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Thatched cottage providing primitive accommodation in the most stunning situation. Just four hops to the beach (see Berneray Youth Hostel) .

Only 5 minutes away from the city centre and beachfront attractions, this family run guest house oozes “quality”, both in terms of décor and the delicious cuisine that is carefully prepared.

A Georgian mansion set amid gardens and woodland, this is not just a hotel but also a retreat. Sauna, spa, gym and a full range of beauty treatments, including Ayurvedic remedies. Good healthy food, too.

Pick of the budget hotels – fantastic value for a modern chic hotel. Unfussy décor and large windows give a convincing illusion of space in bedrooms that come with all the minimalist frills: that is, fancy TV, DVD player and full-on waterfall-type shower in the bathroom.

One of the smaller hostels, and all the more cosy and relaxed for that. Room for 56 guests in spacious dorms with white stone walls and wooden floors. Good showers, laundry and cooking facilities, and – as with all the hostels, in fact – superbly located, in this case right in the thick of it on the Royal Mile.

Britain’s most northerly country house hotel is a 16th-century laird’s home with a history that reads like a thriller. The whitewashed house combines character with elegance; winter visits are warmed by peat fires (see Busta House Hotel, Shetland) .

Remote and peaceful, this is one of the great getaway-from-it-all retreats. First-class in every respect and detail (see Busta House Hotel, Shetland) .

With its very formal Pompadour restaurant and the Cally Bar for shooting the breeze with friends, the Caledonian is something of an institution. Opulence, indulgence and great views at a price.

An enduring favourite to which many stars hop by helicopter from Glasgow. Right on Loch Lomond, this turreted mansion has extensive leisure facilities, including a large pool, tennis courts and a marina. Three AA-rosette dining room, plus an allday Marina Bar restaurant.

Loch Breachacha, and a corner of Utopia for £2 a night! Okay, you have to provide the canvas, but you get to live on a beach with views over the bay to Breachacha Castle. Simple facilities but this includes showers and you need no more on this wonderful island.