Kylesku Hotel

Watch the fishing boats unload their catch through the panoramic picture windows as you tuck into breakfast in the architect-designed wooden extension of this quaint 19th-century coaching inn in the northwest Highlands.

Right on the water’s edge, overlooking Loch Glendhu, it’s a gourmet bolthole, famous for its seafood and the perfect pitstop if you’re driving the North Coast 500.

This relaxing retreat, with books to thumb and a telescope for wildlife-watching, is also dog-friendly. Some hotels claim to be dog-friendly, but here they’re really welcome – in the bar and restaurant as well as rooms.

There are 11 rooms in all, four in the modern annex, Willie’s Hoose next door – two with a loch-facing balcony. Ideal for seafood-loving sea dogs and dog lovers.