Location isn't quite all at this 16th-century tower house, but it helps. As well as being set amid rugged Cairngorms terrain, the castle is handy for some of Speyside's top distilleries: the Glenlivet and Cragganmore are two of the closest … Photograph: Alamy
The open fire in the panelled Great Hall is just the place for enjoying a dram. There's also a vaulted kitchen-diner, beds for eight, an ancient spiral stone staircase and a modern conservatory.
• 01738 451610, cottages-and-castles.co.uk. From £1,015 a week (£138pp) Photograph: PR
When it's not being rented by shooting parties, this cottage for four on the Dorback Estate makes a comfortable winter getaway. Inside it's pure French chalet chic, more Courchevel than Caledonia … Photograph: PR
In pride of place is an open fire, a large dresser adds character to the dining area, and the individual duvets on its double bed (the second bedroom is a twin) hint at continental influences, as do the soft lighting and taupe furnishings.
• 01738 451610, cottages-and-castles.co.uk, from £600 a week Photograph: PR
If you fancy getting back to nature but appreciate good design, this hut for two is just the place. Built as an artists' residence, it's also available as a holiday let, with a living/kitchen area and a mezzanine bed up a ladder … Photograph: John Paul Photography
Heat water on the woodburning stove for an alfresco shower, and stroll out back to a drop toilet when nature calls. Young landowner Walter is a genial host, and it's a short walk to the Potting Shed tearooms at Inschriach nursery for fabulous cakes.
• 0117 204 7830, canopyandstars.co.uk, from £80 a night Photograph: PR
Many large Highland holiday homes fall into the tartan trap, with wall-to-wall plaid and heather sprouting from every surface. Not this one: sleeping 10 … Photograph: PR
it has pastel walls, limestone floors, pillow-strewn sofas, stone fireplaces, wooden tables, contemporary four-posters and a small but pretty galley kitchen. The overall effect is comfortable and unpretentious.
• 01835 822277, unique-cottages.co.uk, from £895 a week Photograph: PR
Proving that appearances can be deceptive, this signal box, built in 2004, is a folly. Set by the railway tracks, it's perfect for trainspotters and daydreamers, with lovely mountain views from the first-floor living area … Photograph: PR
Sleeping two (four if you count a sofabed), it has a sauna downstairs for warming up after long walks, as well as a bedroom and shower room.
• 01244 356666, sykescottages.co.uk, from £440 a week Photograph: PR
