning to spend a lot of time outdoors on your Scottish Highlands itinerary, be prepared for the weather to be unpredictable. You may experience snow or rain, depending on where you are staying. Winter is the coldest time of year, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. The hottest months are July and August. The rainiest months are October to March, while the driest are September and April.
