7 Last Minute Self Catering Cottages in Scotland

Scotland’s breathtaking highlands, serene lochs, and historic castles set the stage for an unforgettable escape. Staying in a self-catering cottage allows you to immerse yourself in the local culture, with the flexibility to prepare your own meals and discover the surroundings at your leisure. However, securing the ideal self-catering holiday cottage in Scotland at the last minute can sometimes be challenging. You might face issues like limited availability, soaring prices, and difficulty finding the best locations that suit your preferences. Such obstacles can turn your dream vacation into a stressful experience. To simplify your search, we've gathered a selection of the 7 best self-catering cottages Scotland has to offer, ensuring you find a perfect retreat for a seamless and enjoyable escape.
16 August 2024 11 min read
st ives self catering with parking

Discover the 7 Best Self Catering Cottages for Holidays in Scotland

Whether you’re looking for a cosy retreat for two or a spacious getaway for a larger group, these 7 self catering cottages in Scotland cater to diverse preferences. From cottages with luxurious hot tubs and pet-friendly policies to properties offering self catering with sea view in Scotland, you’ll find the perfect spot to suit your needs.

1. Stargazer by Luxury Cottages

If you’re searching for luxury self catering in Scotland for 2, Stargazer is the perfect choice for your romantic getaway. Spread across four acres of erene and sheltered grounds, you’ll be surrounded by a sparkling lake, a stunning waterfall, and charming woodlands. If soaking in a private hot tub amidst this scenery is your idea of relaxation, then this is the ultimate choice for self catering in Scotland with hot tub.

Inside, you’ll love the spacious living area with its open-plan layout, hand-carved windows, and cosy underfloor heating. The bespoke kitchen is fully equipped, allowing you to enjoy the ease of self catering in Scotland while preparing delicious meals to savour at the two-seater dining table, all while taking in the beautiful views. After a day of exploring, you can unwind on comfortable sofas with a bespoke glass flame effect fire and a Smart TV.

Outside, you can enjoy an alfresco lunch by the lake, taking full advantage of the natural beauty that surrounds you. To elevate your experience, you can pre-book beauty treatments or massages, all in the privacy of your treehouse. With WiFi, secure parking, and a laptop-friendly workspace, Stargazer ensures that your last minute self catering in Scotland is as relaxing or productive as you need it to be.

Stargazer is one of self catering cottages in Scotland

Highlights

  • No of Rooms: 1 
  • Capacity: Up to 2 Guests.
  • Kitchen Amenities: Dishwasher, Hot water boiling tap, Microwave, Fridge, BBQ – charcoal, Electric oven, Electric hob.
  • Local Attractions:  Close to Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, Benmore Botanic Garden, Argyll Forest Park, and the charming town of Dunoon.
  • Price: Starts from £373 per night.

2. The Dell Of Rothiemurchus At Seasgair by Handpicked Cottages

The Dell Of Rothiemurchus At Seasgair offers a spacious three-floor layout with ample room inside and out, making it perfect for self catering for large groups in Scotland. The well-equipped kitchen has everything you require for luxury self catering in Scotland, whether you’re preparing meals yourself or hiring a private chef to handle the cooking. The terrace, accessible through French windows from the kitchen, is perfect for a long, leisurely breakfast while overlooking the expansive lawn.

Located in a prime area for self catering in North East Scotland, the lodge features beautifully appointed bedrooms. These provide comfort and privacy for everyone in your group, including your pets, making them ideal for dog-friendly self catering holidays in Scotland.

You can enhance your experience of self catering in Scotland with a hot tub where you can unwind after a day of exploring. Next to the hot tub, a massive firepit with seating around three sides offers a cosy spot for evening gatherings. 

On the other side, there is a gas-fired barbecue range that is large enough to cater for the entire house, with plenty to spare. You can even hire a BBQ chef to take care of the grilling, ensuring your self catering holidays in Scotland are as effortless as they are enjoyable.

Book The Dell Of Rothiemurchus for self catering holidays in Scotland.

Highlights

  • No of Rooms: 11 
  • Capacity: Upto 24 Guests.
  • Kitchen Amenities: Aga range cooker, Wood Burning Stove, Dishwasher, BBQ equipment, Coffee Machine
  • Local Attractions: Close to Loch an Eilein, Cairngorms National Park, Rothiemurchus Estate activities (fishing, shooting, archery), Highland Wildlife Park, and Aviemore ski slopes.
  • Price: Starting from £3,238 for 7 nights.

3. Greenhill Lodge & Cottage by Elite Cottages 

Perfect for large family holidays or groups of adults, Greenhill Lodge & Cottage offers an exceptional experience in luxury self-catering in Scotland. With stone floors and airy hallways adorned with vintage furniture and artwork, the property exudes opulence and a warm country charm, creating a welcoming atmosphere for your stay.

As one of the best self catering options in Scotland, this lodge features a spacious kitchen/diner with a breakfast table that seats ten. It is equipped with all the essential amenities to make self catering for large groups in Scotland convenient and enjoyable.

For more formal gatherings, a separate dining room with bold décor and seating for twenty is perfect for your self catering in Scotland. If you need a quieter spot to unwind, the snug offers a cosy retreat with a TV and a library of books, while the games room provides entertainment with a pool table.

You’ll find a range of rooms at the property, including elegant en-suite double bedrooms, cosy twin rooms, and a luxurious master bedroom. The adjoining cottage adds even more space, featuring a modern double room, a second kitchen, and an additional dining area. 

With plenty of outdoor space for activities and ample parking, this property is also ideal for dog-friendly self catering holidays in Scotland, ensuring every member of your group, including pets, has a memorable stay.

Greenhill Lodge & Cottage offers last minute self catering in Scotland

Highlights

  • No of Rooms: 11
  • Capacity: Up to 20 Guests (16 in the main lodge and 4 in the adjoining cottage).
  • Kitchen Amenities: Electric and gas ovens, Woodburning stove, Electric and gas hobs, Microwave, 2 fridge/freezers, 2 dishwashers.
  • Local Attractions: Close to Floors Castle, Cessford Castle, Kelso Abbey, and Jedburgh Castle Jail; nearby opportunities for fishing, golfing, and walking through woodlands and hills.
  • Price: Starts from £3,575 for 7 nights.

4. Inverallan House by Sykes Cottages

Inverallan House, a magnificent 18th-century property, is an exceptional choice for self catering holidays in Scotland. The house offers several spacious bedrooms, each with its own en-suite facilities, ensuring comfort and privacy for all guests. The well-equipped kitchen is perfect for self catering in Scotland, allowing you to prepare meals for your group with ease.

Once the meal is ready, you can savour your creations in the elegant dining room, where the long table and classic oil paintings on the walls add a touch of grandeur to your dining experience. For those seeking extra relaxation, you can request a private chef at an additional charge, making it an excellent option for last minute self catering in Scotland.

Surrounded by beautifully maintained lawned gardens, the house provides an ideal setting for leisurely afternoons or evening gatherings with outdoor furniture at your disposal. The property is highly praised for its cleanliness, and the added luxury of a complimentary housekeeping service allows you to focus entirely on exploring the local area or simply unwinding.

Located near the River Spey, Inverallan House offers easy access to activities such as fishing, walking, and even whisky tasting at nearby distilleries, making it an excellent choice for self catering in North East Scotland.

Book Inverallan House for self catering in Scotland

Highlights

  • No of Rooms: 7
  • Capacity: Up to 15 Guests.
  • Kitchen Amenities: Microwave, 2 dishwashers, Gas range cooker, Fridge, Freezer.
  • Local Attractions: Close to Cairngorms National Park, Whisky distilleries, Grantown-on-Spey golf courses.
  • Price: Starts from £2,779 per week.

5. Clachtoll Cottage

Clachtoll Cottage is a true gem for those seeking self catering cottages in Scotland. The moment you step inside, you’ll be captivated by the extensive library of books, exquisite paintings, and assorted artwork that fill the rooms with warmth and intrigue. With its unique décor and breathtaking views of the rugged Atlantic coastline, this is truly one of the finest self catering holiday cottages in Scotland, ensuring that your stay will be both relaxing and visually inspiring.

Inside, you get a well-equipped kitchen and a six-seater dining table, making meal preparation and dining a breeze. This arrangement allows you to fully enjoy the comfort and convenience of self catering in North West Scotland. 

Whether you prefer low-level walks through ancient woodlands and hidden river valleys or the challenge of high-level mountain treks, the area offers something for everyone. The iconic mountains of Assynt provide spectacular views from their summits, and for water enthusiasts, the stunning beaches close by and easy access to the sea are perfect for swimming, kayaking, and more, offering the best self catering with sea view in Scotland.

Whether you’re planning a family vacation or seeking last minute self catering in Scotland, Clachtoll Cottage promises a memorable and luxurious experience that will leave you longing to return.

Book Clachtoll Cottage for the best last minute self catering Scotland offers.

Highlights

  • No of Rooms: 3
  • Capacity: Up to 6 Guests.
  • Kitchen Amenities: Electric cooker, Electric oven, Microwave/oven, Fridge, Freezer, Dishwasher, Toaster, Electric Kettle, Cutlery.
  • Local Attractions: Close to Clachtoll Beach, Assynt mountains, Quinag and Suilven mountains, Ardvreck Castle, and Lochinver, offering activities like hiking, wildlife watching, and water sports.
  • Price: Starts from £1,050 per week.

6. Morning Lodge by Hoseasons

For those looking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Scottish Highlands, Morning Lodge is an ideal choice for self-catering in West Highlands Scotland. As you settle into this cosy retreat, you’ll be welcomed by beautiful views of the surrounding landscapes, including dramatic coastal scenery and a serene environment perfect for unwinding.

The lodge is perfectly suited for self-catering in central Scotland, featuring a fully furnished kitchen that makes meal preparation both easy and enjoyable. The interiors are warm and inviting, with traditional Scottish decor that adds a touch of local charm to your stay.

When you’re ready to explore, you can venture out to the rugged coastline, hike in the nearby hills, or enjoy bird watching. For those seeking more adventurous pursuits, there are many options for water sports, fishing, and exploring local historical sites. After a day of adventure, you can relax in the lodge’s private hot tub, making it a perfect choice for those seeking a self-catering Scotland with hot tub experience.

The lodge is also pet-friendly, allowing you to bring up to two dogs for an additional charge. This makes it ideal for dog-friendly self-catering holidays in Scotland, where the whole family can enjoy the stunning surroundings together. If you’re especially looking for luxury self-catering in Scotland for 2, Morning Lodge offers the perfect setting for a memorable stay.

Morning Lodge offers luxury self-catering in Scotland for 2.

Highlights

  • No of Rooms: 1
  • Capacity: Up to 3 Guests.
  • Kitchen Amenities: Refrigerator, Dishwasher, Electric oven, Microwave, Toaster, Kettle.
  • Local Attractions: Close to Loch Shuna, ideal for water sports, fishing, and exploring local historical sites, as well as hiking and wildlife watching in the surrounding area.
  • Price: Starts from £455 for 7 nights.

7. The Sea Cottage by Finest Retreats

The Sea Cottage is the ultimate retreat for those craving a peaceful escape on Scotland’s stunning coastline, especially ideal for luxury self-catering in Scotland for 2. Inside, you’ll find a cosy living room where you can relax on comfortable seating, enjoy Wi-Fi, and watch your favourite shows on a flat-screen TV—all while gazing out at the sea through the windows.

Get free quotes from local chefs

Whether you're hosting a special celebration dinner, looking for a chef during your holiday or weekly meal prep, we will match you to the perfect chefs.

Start here

If you enjoy cooking, the fully equipped kitchen provides everything you need to create your own meals, ensuring a perfect self-catering in North East Scotland (If you’re in the mood for something special, you can always hire a private chef to craft a memorable dinner.) 

The open-plan layout, featuring a lounge and dining area, has French doors that open onto a patio. Here, you can dine alfresco with the sea as your backdrop, making it a prime spot for self-catering with sea view in Scotland.

The garden surrounding the cottage is a haven for birdwatchers, and if you’re lucky, you might even spot dolphins or seals playing in the bay. If you’re seeking a last-minute self-catering Scotland offers, The Sea Cottage provides the perfect setting for a serene holiday.

Book The Sea Cottage for self catering in Scotland.

Highlights

  • No of Rooms: 2
  • Capacity: Up to 4 Guests.
  • Kitchen Amenities: Refrigerator, Microwave, Oven, Freezer, Dishes/Cutlery, Toaster, Kettle. 
  • Local Attractions: Close to Fortrose Cathedral, Groam House Museum, Rosemarkie Beach, Fortrose & Rosemarkie Golf Club, Inverness Airport.
  • Price: Starts from £455 per week.

The Secret to a Luxurious Stay in Scotland’s Self-Catering Cottages

The self-catering holiday cottages in Scotland listed above offer unmatched comfort and the freedom to tailor your schedule while enjoying delicious home-cooked meals. However, spending every day in the kitchen during your vacation, juggling ingredients and recipes, can feel overwhelming when you could be exploring Scotland’s stunning landscapes or simply unwinding. 

Why not hire a private chef who can handle all your culinary needs while you fully immerse yourself in your vacation? A private chef can come directly to your self-catering cottage in Scotland and prepare personalised meals tailored to your dietary preferences at a fraction of the cost of dining out. They handle everything—from sourcing the freshest ingredients to cooking and cleaning up afterwards. 

And if you’re out exploring most of the time, you can book meal prep experts to create customised meals that you can quickly reheat later, ensuring you can enjoy gourmet meals at your convenience after a day full of adventures.

Platforms like yhangry connect you with the top private chefs in Scotland, allowing you to effortlessly enhance your vacation with a luxurious private dining experience in just a few clicks.

FAQs

“Self catering” in Scotland refers to accommodations where guests are provided with a kitchen that is fully equipped, allowing them to prepare their own meals during their stay.

Room-only accommodations provide a place to stay without meal services, whereas self-catering includes a fully equipped kitchen for preparing your own meals. Self-catering offers more flexibility and independence for dining.

For self catering holidays in Scotland or elsewhere abroad, pack essential cooking items like a versatile knife, a basic set of utensils, and your favourite spices and non-perishables. Don’t forget practical items such as reusable storage containers and any special dietary products you might need.

Hiring a personal chef for your self catering cottage in Scotland lets you enjoy gourmet meals without the effort of cooking, adding a touch of luxury and convenience to your Scottish getaway.