THE FACTS ABOUT SCARISTA HOUSE

Scotland

Marooned on the western shores of the Outer Hebrides, this former Georgian manse has wonderful views over a three-mile stretch of coast. Expect the kind of good food that comes with a well-run rural Scottish hotel. Fresh scallops are sweet and succulent, and the seared loin of Highland lamb more tender and flavoursome than any you will taste. With no television to suck up the hours, you can sit in the library after dinner flicking through one of the hundreds of books, feeling pretty much at home. At the home, that is, of someone with exceptionally good taste, cosy sofas, a magic touch in the kitchen, spare wellies and, pretty much anything you might want, courtesy of proprietors, Tim and Patricia Martin. CONTACT Sgarasta Bheag, Isle of Harris (01859 550 238; www.scaristahouse.com). COST Doubles from £165, including breakfast.