A picturesque city, Inverness is an ideal base from which to explore the north of Scotland. It’s a beautiful city buzzing with easily-accessible nature, culture, and more. It’s packed with history too, as it’s close to the location of 2 important battles and the famed Loch Ness. Plus, the majestic blue water of the River Ness will never fail to captivate and enchant you during your stay. The months between May and September are the best time for travelers as it’s when the weather is just nice and the sun shines longer. Traveling here is also very convenient as it has its own airport. That said, this article will introduce you to the 11 top hotels near Inverness Airport Scotland that will allow you to have a stress-free trip, especially those with free parking areas. Read on and make sure to book one of these hotels for your next trip to Inverness!
Where to Stay near Inverness Airport
As the capital of Scotland’s Highlands, Inverness will promise you a very pleasant trip. To make your stay in the city better, it’s good for you to know where to stay near the airport. A few miles from the airport is Ardersier, a small former fishing village on the Moray Firth. It’s the perfect place for those looking for a tranquil stay. The hotels here are mostly around a 10-minute drive or less from the airport via B9309. A little bit further from Ardersier is Nairn. Similar to Ardersier, it’s also a quiet neighborhood. However, it’ll take around 15 minutes to reach the airport by car from one of the hotels in this area.
Some great hotels near Inverness Airport are also set in Smithton and Culloden. They’re a residential area on the eastern outskirts of the city. Similar to other hotels near Inverness Airport, the accommodations here are 10 minutes’ drive apart from the airport via Barn Church Rd and B9309. Lastly, you can consider staying in the city center, which is filled with numerous shops and attractions. Plenty of great hotels are located here, and it takes around 15 minutes to get to the airport by car.
If you have a plan to visit Scotland again in the future, you should consider going to Edinburgh, UK’s second most-visited city after London. Rest assured, the best hotels in Edinburgh will make your trip one of the best ones! However, if you want to visit Edinburgh with your beloved partner, we recommend staying in one of the top 11 gay-friendly hotels in Edinburgh for the most romantic experience.
Broomlea
11
Situated on the outskirts of Ardersier in the countryside, lies Broomlea, a simple guesthouse that will cater to all your needs. One of the perks of staying here is that it only takes you around a 5-minute drive to reach the airport. No, an airport shuttle isn’t available. However, like other hotels near Inverness Airport with parking facilities, you can park your car in the parking area for free.
With a lush garden and a shared lounge, this modest accommodation is worth every penny you spend. The free high-speed Wi-Fi will allow you to keep in touch with your loved ones, while those who want to relax under the sun can chillax on the sun lounger with their sunglasses on. If you’re looking for off-site activities, you can go horse riding, fishing, and hiking around the hotel’s area.
Every single room at this hotel includes all the essential amenities, such as a smart TV and coffee making facilities. The private bathroom has a decent size and comes with a hairdryer and complimentary toiletries. For something fancier, you can stay in the Deluxe Double Room instead. It has a bigger bathroom, and it boasts a whirlpool tub.
- Airport Shuttle Service: Not available
- Nearest Airport: Inverness Airport at 4.6mi (7.4km)
- Estimated Drive Time: 7 minutes via B9092 and Old Military Rd/B9039
The Gun Lodge Hotel
10
Offering views over the Southern Moray Firth coast, The Gun Lodge Hotel is a traditional family-run hotel that also serves as a restaurant. This property is a 6-minute drive away from the airport, and you can take a taxi to get there. Meanwhile, travelers who drive can park their cars in the private parking area at no charge, making it one of the best hotels near Inverness airport with parking.
Flat-screen TVs, coffee-making facilities, and en suite bathrooms all can be found in the 10 cozy guestrooms. If you’re one of those who can’t get through a day without a cold drink, we recommend upgrading your room as it has an additional mini-fridge. When you find most of your clothes are like a mess after unpacking them, feel free to use the ironing facilities to make them wrinkle-free.
As you might expect, the star of this hotel is none other than its restaurant. The traditional, licensed restaurant serves delicious seasonal comfort meals that will make you smile from ear to ear. It also features vegetarian and kids’ menus, plus a breezy outdoor area. During the summer months, you’ll have the privilege to enjoy afternoon teas offered by the restaurant.
- Airport Shuttle Service: Not available
- Nearest Airport: Inverness Airport at 3.2mi (5.1km)
- Estimated Drive Time: 6 minutes via B9039
Holiday Inn Express Inverness
9
At Holiday Inn Express Inverness, you’ll be able to have a warm stay without breaking your wallet. It’s only 7.6mi (12.2km) away from the airport, and a short taxi or bus ride will help you get there. Like other hotels near Inverness Airport with parking facilities, free private parking is available for those who drive. Plus, by staying here, you can reach the city center in a matter of minutes.
Each room on this property offers all of the amenities you’ll ever need. The free Wi-Fi will allow you to stream your favorite songs, and you can watch whatever you want on the 32” flat-screen TV with Freeview channels. When in need of an energy boost, just use the coffee making facilities to have a cup of hot coffee. Rounding up the in-room amenities are the ironing facilities and a work desk.
In the morning, start your day by having a breakfast buffet that offers a selection of continental items as well as bacon baps, sausages, scrambled eggs, and baked beans. If those aren’t enough, get yourself some snacks from the vending machine at the bar. There’s also a well-equipped meeting room that can accommodate up to 35 people with views over the countryside.
- Airport Shuttle Service: Not available
- Nearest Airport: Inverness Airport at 7.6mi (12.2km)
- Estimated Drive Time: 12 minutes via A96 and B9039
Jurys Inn Inverness
8
Situated just outside of the city center on Millburn Road, Jurys Inn Inverness is a modern hotel that’s only a 10-minute drive away from the airport. While this hotel doesn’t offer an airport shuttle, a direct bus departing from across the hotel will take you there. Knowing many of its travelers travel by cars, it provides a free parking area, just like other hotels near Inverness Airport with parking facilities.
On this property is a Health & Leisure Club that features a fully-equipped fitness center as well as an indoor swimming pool. After a taxing flight, spoil yourself by relaxing in the sauna, steam room, hot tub, or go try the beauty treatments in the salon. At night, you can go to the contemporary restaurant that serves delectable international dinner menus. Then, stop by the bar to have a glass of cocktail. Meanwhile, breakfast is available daily as a pre-packed balanced option delivered to your room.
There are over 110 newly-designed bedrooms at this hotel. Each is bright, airy, and comes with complete amenities. The plush bed will guarantee you a good night’s sleep, while the flat-screen TV and free Wi-Fi will allow you to stream some movies. The all-white bathroom is super clean, and it features a hairdryer, a walk-in shower, and free toiletries.
- Airport Shuttle Service: Not available
- Nearest Airport: Inverness Airport at 7.2mi (11.5km)
- Estimated Drive Time: 10 minutes via A96 and B9039
Golf View Hotel & Spa
7
The stunning Golf View Hotel & Spa is one of the top hotels near Inverness Airport that will give you the privilege to overlook the Moray Firth from the comfort of your room. Even better, it also boasts gardens leading down to the seashore which is just a few steps away. With its beautiful surroundings, this accommodation is surely one you should highly consider when visiting Inverness.
There are 42 spacious guestrooms on-site and most of them are sea-facing with interiors that provide you an exceptionally comfortable and relaxing stay. A flat-screen TV, ironing facilities, a coffee-maker, and other standard amenities are all available. The large double-bed is superb, and once you’re awake from your deep sleep, you can admire the sea view from the window seat.
What makes this accommodation special is its wellness area. It has a variety of leisure facilities, including a heated indoor pool, jacuzzi, spa, and beauty salon. For something more intense, you can also play tennis on the tennis court. Meanwhile, golfers are invited to visit the world-famous Nairn golf courses sitting on the hotel doorstep. At night, do yourself a favor by having fine dining in the AA Rosette-awarded Hickory Restaurant before calling it a day.
- Airport Shuttle Service: Not available
- Nearest Airport: Inverness Airport at 9.4mi (15.1km)
- Estimated Drive Time: 14 minutes via A96
Muthu Newton Hotel (Near Inverness Airport)
6
Muthu Newton Hotel is set in 21 acres of mature parkland and gardens. Overlooking the Moray Firth, this lovely hotel will welcome you with its warm hospitality once you arrive in Inverness. The airport is just a 14-minute drive away from the hotel and within easy road and rail links, making it very accessible whichever way you choose to travel.
Once regularly frequented by the iconic Charlie Chaplin, this hotel boasts 2 on-site restaurants that will make your tummy full and happy. While it lacks recreational facilities, you can always stop by the 24-hour front desk and ask the staff to recommend some must-visit attractions near the property. Like other hotels near Inverness Airport, meeting facilities are also present for those who are on a business trip.
Rooms on this property are elegant and traditionally furnished. Each of them features a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, coffee making facilities, as well as views over the gardens or grounds. Complimentary Wi-Fi is also available in all rooms, allowing you to stay connected to your friends. For something more lavish, you can book the suite instead. It’s bigger and has a separate lounge area.
- Airport Shuttle Service: Not available
- Nearest Airport: Inverness Airport at 9.1mi (14.6km)
- Estimated Drive Time: 14 minutes via A96
Smithton Hotel
5
With its unbeatable location, it’s super hard for people to not fall in love with the Smithton Hotel. Being right in the middle of the city center and the airport, this accommodation is perfect for all types of travelers. Even better, you can park your vehicle in the private parking area for free. However, you should know that like most hotels near Inverness Airport with parking areas on this list, this hotel doesn’t provide an airport shuttle. If you want, you can take the Private Transfer from Inverness Airport to Inverness City. You’ll travel in comfort and style in your very own private chauffeur-driven transfer!
During your stay, make sure to take advantage of some of the amenities offered, including baggage storage, a designated smoking area, and free Wi-Fi that’s available throughout the property. While it lacks a wellness area, guests can kill time in the games room instead. There, you’ll have tons of fun playing darts and billiards.
We’re really impressed by the guestrooms, and we’re sure you’ll feel the same. Each room on this property is simply decorated and boasts nothing fancy, allowing you to feel pretty much at home. The in-room amenities include a flat-screen TV, a coffee maker, ironing facilities, and a clean private bathroom. However, we have to say that our favorite is the Deluxe Suite. Aside from the round bath, it also offers you a stunning view over the Moray Firth.
- Airport Shuttle Service: Not available
- Nearest Airport: Inverness Airport at 5.9mi (9.4km)
- Estimated Drive Time: 10 minutes via Barn Church Rd and B9039
Star Inn Rooms
4
Set in a building dating back from the 18th century, Star Inn Rooms is a charming hotel that’s ideal for those who are looking for a quiet and relaxing stay in Inverness. The airport is very near to the hotel, as they’re only 3.1mi (4.9km) apart. What we appreciate from this hotel is the fact that it’s one of the few that offers an airport shuttle for guests. That means you have one less thing to worry about!
At this 3-star accommodation, expect nothing less than great facilities. The free ones include high-speed Wi-Fi and public parking without reservations, making it one of the best hotels near Inverness airport with parking areas. Guests can make themselves full by savoring toothsome dishes at the restaurant, while the bar is a great spot for you to unwind before heading to bed. Among all of them, our favorite facility is the garden! There’s no better place to spend some me-time at this hotel than this lush area.
All of the 6 elegant guestrooms are impressive as well. Every room is beautifully decorated, and it boasts a spotless marble bathroom. Even better, it boasts free toiletries along with a much-needed bathtub. Imagine having a warm bath after a day full of adventure! Sounds nice, doesn’t it? You can also relax in the cozy seating area and watch some Netflix shows from the flat-screen TV.
- Airport Shuttle Service: Available for free
- Nearest Airport: Inverness Airport at 4.9mi (3.1km)
- Estimated Drive Time: 6 minutes via B9039
Heathmount Hotel
3
Welcome to the Heathmount Hotel, one of the travelers’ favorite hotels near Inverness Airport with parking areas. Set in the city center, this hotel takes you about 14 minutes to reach the airport by car. If you don’t mind taking a taxi or driving on your own, then this hotel should be able to charm you as it doesn’t offer an airport shuttle. However, Inverness Train Station is within a 10-minute walk away, making traveling much easier.
This centrally located accommodation is very generous, as it boasts plenty of freebies. They include free ultra-speed Wi-Fi, free public parking, and a free stay for your four-legged companion. When relaxation time calls, visit one out of the 2 on-site bars where you can enjoy Scottish whisky, Illy coffee, freshly mixed cocktails, and many more. There’s also Heathmount Kitchen that serves scrumptious Scottish dishes like Scottish beef, venison pie, and also vegetarian choices.
All of the guestrooms at this hotel are truly incredible. From the Standard to Premium King Room, each of them is spotlessly clean, bright, and spacious. You can expect a flat-screen TV, a work desk, and a coffee maker in each room. The iPod dock and cloud-like bed will make you feel even more comfortable during your stay. Last but not least is the private bathroom. It’s big and comes with a bathtub, a hairdryer, bathrobes, and luxury toiletries.
- Airport Shuttle Service: Not available
- Nearest Airport: Inverness Airport at 8.5mi (13.6km)
- Estimated Drive Time: 14 minutes via A96 and B9039
Culloden House Hotel
2
Originally a 16th-century Jacobean castle, Culloden House Hotel is one of the hotels near Inverness Airport with parking areas that excel in giving its first-class service to its guests. It’s only a 10-minute drive apart from the airport, and those who travel by car can park their vehicles in the private parking area without any extra charges. Aside from that, a magnificent walled garden, gracious rooms, and award-winning cuisine are all waiting for you!
Set in 40 acres of beautiful private grounds and gardens, this elegant hotel boasts 2 AA Rosette-rated restaurants that will take your tastebuds to a one-of-a-kind culinary adventure. Those fine-dining eateries offer superb cuisines made with only the finest and freshest seasonal produce available locally. Other facilities include a library bar, a lounge area with a fireplace, and a tennis court. Looking for a place to relax? Feel free to visit the dungeon sauna or have a spa treatment in the comfort of your room.
Speaking of guestrooms, all of the 28 en suite rooms are splendidly furnished with wooden furniture, luxurious bedding, and crystal chandeliers. Each of them has a flat-screen TV, free Wi-Fi, and ironing facilities. There’s also a turndown service as well as magazines and newspapers in every room. Meanwhile, suites add a living room, a fireplace, a music system, and a laptop for complimentary use.
- Airport Shuttle Service: Not available
- Nearest Airport: Inverness Airport at 5.5mi (8.8km)
- Estimated Drive Time: 10 minutes via Barn Church Rd and B9039
Courtyard by Marriott Inverness Airport
1
Among all the hotels near Inverness Airport Scotland, Courtyard by Marriott Inverness Airport is probably the newest one. This amazing hotel was opened in March 2020, but being a newcomer doesn’t stop it from being the best. In fact, thousands of travelers have had an enjoyable stay at this property that’s just a 2-minute walk away from the airport.
There are numerous useful amenities at this hotel that will make you want to return in the future. High-speed Wi-Fi is accessible in all areas, and business travelers can take full advantage of the meeting rooms. Midnight munchies are invited to the on-site mini-market to purchase their favorite snacks, while gym rats can stay fit in the fitness center. You don’t need to head outside looking for food as the on-site restaurant serves yummy cuisines, while the bar is the best place to relax and have a glass of wine. However, you should note that there’s no airport shuttle offered.
Every single room on this property is very modern and bright. It’s fully-equipped with an air conditioner, ironing facilities, and a wardrobe. The windows are soundproofed, promising you a very quiet night despite being a stone’s throw away from the airport. Can’t sleep? Grab some snacks from the mini-bar and turn on the flat-screen TV. For families of 3 or more, we highly recommend staying in the Superior Family Room that comes with a sofa bed instead.
- Airport Shuttle Service: Not available
- Nearest Airport: Inverness Airport at 0.2mi (0.3km)
- Estimated Drive Time: 1 minute via unnamed roads
Recommended Restaurants / Bars near Inverness Airport:
- Rocpool Restaurant – With its locally-sourced Highland ingredients, this restaurant is truly hard to beat. The a la carte menus, wines, and desserts are all equally great and worth your money.
- Number 27 – This eatery is one of the city’s most popular destinations among foodies, as it offers top-notch traditional Scottish dishes. The Cullen Skink and West Coast mussels are must-try!
- Fortrose Café – Only a short drive away from the airport, this is arguably the best place to have breakfast. Everything is cooked to perfection, and it’s also pet-friendly!
Recommended Activities near Inverness Airport:
- Isle of Skye and Eilean Donan Castle Tour from Inverness – Join this 1-day Isle of Skye tour from Inverness and you’re guaranteed to have tons of fun. Take in some of the most dramatic and stunning landscapes Scotland has to offer, including the Eilean Donan Castle and many more.
- From Inverness: Complete Loch Ness 1-Day Experience – Get ready to experience the dramatic beauty of Loch Ness and the Scottish Highlands on a day trip from Inverness. You’ll also have the chance to enjoy an optional boat cruise across the lake looking for the iconic Loch Ness monster!
- Culloden Battlefield Visitor Center Ticket with Audio Guide – With immersive theatre and displays of artifacts, you’ll have an unforgettable trip at Culloden Battlefield. Listen to first-hand accounts leading up to April 16, 1746, where the course of British history changed forever.
