
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.
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.

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.


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.

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

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
I’m Kate, the Scotland-based travel writer behind Love from Scotland. I share first-hand destination guides and accommodation recommendations across Scotland. Let me help you plan your best ever trip!

Fiona MacVane Phipps
Thursday 26th of November 2020
Please tell me who built the boathouses and what was the cost? Looks like the perfect reirement cottage we are looking for! Thank you.
Faraway Files #18 - oregon girl around the world
Thursday 16th of February 2017
[…] HIDING AWAY ON LOCH TAY | Love From Scotland […]
daisythebus
Saturday 11th of February 2017
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!
Cultural Wednesday
Friday 10th of February 2017
I want to stay in a boathouse with a red squirrel
Clare Thomson
Friday 10th of February 2017
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.