Another former shooting lodge that has retained its country house status for the benefit of the guests who come to revel in the beauty that is Speyside, at all times of the year.

The Cairngorm Mountains, the Cromdale Hills and whole ranges of lesser hills make a picturesque backdrop round the house. The house owes its existence to trade - in this case Lipton tea, followed by Hartley jam.

More exotic dishes are served in the elegant dining room nowadays, where non-residents are welcome, though advance booking is strongly recommended. A typical four course table d'hôte meal might consist of a filo pastry basket filled with seared West Coast scallops cooked in Pernod cream, with lardons of bacon, followed by roast leg of Highland lamb presented with rosemary, rowanberry and port reduction.

Their range of vegetables can be inspirational and could include caramelised spiced red cabbage, honey glazed carrots and Hasselback potatoes. Have you been as energetic during the day as the countryside warrants it is likely you will still have space for something as filling as the warmed banana, caramel and date crumble with vanilla ice cream or fresh cream.

An imaginative wine list completes the ensemble, with the final say selected from amongst over 100 malt whiskies.