Conjuring up romance effortlessly and with subtlety, Scotland is a stunning destination in which to celebrate your love for each other. For the backdrop to your honeymoon here, expect dazzling skylines of moody mountaintops, emerald-green glens, myriad remote, sand-rimmed islands ideal for escaping or eloping, and a mysterious fortress or three for every horizon. But for vacationing newlyweds, what truly makes this land so romantic are the stories that lace each place you pass through: legacies of great romantic writers like Sir Walter Scott, tales of trysts involving the likes of Mary, Queen of Scots and more. Here are the most romantic destinations in Scotland for honeymooners, with suggestions of what to do in each.
## A Scottish Honeymoon: An Unforgettable Romantic Escape
Scotland, a land of ancient castles, breathtaking landscapes, and captivating history, offers an idyllic setting for a honeymoon that will be etched in your memories forever. From the vibrant city of Edinburgh to the rugged beauty of the Isle of Skye, Scotland presents a diverse tapestry of experiences perfect for newlyweds seeking adventure, romance, and unforgettable moments.
**A Glimpse of Paradise: Scottish Honeymoon Destinations**
Let’s explore some of the most enchanting destinations Scotland has to offer for your honeymoon, each promising its own unique charm and allure:
| **Destination** | **Reasons to Go** |
| :————————– | :—————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————– |
| **Edinburgh** | Magnificent historic buildings such as Edinburgh Castle, beautiful parks and walks, a vibrant cultural scene, and an undeniably romantic atmosphere. |
| **Perthshire** | Beautiful gardens brimming with vibrant flora, grand palaces and majestic castles whispering tales of bygone eras, dramatic viewpoints offering panoramic vistas, and breathtaking scenery that will leave you spellbound. |
| **Loch Lomond & the Trossachs** | Beautiful, historic lochs reflecting the surrounding mountains, glorious walking trails winding through picturesque landscapes, and the chance to follow in the footsteps of romantic poets inspired by this very land. |
| **Northwest Highlands** | The iconic Jacobite Steam Train journeying through stunning landscapes, uncrowded mountain scenery offering unparalleled tranquility, and a sense of remoteness that allows you to truly connect with each other and nature. |
| **Isle of Skye** | Iconic mountains piercing the sky, serene lochs mirroring the surrounding beauty, dramatic rock formations sculpted by time, and a poignant history that adds another layer of depth to this magical island. |
## Crafting Your Dream Scottish Honeymoon: Planning is Key
Before embarking on your Scottish adventure, a little planning will ensure a seamless and unforgettable experience.
The primary international airports serving Scotland are located in Edinburgh and Glasgow, both conveniently situated in the central southern region. Many of the honeymoon-worthy attractions lie to the north of these cities. Perthshire is readily accessible within a 1- to 2-hour drive from Edinburgh, while Loch Lomond & the Trossachs is a mere 30 minutes to 1.5 hours from Glasgow. Venturing further north to the Northwest Highlands and the Isle of Skye requires a longer journey, typically between 3.5 and 6 hours by car from Glasgow.
## Immerse Yourselves in the Beauty and History of Edinburgh
Edinburgh, without a doubt, deserves a prominent place on any Scottish itinerary. It is, quite simply, one of the world’s most captivating capital cities, a jewel nestled amidst stunning natural landscapes. The city’s setting is truly breathtaking, cradled by the ancient volcanoes of Holyrood Park and Calton Hill, bordered by the shimmering expanse of the Firth of Forth on one side, and framed by the rolling Lammermuir Hills on the other. Edinburgh possesses an undeniable appeal for honeymooners, perhaps even more so than for other travelers.
Your exploration of Edinburgh must begin with **Edinburgh Castle**, a formidable structure perched atop a craggy volcanic rock in the heart of the city. Its history stretches back to the Iron Age, and within its walls, you can marvel at treasures such as the **Regalia of Scotland**, Europe’s oldest crown jewels. Be sure to visit the **Camera Obscura**, Edinburgh’s pioneering tourist attraction, offering unique and breathtaking panoramic views of the city.
Next, take a leisurely stroll hand-in-hand with your partner down the historic **Royal Mile**, exploring the enchanting cobbled alleyways that branch off from either side. This iconic street, once hailed by writer Daniel Defoe as “the largest, longest and finest street… not only in Britain but the world,” leads to the magnificent **Palace of Holyroodhouse**, the official residence of the Royal Family in Scotland. Explore the palatial property, including **Queen Mary’s Bedchamber**, where Mary Queen of Scots witnessed the tragic murder of her secretary, David Rizzio, at the hands of her jealous husband, Lord Darnley. After your tour, indulge in a delightful **champagne afternoon tea** together in the palace cafe, savoring the exquisite treats and reflecting on the rich history you’ve encountered.
For a romantic interlude, wander along the **Water of Leith**, a picturesque waterway winding through the city. A particularly charming section flows through the idyllic **Dean Village** and the adjacent **Dean Gardens**, a peaceful oasis amidst the urban landscape. Consider visiting **St Bernard’s Well**, a popular spot for proposals, and pause to admire the delightful 18th-century Greco-Roman style well, topped with a cupola. Afterward, treat your loved one to a delectable lunch or dinner at **No 35 at the Bonham**, a nearby restaurant renowned for its elegance and culinary excellence.
Venture beyond the city center to discover even more romantic destinations. Explore the expansive **Holyrood Park**, where you’ll find **Arthur’s Seat**, a stunning viewpoint offering panoramic vistas of Edinburgh. Alternatively, embark on a journey to the mysterious **Rosslyn Chapel** or the romantic ruins of **Linlithgow Palace**, the birthplace of Mary Queen of Scots, each steeped in history and intrigue.
## Discover the Beauty of Perthshire: Gardens, Palaces, and Castles
Journeying up Scotland’s east coast, Perthshire marks the point where the Lowlands dramatically transform into the Highlands. Similar to Loch Lomond & the Trossachs, the contrasting landscapes create some of the most enchanting scenery in the country. **Perth**, the regional capital, is an excellent starting point for honeymooners.
A romantic highlight is the exquisite **Branklyn Garden**, a flourishing two-acre hillside oasis. Developed in the 1920s using seeds sourced from international plant collectors, it showcases a vibrant and diverse collection of flora. **Huntingtower Castle** is another must-see, consisting of two separate towers that were later joined. It’s famous for the **Maiden’s Leap**, the story of Dorothea, who leaped between towers to avoid being discovered with her lover. Just outside Perth lies the vast **Scone Palace**, the historic coronation site of the Kings of Scots. The gardens invite a delightful stroll, where you can get lost in the **pinetum** or the spectacular **hedge maze**.
A romantic trip to Perthshire isn’t complete without exploring Highland Perthshire. **Pitlochry**, a pretty town, offers performances at the **Pitlochry Festival Theatre**, scenically situated on a hillside overlooking the River Tummel, a standout rural cultural venue. A tour of **Edradour**, Scotland’s smallest and quaintest traditional distillery, provides a memorable insight into the whisky industry. You might also enjoy watching salmon leaping up the **Pitlochry Fish Ladder**, built to help fish migrate upstream after the dam’s construction. If you appreciate spectacular views, visit **Queen’s View**, offering dramatic panoramas over Loch Tummel.
## Unveiling the Charms of Loch Lomond & the Trossachs: Scotland’s Prettiest Countryside
While the Scottish Highlands are undeniably lovely, the most beautiful regions are often the transitional zones between Lowland and Highland Scotland. Loch Lomond & the Trossachs, known as the “Gateway to the Highlands,” was Scotland’s first national park, blending Highland mountain drama with gentle Lowland landscapes.
Begin your romantic escape at **Loch Katrine**, Scotland’s most romance-infused loch, the setting for Sir Walter Scott’s *The Lady of the Lake* and Rossini’s *La Donna del Lago*. Take a **boat trip** on the lake and discover its inspiration to William Wordsworth and Queen Victoria, and its connection to Rob Roy. The lake has been a visitor attraction since the Victorian era, with scenic **trails** and **viewpoints**. **Loch Lomond** has also inspired verse, famously in *The Bonnie Banks of Loch Lomond*. It’s the UK’s largest freshwater lake, where you can escape on a **boat trip** or hike the **West Highland Way** along its eastern shore beneath Ben Lomond. For a longer hike along the divide between Lowlands and Highlands, explore the **Rob Roy Way** linking Drymen near Loch Lomond with Pitlochry in Highland Perthshire. Enjoy the region’s beauty at leisure on the 7-mile **Three Lochs Forest Drive**, perhaps Scotland’s prettiest driving tour.
## Discovering the Wild Side: The Northwest Highlands Beckon
If you and your partner share a passion for the wild and untamed, the Northwest Highlands offer the perfect backdrop for your romantic escape. This region, part of the Scottish Highlands, is a tapestry of dramatic mountains, glorious glens, and enchanting lochs, yet it remains less frequented than the southeastern area along Loch Ness.
Begin your journey west from Fort William on the iconic **Jacobite Steam Train** to Mallaig, which famously served as the Hogwarts Express in the Harry Potter films. Along the way, you’ll pass through **Glenfinnan**, renowned for its striking **viaduct** featured in the Harry Potter movies. Historically, Glenfinnan carries the poignant memories of the Jacobite Rebellion, the final attempt to restore a Scottish monarch to the throne. The **Glenfinnan Monument** stands as a tribute to the Highlanders who perished in the conflict, marking the spot where Bonnie Prince Charlie’s standard was raised. Further along the route to Mallaig, you’ll encounter the stations of **Arisaig** and **Morar**, nestled amidst fabulous gold sand **beaches**, including **Camusdarach Beach**, featured in the romantic comedy *Local Hero*. From Mallaig, you can catch a ferry to the Isle of Skye or continue north into the Northwest Highlands via the Skye Bridge.
Just beyond the Skye Bridge lies **Eilean Donan Castle**, one of Scotland’s most romantic castles, beautifully positioned on a tidal island. Further north, the mountainous terrain surrounding Loch Torridon, Loch Maree, and Loch Ewe exudes romance. **Torridon** is an idyllic village for you to linger, backed by what mountaineers consider the most glorious mountain scenery in Scotland. Hike the nearby Munro peaks like **Beinn Alligin**, with sea loch waters shimmering below. Follow moorland roads north to **Loch Maree**, the region’s largest loch, famous for a love story about a Viking prince and princess, attracting kayakers. Near Poolewe is **Inverewe Gardens**, where exotic plants flourish thanks to the Gulf Stream.
## Isle of Skye: A Land of Legends, Landscapes, and Lasting Memories
Even for those who haven’t yet visited, the Isle of Skye, with its dramatic mountains, holds a prominent place in the imagination, perhaps thanks to the renowned *Skye Boat Song*. The song recounts Bonnie Prince Charlie’s escape from the Outer Hebrides to Skye, aided by Flora MacDonald. For those captivated by this tale, stop at **Flora MacDonald’s Grave** near Portree. Visit the **Clan Donald Centre** at **Armadale Castle and Gardens** to learn about Flora’s clan, once the most powerful family in Scotland and the reason Skye was once the center of the ‘Lords of the Isles.’
Skye’s main attraction is its gorgeous scenery, offering countless places for walks, picnics, and shared moments. Stroll to the crystal-clear **Fairy Pools**, framed by the Black Cuillins. Explore the **Trotternish Peninsula** for the **Old Man of Storr** and the **Quiraing**. Treat your loved one to a **boat trip on Loch Coruisk**.
Skye offers romantic approaches: travel via the Jacobite Steam Train or Eilean Donan Castle.
A Scottish honeymoon promises an experience unlike any other, filled with breathtaking landscapes, fascinating history, and moments of pure romance. From the vibrant city of Edinburgh to the rugged beauty of the Isle of Skye, Scotland offers a diverse array of destinations and activities to create memories that will last a lifetime. Embrace the spirit of adventure, immerse yourselves in the rich culture, and let the magic of Scotland weave its spell on your honeymoon.
B-2236