Five Unique + Quirky Airbnbs in Scotland

A wooden water tower enclosed within lush Californian forests, a small fjord-side cabin surrounded by Faroese sheep, a hidden temple at the base of Crestone Peak…the list goes on and on. As most of you know, Jeremy and I are always on the hunt for the quirkiest lodging options and planning for Scotland was no exception.

We stayed in five different Airbnbs during our 10-day road trip through Scotland which started in Edinburgh, brought us through Inverness and Isle of Skye, and back down south to Glasgow. We both have our favorites, but check them out down below and let us know which one you’d spend the night in.

PRO TIP:

If one of your top priorities is unique lodging, be sure to start looking at least 5-6 months before your trip as these places usually book up quickly. We often times find ourselves planning our itinerary around the airbnb location.

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1. Georgian Flat (Edinburgh, UK)

Scotland Airbnb | Edinburgh | Georgian Flat | Where to Stay

Located in Edinburgh’s New Town, we shacked up for two nights in this beautiful Georgian-styled flat which features large windows, high ceilings, and a private garden across the street. The artistic decor transformed the space into a vintage collector’s dream and we could’ve sunk into those leather chairs and never resurfaced, drowning in the sound of the plentiful vinyl records.

Being right in the center of Edinburgh, we were just around the corner from the suburb of Stockbridge (we recommend a meal at The Pantry and a quick browse in Golden Hare Books), a quick 5 minute stroll to the Water of Leith path to Dean’s village, and a 25 minute walk to Old Town, home to popular tourist attractions such as the Edinburgh castle, the Royal Mile, and Arthur’s Seat.

2. Cozy Field House (Fort Augustus, UK)

Scotland Airbnb | Fort Augustus, Inverness | Tiny Cozy Small Field House | Where to Stay

As we embarked on our road trip and headed further north to Inverness, we decided to book a cozy field house in Fort Augustus, a settlement at the southwest end of Loch Ness. A few hundred feet off the main road, our Airbnb managed to feel remote despite being fairly close to the town center. We kept warm with heaters in the tiny space and it felt like we were having a sleepover with our lofted twin beds covered in plush blankets.

While you’re in the area, grab dinner at The Boathouse, which boasts loch-side views, and make the short drive up to Urquhart Castle, which has an incredible history dating back to the 13th century.

3. The Cowshed (Uig, Isle of Skye, UK)

Scotland Airbnb | Uig, Isle of Skye | The Cowshed | Where to Stay

During our two nights in the Isle of Skye, we took shelter from the heavy winds and rain at The Cowshed, a boutique bunkhouse in the village of Uig with hostel vibes. Our little pod was the perfect size for the two of us and we had beautiful views of the sunset over Uig bay. The communal lodge offered a large shared kitchen, snacks and drinks for purchase, WiFi, and plenty of couches and tables to lounge around and mingle with other weary travelers.

Right nearby is the hike to the Fairy Glen which features magical, natural rock formations and scattered waterfalls. Don’t forget to stop by the Isle of Skye Brewing Company as well for a quick pint.

4. The Airship (Drimnin, UK)

Scotland Airbnb | Drimnin | Airship | Where to Stay | Unique Lodging

Just, come on. If your mouth didn’t automatically drop at this Airship it must take a lot to impress you because my mouth hit the floor. Hard. With a two night minimum, we ended up planning this portion of our trip around staying at this Airship before we headed back down south.

The Airship, an insulated aluminum pod, was designed by Roderick Jamesan and offers views of the Sound of Mull toward Ardnamurchan Point. While the aluminum floors absorbed the chill from outdoors, the wood-fire stove kept us nice and toasty indoors.

We took advantage of the remote location to stay indoors, relax, and embark on some local hikes. But if you’re starting to get cabin fever, make the quick drive to visit Nc’nean Distillery for a spirit tasting (if you email ahead they’ll offer a delicious homemade lunch) or head to Lochaline for a splurge meal at The Whitehouse Restaurant. Be sure to drive carefully as the entire drive to Drimnin is a one track road; err on the side of caution and use the passing places appropriately.

5. Gerda of Glasgow Houseboat (Glasgow, UK)

Scotland Airbnb | Glasgow Houseboat | Where to Stay | Unique Lodging

We already stayed on land and air(ship) so you bet we had to check off water as well. Instead of staying in the center of Glasgow, we decided to stay in Gerda, a houseboat at Speirs Wharf just north of the city center for a bit of peace and quiet. Not to worry though, the Cowcaddens subway stop is just a 10 minute walk away and you hit downtown Glasgow in just 20-25 minutes (plus, Ubers are super affordable if the rain dampers your walking plans).

Just a few steps away you can grab breakfast at Ocho (or hit up their spa), dip into The Wee Curry Shop on Buccleuch Street, or enjoy a bottle of wine and pizza at Azzurro.