Address: Torridon, By Achnasheen, Wester Ross, Scotland IV22 2EY.
Tel: 01445 791242.
Website: lochtorridonhotel.com.

First impressions: It's like Monarch Of The Glen: a fairytale gothic pile at the foot of a mountain, on the shores of a loch. Inside, my olfactories were tickled by a welcoming cocktail of polished wood and wafts from a real fire. No formal check-in - bliss.

What are the rooms like? Plump for a Master. Mine came with CD player, complimentary sherry, home-made shortbread, flowers and chocs. But oh, that view. Even the antique furnishings pale beside the scenic Highland show going on beyond the vast picture windows.

The bed test: I slept the sleep of kings in a bed large enough for the cast of Braveheart. I didn't quite know where to place myself, or the hundreds of pillows.

The bathroom: A romantic turret affair with a centrepiece Victorian 'shoe-horn' bath. Refreshingly uncluttered, save for the Molton Brown goodies.

Breakfast: It's worth driving hundreds of miles for the raspberry jam alone. Scenery and food is what you get up for, so get ready for home-made porridge with whisky and cream, followed by kippers and the full haggis monty.

The restaurant: Three-course set menus are served in the elegant but rather hushed dining room. Kids do high tea.

The bar: One for pre-dinner drinks or nightcaps. Over 300 malts, all with tasting notes.

What is there to do nearby? An activities manager can assist with fishing, guided hikes, kayaking, climbing and stalking.

How much? Master rooms £197 a night B&B. Doubles from £99. Dinner £39pp.