Scotland’s dramatic scenery, filled with beauty, history, tales of passion and hideaway places, is the perfect place for a couple’s romantic break, whether it’s a special weekend away or a honeymoon.
And what could make the holiday more loved up than a campervan just for two?
A charismatic campervan is a delightful way to travel together over rolling hills and majestic mountain passes, through atmospheric glens and along spectacular coasts.
Holidaying by campervan also offers limitless opportunities to stop for a romantic stroll, a bike ride or just to sit in the van and take in the fabulous views.
The only problem is there are so many fabulous places to choose in Scotland if you’re looking for romantic hotspot or a special romantic moment. Here we bring you seven of our favourites.
Seven of the most romantic places in Scotland
Sandwood Bay. Pic credit: C Savage
Sandwood Bay, Sutherland
Acclaimed as one of the most beautiful remote beaches in the UK, Sandwood Bay in the north-west of Scotland, is accessible only on foot or by boat. The stunning expanse of sand and the spectacular sea views are well worth the two-hour walk along an easy-to-find trail.
Why not take a romantic picnic, including pink fizz, for an afternoon of relaxing on the beach? See a route suggestion.
Sweetheart Abbey, near Dumfries, Dumfries & Galloway
Built in the 13th century by Lady Devorgilla in memory of her beloved husband John Balliol, Sweetheart Abbey is a poignant tribute to the enduring nature of love.
The story goes that when John died Lady Devorgilla was so distraught that she carried his embalmed heart around in a silver and ivory casket. Throughout her widowhood she spent vast sums on new churches and abbeys in honour of her lost husband, including Dulce Cor or Sweetheart Abbey.
The abbey is now in ruins but still makes an impressive sight. It is cared for by Historic Scotland. See Sweetheart Abbey
Romantic poet Rabbie Burns
The legendary Scottish poet, Robert Burns, wrote some of the world’s most famous love songs, including a Red, Red Rose, Ae Fond Kiss and A Rose-bud By my Early Walk.
Rabbie was inspired by people and places, especially his home region of Ayrshire. Why not take a stroll, hand in hand, to discover more about Burns? A Burns Walk follows a circular route of 4.5 miles in the beautiful Borders town of Dumfries. Meanwhile, the Burns’ Trail follows a route for 3.75 miles from Alloway.
While you are in Alloway, visit the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum, which charts the life and works of the influential bard.
The Wedding Ring – Lochgoilhead, Argyll
A uniquely romantic place near the Argyll village of Lochgoilhead takes the form of a set of quartz white stones in the shape of a heart and set into the surface of the road. The stone heart is located close to the junction of the A815 and B839 Hell’s Glen road.
History tells that this is the place where gypsies of Argyll once held their wedding ceremonies. However, in 1928, the road was resurfaced by the local council and the heart was covered. Objections from the gypsy community finally led to the heart being uncovered.
During the 1970s, the council widened and realigned the road, resulting in the section of road that has the heart being bypassed.
Apparently, if you step into the centre of the ring and listen carefully you will hear the many “I dos” from yesteryear’s lovers!
Bonnie bonnie banks of Loch Lomond
Loch Lomond, located in the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park, has inspired poets and songwriters throughout the centuries and is famed around the world for its natural beauty.
Drive the eastern road towards Rowardennan for the chance to take the speed to a leisurely look-at-the-views pace. There are plenty of view-tastic laybys to pull into along the way and at the end of the road is the Rowardennan Hotel, which is a great place to stop for a drink or something to eat and take in more splendid views.
The hotel is also located close to the foot of the mountain called Ben Lomond, also a superb place for a day’s hike in good weather.
To reach Rowardennan head for Drymen on the B858 just left off the A811 Stirling Road. In Drymen turn left on to the Balmaha Road the B837. After four miles you come to Balmaha. The road then narrows and heads north for around six miles. You will then come to the Rowardennan Hotel .
I love Ewe!
Loch Ewe and the surrounding area is equal amounts beautiful, remote and tranquil. And when you’re in the area you can have fun telling your loved one: “I love Ewe!” The Ewe area is in the north-west of Scotland in the Wester Ross region.
Hot air ballooning
Swap the campervan for a flight for a few hours. There can be little more romantic that a hot air balloon flight, especially on a clear day in Scotland.
Alba Ballooning organises romantic – and breath-taking – hot air balloon trips above Edinburgh and the surrounding countryside of the Lothians, as well as Fife and Perthshire.
Tell us about your favourite Scottish hotspots for romance.