Whether you want to escape the hustle of city life for a peaceful country break, find a fantastic base for your adventurous outdoor activities with friends, or spend some quality time with extended family in stunning natural surroundings, our Wild Scotland Accommodation members have got you covered. We have all kinds of options to explore, including hostels, campsites, self-catering properties and outdoor centres, which cater to both small and large groups.
Let’s have a look at some of the best places for groups to stay in Scotland in 2026!
Self Catering
Self catering is usually a good bet for a group trip. Divvy up the shopping, cooking and cleaning tasks or, for a real treat, find a local chef to come in and cater for you: a great way to enjoy a special evening while supporting local businesses and enjoying the best of Scottish produce. Find the right property for your group with holidaycottages.co.uk, which has been providing a first-class service to its guests for over 30 years. With over 350 properties sleeping groups of 6 and above, you’re certain to find your perfect choice.
Fancy staying in a castle? Our member Cottages & Castles has a fine selection of Scottish castles available for majestic self-catering holidays, which sleep from 4 to 25 guests.
Self-catering works well for your furry companions too. Canine Cottages has a fantastic selection of dog-friendly properties across Scotland, which sleep from 2 to 32 people.
For an island adventure on the west coast of Scotland, escape to the magical Isle of Carna, where you’ll have a private island to yourselves, and help conserve native wildlife at the same time just by being there. Carna House sleeps 8, Carna Cottage sleeps 6, and you can rent both at the same time for a group of up to 14.
For groups of 6+, or for a larger group to be together but also have their own space, then check out the beautiful Ellary Estate Cottages. Situated in Argyll on the west coast of Scotland, Ellary holiday cottages and chalets offer a truly indulgent retreat for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a harmonious blend of nature and relaxation.
Another unique self-catering option is the stunning accommodation at Ardtornish - a mixture of Victorian Apartments and stone built cosy cottages, set within a spectacular landscape in an area of natural beauty. Also on the west coast of Scotland, Ardtornish sits on the shores of Loch Aline on the Morvern peninsula. With flexible accommodation options for smaller or larger groups, there is also an on-site cafe, The Coal Shed. Plenty of opportunity for relaxation, nature immersion and outdoor activities brings together all of the ingredients essential for guests to make a connection that will last a lifetime.
Outdoor Centres
Outdoor Centres are a great option for larger groups and also offer the opportunity to try outdoor activities under expert instruction - the perfect blend of comfort, nature and excitement. For family and group adventures, check out our member Benmore Outdoor Centre. Let their expert team help craft a unique experience that brings your group together and leaves lasting memories. Located just over an hour from Glasgow, but a world away from the everyday.
Further north, Lagganlia Outdoor Centre offers self-catered stays for families and groups at weekends and during school holiday times. Families, friends and groups can take advantage of five very comfortable lodges, while the main house accommodates larger groups. Three large lodges can sleep up to 18 people, making them perfect for group accommodation. The two smaller lodges offer a cosy stay for 6 or 10, with the luxury of a hot tub included. The beautiful Cairngorms National Park provides a prime location for exploring wild landscapes and enjoying wide skies.
Hostels
Hostel or bunkhouse accommodation is great for groups and those looking for a cheaper place to stay. Most hostels and bunkhouses in Scotland have self-catering facilities, an extra benefit for keeping costs low. The options vary from the simplest bunkhouses to modern and comfortable hostels. Hostelling Scotland is a not-for-profit charity with 28 youth hostels and 24 affiliate hostels providing affordable, welcoming accommodation in some of the best locations across Scotland. With well-equipped self-catering kitchens, drying rooms and laundry facilities, and many with breakfast and other catered options, hostels are perfect for adventurous groups that want to explore Scotland.
The Dolphin Inn is an independent hostel in Dunbar with eleven rooms offering a mix of double, single, family and bunk accommodation. Outside the large courtyard offers secure bike storage and there is a laundry/ drying facility and self catering kitchen. The perfect base for adventure, exploring and discovery in East Lothian.
Camping & Glamping
Loch Ness Shores Camping & Caravanning Site - campsites.co.uk
Camping & Glamping are fantastic options for groups that want to stay close to nature. Scotland is blessed with some truly incredible campsites, while glamping offers a more comfortable choice for those who prefer a little luxury! Our member campsites.co.uk has over 300 sites to choose from across Scotland, including camping, glamping and touring sites. Perfect for groups who want to be together yet have a little separation in their own sleeping quarters.
If your group is looking for an island adventure - and some whisky tasting! - then you can’t beat Islay Glamping Pods, set in tranquil Lagavulin Bay, Islay. Each pod sleeps up to 4 people, so another great option for groups who want to explore together and have their own space to retreat to at the end of each day.
Hotels
Finally, for certain kinds of group gatherings, a hotel is the best option. Each person, couple or family can have their own space, with no need to worry about self-catering. Our Wild Scotland member hotels have fantastic restaurants on-site, so you can choose whether to dine in or out. The Boat Country Inn is situated overlooking the Cairngorm mountains on the platform of the Strathspey Steam Railway in Boat of Garten, an ideal base for exploring the Cairngorms National Park. Enjoy hearty seasonal food and Scottish Craft Beers and Gins, Malt Whiskies and quality wines in the restaurant. Nearby in Aviemore, The Cairngorm Hotel offers an authentic taste of Scottish hospitality, with 32 en-suite bedrooms, many with stunning mountain views.
Further south, McKays Hotel, Bar & Restaurant in Pitlochry is a dog-friendly establishment that offers you a place to relax, eat, drink and enjoy live music every weekend. An excellent base for your group - make memories and explore Highland Perthshire.
In Inverness, the Glen Mhor is the perfect base for your Highland adventure. With both hotel and apartment accommodation to choose from, a fantastic city-centre riverside location, and a distillery and brewery on-site as well as delicious food, your group will have the best time at this unique destination.
Header image: Benmore Outdoor Centre