Planning the Perfect Multigenerational Holiday in Scotland: Tips, Ideas & Best Stays - Part 2
We all know there’s nothing better than celebrating life’s milestones with the people who matter most – and a multigenerational getaway is the perfect way to do just that. From grandparents to toddlers (and everyone in between – including teenagers!), these special holidays bring families together to share laughter, stories, and unforgettable experiences.
In Part 1 of our blog, we shared a selection of properties designed with big family gatherings in mind. Now, in Part 2, we’re excited to introduce another five fabulous self-catering properties in Scotland to stay – stretching from the rolling hills of Auchterarder in Perthshire to the golden sands of Sutherland. Each offers something unique, whether it’s space for 40+, private pools and hot tubs, or thoughtful accessible design that means no one is left out including the dog!
Whether you’re planning a special birthday, golden wedding anniversary, or simply a long-overdue family reunion, these properties set the stage for very special family celebrations that you will never forget.
Homelands Trust, Fife
Sleeps 8 per lodge | Accessible | Sea Views | Dog-Friendly
Nestled on the Fife coast, the lodges at Homelands are designed with families in mind. Each sleeps up to 8 and offers spacious open-plan living areas, wide patio doors leading to large, decked terraces, and modern interiors perfect for big family meals, games, or simply catching up together.
- Why it’s ideal: Homelands is exceptional for multigenerational groups thanks to its accessibility. With downstairs bedrooms, specialist equipment available at no extra charge, and an accessible playpark nearby, it’s a thoughtful choice for families of all ages and abilities. Plus, two lodges can be booked side-by-side for larger gatherings.
- Top Tip: Book a table at The Crusoe in Lower Largo for a special meal overlooking the sea – a firm family favourite with guests.
Craigengar Lodge, Crosswoodhill, near Edinburgh
Sleeps 15 | Eco-Friendly | Accessible | Pet-Friendly
Craigengar Lodge is a multi-award-winning property set in the Pentland Hills – and it’s every bit as impressive inside as out. Think soaring picture windows, mood lighting, Sonos sound system, and a kitchen built for celebrations. With fields, toys, and games to explore, there’s something here for every generation.
- Why it’s ideal: Ground floor bedrooms, disability-friendly design, and a truly flexible layout make it perfect for multigenerational families. Over the years, it’s hosted everything from reunions and retreats to micro-weddings and even BBC filming.
- Top Tip: Fancy a night off cooking? Edinburgh’s buzz is only 30 minutes away, but many guests simply stay put to soak up the views and enjoy long, sociable meals at home.
Cape Wrath Lodge, Durness, Sutherland
Sleeps 14+ | 7 Ensuite Bedrooms | Games Room | Cinema Room
Perched on the Kyle of Durness, Cape Wrath Lodge combines dramatic scenery with unbeatable space for gathering. Inside, there’s a cinema room, games room, playroom, and dining table for 20, alongside a cosy bar and wood-burning stove. Outdoors, over 2 acres of lawns and grounds invite family fun.
- Why it’s ideal: With 7 ensuite bedrooms and plenty of social spaces, everyone can come together while still enjoying their own privacy. It’s luxury with a homely touch, making it perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or once-in-a-lifetime reunions.
- Top Tip: Take a family walk along Balnakeil Bay, just minutes away – its vast golden sands are unforgettable at sunset.
Alexander House, Auchterarder, Perthshire
Sleeps 10–28 | Pool & Hot Tubs | Games Rooms | Private Chef Options
Built for family celebrations, Alexander House is a spacious country retreat that has it all. From heated indoor and outdoor pools to hot tubs, games rooms, children’s play areas, and sweeping indoor entertaining spaces, it’s a playground for all ages.
- Why it’s ideal: The huge open-plan kitchen, dining, and living area is the heart of the home – perfect for feasts, laughter, and family storytelling. For extra indulgence, a private chef can be booked to cook up a banquet.
- Top Tip: Make your celebration unforgettable with a Mini Highland Games or bushcraft session from local experts Do It Outdoors, or capture the memories forever with a family photoshoot in the hills.
Ardtornish House, Morvern, Highlands
Sleeps up to 46 | Historic Mansion | Great Hall | Sauna | Estate Grounds
Set in the heart of a Highland estate, Ardtornish House is a Victorian mansion made for gathering. With opulent drawing rooms, a dramatic Great Hall, and space for up to 46 guests, it has hosted generations of family reunions, birthdays, and ceilidhs since 1891.
- Why it’s ideal: Families of all ages can spread out across its bedrooms and vast living spaces. Children can roam free in the grounds, adults can unwind in the sauna, and everyone can come together for celebratory meals and dancing in the Great Hall.
- Top Tip: Make use of the estate’s wealth of activities – from fishing and wildlife spotting to foraging walks – or simply gather by the fire and share family stories late into the night.
When it comes to celebrating in Scotland, self-catering really does offer it all. These properties give you the space to bring everyone together, while still allowing each generation to find their own corner to relax. They’re wonderfully flexible – whether you want to cook up a feast together in the kitchen, share a barbecue under the stars, or hire a private chef to make your celebration extra special.
With room for grandparents, teenagers, pets, and toddlers, self-catering stays are designed for real family life – whatever the weather. Cosy fires for rainy days, gardens, countryside and coastal paths for exploring when the sun shines, and plenty of space indoors for board games, laughter, and long evenings to share family stories.
Choosing self-catering in Scotland also means choosing to support local communities. From shopping at village butchers and bakeries, to booking local activities, photographers for that special family portrait, or chefs, every stay helps the people and places that make Scotland so special.
So whether you’re raising a glass to a milestone birthday, reuniting the generations, or simply celebrating being together, a self-catering stay gives you the freedom to do it your way – with space, comfort, and unforgettable surroundings.
Sustainable Stays, Local Impact
At EmbraceScotland, we champion sustainable tourism through self-catering. By booking directly with local owners, staying longer, and supporting nearby businesses, from farm shops and local eateries to outdoor activities – you are helping reduce your carbon footprint and supporting local economies. Self-catering is a low-impact accommodation choice, and our community of operators are working towards eco-friendly practices, from using renewable energy to reducing waste. We also encourage all guests to enjoy Scotland responsibly by following the Scottish Outdoor Access Code. A self-catering stay isn’t just a great holiday, it’s a step towards more thoughtful, climate-conscious travel.