Five Scottish destinations that are perfect for a Traitors-inspired getaway

Raise a dram of whisky to Scotland this Burns’ Night and live your own Traitors’ story with some of the country’s grandest castles and royal estates. 

Having taken the world by storm over the past few years, BBC One’s wildly popular game show, The Traitors, comes to its thrilling climax tonight, and we can’t wait to see who comes out on top. What’s more, on Sunday, people across the UK will also celebrate the life and literature of the legendary poet, Robert Burns, so what better time to toast all things Scotland?

Where is The Traitors filmed?

Having been filmed across Scotland’s breath-taking Highlands, the show is never short of backdrops that are just as dramatic as the shock decisions and shifting loyalties within the group. From elegant Ardross Castle, the show’s main setting, to vast Loch Glass, fans of the show and regular visitors to this remarkable region might even recognise a few spots. 

While you may not currently be able to visit Ardross Castle on our award-winning Scotland tours, there are plenty of similarly historic landmarks which are perfect for living your own Traitors-inspired story.  

What are the best spots for a Traitors-themed holiday? 

While Ardross Castle can certainly go some way to scratching your ‘Traitors’ itch, having been used as the main setting for the UK and US versions of the show, there are plenty of historic landmarks which are just as worthy of a visit. Our team has been thinking of the most impressive castles north of the border, and here are four spots you simply must witness at least once.  

Dunvegan Castle, Dunvegan 

Few spots in Scotland offer as impressive a coastal view as elegant Dunvegan Castle, one of the Isle of Skye’s most northerly landmarks, and its surrounding gardens. Nestled above Loch Dunvegan, this magnificent 13th-century building was once the ancestral home of Clan MacLeod and boasts a rich and colourful past which is every bit as dramatic as the twists and turns on the show. Soak up the MacLeod family history on a guided tour of the castle’s grounds, marvel at the Hebrides mountainous backdrops and spot the local marine life on Loch Dunvegan.  

Our recommended tour – Hebridean Island Adventure 

Dunrobin Castle, Golspie 

With its dramatic towers and idyllic loch-side setting, Dunrobin Castle promises a setting which is just as impressive as Ardross Castle. Overlooking the North Sea, this grand stately home is underpinned by an intriguing ducal history and has stood the test of time throughout clan rivalries and the Sutherland family’s shifting fortunes. Explore the castle’s lavish interiors and spend time in the Versailles-inspired gardens for a memorable Traitors-inspired escape. 

Our recommended tour – The Best of the Scottish Highlands 

Eilean Donan, Kyle of Lochalsh 

Overlooking the meeting point between three coastal lochs, Eilean Donan offers the ideal introduction to the Highlands. Having presided over 700 years of Scottish history, this West Coast stronghold has many a story to uncover, from Viking invasions and clan infighting to its strategic role in the Jacobite Uprising. What’s more, just like Ardross Castle, this historic fortress is no stranger to the screen, having been featured in Hollywood blockbusters such as Highlander, Braveheart and even the James Bond film, The World is Not Enough.  

Pair your visit with a ride on board the scenic West Highland Railway for a truly unforgettable introduction to this exquisite Scottish region.  

Our recommended tour – Scottish Highland Railways 

Balmoral Castle, Ballater 

Steeped in royal heritage and Highland tradition, the Balmoral Estate epitomises Scotland’s royal heritage and is rife with memorable sights and stories. Positioned close to the Victorian town of Ballater, the castle promises regal interiors, secluded woodland trails and a host of fascinating insights into the lives of the royal family. Our personal highlight is the ballroom, the largest room in the castle, which exudes elegance and exhibits priceless memorabilia from the castle’s centuries-old history.  

Our recommended tour – The Royal Caledonian 

 

Discover Scotland’s highland highlights with Newmarket Holidays  

Whether you’re a ‘Traitors’ faithful or simply fancy a holiday in the Highlands, we’ve got several wish-list escapes which are sure to suit every taste. For more information on our award-winning tours to Scotland, or to get the ball rolling on your very own Traitors-themed break, give one of our friendly holiday planners a call today. If you’ve got your eye on another destination around the world, why not check out our full range of escorted tours on our dedicated destinations page?