By Elle May Rice
Copyright glasgowlive
A secluded tower house hailed as “glorious” and “spectacular” by visitors has been crowned the best place to stay in Scotland, according to travel specialists. Sykes Holiday Cottages has revealed the winners of its 2025 Gems Awards, naming the best of the best when it comes to UK staycations.
Taking top honours in the Scotland category was Balcary Tower near Palnackie, Dumfries and Galloway, a holiday retreat described by its owners as a “peaceful coastal escape.” The property is perched on a rocky promontory at the entrance to Balcary Bay along the Solway Firth in Dumfries and Galloway.
The four-storey structure is tucked away at the conclusion of an extensive, private, wooded driveway, with proprietors guaranteeing an “exceptional level of privacy and seclusion” for guests, reports the Daily Record. The tower house boasts four bedrooms, an open-plan living area, a fire pit and barbecue, plus 19-acres of private grounds and direct beach access.
Balcary Tower maintains an overall rating of 4.3 stars from delighted visitors, who described it as an “amazing” property with “spectacular views.” Priced from £2,950 for a seven-night stay, spots at Balcary Tower are filling up fast thanks to its recognition as one of the top places to stay in the region.
Other nearby properties include Barncailzie Lodge on Cottages.com, which has been dubbed the “the most peaceful location” by visitors. On Booking.com, Fox Cottage has racked up rave reviews from impressed guests, who called it “perfect” and “fantastic.”
Balcary Tower has received acclaim on the Sykes Cottages website, with reviewers describing it as “amazing” and “spectacular.” One visitor said: “WOW WOW WOW This tower is amazing with spectacular views from all windows.
“It is very private, peaceful and very comfortable The decor and facilities were to a high standard and luxury and the beds were very comfortable. We had an enjoyable stay and would definitely recommend this property. I will be back.”
Another delighted guest wrote: “Fantastic location – just needs some mugs in the kitchen.”
Nevertheless, one person claimed they’d experienced difficulties when liaising with the property owners. They added: “It may be small, but good communication and stocking the property properly would go a long way toward making this a place I would recommend again.”
There is currently limited availability for Balcary Tower in the coming weeks. However, there is some availability later this year. For instance, you could book a seven-night stay from December 12 to December 19 for £3,895.
Take a look at the full list of Sykes Gem Awards 2025 winners here.
