“The Drey is simply stunning. Its an unusual award-winning house built on stilts with dramatic views towards the peaks of Ben Alder and Craig Meagaidh. Great facilities, including a fantastic ensuite wetroom, woodburning stove and underfloor heating, make this a comfortable place to relax. ideal for Aviemore and the cairngorms national park. Really friendly and helpful owners too. ”

“Chalet accommodation provided by Susa & Roy Macleod of Baddidaroch, Lochinver is easily the best we have come across. Clean, comfortable and great attention to detail often missing elsewhere. Add to this spectacular setting and you have the perfect holiday venue, reasonably priced too.”

“I have shot at quite a few clay pigeon shooting grounds over the years usually with an instructor. This year I shot with Mr Munro and Mr Gray from Rothiemurchus. I have to say that the instruction, facilities and general warm attitudes of both are at a level way above the norm. They are truly outstanding and clearly very knowledgable. I cant wait to go back.”

“Loch Shiel boat cruises - went in late march, very few tourists, no midges, a great guide, really friendly, knowledgeable, showed us where to spot divers and eagles, as well as the spectacular Loch Shiel Highland landscape. ”

“Top marks to this tiny establishment in Lochinver which remains open throughout January - a real life-saver for cold and hungry travellers. With every other eatery closed for miles around, it's a very welcome oasis. ”

“After a not-terribly-friendly experience at a large establishment not too far away, we stayed overnight at this hotel and it was very re-assuring to find the staff here refreshingly friendly and sincere, especially the reception staff. The food was excellent and featured many Scottish favourites - a genuine piece of Scotland to be cherished..... ”

“My fiancee and I decided to try clay pigeon shooting for the first time and we found ourselves at Rothiemurchus. We had a fantastic experience during the time we were there. We not only had expert tution from John, our instructor, but had a great time too. Thr facilities are also second to none. In terms of knowledge and how to try and train us John was fantastic. I would recommend this place to anyone who wants to try clay pigeon shooting.”

“I had a wonderful 4 night stay at this hotel. What a find! Nothing was too much trouble for the proprietors William and Sonia Marshall. As soon as they knew I was a vegetarian they went to great lengths to prepare wonderful meals for me. It was so nice to find somewhere that could really produce superb vegetarian meals - not a vegetable lasagna in sight. Sonia's oven baked mushroom risotto with parmesan on the 2nd night of my stay was simply to die for. Their wine list is exemplary, their rooms comfortable and tastefully decorated and furnished.”

“We had to stop in Kyle on the way to catch the ferry to Harris from Uig. We came across this place in the car park and were so impressed by the friendliness of the staff and the speed of service. My wife thoroughly enjoyed her soup and loaded baked potato and my fish and chips were great (the fillet was huge)! The prices were fair and we would certainly recommend to anyone passing through Kyle or who is in the area.”

“Tez Watson has recently set up a website for my new B&B and in addition has also given help and advice concerning marketing and a whole host of other ideas I would never have thought of. His contribution has been invaulable to the setting up of my business and he has really gone not just one but several extra miles. Thank you Tez.”

“I can highly recommend this hostel to walkers and others who enjoy the outdoors. Excellent facilities. Comfortable and clean. Friendly, helpful owner.”

“Situated at the end of the road with an oustanding view over to Skye from every hotel bedroom, the new owners and management of the Glenelg Inn have excelled themselves with their warm welcome, Scottish hospitality and fantastic food, viz the local prawn fishermen (and woman) who are regulars at the bar, Andrew Lloyd Weber and other famous faces who have their favourite room there...one of the best of Scotland for sure! 2009”

“On arrival at the campsite last July, Jim and Ishbel not only made us most welcome but also helped us to erect our tent. Nothing was too much trouble and they both constantly checked with ourselves and other campers that we were happy with the facilities. They also had lots of advice and ideas on places of interest for us to visit whilst in the area.”

“We just completed an extraordinary 10-day family vacation in Scotland based on a customized itinerary developed with the expert services of Scottish Clans & Castles. The trip was a mix of city and country with a terrific blend of classic and modern hotels, as well as two top-notch B&B’s, namely Brough House (Elgin) and Ethie Castle (Arbroath). The arrangements were flawless, the accommodations perfect and it appeared to us that they were able to secure the rooms with the best views, every single time. To us, this was an unexpected benefit of dealing with a local expert and a reflection of the intimate knowledge of their recommendations. Dealing with Alastair and his team in planning this memorable trip was a wonderful experience and we are looking forward to returning, hopefully sooner than later. Hats off to Clans & Castles once more!”

“I was very impressed by our hostess who not only met us with a fresh pot of tea and home made cake but also surprised me with a birthday cake on my return from walking - Great Welcome”

“Wonderful B&B this. Mary and Alan are fantastic hosts, really took care of us when we were on a John O'Groats to Land's End cycle ride. I really can't recommend Tramps highly enough, and will definitely stay there again if I'm ever lucky enough to be in that beautiful part of Scotland.”

“We took a Land Rover tour round the estate. The guides and all staff were so passionate about their jobs and the surroundings and our driver, Ray, had some lovely stories to tell. The place is breathtaking and an absolute must for anybody to visit to admire the scenery and wildlife. The clay pigeon shooting and quad bike trek looked great so i think i'll try that next time.”

“Having booked many trips to Ardenbeg for the young people in our organisation, I am very grateful to Rebecca who has provided excellent customer service and has been so accomodating each time. She always goes beyond expectations - she has sent us lots of information about the local area and funding for nearby amenities, she keeps us informed of availability and when on site she is very friendly and helpful. We plan to continue to visit Ardenbeg for years to come, and I would highly recommend it.”

“While preparing for our first visit to Scotland, a family trip with our daughters (9,12) to discover my wife’s Scottish roots, I came across Alastair Cunningham of Clans and Castles, a company that specializes in creating customized itineraries for visitors to Scotland. It promised that all we had to do was book the flights and Alastair would look after the rest based on our needs and special interests, which ranged from my wife’s genealogical interests, our kids dietary aversion to haggis, to my need for a comfortable bed and good whisky! Without a shred of doubt, Alastair’s service has been invaluable in terms of creating an exciting itinerary with special arrangements that we could not have imagined without his extensive local knowledge and broad contacts relating to clans, castles and all other matters we have raised. He has gone the extra mile! It has been a real pleasure dealing with Alastair who is consummate professional. He has taken away all the worries of a planning a family trip to a new destination by skilfully honing an overwhelming choice of sites and lodgings into nine sensibly planned days. I am still waiting to see if he can fulfil my last request for the traffic flow to switch sides while we are there, but I won’t be surprised if he manages that as well! ”

“Best B&B we stayed at in Scotland. Norrie and Anna make you feel very much at home. When we got there it felt like we were meeting up with long lost relatives or old friends we hadn't seen in a long time. If you're only looking for a one night sleep over between destinations and are in a hurry, then this might not be the place for you, because Norrie and Anna are interested in getting to know you and tell you about the area. Beautiful garden too. We live in the United States and are coming back to Scotland some time and will definitely stay at the Ard Daraich for a longer time. - Andy and Colleen in Cincinnati”

“I would like to commend Rebecca Reid of Ardenbeg Bunkhouse regarding her excellent customer service in my attempts to book a bunkhouse for New Year 2009-2010. Rebecca was very professional and efficient in her dealings with me and I sincerely appreciate her warmth and her efforts to assist myself and my party during our search. Rebecca is a credit to Tourism Scotland and deserves this little bit of praise. Best Regards, Donald Smith.”

“The Lodge at Ruddyglow Park is just amazing. We decided to go north for my birthday and this has to be one of the most wonderful places we have ever stayed. The food was to die for (fresh local lobster and their own, wild, organic venison), the dining room and main house have a great atmosphere, and the hostess is just charming. The location, although remote, Is well worth the journey. There is nothing quite like this totally unspoiled natural beauty anywhere else on the planet. We are both looking forward to going back soon. ”

“We visited the heather centre in August 08 and asked whether heathers could be put into the post as we couldn't transport the plants home (we were flying). We chose 10 heathers and the staff arranged to post them to us. The plants arrived the day after we returned home, the plants were in excellent condition and were well packaged. Further, an unrelated problem with something else we had bought from the heather centre was most amicably sorted out. Looking forward to visiting again. Thank you. ”

“I saw accolades about his Scottish Breakfasts on the net, so I e-mailed him and explained that our Gourmet Group was going to do Scottish Brunch and asked what was Lorne Sausage and Potato Scones and where could I find recipes. Not only did he most graciously respond, he sent recipes and detailed tips for success. The food was delicious and therefore the Brunch was a rousing success! He didn't just go an extra mile, he went about ten. Thank you! Janet Melby, Minnesota USA”

“I chose randomly a remote place in Scotland, as I am from Luxembourg, and it happened that I chose Newtonmore, a nice lovely village where I stayed in the Newtonmore Hostel, for a very cheap money, and the service ( it is run by a family) was more than good. Everything was really clean and hot, and the mountains around with their exceptionnal trails are worth a stay in Newtonmore. So don't hesitate and go to Newtonmore, the train station is in Kingussie, just 3 miles above, but Pete and family , the owners, will undoubtely come and pick you up!”

“We visited the Osprey centre 3 times over a 2 week holiday after following the progress of the birds on the web-cam. There were different staff on each visit but each was enthusiastic, knowledgeable and approachable, we were able to use the telescopes and binoculars and watch video footage and listen to talks about the ospreys while the nest was empty. I would recommend the Osprey centre to anyone interested in wildlife - loads of different birds and red squirrels to see. The staff are a credit to the RSPB their love of their job shines through and they pass their enthusiasm to visitors.”

“Quite simply 'THE' dining experience that you should try when in the Aviemore area. The food was of the highest quality and was superbly presented. The attention to detail over and above this added to the evening, from the welcome to Cairngorm dining messages on the electronic signs as you approached the venue through to the fleece blankets provided for warmth in the funicular on the way up and down from the venue. Finally, mention has to be made of the staff who were as attentive and genuinely friendly as I have ever encountered whilst dining out. Overall, a must do dining experience - as recognised by the Herald (if I recall correctly) who listed this as one of their top 25 dining experiences.”

“As an incomer to the area (28 years now) I have been keen to learn about Highland history. Over the years my family and I have visited Culloden on a number of occasions but our most recent visit (following the replacement of the visitor centre) was the most interesting and informative (even heart-moving). What The National Trust for Scotland have done is go way beyond the extra mile in order to make the place more accessible, more relevant and more exciting. The use of technology to enhance the experience, in particular the handsets on the battlefield and the immersion theatre stand out as truly innovative. They could so easily have opted for "more of the same". Instead, we as a nation are the beneficiaries. Let's give them credit for doing something bold and creative...”

“This site cannot be recommended too highly, from the minute you arrive Jim and Ishbel (the owners)go out of their way to make your stay a memorable one. Jim helped us, and everyone else who arrived on a very windy day, to put up our tent and get our camper van hooked up. It is the most child and adult friendly site in Scotland, and though quite a distance away it is one that should not be missed on any account.”

“We had an absolutely fantastic time on our canoe trip down the Spey, Rebecca at Ardenbeg was extremely helpful from the first phonecall, she helped to liase with Boots and Paddles in Inverness, even after we left, Rebecca kindly posted some tents that were accidently left behind! Honestly, I cant recommend Ardenbeg and Rebecca enough, first class!!”

“I cannot praise Andy and Theresa at the Dalcross (airport) branch enough. We needed to hire a vehicle urgently at very short notice and were prepared to take whatever was available. Andy knew what we normally drove because we had hired from them before and without being asked, drove to another branch and brought back a vehicle for us specially so that it was waiting for us when we got there. The vehicle that we got was perfect for our needs and Andy's thoughtfulness and attention to detail really helped us out of a difficult situation. We are in the tourism business and we try to exceed the expectations of our clients. It's nice to know that people working for a big company like Arnold Clark have the same approach! ”

“A wonderful place to stay at on Skye. The rooms are amazingly grand, and the owner, Hugh MacDonald, is most obliging in giving his guests a guided tour of the family portraits and trophies. A word to the wise : in the Great Hall, the stuffed bird called a "Croatian Chocolate Vulture, killed by Bolshevik artillery in 1914" is a Golden Eagle. Mentioning the historical discrepancy earned me an introduction to the best single malt of all : Highland Park 18 years-old, a nectar from the Orkney Islands. And a fitting tipple for a most magical island.”

“Just back from a magnificent day skiing on the Cairngorms. Exhausted as conditions are brilliant with overall snow cover and there are no queues. The facilities are now unrecognisable from my skiing days in the 60's,70's and 80's and the staff all went out of their way to make it a terrific experience. Congratulations to Cairngorm Mountain who have kept going through lots of hard times and have created a great visitor experience.”

“This stunning log cabin (Saorsa is Gaelic for freedom) was the perfect setting for our relaxing Easter holiday. The cabin was located right on the loch in Lochinver, and had everything you would need during your holiday. We were greeted by a tray of tea and homemade fruit cake when we arrived. Roy & Suzi have worked hard on this log cabin, and I daresay on their other holiday properties too. As soon as I arrived my stresses melted away and we had a relaxing but active week in the stunning highlands. Other guests obviously agree as their visitor book (from 1997) is packed with wonderful comments and tips for walks, boat trips, places to eat etc. The information (walks, days out, maps) provided by Roy & Suzi allowed us to make the most of our time in Scotland. I can highly recommend this log cabin for those who just want to stay in and relax or as a perfect retreat after a busy day exploring the wildlife and mountains. The views of Suilven are lovely. I cannot wait to go back.”

“I like to get away and relax when I can. I visited the distillery and stayed at this great bed and breakfast which is just along the road. The food and accomodation is terrific and Chris is a really interesting guy who loves rock music and has seen loads of good bands. I had a lovely time. I will deffy be back.”

“Recently our youth group from Birmingham stayed at Ardenbeg bunkhouse. It was 'young people friendly' and the staff were fantastic, especially Rebecca Reid. Rebecca arranged everything for us - transport to and from the airport as well as all of our activities. This enabled the staff to have a great time as well. I would highly reccommend the bunkhouse and the facilities they offer to anyone.”

“In need of a short break my wife and I booked Inveroich House (a stunning house at the head of Loch Ness)and planned to arrive Saturday and leave Tuesday morning. The owner, Peter Prendergast gave us the tour, demonstrated how everything worked and where to find the firewood, coal, etc. We settled in and enjoyed a wonderful relaxing break, breathing in the clear autumn air, taking in the local scenery and generally unwinding. Then on the Sunday evening Peter phoned from his home in Elgin to say that if we wished we could stay for the rest of the week (no extra charge!)but sadly our business commitments and domestic arrangements ruled this out.”

“We recently spent a fabulous short break at one of these lodges and would highly recommend them. They were in pristine condition with a very well equipped kitchen and many other extras. We look our 2 dogs and we were all made to feel very welcome. We enjoyed some lovely flapjacks whilst the dogs enjoyed some Bonios that had been kindly left. We spent morning walks in the beautiful grounds and the dogs had a splash down in the loch. Hoping to go back in the New Year. It's rare to find such a super place that is so dog friendly. On walking into the lodges you would never know any animal had been there before as the cleanliness is first rate. ”

“While traveling in Scotland, I experienced a retinal tear. This was an emergency and I received treatment at the Eye Clinic at Raigmore Hospital in Inverness. Our tour guide, Alastair Cunningham, made calls and remade plans to see that I received the care I needed. My traveling companions read my Travelers’ Insurance and called to place a claim on file for me. My treatment at Raigmore Hospital in Inverness made me feel that at all times that I was in good hands. Eye surgery wasn’t on our original itinerary but it was covered extremely well when it became necessary. Thank you Alastair Cunningham of Clans and Castles; all the staff at Raigmore Hospital and all my traveling companions. Thank you. ”

“Newtonmore was a highlight for me as it provided a relaxing, homey atmosphere where I could rest up, get outdoors and let go of the hectic-ness that can accompany a trip abroad. Newtonmore also has a wonderful food co-op and colorful shop keepers - like Liz. That woman is a bundle of energy and information with great compassion for the world traveler. She helps run the cafe/craft/information shop along with David, an artist and jovial character who has a lovely garden in the back which you can see sitting in the cafe. I spent a few hours there as they provide internet access. Hiking around Newtonmore is not to be missed. Go down to the BobCat Trail office - more maps and info on where to walk. I stayed at Newtonmore Hostel run by Peter Main. It was a very clean, organized, cozy hostel in center of Newtonmore, not far from the Macpherson Museum. I liked Peter's approach to recycling and conservation of resources and respect for the land. He was very helpful in sharing information about the variety of activities to do in Newtonmore. Plenty of maps and guide books to peruse in the evening next to a cozy wood stove. The Macpherson Museum had an excellent exhibition of Clan Macpherson artifacts, illustrations, paintings, and stories illuminating different Macpherson characters through Highland history. I was able to sit in on a lecture with a highly regarded scholar on tartan. His talk included that great wry highland sense of humor. Not a dry lecture at all. The lecture was accompanied with bagpipes, highland dancing and singing. A rich cultural exposure. www.newtonmore.com/macpherson/ ”

“On holiday on Loch Sunart, we phoned ahead to book a cruise on Loch Shiel starting from Glenfinnan. When we arrived, we were surprised to find that my wife and I were the only potential passengers that afternoon on the 50-seater MV Sileas. However there was never a hint from owner Jim Michie that the cruise would be cancelled, and we were rewarded with a wonderful eagle & deer watching cruise down the loch in spectatcular weather with Jim as our highly knowledgable personal guide. Truly the extra nautical mile!”

“Just such a beautiful B & B in a fabulous location, that is so worth the wonderfully breath taking journey to reach the Applecross peninsula. Everything about this place is special, the hospitality, the rooms and the fabulous breakfast that Avril cooked up. You must add this to your travel itinerary and take away a beautiful memory.”

“We spent two weeks at Bluebell Croft this summer at Bill and Sukie's self catering cottages on their croft at Strontian. Even before the cottages were built Bill and Sukie went the 'extra mile' by consulting all the past regulars at their restaurant with rooms to make these the best self catering cottages you have ever stayed in - really spacious and comfortable, beautifully furnished and with a bespoke kitchen (equipped by a chef for people who actually cook), Aga,hotel quality bathrooms, enough space to dry dozens of wet wellies, walking boots, coats etc... children's bedroom with blackout blinds so the children go to sleep in the evening!..... toys, books, games, maps, guide books, etc... Bill and Sukie are so friendly, welcoming and helpful that it feels more like staying with friends - within hours of our arrival Sukie scooped up our youngest(age 3) and carried him off to his great delight, with older sister in tow, to meet the lambs and feed the chickens. You can order a wide range of food - fresh baked bread, fresh eggs, home smoked salmon, fantastic fruit cake, salad from the polytunnel, vegetables, fruit, home made ice-cream - without exception absolutely delicious. You can even order a 5 course gourmet dinner party - not just delivered but cooked in the cottage kitchen and served to you as if you were in a restaurant. One final thing - the friends we had stayed with had their car broken into on the way up and lost all their clothes including the kids wellies. On hearing this Sukie went round her friends to borrow a pair of the right size wellies for each child and even managed to get Batman ones to replace the lost pair. If that isn't going the extra mile, what is? ”

“My husband and myself have been in Scotland several times and love it. Last year we had a car (automatic, this time) and did the whole coast of Scotland. Three special places were the Trossachs, Campbeltown, and Castle of Mey. I use a walker and was treated royally at the Castle of Mey. Wonderful trip.”

“We recently spent a week in one of the beautiful Riverside Lodges in Invergloy. Our arrival was made special with Steve and Marilyn there to meet us and show us around. Our lodge was in immaculate condition, with a superb kitchen, everything you might need to make you feel at home and comfortable. There were fresh flowers on the table and home made shortbread biscuits and flapjacks to revive us. We went to Scotland to celebrate the wedding of our youngest daughter, Susan, and her fiancé, Geoff. Marilyn at Riverside recommended a really talented hairdresser called Karen, who went out of her way to help Susie keep calm and look beautiful. Marilyn and Steve offered to look after our daughter's dog while we ate a sumptuous wedding meal at the "Glen Spean Lodge". Then, after being so kind, when we got back to the lodge they had decorated the "honeymoon lodge" with balloons and ribbons. I would like to say, and I know I can speak for all 12 of us, how grateful we all are for the thoughtful, kind and welcoming way in which Steve and Marilyn looked after us. Keep up the excellent work Steve and Marilyn. Thanks again for helping to make Susie's wedding a tremendous success. Love from Tricia and Stuart Kinnear ”

“What an absolute hidden gem of a place. The tea garden situated on the north side of the village of Drumbeg is an absolute treat. The owner is the lady who makes all the soaps and candles and welcomes you to her shop with a warm smile. She bakes the cakes and provides teas and coffee in her own little garden at the back of the shop. The whole experience was fantastic. Even on a dreich day when suddenly the shop was full of people (it is tiny) she was welcoming to everyone.We would recommend a detour along the coast road to visit this special place which has left a mark on us because of the warm welcome and service we experienced. We only wish there were more places like this.”

“We have just returned from our 2nd stay at Bunroy - once again we have had a relaxing holiday. An excellent, quiet site run by Andy & Gail who give you a warm welcome and are always smiling. The extra mile experience with the lodge I feel is its beautiful setting, close to the river, beyond an open field with views of the Ben Nevis range. Opening the curtains in the morning you could not wish for a better view. ”

“Well am I glad to find this site, we have just stayed at Kiltearn House which is without doubt the Highlands' best kept secret. The accommodation, beds, setting, food and everything else was top class. Paul and Lin were the perfect hosts and there was nothing that was too much trouble. All our meals were perfectly cooked and presented and imaginatively planned. No two meals were the same but all were gastronomic experiences - no messy sauces to mask the tastes just honest, quality dishes from fresh ingredients that made you look forward to the next day's delight. The breakfast set you up for a day of exploring the vast selection of things to do in the area and a bit further afield. Our only complaint - the holiday passed too quickly! We will return. ”

“Just wanted to record what a wonderful reception we received by Peter and Kathryn at the Newtonmoremore Hostel, Invernessshire. After a long ride north on motorcycles all four of us much appreciated a warm welcome in addition to the immediate offer of housing our Harleys under cover. The bunkhouse offers everything a serious biker or walker might want - great location, drying room, free tea and coffee, comfortable sleeping and piping hot showers. Certainly reccommend Newtonmore Hostel to my friends.”

“A quick word about Bruce Watt Cruises, the company that connects the Knoydart Peninsula to the mainland at Mallaig. Although they have to keep a timetable, the skipper did not hesitate to take a detour and stop to allow us to marvel at some friendly dolphins, a sight that no one tires of - as even the crew was on deck to admire them. ”

“My husband and I visited Scotland for the first time this spring. We didn't know our way around and weren't sure what sights we wanted to see! But the owners of this b & b were so helpful and lent us their own maps, telephoned ahead to make sure places were open and just were happy to advise on things we might like to do. It made such a difference to us getting the most from the visit. The place itself was lovely, we were in a twin room that looked out over the loch and we could also see to Glencoe. The breakfasts were great with home-made preserves, and there was lots of choice too for my husband who's vegetarian. Basically we were made to feel really welcome, like a home-from-home, with some of the best scenery in Scotland on the doorstep!”

“On our recent Lands End to John O'groats cycle trip, we stayed at this fantastic hotel. It was a warm welcome from a lot of horrors that we had encountered the previous days. The rooms were huge and lovely, with great bathrooms and comfy beds. However the best part was the evening, as pre dinner drinks were in the front living room overlooking the loch, with a roaring fire. Dinner then in the restaurant was outstanding, and later a private cinema viewing of titanic in the gallery topped the evening off. I thoroughly recommend this to anyone searching for a hotel that goes that bit further, and I can't wait to go back. ”

“I've just returned from 3 nights at Culdearn House and can't sing its praises enough. Not only is the accommodation and food excellent, it shows what owners can do to make a hotel feel special. The attention to detail in the design and furnishing in the rooms, the wonderful meals using only local produce are outstanding memories. But the owners even take hikers' wet boots, stuff them with newspapers and dry them out ready for the next morning. That's going the extra mile”

“We were sailing up the Moray Firth to take a yacht to Seaport Marina on the Caledonian Canal in early July 2007. I had phoned the office and Lucy had answered all our questions about access to the canal, lock times, tides etc. The trip up the Firth took longer than we had anticipated and we started to have the tide against us. We phoned the office again and then the lock keeper phoned us back and said that although he should go home at 18.00 he would wait for us to arrive. If we had missed the lock that night we wouldn't have been able to get in the lock until 12.00 next day. The lock keeper was cheery and welcoming when we arrived despite having kept him waiting over half an hour. Next morning we went up to the marina and then Lucy organised a berth for us and a taxi to the station so we could catch the train we were booked on. All the BW staff were enornmously helpful and certainly went the extra mile.”

“We booked a table for eight people at peak time on Saturday night in a busy Inverness. We fetched up five minutes early at this restaurant, which is going flat-out. But with good humour and attentiveness they let us know rightaway the state of play, how long we’ll have to wait and further reassure us by saying we’ve got a great view overlooking the river. Twice in as many minutes the staff pause to chat and make sure everything is OK during our short wait. After a brief interval our table is ready and the rest of the evening proves faultless. As service-givers, the staff at The Kitchen certainly went the extra mile. The dining experience here has one other bonus: the restaurant is in a building with really interesting architecture, a real 21st-century design for conservative Inverness. We’ll be back! ”

“This is just one of these rare places where, after you've discovered it, you'd never think of going anywhere else if you were in the vicinity. We dropped in at lunchtime on the 'Road to the Isles' and found a mix of happy locals (always a good sign) and very pleasantly surprised tourists. They were all happy because of the sheer quality of the bar food - clever, very competent and interesting - when it would have been so easy to stick to the old menus standbys. Instead, managers Manja and Duncan Gibson (chef) have been creative and gone the extra mile to delight their customers. (And the views are great as well!) Looking forward to the next time I'm on the Road to the Isles...”

“My wife and I heard that Village Green were opening a coffee shop in the pretty estate village of Cawdor, so ventured out to give it a try. Sadly the paperwork from Highland Council had not yet arrived to allow them to operate. However, the young lady offered us a free coffee and a tea (no strainer in sight yet!) as it gave her the opportunity to perfect her skills. All beautifully presented with a piece of complimentary shortbread! Excellent, we can highly recommend Village Green, but sadly it won't be on the house...it's now open for business”

“This small (6 guest) B&B was recommended to my by a friend who'd stayed there, so I took her word for the good service and booked for 1 night for me and 2 old friends who were visiting me in Scotland for a few days. This is honestly the BEST B&B I have had the pleasure of staying in - I had the double bedroom at no supplement! A warm welcome from owners Fiona & Simon and their stunning home-cooked dinner (3 course) was the perfect way to finish of our travels of the day. This B&B is close to Ardverikie - aka Glenbogle - so for fans of the TV series "Monarch of the Glen" it's the perfect place to stay as they have memorabilia deluxe from the show for you to freely browse. I've re-booked already!!!”

“After years of neglect the new owners, Andrew & Gail, have turned this into a real destination: great atmosphere in newly refurbished bar, excellent beer and food. This beautiful area has been in dire need of this for years.”

“I am a location manager in the film industry and recently was shooting a relatively large American movie in the Highlands of Scotland. At very short notice and due to a change in script I had to find a small Scottish hotel. My scouting led me to the Clachaig Inn in Glencoe. As well as filming a small scene outside the hotel, we also took 14 rooms for crew. The hotel is located in one of the most stunning areas of Scotland. The staff were so amicable and helpful, it was almost unbelievable! As well as us filming outside they did wonderful food from the bar for the crew that were part of the shoot there. I really do feel that they did go that extra mile to make us feel welcome and look after us, and believe me that can be quite unusual experience for a film crew!”

“Travel & Leisure readers recently gave Inverlochy Castle the top rating for hotel service in Europe. We had lunch there a few weeks ago and can attest to service that was not only meticulous but also warm. (The chef also was quite good.)”

“I recently stayed at this fantastic house with my family and would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a bit of escape. The location and scenery are truly spectacular, but the house is amazing and the owners have thought of everything you could possibly need in any type of weather - from picnic equipment, to dvds, books and binoculars - there's even dressing up outfits for the kids and dog biscuits for hungry pups ! This is self catering with a big difference -you really feel like you could move in! The furniture and interiors are superb and all so tasteful, you just don't want to leave!”

“Staying here is very, very special. It is in part due to the location, hidden away in the woods with views of the Cairngorms, the calm and the quacking ducks. More importantly, it is due to the dedication and attention to detail that Val and David put into the place. Not only is it immaculate, it is full of well designed, thoughtful extras, and well crafted too - far beyond commercial choices. This is a labour of love - and you feel it. There is also that rarest of features - owners who really care and know when to talk and when to leave you alone. They care about your experience. ”

“My friend Angus and I had been out climbing in the Cuillins and our walk had taken much longer than we expected. We called in at the Old Inn to try to get something to eat. It was just after 10pm and we were very hungry. Although they officially stopped serving meals at 9 pm, Priscilla kindly agreed to provide us with some delicious home made soup followed by haggis, neeps & tatties. Needless to say, we were absolutely delighted and will always remember this exceptional service ”

“My family and I recently stayed at Morag's Lodge Hostel In Fort Augustus. We had car problems are were late in arrving. As we had expected to have dinner at the hostel (it's only £5.50) we had brought no food. The staff were really understanding and cooked us some food specially, even though the kitchen should have been shut. The staff were really helpful and friendly and gave us advice on lots of great (child friendly) things to do locally. Facilities were really good, small en-suite room with great power shower. We also spend the next evening in bar enjoying some local musicians while the kids slept (baby monitor range)This was not the type of hostel we are used to! Fantastic staff and a great atmostphere, we will be back.”

“Staying in a castle, you expect to pay for it and you expect a certain level of service. However, the service there is the best I have ever had the pleasure to experience - all the little extra things, that don't cost a lot, but make it extra-special. On our anniversary, we were greeted with a table strewn with heart-shaped beads and red wine in a heart-shaped bottle. Any time you fancied a nibble throughout your stay, it was on-hand, be it crisps, chocs or fruit. A choice of music was provided for evenings in the drawing room - together with bite-size cakes and other nibbles! The personal attention received was first class too. A perfect stay.”

“We were a party of 5 spending 2 nights at The Dundonnell Hotel in Mid February. We were the only guests and Trish and Gareth couldn't do enough for us. They provided a special 'Valentines' evening meal for us and they both even got up early the next morning to provide full breakfasts at 6.30 prior to our drive back to Inverness Airport. A warm welcome, excellent service and good value for money. Highly recommended.”

“The Rothiemurchus estate shop and restaurant is a delight. The food is deliciously home made and locally sourced. It’s about the standard of everything that they do there, for example, the superb quality of the produce and gifts – it’s an excellent example of exceeding customers’ expectations. ”

“When I arrived here, I was offered a cup of coffee even though it was 5 minutes before they closed! Fantastic! Pearl-Jane Dewar ”

“I have a wee story from a month or so ago..... we held a business workshop in the Kyle Hotel, Kyle of Lochalsh, and a member of staff there, called Mary was just superb - spoiled us rotten, anticipated our every need, nothing was too much bother, always with a smile. The small things make the difference always - just makes you feel welcome.”