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One of the busiest youth hostels because of its location: on the banks of Loch Lomond and also on the West Highland Way walking path (see West Highland Way) . Ben Lomond sweeps up at the back and at the front is a private beach. Very popular with families, so book ahead.

Twelve luxury-on-a-budget one-bedroom apartments in the heart of town. Simple, modern furnishings and fully serviced: minimum 6 nights’ stay.

Beside a pristine length of beach, this grassy caravan site has a prime location. The Cameron family are low on rules and high on visitor enjoyment. Camp, caravan or hire a wooden sheiling (hut). The splendours of Torridon, Inverewe and Loch Maree are nearby.

A grassy patch, with 30 pitches for caravans or tents, a beach of its own and an adjacent golf course. Spotless amenities, a licensed shop and take-away snacks are all sources of pride to the owners, the Gillespie family. Spectacular walks and smugglers’ caves nearby.

Formerly home of the Scotsman newspaper, this solid building has been transformed into rather a stylish hotel, especially in regard to its leisure facilities, which feature a sleek, steel and granite pool. Well-appointed bedrooms, superbly situated (looking north over the New Town) and with a fine restaurant, Vermilion.

Looking rather pale and charmless on the outside, the Sheraton is nonetheless a fine hotel in terms of its facilities, especially the state-of-the-art health club. Good Italian and Scottish restaurants at hand, and in the locale of the West End business district.

Established in 1199, this venerable castle offers undiluted comfort … as well as over 90 malts in the Gun Room Bar. Eat à la carte or more cheaply in the Armoury, where the chef’s experimental dishes are offered.

For self-catering in style, The Northumberland St apartment offers two double rooms and a single; the two leafy Abercromby Place properties have a double, plus two beds in a screened-off section of the living room. Two/three-night booking policy.

Madonna and Bill Clinton stay here, and if £900 per day fazes you, don’t read on. Scotland’s most expensive hotel is in fact a club: you may stay once, after that you must join in order to re-acquaint yourself with the luxurious surrounds. Golf galore, unbelievable quality and, of course, very discreet.