Stone’s throw luxury: short-haul breaks to book now

You needn’t book a long-haul flight to experience wanderlust of epic proportions. Instead, treat yourself to a holiday to remember at one of these exclusive boutique hotels, all of which you can travel from Scotland to in five hours or less. Maximising your time in the sun is the priority, after all… 

Cap Rocat, Cala Blava, Majorca

Fly from: Aberdeen, Glasgow and Edinburgh

Flight time: Approximately 3 hours

A former 19th century fortress situated on the edge of a nature reserve overlooking the Bay of Palma, this arresting escape has been restored into a hotel of exceptional standards. Found at the end of a long secluded track, the accommodation consists of rooms and suites, has two swimming pools and restaurants, and boasts a sumptuous spa to boot. Indeed, you’ll be forgiven for never wanting to leave Cap Rocat. 

Nightly rates at Cap Rocat start from £402 per night based on two people sharing a room on a B&B basis.

Torralbenc, Cala en Porter, Menorca

Fly from: Glasgow and Edinburgh

Flight time: Approximately 3 hours and 15 minutes

Much like the rest of Menorca, Torralbenc is a discreetly chic destination. Quietly confident in its design, the entire hotel – made up of a series of white buildings each adorned with fuchsia bougainvillea – wraps around a pristine pool. The sprawling estate means there’s plenty of spots to sit with a glass of wine and watch the world go by. Speaking of which, wine connoisseurs in particular will appreciate the hotel’s locale, as it has a bountiful vineyard practically on its doorstep. 

Nightly rates at Torralbenc start from £163 for a double room or from £270 for cottages, based on two people sharing on a B&B basis.

Hillside Beach Club, Fethiye, Turkey

Fly from: Glasgow and Edinburgh

Flight time: Approximately 4 hours and 35 minutes

With glorious weather, delicious food and stunning scenery, there’s many a reason to visit Turkey this summer. If you’re in need of an additional pull, it's Hillside Beach Club. Cut off from the outside world by lush woodland, with views across a private bay, this is five-star holidaying at its finest. Lay by the shore or partake in the club’s many sea-based activities during the day. Then, after dark, listen as the sound of classical music – played by an orchestra drifting on the water – carries through the air. 

Nightly rates at Hillside Beach Club start from £305 based on two people sharing a standard room on a full board plus* basis.

Château de Montcaud, Sabran, France 

Fly from: Glasgow and Edinburgh

Flight time: Approximately 2 hours and 35 minutes

Many of us dream of living the provincial life in France, and that’s exactly what Château de Montcaud offers its guests. Steeped in heritage, particularly that of France’s acclaimed silk industry, the château believes beauty is found in life’s essentials. Indeed, this hotel doesn’t hide behind theatrical interiors or intensely rich food—instead, from food to furniture, everything is stripped back to let its divine simplicity and unrivalled quality shine through. 

Nightly rates at Château De Montcaud start from £147 based on two people sharing a room on a B&B basis.

Casa Cook Chaina, Crete, Greece

Fly from: Glasgow or Edinburgh

Flight time: Approximately 4 hours and 35 minutes

Located on a dramatic hillside overlooking a pristine stretch of the Cretan coast is Casa Cook Chania, the latest Greek offering from the boutique collection of Casa Cook hotels. The epitome of refined luxury, expect modern structures in tranquil settings, with gorgeous rattan finishes as standard. Developed with leading figures in child education and parent/child travel, this is a family holiday like no other. In lieu of naff kids clubs, expect cooking classes, painting workshops and teepee sleepovers for children and teens alike. 

Rates at Casa Cook Chania start from £1,096 per person, based on two people sharing a room, for three nights on a B&B basis, with flights from Edinburgh and a private transfer included. 

Gecko Hotel & Beach Club, Formentera, Ibiza

Fly from: Glasgow or Edinburgh

Flight time: Approximately 3 hours and 10 minutes

On the beautiful island of Formentera, set against the turquoise Migjorn waters, you’ll find the Gecko Hotel & Beach Club. This chic and modern retreat couldn’t be further removed from the party vibes found on Ibiza—instead, it’s a peaceful paradise where you can sample the finest local cuisine, sip on expertly mixed cocktails and practice yoga. Those in need of rest and relaxation—look no further. 

Nightly rates at Gecko Hotel & Beach Club start from £210 based on two people sharing a room on a B&B basis.