Get More From Your Inverness Hot Tub Cottage Break
Booking cottages with hot tubs in Inverness gives you the perfect base to explore the Scottish Highlands with a level of comfort and privacy that hotels simply can't match. You'll find everything from boutique cottages overlooking Loch Ness to secluded log cabins tucked into ancient forests and luxury lodges with private hot tubs where you can soak under the stars after a day of adventure.
Inverness sits at the northern end of the Great Glen and serves as the capital of the Highlands. The city blends Victorian architecture with modern amenities whilst the surrounding countryside offers dramatic landscapes and rich history. Whether you're planning romantic breaks for 2 or looking for large family accommodation, the area delivers year-round appeal with activities ranging from dolphin watching to whisky tasting.
What to do on a family or couple's hot tub break in Inverness
The city itself rewards exploration with its riverside walks along the River Ness and compact city centre packed with independent shops and restaurants. Beyond the urban core you'll discover castles, battlefields and lochs that have shaped Scottish history. The variety of holiday cottages means you can choose coastal cottages near the Moray Firth or remote self catering properties deep in the Cairngorms.
Sightseeing in Inverness
Inverness has transformed from a small market town into a thriving city whilst keeping its Highland character intact. The red sandstone Inverness Castle dominates the skyline above the river. Victorian Market offers covered shopping in a beautiful 19th-century building. St Andrew's Cathedral showcases Gothic Revival architecture and the Ness Islands provide peaceful woodland walks right in the city centre.
Top 5 attractions you have to see in Inverness
The region surrounding your cottage with hot tub offers attractions that span natural wonders and historical sites. From prehistoric monuments to wildlife encounters, there's something for every type of visitor whether you're on a forest holiday or staying in one of the big cottages near the coast.
Loch Ness
This famous loch stretches 23 miles southwest of Inverness and holds more fresh water than all the lakes in England and Wales combined. You can take boat tours, visit Urquhart Castle on its shores or explore the Loch Ness Centre to learn about the geology and folklore. The scenic drive along its banks makes for an excellent day trip from your holiday house.
Culloden Battlefield
The site of the last pitched battle on British soil in 1746 sits just five miles east of Inverness. The visitor centre uses immersive displays to tell the story of the Jacobite Rising. You can walk the battlefield itself with audio guides explaining the positions of both armies. It's a moving experience that brings Scottish history to life.
Chanonry Point
This narrow spit of land jutting into the Moray Firth is one of the best places in Europe to see bottlenose dolphins from shore. The dolphins often come within metres of the beach, particularly on a rising tide. The lighthouse adds photographic interest and you'll find it about 30 minutes from most holiday lets in Inverness.
Cairngorms National Park
Britain's largest national park lies on Inverness's doorstep with 1,748 square miles of mountains, forests and moorland. You can spot red squirrels, golden eagles and red deer. Activities include hiking, mountain biking and in winter, skiing at Cairngorm Mountain. Many fishing lodges and chalets offer direct access to this wilderness.
Inverness Botanic Gardens
These gardens showcase plants from tropical and temperate climates in a series of glasshouses and outdoor gardens. The tropical house maintains temperatures around 25°C year-round whilst the cactus house displays desert species. It's perfect for a relaxed afternoon and particularly appealing when the weather turns wet.
Don't Miss These...
| Attraction | What you'll experience | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Loch Ness | Boat trips on Scotland's most famous loch with castle ruins and monster hunting | Everyone |
| Culloden Battlefield | Walking the historic battlefield with immersive exhibitions about the 1746 conflict | Families |
| Chanonry Point | Watching wild dolphins from the shore in their natural habitat | Everyone |
| Cairngorms National Park | Hiking through Britain's largest national park with mountain and forest scenery | Groups |
| Inverness Botanic Gardens | Exploring tropical glasshouses and themed gardens in a peaceful setting | Couples |
Visitor FAQs
How do I get to Inverness?
Inverness Airport connects to major UK cities with direct flights from London, Manchester and Bristol. The train station offers services from Edinburgh, Glasgow and London. If you're driving, the A9 provides the main route from the south. Most holiday homes offer private parking.
What family activities are available near cottages to rent?
Families enjoy the Inverness Leisure centre with its swimming pool, the Highland Wildlife Park near Kingussie and the Landmark Forest Adventure Park. Boat trips on Loch Ness appeal to all ages. Many dog friendly properties let you bring pets on forest walks.
Where are the best romantic spots?
The Ness Islands offer peaceful riverside walks whilst Chanonry Point provides stunning sunsets. Book dinner at Rocpool Restaurant or visit the intimate cafes along Church Street. Your unique cottages with jacuzzi or hot tub provide the perfect private retreat after exploring.
What shopping options exist?
The Victorian Market houses independent retailers selling crafts, jewellery and local food. Eastgate Shopping Centre provides high street brands. Academy Street forms the main shopping thoroughfare. You'll find excellent deals on Scottish woolens and whisky.
Are hot tub stays suitable for winter visits?
Absolutely. Winter brings the possibility of Northern Lights viewing from your private hot tub. New Year in the Highlands is magical with Hogmanay celebrations. Many large holiday cottages and villas offer cosy interiors perfect for cottage breaks during colder months. Last minute availability often appears for 1 night or longer stays.
Cottages with hot tubs in Inverness combine Highland adventure with luxury relaxation. Whether you're after cheap cottages for hire or boutique retreats, isolated lodges or places to stay near the action, you'll find the perfect rental for your getaways. Visit Inverness and discover why hot tub cottages here offer some of Scotland's best self catering experiences with pools and hot tub breaks that let you explore by day and unwind by night.