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The best hotels in Inverness have one thing in common: they're not your average hotels. However, don't be fooled by the quaintness of the region. Inverness is a delicacy of the UK highlands, offering unique spectacles and marvelous nature.
Why you should visit Inverness
While the bustling streets of London and the historic charm of Edinburgh often steal the spotlight, Inverness quietly awaits those seeking a different kind of adventure. The capital of the Highlands, Inverness, offers a plethora of attractions and activities that make it a phenomenal yet underrated UK destination (just don't mention the weather).
What to do in Inverness
Inverness offers a tapestry of attractions that cater to every traveller's interests. From the enigmatic depths of Loch Ness, famous for its elusive monster, to the historic marvel that is Inverness Castle, there's no shortage of sights to see. You can also head up to Culloden Battlefield to uncover the tales of Scottish history or simply take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque River Ness, which winds its way through the city.
Inverness and the Highlands, in general, are best explored in a car, but if you don't have access to one, not to worry as you can make use of the hop-on-hop-off sightseeing bus that hits all the must-see spots. And if you want to venture even further North, take one of the many tours to The Isle of Skye and elsewhere that depart from Inverness Bus Station.
The 10 Best Inverness Hotels
Now that we've covered just why you need to book a trip to the capital of the Highlands, let's explore the 10 best Inverness hotels that promise both comfort and convenience during your stay in this Scottish gem. Whether you're a solo traveler, a couple seeking a romantic retreat, or a family looking for adventure, these Inverness hotels have something for everyone.
1. Columba Hotel Inverness: A Riverside Romantic Getaway
Nestled gracefully on the banks of the enchanting River Ness, the Columba Hotel Inverness welcomes you to a world of elegance and charm. With its prime location, this hotel offers the perfect base for exploring Inverness and its surroundings. The hotel's Victorian architecture and warm ambience create an inviting atmosphere that is ideal for couples seeking a romantic escape.
The Columba Hotel boasts tastefully decorated rooms, each offering picturesque views of the river or the city. After a day of exploration, unwind in the Columba hotel's bar and restaurant, where you can savour a delicious meal while gazing at the scenic surroundings. The riverside location makes it a perfect spot for an evening stroll along the Ness Islands, just steps away.
For those with a moderate budget, the Columba Hotel strikes the right balance between affordability and luxury. It's a fantastic choice for couples looking to immerse themselves in the romance and beauty of Inverness while enjoying the convenience of the city centre.
2. Kingsmills Hotel Inverness: Luxury Amidst Highland Tranquility
Tucked away in a serene countryside setting, the Kingsmills Hotel Inverness offers a truly indulgent escape. This luxurious establishment combines modern comfort with a tranquil ambiance, making it a haven for those seeking a touch of Highland grandeur.
The hotel's facilities are nothing short of impressive, featuring a spa, a championship golf course, a fine-dining restaurant, and a bar. Whether you're in the mood for a pampering spa treatment, a round of golf surrounded by scenic beauty, or a gourmet dining experience, the Kingsmills has it all. Each room and suite is elegantly appointed, ensuring a restful night's sleep. The tranquil countryside setting provides a peaceful backdrop for relaxation, while the city center remains just a short drive away.
Kingsmills Hotel is the perfect choice for those looking to indulge in luxury and serenity during their stay in Inverness. It's a romantic retreat for couples, a golfer's paradise, and a sanctuary for anyone seeking respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
3. Mercure Hotel Inverness: Modern Comfort in the Heart of the City
For travellers who value both modern comforts and easy access to Inverness's vibrant city centre, the Mercure Hotel Inverness is an excellent choice. Situated in the heart of Inverness, this hotel offers a blend of convenience and contemporary amenities.
The Mercure features well-appointed rooms equipped with all the modern conveniences you'd expect, making it suitable for both business travelers and families. The city's attractions, including Inverness Castle and the bustling shopping streets, are just a stone's throw away.
In the evenings, guests can dine at the hotel's restaurant, savoring a mix of traditional Scottish and international cuisine. For a nightcap, the bar offers a selection of fine spirits and cocktails.
If you're looking for a comfortable, central base to explore Inverness, the Mercure Hotel is a solid choice. It's perfect for those who wish to experience the city's vibrant atmosphere without compromising on modern comforts.
4. Royal Highland Hotel Inverness: History and Comfort at Your Doorstep
Perched adjacent to Inverness's iconic train station, the Royal Highland Hotel is a testament to the city's rich history and Victorian grandeur. This historic establishment offers travellers a unique blend of nostalgia and modern comfort.
The hotel's architecture, with its stunning Victorian features, transports you back in time while providing all the contemporary amenities you need. The rooms exude old-world charm while ensuring a comfortable stay. Plus, the convenience of being next to the train station makes it an excellent choice for travelers arriving by rail. One of the Royal Highland Hotel's standout features is its restaurant, where you can savour traditional Scottish dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. The adjoining bar is a cosy spot to enjoy a dram of whisky or a pint of local ale.
This top Inverness hotel is tailor-made for history enthusiasts and train travelers, allowing you to step back in time while still enjoying modern conveniences. The city centre, with its shops and attractions, is just a short walk away, making it a convenient choice for exploring Inverness.
5. Loch Ness Inn: A Cosy Retreat Near the Legendary Loch
Nestled in the charming village of Drumnadrochit, the Loch Ness Inn offers a cozy retreat for those intrigued by the mysteries of Loch Ness. This inn provides a warm and welcoming atmosphere that is perfect for travelers seeking relaxation and adventure.
The Loch Ness Inn is conveniently located just a stone's throw away from the shores of Loch Ness, making it an ideal base for exploring the famous loch and its surrounding attractions. The inn's comfortable rooms offer a comfortable night's rest, ensuring you're ready for a day of Loch Ness exploration.
After your Loch Ness adventures, return to the inn's restaurant, where you can indulge in hearty Scottish cuisine and perhaps a wee dram of whisky to warm your spirits. The friendly atmosphere of the inn and its proximity to Loch Ness make it a popular choice for those enchanted by the legend of the Loch Ness Monster.
6. The Clansman Hotel: Lochside Views and Highland Comfort
For a truly immersive Highland experience, The Clansman Hotel, perched on the shores of Loch Ness, is an excellent choice. This hotel offers not only comfortable accommodation but also breathtaking views of the world-famous loch.
The Clansman Hotel's rooms provide a cosy retreat after a day of exploring the Highland landscapes. Wake up to the gentle lapping of the Loch Ness waters and take in the mesmerising scenery right from your window. The hotel's restaurant showcases a selection of Scottish delicacies, including fresh seafood and locally sourced ingredients. It's an excellent place to savour traditional Scottish fare while enjoying Loch Ness views.
Beyond the Loch Ness enchantment, The Clansman Hotel offers easy access to the Urquhart Castle ruins and the Loch Ness Visitor Centre, making it an ideal choice for history buffs and Loch Ness enthusiasts.
7. Glen Mhor Hotel & Apartments: Riverside Elegance in Inverness
Situated on the banks of the River Ness, the Glen Mhor Hotel & Apartments offer guests a blend of elegance and convenience. This establishment provides a variety of accommodation options, including apartments, making it suitable for families and extended stays.
The hotel's riverside location ensures a tranquil ambiance while being just a short walk from Inverness city center. Each room and apartment is tastefully decorated, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Glen Mhor's restaurant offers a diverse menu featuring locally sourced ingredients and a selection of whiskies and cocktails at the bar. The riverside terrace is a delightful spot to enjoy a drink while taking in the scenic beauty of the River Ness.
This hotel's versatility and prime location make it an excellent choice for families and those seeking spacious, self-catering options while still having the amenities and services of a hotel at their disposal. Why not take the kids to the nearby Inverness Leisure Centre or ice rink for a fun family day out? And you can finish off the day with a play at Inverness' famous Whin Park that even has it's own miniature train.
8. Aviemore Highland Hotel: Adventure in the Heart of the Cairngorms
Nestled in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park, the Aviemore Highland Hotel beckons adventure seekers and nature lovers alike. This hotel offers a unique Highland experience amidst the stunning landscapes of Aviemore and is only a short train journey from Inverness.
The Aviemore Highland Hotel boasts comfortable rooms with modern amenities, making it an ideal retreat after a day of outdoor activities. From Aviemore, you can easily access the Cairngorm Mountain Range, where you can enjoy activities such as skiing, snowboarding, and hiking, depending on the season. The hotel's restaurant serves hearty Scottish fare, perfect for refuelling after a day of adventure. You can also unwind in the hotel's bar with a selection of beverages and a cosy atmosphere.
Aviemore, known for its natural beauty and outdoor adventures, is an excellent choice for those seeking an active Highland holiday. The Aviemore Highland Hotel places you at the doorstep of the Cairngorms, ensuring you make the most of your time in this picturesque region.
9. Glen Affric Estate: Wilderness Retreat Amidst Natural Splendour
For those seeking an off-the-beaten-path Highland hotel experience surrounded by pristine wilderness, the Glen Affric Estate is a hidden gem worth discovering. Located in the heart of Glen Affric, often described as one of Scotland's most beautiful glens, this estate offers a unique retreat amidst natural splendor.
Accommodation at Glen Affric Estate varies from charming cottages to spacious lodges, providing a range of options for families, couples, and groups of friends. Each property is carefully designed to blend harmoniously with the stunning natural surroundings, offering a truly immersive Highland experience. As you step outside your accommodation, you'll find yourself immersed in the breathtaking landscapes of Glen Affric. Explore the ancient Caledonian pine forests, follow hiking trails that lead to tranquil lochs, and keep an eye out for local wildlife, including red deer and golden eagles.
The Glen Affric Estate is perfect for those who seek a digital detox and a reconnection with nature. While there are no bustling city centers or fancy restaurants here, you'll have the opportunity to experience the true essence of the Highlands, where the beauty of the outdoors takes center stage. Consider packing your own supplies or booking guided experiences to make the most of your stay, as the Glen Affric Estate offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the wilderness of the Scottish Highlands.
10. Jurys Inn Inverness: Modern Comfort in the Heart of Inverness
Situated in the vibrant heart of Inverness, Jurys Inn offers a contemporary and convenient base for travellers looking to explore the city and its surrounding attractions. This modern hotel combines comfort and style, making it a popular choice for a wide range of guests.
Jurys Inn Inverness boasts well-designed and spacious rooms, each equipped with modern amenities to ensure a comfortable stay. Whether you're traveling for business or leisure, you'll find the accommodations cater to your needs.
One of the standout features of Jurys Inn Inverness is its central location, making it an excellent choice for city explorers. Many of Inverness's attractions are within easy walking distance, including the historic Inverness Castle, the shopping streets of the city center, and the scenic River Ness. The hotel's restaurant offers a varied menu that caters to different tastes, and the bar provides a relaxing environment to enjoy a drink after a day of exploration.
For those arriving by train, Jurys Inn is conveniently located near Inverness train station, ensuring a smooth transition from your journey to your comfortable accommodations. Jurys Inn Inverness is well-suited for business travelers, city explorers, and tourists eager to experience Inverness's dynamic atmosphere while enjoying the conveniences of modern hotel living
Gift the gift of a night at one of these hotels in Inverness with a hotel gift card
Now that you're captivated by the allure of Inverness and its selection of top hotels, why not share this Highland experience with your loved ones? Hotelgift offers the perfect solution with their hotel vouchers. Yep, that's right, you can buy a hotel gift card to give someone the chance to stay at one of these top Inverness hotels and explore the Highlands for themselves.
But that's not all; a hotel gift card provides flexibility that extends far beyond Inverness. Recipients can use them to explore hundreds of other incredible destinations in the UK and abroad, making it the best last-minute gift for any travel-loving soul.
Inverness, with its rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and world-class hospitality, is a destination that deserves to be uncovered and cherished. So, pack your bags, book your stay at one of Inverness's finest hotels, and prepare to embrace the warm Highland hospitality that awaits in this hidden gem of the UK.
