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A new style of hostel that provides a mix of dormitory and private rooms, some en suite. As well as laundry facilities and lockers, there are hot tubs, saunas and internet access. There’s also a bar on site.

A small hotel with a private-club feel, its rooms (small oases of serenity in a cool, contemporary style) situated above the restaurant and wonderful bar (see St Jude’s) . St Jude may be the patron of lost souls, but this style-conscious headquarters of hedonism is no place for the downhearted.

Run by the same team as The Howard and Channings, The Bonham is the most chic of the three. Confident styling, using contemporary furnishings and the full gamut of communication and entertainment devices (fast internet access, DVDs etc). The restaurant tilts towards modern European.

Accommodation for 36 is provided here, and you choose: backpacker dormitory, two twin rooms, four family, and two for disabled. Set in the centre of this lovely village and with super views of the Lomond hills from the roundel. Very friendly and cheap. Bed linen supplied and free hot drinks.

Originally a drover’s inn dating back 140 years, this hostelry fulfils its claim of being “a little bit different”. Flower-bedecked and slightly kitsch on the exterior, inside its bar is a temple to rock music. Live “unplugged” sessions make this a unique place to eat, drink and (possibly) sleep.

The Georgian character of the Howard extends to the service, too, and every room comes with a dedicated butler to pamper you throughout your stay. The Atholl restaurant is on site for period dining, or have a full à la carte meal served in your room – by your own butler, of course!

A fine old Victorian sporting lodge that offers convivial hospitality. B&B only, or join all the guests around a table for dinner. A host of munroes to climb nearby, and fishing and stalking arranged. Warm fires and drying room.

A rambling building that has been a family house for 200 years. Guests are made welcome and everyone dines together.

Champagne and chocolates await each guest in this cocoon of romance. Bose sound systems and cable TV are the modern touches to otherwise antique-filled rooms. Only seven suites, but such decadence in Scotland must be rationed. For the restaurant, (see The Witchery by the Castle) .

Up above St Cyrus beach, this guest house comprises a huddle of historic buildings. The Fishing Station was established in 1826 and to it was added a Victorian villa and vaulted ice house, all now providing splendid accommodation at unbeatable rates.