1. DUCHRAY CASTLE, TROSSACHS

Hidden deep in a Scottish wood among the hills and lochs of the Trossachs, this is a fairy-tale castle where everything is just right. A picture-book perfect, delightfully domestic, 500-year-old castle gently romanticised in Victorian gothic style, but with every modern comfort. Bright, airy bedrooms are decorated in soft colours and textures; a chaise longue here, a sleigh-bed there. Breakfast is simple – porridge, smoked salmon and scrambled eggs, or a full Scottish is served in the stone-vaulted dining hall in which a bright fire is cheerfully welcoming.

Rooms from £140; telegraph.co.uk/ttduchraycastle telegraph.co.uk/ttinverlochycastle sound is likely to be a fishing boat puttering over tranquil water. Activities include croquet, archery, golf, clay pigeon shooting and walking trails through mixed woodland.

Rooms from £265; telegraph.co.uk/ttisleoferiska the Sound of Mull, Ardnamurchan peninsula, outlying islands and, vivid at sunset in the far distance, the Outer Hebrides. Despite its grandiose looks and proportions, it very much has the feel of a private home. The hall, with large open fire, is furnished as a sitting room, and the wood-panelled library, with complimentary whiskies, is also at guests’ disposal. Dogs are welcome; the family spaniels may come for a walk with you.

Rooms from £90; telegraph.co.uk/ttglengormcastle charming features. Master rooms offer glorious vistas of the loch and mountains. The 1887 restaurant is formal, but seriously impressive. Don’t miss the cosy bar where there’s a whisky for every day of the year and more than 100 gins.

Rooms from £165; telegraph.co.uk/ttthetorridon

For more of Scotland’s most romantic off-grid stays, see: telegraph.co.uk/ tt-romanticscotland