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Stays with the Best Water Views in Scotland

One of the many things Scotland is abundant in is water – and not just the kind that falls from the sky. Its coastline alone is estimated to cover a mighty 18,743km; add to this 125,000km of rivers, burns and streams, 220km of canals and over 25,500 lochs, and it’s no surprise that even inland you’re never far from water.

Emma Gibbs

Written by Emma Gibbs

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Whether loch, sea or river, being by the water is hugely restorative; watching the tide ebb and flow, the clouds skid above a loch, or a burn tumble over rocks can quickly feel akin to meditation. And the best way to make the most of this? By booking a stay in a place where you can soak it up from the comfort of your own terrace, bed or sofa – not least because it means you can enjoy the setting whatever the weather.

Fortunately, Scotland is also abundant in fantastic places to stay with a water view. Whether you want to watch the weather roll in across the ocean, eat seafood pulled from the loch in front of you, or to step out of your door and onto a beach, you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to a room with a view.

Harris Hideaway

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Harris Hideaway
This clifftop couples’ retreat sits above the Sound of Taransay, with wide, enviable views towards the island of the same name and the idyllic beaches of Luskentyre and Horgabost. Ample windows and an outside bath provide plentiful opportunities to soak it all up.
Outer Hebrides
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The Lookout

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The Lookout
Perched above the surrounding farmland, The Lookout makes the most of its elevated position, with wide views stretching across open countryside towards distant hills. Large windows and a simple, contemporary interior keep the focus on the ever-changing light and landscape.
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The Net Store
You’ll find it hard to drag yourself away from the huge ceiling-to-floor window in the living room of this striking holiday cottage on the Applecross Peninsula. Look out for seals and otters while you gaze out at Loch Beag – and don’t worry, you can enjoy the view from the ground-floor bedroom as well.
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Ceannabeinne Cottage

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Ceannabeinne Cottage
This old longhouse – the last building to remain from an old township here – faces the sea from above the soft, pink-hued sands of Ceannabeinne. Once the NC500 tourers have passed through for the day, the views and the beach are yours alone to enjoy; sunsets cast the surroundings in sensational tones of peach and gold.
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Kabn
These two little cabins are tucked among the trees on the edge of Loch Fyne, mere steps from a private beach. Combining Japanese and Highland style and practicality, they are stylish but comfortable – have a dip in the loch and then warm up by the wood-burning stove.
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The Black Shed

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The Black Shed
Sitting in the foothills of Macleods Tables, looking out over Loch Dunvegan, this striking two-person house is the perfect spot for watching the weather constantly change across the island’s magnificent landscapes.
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Lochview
The biggest decision you’ll need to make at Lochview is from where to enjoy the expansive views across Loch Dunvegan: from a bedroom, the lounge, the deck, by the firepit, in the sauna or the hot tub. Fortunately, there’s no wrong choice.
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Half Of One
This is the place to come if you want rugged, soul-stirring views: the house’s clifftop position provides views of Brothers Point and out across The Minch towards the Isle of Rona. A short walk takes you down to the pebble beach here, or you can opt to soak it all up from the wide-windowed Studio, perfect for artistic inspiration.
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Rhuroin
Facing Loch Shieldaig and surrounded by woodland, Rhuroin is idyllically placed. Kayakers and wild swimmers will love being able to get onto and into the water mere steps from the house, and you’ll likely catch a glimpse of otters, herons and, in summer, dolphins.
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House of the Northern Gate

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House of the Northern Gate
Head out towards the northernmost point of mainland Britain and you’ll find this grand, exclusive-use house. Some rooms have superlative views across Dunnet Bay and its wide swathe of golden sand, while others look out at the Atlantic and the nearby hidden beach of Peedie Sands, which can be reached on a short walk from the house.
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