Wrapped in autumn, Edinburgh glows at this time of year – making it the perfect starting point for any Scottish tale. And you’ll feel truly cocooned in a cabin on board Fingal, a luxurious floating hotel docked in charming Leith. Featuring bespoke throws and cushions crafted by Araminta Campell and inspired by the heathers and hillsides of Scotland, you may not want to step outside (but trust us, it’s worth it). Fingal’s Lighthouse Restaurant champions Scottish produce, and at this time of year, a secret Perthshire foraging spot frequented by the team yields aromatic Chanterelle mushrooms. Delicious. Alternatively, for the seclusion of a private estate just minutes from the city centre, don’t miss Prestonfield House, where unique character meets Scottish heritage in the opulent interiors – the house has long enjoyed a distinguished position at the centre of Scotland’s social and artistic scene.

The city sings, but the countryside calls – so hitting the road north, don’t miss the chance to see where the magic happens at Araminta Campell Atelier, a castle-like baronial farmhouse just outside Edinburgh. Witness the artisan process of weaving, from carefully hand-threaded warps to finishing touches like steaming, brushing, and signature stitched tassels, while admiring vintage looms, masterpieces in their own right.

Settle in for a night (or two!) at nearby Cromlix, who can even arrange private shopping trips to the Atelier for guests, the ultimate artisan indulgence. The bold and stylish aesthetic here is warm and inviting, echoing the vibrant hues of the nature found on the doorstep. Forge a deeper connection to the natural bounty of Scotland with a foraging experience around the estate, led by a local expert.

Deeper still this journey weaves its way into the Scottish landscape, heading further north into the Cairngorms – where castles, wildlife, and dark skies are best enjoyed on a crisp autumn day. Curl up at The Fife Arms in Braemar, where a custom design by Araminta Campbell wraps you in Scottish craftsmanship across the hotel’s immersive interior design, and the heritage staff uniforms. You simply couldn’t be anywhere else. Don’t forget to visit the Aladdin’s cave of a gift shop while you’re here, where you can pick out a souvenir of the bespoke Fife Arms tartan – and then hit Bertie’s Whisky Bar for the all-important wee dram of Scotland’s finest. With over 500 whiskies on offer, we recommend lingering a while…