3 Best Hotels in The Northern Highlands and the Western Isles, Scotland

Sitting on a headland above a rocky beach, with spectacular views across Loch Broom toward Ullapool, one of Scotland's most unique and appealing B&Bs feels wonderfully remote while only being a short drive (or even a walk) into town. As a building it's nothing short of a work of art, designed on a curve to give views in three directions and topped with a distinctive Swiss chalet–like roof. Inside, the three color-themed bedrooms combine traditional wooden features with mod con comforts, while the drawing room downstairs has a grand piano, an open fire, and an uninterrupted view across the loch.

This pretty whitewashed house on Ullapool's waterfront, dating from the late 1700s, is home to the town's most luxurious boutique hotel—and perhaps its finest restaurant, too. Each of the three beautifully appointed bedrooms has super king size beds, ornamental fire places, free-standing baths, and separate walk-in showers, as well as mod cons ranging from pod coffee machines to digital radios. Large windows provide spectacular views over Loch Broom. All stays include dinner and breakfast in the renowned restaurant, with head chef David Smith serving up lip-smacking dishes that make the most of fresh local produce, from langoustine to red deer. For breakfast, try the signature Eggs Hebridean (poached eggs and black pudding on an English muffin).

This quaint, quirky boutique B&B is one of Ullapool's undoubted gems, with bedrooms themed around different natural features and cozy common rooms stuffed with comfy armchairs, colorful cushions, and off-the-wall artworks. Room themes range from Beach (pebble floors and reclaimed driftwood) to Forest (deep greens and woodland motifs). There's even a snug little music room with vinyl and CD players. The breakfasts are excellent, too, and are included in the (incredibly reasonable) room rates. If you're looking for a longer stay, try sister property Sealoch House; it's just across the bay and just as lovely.