7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Glasgow

Glasgow, is a vibrant city known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and dynamic cultural scene. For digital nomads calling this city home, the need to escape the hustle and bustle for a weekend is a common one. Fortunately, Glasgow's location makes it an ideal base for exploring the natural beauty and historic charm of Scotland. From popular tourist spots to hidden gems, there are plenty of weekend getaways to satisfy the wanderlust of any traveler. Here are seven destinations that offer a perfect mix of relaxation, adventure, and Scottish culture, all within easy reach of Glasgow.

Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park

Just a short drive from Glasgow, Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park is a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. With its majestic lochs, rolling hills, and picturesque villages, the park offers a variety of activities such as hiking, cycling, and water sports. Visitors can take a leisurely boat cruise on Loch Lomond, explore the quaint town of Balloch, or hike up Ben Lomond for breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

How to Get There: The best way to reach Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park is by car, which takes about 40 minutes from Glasgow. Alternatively, there are regular train services from Glasgow Queen Street to Balloch, taking around 50 minutes.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Loch Lomond Bird of Prey Centre, where you can get up close and personal with Scotland's majestic raptors.

Where to Stay: The Lodge on Loch Lomond offers stunning views and a luxurious stay, while the quaint Oak Tree Inn in Balmaha provides a cozy atmosphere.

Where to Eat: The Oak Tree Inn is not only a great place to stay but also serves delicious local cuisine, including traditional Scottish dishes like Cullen Skink.

Edinburgh

Scotland's capital, Edinburgh, is a must-visit for anyone in Glasgow looking for a change of scenery. The city is famous for its historic and cultural attractions, including the iconic Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, and the annual Edinburgh Festival Fringe. Take a walk through the cobbled streets of the Old Town, visit the modern Scottish Parliament building, or hike up Arthur's Seat for panoramic views of the city.

How to Get There: Edinburgh is easily accessible by train from Glasgow, with the journey taking around 1 hour. Trains run frequently from Glasgow Queen Street and Glasgow Central stations.

Travel Tip: Make sure to explore the hidden closes and wynds off the Royal Mile, where you'll find charming courtyards and historic sites.

Where to Stay: The Balmoral Hotel offers luxury accommodations with a prime location, while the Grassmarket Hotel provides quirky and comfortable rooms.

Where to Eat: For a unique dining experience, try The Witchery by the Castle, known for its opulent decor and sumptuous Scottish cuisine.

Isle of Arran

Often referred to as "Scotland in Miniature," the Isle of Arran is a microcosm of the country's landscapes, with rugged mountains, serene beaches, and lush forests. Visitors can explore the historic Brodick Castle, take a distillery tour at the Isle of Arran Distillery, or simply enjoy the island's natural beauty with a coastal walk or mountain hike.

How to Get There: To get to the Isle of Arran, take a train from Glasgow to Ardrossan Harbour, followed by a CalMac ferry to Brodick. The total journey time is approximately 2.5 hours.

Travel Tip: Visit the Machrie Moor Stone Circles for a fascinating glimpse into the island's prehistoric past.

Where to Stay: The Auchrannie Resort offers a range of accommodations and amenities, including a spa and two hotels.

Where to Eat: The Drift Inn at Lamlash offers hearty meals with a focus on local produce and stunning sea views.

Stirling

Stirling is a historic city that played a pivotal role in Scotland's past. The impressive Stirling Castle, the Wallace Monument, and the Battle of Bannockburn Visitor Centre are just a few of the attractions that history buffs will enjoy. The city's compact size makes it easy to explore on foot, and the surrounding countryside offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities.

How to Get There: Stirling is a quick train ride from Glasgow, with services running from both Queen Street and Central stations, taking around 30 minutes to an hour.

Travel Tip: Climb the Wallace Monument for an incredible view of the Forth Valley and to learn about the life of Scottish hero William Wallace.

Where to Stay: The Stirling Highland Hotel is a converted high school with a prime location, while the boutique Hotel Colessio offers modern luxury.

Where to Eat: Hermann's offers a cozy atmosphere and serves up a mix of Scottish and Austrian cuisine, perfect for a hearty meal after a day of sightseeing.

Kelburn Castle and Estate

For a truly unique experience, visit Kelburn Castle and Estate, known for its vibrant graffiti-covered castle. The estate offers a variety of outdoor activities, including woodland walks, a secret forest, and a playbarn for children. The castle's unusual artwork makes it a standout attraction and a great conversation starter.

How to Get There: The best way to reach Kelburn Castle and Estate is by car, which takes about 50 minutes from Glasgow. Public transport options are limited, but you can take a train to Largs and then a taxi to the estate.

Travel Tip: Check the estate's events calendar before visiting, as they often host festivals, workshops, and outdoor theater performances.

Where to Stay: Stay at the Willowbank Hotel in Largs for a comfortable and convenient base close to the estate.

Where to Eat: The Bagel Basket in Largs is a great spot for a quick, tasty lunch with a variety of bagel options and homemade soups.

Pittenweem

Pittenweem is a charming fishing village in the East Neuk of Fife, known for its picturesque harbor and traditional cottages. It's a quieter destination, perfect for those looking to escape the city and enjoy some tranquility. The village is also home to a vibrant arts scene, with galleries and studios open to visitors, particularly during the annual Pittenweem Arts Festival.

How to Get There: The journey to Pittenweem involves a train ride to Leuchars or Kirkcaldy from Glasgow, followed by a bus to the village. The total travel time is around 2.5 to 3 hours.

Travel Tip: Time your visit to coincide with the Pittenweem Arts Festival, where the whole village comes alive with creativity and color.

Where to Stay: The Waterfront in Anstruther is a short drive from Pittenweem and offers beautiful sea views and comfortable accommodations.

Where to Eat: The Cocoa Tree Café is a cozy spot in Pittenweem, serving up delicious homemade chocolates and a selection of light meals and drinks.

Kilmartin Glen

Kilmartin Glen is an area steeped in history, boasting one of the richest concentrations of prehistoric monuments and historical sites in Scotland. It's an off-the-beaten-path destination that offers a peaceful retreat into the past. Explore standing stones, ancient burial cairns, and rock carvings that date back thousands of years.

How to Get There: Reaching Kilmartin Glen from Glasgow requires a car journey of around 2.5 hours. Public transport options are limited, but you can take a train to Oban and then a local bus to Kilmartin.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the Kilmartin Museum, where you can learn about the area's archaeological significance and see artifacts unearthed from the surrounding landscape.

Where to Stay: The Kilmartin Hotel offers a comfortable stay with the added benefit of being close to the historical sites.

Where to Eat: The Kilmartin Hotel's restaurant serves up traditional Scottish fare, with a focus on locally sourced ingredients and seasonal dishes.