Cottage – Your Ideal Scottish Getaway

If you’re dreaming of a cozy spot with a fire, wild scenery, and a friendly host, a cottage is the answer. In Scotland, cottages range from stone-built farmsteads to modern lofts tucked beside the loch. They give you enough space to relax but still feel the local vibe. Below you’ll find straight‑to‑the‑point advice on what a cottage really is and where the best ones hide around Loch Ness.

What Makes a Cottage a Cottage?

First off, a cottage isn’t just a small house. It’s a building that grew out of a working farm or a village home. Typical features include thick walls (stone or brick), low‑profile roofs, and a front garden that often backs onto a field or a body of water. Inside you’ll see exposed beams, a fireplace or modern wood‑burner, and a kitchen that feels lived‑in rather than showroom‑ready.

Size matters less than character. A five‑room farmhouse can still be called a cottage if it keeps the traditional look and feels like a home, not a hotel. You’ll also spot details like sash windows, wooden shutters, and sometimes a thatched roof. Those touches tell you the place is built for staying, not just passing through.

Where to Find the Best Cottages Around Loch Ness

Loch Ness isn’t just famous for a monster; it’s a hotspot for cottage lovers. The loch’s northern shore offers stone cottages with panoramic water views. On the southern side, you’ll find timber‑frame retreats surrounded by pine forest. Both sides give quick access to walking trails, boat tours, and village pubs.

Here are three quick picks:

• Invermoriston – A short drive from the loch, this village has several self‑catered cottages that let you cook your own meals. Look for properties with a private garden; they’re perfect for kids or pets.
• Drumnadrochit – The most tourist‑friendly spot, you’ll find historic cottages right by the loch’s edge. Many have modern upgrades like Wi‑Fi and en‑suite bathrooms while keeping the original stone façade.
• Glen Urquhart – If you prefer more privacy, head inland to this valley. The cottages here sit on larger plots, offering space for a BBQ or a small hike right from your doorstep.

Booking tips? Start early in the spring if you want the summer rush. Check the National Trust for discount days – they sometimes offer lower rates for members. Always read recent guest reviews; they’ll tell you if the wood‑burner works or if the bathroom needs a renovation.

When you walk into a cottage, ask the host about local supplies. Many hosts stock tea, coffee, and basic pantry items, which can save a trip to the nearest super‑market. Some even provide guidebooks for nearby hikes, fishing spots, and the best places to grab a haggis.

Finally, remember that a cottage experience is about slowing down. Pack a good book, bring a blanket for evenings by the fire, and leave the city noise behind. Whether you’re here for a weekend or a week‑long stay, the right cottage turns a simple trip into a memory you’ll keep talking about for years.