Can there be anything more evocative than staying in a luxury hotel set amid the annals of history? Combine your stay in Scotland with accommodation in one of the many luxury castles or manors.

Dalhousie Castle, just a half hour from the centre of Edinburgh, is a thirteenth century fortress which played a strategic role in the protection of the surrounding land. It is ironic that it now welcomes guests from afar to relax in its authentic rooms furnished with Scottish woods and tartans. Of the 36 rooms there are fifteen historically themed with period furniture to enjoy. This, combined with every modern luxury, makes for a comfortable stay with a twist.

For a gourmet dinner of local venison, salmon or grouse descend to The Dungeon. With its vaulted ceilings, worn stone stairway and roughly hewn stone walls, it is hard to imagine that it was once used for more sinister purposes. For a lighter meal visit the Orangery with its wonderful views of the lazy River Esk. Whether you enjoy the falconry displays in the extensive grounds or have a hydrotherapy session in the Spa you will always find something different to do at Dalhousie Castle.

Airth Castle and Spa Hotel dates back to the fourteenth century and nestles beside the River Forth. Each generous bedroom has all the modern conveniences and twelve are historically themed. Enjoy your private Jacuzzi, rest in your own lounge or laze on the king sized bed.

You can walk the extensive grounds taking in the views along the River or enjoy the open fire in the lounge. The Glasshouse Restaurant sits under a pyramid of glass and offers traditional fare with a touch of modern flair. For a light snack or a glass of wine the Stables Plasma Lounge is perfect.

Visit the Orkney Islands at the top of the world and stay at Balfour Castle on the island of Shapinsay. The log fires are very welcoming and the rooms are all different, offering a range of styles. The Brass Room has its own turret with island and sea views while The Lairds boasts a four posted bed with carvings of the Balfour Coat of Arms. All rooms are furnished with original Victorian furniture. This small family run hotel will allow you to relax and enjoy your stay.

The Castle has two private boats, just perfect for discovering and exploring uninhabited islands and geos, the delightful caves carved out of the soft sandstone by the sea. Delight in the diverse bird life, go fishing, play a round of golf - you are in Scotland the home of golf - or bicycle your way around the Island. Balfour Castle offers a set menu which changes every day and uses fresh locally produced foods.

You will be warmly welcomed with a bottle of champagne when you arrive at the luxurious Dornoch Castle. This family owned and run Castle is set in the village of Dornoch, an hour north of Inverness. The Cathedral Room with its spa bath is in the oldest wing of the castle. The garden rooms are sunny and bright, overlooking the walled gardens. Enjoy freshly prepared meals in the restaurant. With such delights as Scottish salmon and honey and Whiskey Crème Brulee, your palate will sizzle. Enjoy sitting by the roaring fire after a round of golf.

The Royal Dornoch is the third oldest course in Scotland and runs along the coast, overlooking the beaches below. Visit local icons such as John O'Groats or take a rambling hike across the moors. Try your hand at clay-pigeon shooting or fish the local lochs. Dornoch Castle is a delight in summer and is transformed in the winter months to sheer beauty.

While not a castle but a Manor, Mar Hall sits majestically on the banks of the Clyde River, just a short trip from the city of Glasgow. This five star establishment was built in the mid eighteen hundreds and its Gothic architecture lends it authority and dignity. Upgraded in 2002, you now walk past two bronze stags in the car park and into the Lobby. After check-in, proceed to the heart of the hotel, the Grand Hall where the creamy walls are covered in tapestries. In fine juxtaposition, the rooms have a contemporary feel and a modern attention to detail.

The Cristal Room Restaurant, off the Grand Hall, includes such wonderfully appetising foods as slow cooked pork belly and elderberry sorbet. You can also partake of a typical Scottish breakfast here, including porridge cooked the traditional way.