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The Loch Tay Boathouses: Luxury Waterfront Cabins in Scotland

Welcome to the Loch Tay Boathouses, romantic accommodation on the banks of a loch deep in the heart of Perthshire, Scotland.

log cabins in scotland
Scandinavian-style Loch Tay boathouses sitting on the shoreline with calm loch water and hills in the background.

The vibe:

Beautiful Scandinavian-style boathouses perched right on the edge of Loch Tay, offering luxury and contemporary studio apartments with breathtaking, eye-level views across the water. Think cosy wood-burning stoves, vintage charm, wildlife at your doorstep.

Book The Loch Tay Boathouses


Welcome to the Loch Tay Boat Houses

Let me introduce you to your new dream place to stay in Scotland — tucked away in the heart of Perthshire.

From the outside, Osprey, Oyster, Dipper and Waterfall Cottage look like something lifted from a Scandinavian design magazine: sleek timber exteriors, clean lines and a perfect lochside setting.

Inside, they are luxury studio apartments designed for relaxation, cosy yet contemporary, stylish yet welcoming.

Expect eye-level views of the loch from the sofa, vintage touches, soft lighting and the magic of a crackling wood-burning stove after a day outdoors.

Luxury boathouse on the edge of Loch Tay in Perthshire with wooden decking overlooking the water.

Why stay at the Loch Tay Boathouses?

If you’re searching for a romantic getaway in Scotland or a peaceful weekend escape, this place ticks every box:

  • Ideal base for exploring Highland Perthshire
  • Although the boathouses sit next to each other, they’re spaced far enough apart to feel peaceful and private.
  • Waterfront accommodation with uninterrupted loch views
  • Luxury self-catering studio apartments some with hot tubs on the deck
  • Private access to the lochside for beach bbqs and winter fires
  • Cosy wood-burning stove for colder months
  • Private decking perfect for morning coffee or evening wine
  • Incredible wildlife right outside your window

But don’t be surprised if you wake up to a few curious visitors — we shared our mornings with ducks, a bold pheasant and my favourite guests of all, a pair of cheeky red squirrels who appeared like clockwork to steal nuts from the bird feeder.

They were so friendly I was even chittered at a few times just for walking by.

Inside the Loch Tay Boathouses: cosy, calm and beautifully designed

The real magic of the Loch Tay boat houses isn’t just their location.

Inspired by clean Scandinavian style, each cabin feels bright but deeply cosy, the kind of place you instantly want to curl up in with a coffee and watch the loch change colour throughout the day.

Large picture windows are the true highlight. Instead of looking towards the water, you feel almost suspended above it, with the loch stretching out right at eye level.

The layout: compact luxury done right

Each boat house is a cleverly designed studio space, proving that small doesn’t have to mean cramped. Everything has its place, and the layout feels open and airy rather than crowded.

Inside you’ll typically find:

  • A comfortable king-size bed positioned to make the most of the views
  • A cosy seating area perfect for slow mornings or evenings by the fire
  • A fully equipped kitchen for relaxed self-catering stays
  • A stylish dining space ideal for long dinners and glasses of wine
  • Contemporary bathrooms with a boutique-hotel feel

It’s the sort of space where you can cook a lazy breakfast, wander back into bed with coffee, and never feel like you’re missing out by staying indoors.

Inside of the Loch Tay Boathouses with view over the loch
Red Squirrels sitting in a tree in Scotland

Things to do around the Loch Tay Boathouses

If you can tear yourself away from the log burner, there’s plenty to explore nearby — from gentle village wandering to full Highland adventure.

1. Go on a Highland Safari

Take a thrilling 4×4 tour through the hills, climbing up to 3000ft before heading back down to feed red deer. A great option for families or wildlife lovers.

2. Explore Kenmore and Aberfeldy

Visit the pretty Perthshire villages of Kenmore and Aberfeldy, full of independent shops, cosy cafés and local charm — including the famous Highland Chocolatier.

3. Whisky tasting at Dewar’s Aberfeldy Distillery

Whisky lovers should make time for Dewar’s Aberfeldy Distillery (note: often closed on Sundays). Tours and tastings give a brilliant insight into Scottish whisky heritage.

4. Watch a film at the Birks Cinema

Step into the beautifully restored Birks Cinema, a charming 1920s cinema showing new releases and independent films.

5. Visit Pitlochry and Dunkeld

Cross the A9 to explore the picturesque towns of Pitlochry and Dunkeld, including the historic Dunkeld Cathedral and the woodland trails of The Hermitage.

6. Walk to Acharn Falls

A short drive away you’ll find Acharn Falls, a dramatic series of waterfalls hidden in ancient woodland — perfect for a short scenic hike.

7. Visit the Scottish Crannog Centre

Discover how people lived on ancient loch dwellings at the fascinating Scottish Crannog Centre, a brilliant stop for history lovers.

8. Hike Ben Lawers

Outdoor enthusiasts can tackle Ben Lawers, the 10th highest mountain in Scotland, or explore the surrounding nature reserve famous for rare alpine plants.

View over Loch Tay towards Kenmore from the boat houses

This was the view from our deck… stunning isn’t it?

View over Loch Tay from the boat houses

Loch Tay Boat Houses FAQs

Where are the Loch Tay Boathouses located?

They sit right on the shores of Loch Tay in Highland Perthshire, Scotland, making them ideal for exploring nearby villages, hikes and whisky distilleries.

Are the Loch Tay Boathouses good for couples?

Yes, they’re especially popular for romantic getaways thanks to their privacy, cosy interiors and beautiful loch views.

Is there wildlife around the boat houses?

Absolutely. You can spot ducks, red squirrels, pheasants and other local wildlife right outside.

When is the best time to visit Loch Tay?

Spring and summer offer warmer weather and long daylight hours, while autumn and winter are perfect for cosy fires and atmospheric loch views.

Do you need a car?

A car is highly recommended to explore nearby villages, hiking trails and attractions around Loch Tay.

Love from, Scotland x

More places to stay in Scotland



20 responses to “The Loch Tay Boathouses: Luxury Waterfront Cabins in Scotland”

  1. onlybyland avatar

    Loch Tay looks beautiful even with the cloudy/rainy weather. I don’t think I’ve ever seen a red squirrel, so seeing your photo with 2 of them in is pretty special. Big Ben lawers is what I’d like to do, being in the top 10 mountains of Scotland makes it a noteworthy challenge.

  2. asoulwindow avatar

    Scotland is on the top of my mind when I think of Europe. A Bollywood movie shot there has fuelled my desire to visit Scotland. An Indian friend of mine stays there. I would love to visit her and explore Scotland for myself. Lovely squirrel pictures.

  3. TravelingMel avatar

    What a gorgeous spot! And the Boat House is lovely. I also love curling up inside a cozy place when it’s wet and cold outside. We will be in Callander in March and while I hope it isn’t all rain and cold, I am looking forward to some staring out the window with a cup of tea in my hand.

  4. Probe around the Globe avatar

    Wow this looks amazing! It reminds me of that movie (the lake house). I think it is funny as you list things to do in the surrounding, but the place looks like I want to wrap it around me like a cocoon and never leave! so snugg

  5. Jen Morrow avatar
    Jen Morrow

    How did I miss this little gem when I was in Scotland? I want to go just for the Boat house! The lake and wildlife in your photos are so peaceful.

  6. Angela Hopper avatar
    Angela Hopper

    Stunning photos of a gem of a place & area. Perfect for celebrating a wedding anniversary!

  7. Tanja avatar

    amazing photos!

  8. saraessop avatar
    saraessop

    I’ve never stayed in a boat house before. It looks amazing . And that view is so picturesque. I agree with you – who needs Instagram when you have it for real in right in front of you?

  9. CreativeTravelGuide (@CTGTravelGuide) avatar

    Scotland is on my travel bucket list for this year but there is so many beautiful places i just don’t know where to start! This boathouse looks so cute and a photographers ream!!

  10. Kassie avatar

    Wow this looks like heaven! I can’t get over that view. Looks like a cozy and romantic place to spend your anniversary!

  11. Ahila avatar

    Happy anniversary! What a perfect place to hole up for the weekend. Beautiful photos!

  12. oregongirlaroundtheworld avatar

    Yes please! I love the idea of having the view AND the cozy fire roaring with wine and candles. In Denmark, we call that hygge! Looks like perfection to me. I love the idea of being disconnected so close to the water as well.

  13. MVMTblog (@MVMTblog) avatar

    I’ve never heard of Loch Tay before reading your post! It looks gorgeous! The house you stayed in is fantastic, especially with the views of the lake. I’d love to visit and hike the waterfalls nearby. What a great way to spend your wedding anniversary!

  14. mymeenalife avatar
    mymeenalife

    Oh it’s so beautiful!! We always choose a non internet venue for our anniversary (or just abstain from logging in) and I would love to stay here next time!

  15. katy@untoldmorsels avatar

    Incredible photos as always and I love those cheeky red squirrels. They look much more cuter and sophisticated than our scrappy grey ones here in London. Looks like the perfect getaway.

  16. Clare Thomson avatar
    Clare Thomson

    This is the perfect respite from a miserable February. As you say, even in the pouring rain, it must be such a treat snuggling up in that wonderful space and looking at that view. On my list now for sure.

  17. Cultural Wednesday avatar

    I want to stay in a boathouse with a red squirrel

  18. daisythebus avatar

    Absolutely idyllic. With four kids constantly “chittering” (I liked that word) around me, I rather fancy the idea of going to a remote spot like this for a couple of years – I mean… days… – and just letting nature slowly press my “reset” button. Gorgeous photos too, particularly of the squirrels!

  19. […] HIDING AWAY ON LOCH TAY | Love From Scotland […]

  20. Fiona MacVane Phipps avatar
    Fiona MacVane Phipps

    Please tell me who built the boathouses and what was the cost? Looks like the perfect reirement cottage we are looking for!
    Thank you.

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hello from scotland!

Welcome to Love from Scotland – your guide to exploring Scotland. Whether you’re planning your first trip to Scotland or your fiftieth, I’m here to help you have a fabulous time.

Kate – Love from Scotland x

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