Kinloch Lodge, Skye, Scottish Highlands

There's plenty to occupy you on the gently leafy peninsula of Sleat before heading north for the Cuillins, the Old Man of Storr and the Quiraing. Walk to the abandoned township of Leitir Fura with its epic views, or along the Aird of Sleat to the lighthouse on its southernmost point for views of Rum and Eigg. Armadale Castle at the Clan Donald Centre is a picturesque ruin in a lovely garden with a fascinating museum of highland life. Tour the Torabhaig whisky distillery just up the road before checking out the hand knits at Ragamuffin on Armadale Pier.

By car: the hotel is 4 hours 40 mins from both Glasgow and Edinburgh. It is just under 8 hours' drive from Manchester. There is free parking.

By train: trains run from Glasgow to Mallaig for the ferry to Skye, and from Inverness to Kyle, where you can take a bus onto the island. Book trains to Mallaig.

By plane: fly to Glasgow Airport (186 miles) or Inverness (98 miles).

Think portraits in oils and family mementoes; whisky by the fire and overstuffed sofas. Not so much shabby chic as gently lived-in, this is the sort of look that some hotels spend a fortune trying to recreate. You'll find a few requisite stags' heads (it wouldn't be a hunting lodge without them), but no stage-set stuffiness.

Nothing is too much trouble for the friendly, efficient yet relaxed staff. They'll arrange foraging or fishing or even stalking for you, then book a massage or reflexology treatment to help you recover when you get back.

• Restaurant
• Bar
• Lounge
• Library
• Garden
• Beauty treatments
• Room service
• Free parking
• Free Wi-Fi

The house is divided into north and south. Rooms in the north, main house tend to be smaller and more traditional; those in the south are bigger, brighter and contemporary in feel with the best views of Loch na Dal. Bathrooms may feature roll-top baths and tongue and groove panelling but also walk-in showers.

Room types: Cosy Double with Sea View, Luxury, Suite

Key amenities: ensuite with shower or bath and L'Occitane toiletries, fluffy towels, desk, TV, tea and coffee facilities

You really won't want to miss dinner; it's prepared with local and seasonal ingredients of course, and is delightfully, deliciously unfussy despite the silver candlesticks and ancestors adorning the walls. Try lobster from nearby Loch Brittle in tortellini, or Skye venison with bramble jus. Or skip dinner one evening in favour of afternoon tea.

The restaurant: modern Scottish dishes, fine dining, Sunday roasts, all-day menu, organic wines, 122 different whiskies. Open every day for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Set dinner menu £75 per person.