Every Scottish holiday has a story behind it.
Behind every self-catering stay is someone who knows the best local swimming spot, the bakery serving homemade pastries in the nearby town, the farm shop filled with delicious local produce or the favourite walk locals recommend to friends.
These are the people, places and communities that turn a holiday into something more meaningful. That’s the thinking behind Stay Local. Feel More., the new campaign from EmbraceScotland.
Running until March 2027, the campaign will feature stories, blogs and short videos from self-catering operators across Scotland, sharing favourite places, hidden gems, seasonal experiences and the communities they are proud to call home.
Discover Scotland Through Local Eyes
Scotland is full of extraordinary places. From island communities and coastal villages to characterful towns, cities and off-the-beaten-track corners of Scotland, every destination has its own story to tell. Often, the best experiences are not found in a guidebook.
They come from the recommendations shared by the people who live there.
A hidden beach known mostly to locals. A small independent café serving the perfect breakfast. A scenic walk with stunning views. A local producer passionate about sharing the best of the area.
When you stay with a local self-catering business, you gain access to these insights and experiences that help you discover Scotland in a more authentic way.
Booking direct often allows guests to connect directly with local owners and benefit from their personal recommendations before they even arrive.
More Than a Place to Stay
Self-catering accommodation in Scotland offers freedom, flexibility and the opportunity to experience Scotland at your own pace.
Whether you are planning a family holiday, a romantic break for two, an outdoor adventure with friends, a dog friendly escape or a short break exploring one of Scotland’s cities, self-catering allows you to settle into a place and feel part of it.
Many of the owners featured on EmbraceScotland live and work within the communities they welcome visitors to. They care deeply about their area and are often passionate ambassadors for the places they call home.
Throughout this campaign, we will be sharing stories and recommendations from across Scotland, from the Highlands and Islands to the Scottish Borders, helping you discover the people and places that make every region unique.
Supporting Local Communities
Booking direct with a local self-catering business can make a real difference. From independent cafés and restaurants to farm shops, activity providers and local producers, your holiday can help sustain the businesses that make Scotland’s destinations special and support local economies across the country.
Every booking becomes part of a much bigger story.
What to Expect
Over the coming months, we will be sharing:
- Local recommendations from self-catering owners across Scotland
- Hidden gems and lesser-known places to explore
- Stories from local businesses and producers
- Seasonal inspiration for summer, autumn and winter escapes
- Community stories showcasing the positive impact of tourism
- Short videos from members sharing the places they love most
You will also see our Great Scottish Holidays messages of thanks from members, celebrating the important role visitors play while supporting local communities.
Whether you’re searching for a luxury lodge in the Highlands, a coastal cottage overlooking Scotland’s white sandy beaches, a dog-friendly holiday home or a peaceful countryside retreat, EmbraceScotland helps you discover authentic Scottish self-catering accommodation, local experiences and direct booking opportunities while helping to support Scotland’s towns, villages and visitor economy.
Be Part of the Story
Scotland’s most memorable holidays are often shaped by the people we meet and the places we discover along the way.
This year, we invite you to experience Scotland through local eyes.
Book direct. Stay local. Feel more.
Embrace Scotland. Connect with local places. Create your own Scottish story.
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.
Image credit (in order of appearance): VisitScotland (Discover Fraserburgh / Damian Shields), simple from pixabay, VisitScotland / Mat Hay, steverymill from Getty Images, VisitScotland / Luigi Di Pasquale, VisitScotland / Mat Hay, and VisitScotland / Allan Myles.