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Where your home is your castle. Scotland’s most magnificent hostel and one that should not be missed (see Carbisdale Castle Youth Hostel) .

In a beautiful situation below Arran’s mountains, close to the sea and an ancient castle, rests Lochranza Hostel. Secluded in a woodland garden, this old country house makes a great base for exploring the island. Close to a bus route and with its own small shop.

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.

If you’re into surfing or kayaking, this is the place. But even if you’re not, the views across sand and surf are truly exhila- rating, and there’s plenty of good walking. Plain hostel in a red stone building – but what a setting!

The most unusual beds in Scotland are to be found in a railway sleeping coach, which has ceased rolling and now stands at Glenfinnan Station Museum. Sleeps ten, and you can pay by the night or hire the whole wagon by the week. All-day light meals served in adjacent coach.

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.

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.

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

If you find yourself near Rum, make a beeline for this incredible hostel – the castle and island defy all descriptions. It’s sure to be an experience to conjure reminiscences in years to come (see Island Retreats) .

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.