Eagle-eyed fans of Outlander might recognise the palace when it made a starring role in the show as Wentworth Prison. More than 50 distilleries are in operation in Speyside, Scotland's most famous whisky area, famed for fruity, lightly spicy flavors (head over to Islay for peatier varieties). There are grand country houses too – Traquair House brews Jacobite Ale and has a concealed room that once hid Catholic priests – and a series of gorgeous ruined abbeys – Gothic Melrose Abbey is the best – plus birds and sea cliffs at St Abb’s Head. Journey to St Kilda, explore the Fife coast and discover Edinburgh’s festivals – all guided by local experts with fresh perspectives.

Enjoy a distillery tour at Royal Lochnagar Distillerywhere you’ll learn the history behind one of Scotland’s most exclusive whiskies.There are castles (including famous Dunvegan, seat of the MacLeods), timeless fishing harbors, scenic beaches, and – of course – Scottish whisky, care of the Talisker Distillery, where guided tours come with a complimentary dram. Head to the north west coast of Scotland where you'll come across the quaint fishing village ofUllapool. From the streets of Edinburgh to the Western Isles, he’s visited, rated and remarked on entry bringing together the must-see highlights of Scotland.

One of the most recognisable landmarks in the town is Neptune’s Staircase, a series of eight locks on the Caledonian Canal, built by Thomas Telford between 1803 and 1822. Take an atmospheric stroll around the banks of loch at sunset and you'll be mesmerised by the sights you see around you in one of Scotland's beauty spots. The Findlater’s wanted to create, “a chilled-out atmosphere where the staff are knowledgeable but not patronising, and can encourage people to try new things.Traigh Scarista, Uig, Port of Ness, Dalbeg and Mangersta offer some of Britain’s best surfing, particularly during wild winter swells. Orcadian accents are far gentler, reflecting Scandinavian origins, and the land is smoother and more fertile, well suited for grazing. The house, grounds and gardens have been transformed following the intervention of Prince Charles and the Prince’s Trust. Today, views that stretch to the Highlands, glorious tapestries and juicy history make this Scotland’s best castle – and a great family attraction. Head to the Isle of Mull where you can experience the magic of this quaint fishing port, which was used as inspiration for the popular children's TV show, Balamory.

The last burials at Maeshowe took place 5000 years ago, but Viking marauders raided the tomb in the 12th century, leaving bawdy rune graffiti and etchings of dragons and serpents. One of the most enchanting woodland sites in Britain and the Forestry Commission’s vertiginous viewpoint over the 150m fall into the churning river below.Hotel over the road is worth staying just for this, but is also a great retreat, and there’s the hard-to-get-into island luxury cottages.