Stand on a rocky shore on the West Coast of Scotland on a summer’s day, with seals perched on rocks, mainland mountains and off islands stretched out in the distance, most probably a white sand beach as beautiful as any in the Caribbean, and you will surely rate the scene as the loveliest you have ever been privileged to gaze upon.

Scotland is awesomely beautiful, incredibly varied, full of history and marvellous for fans of the sporting life. However, if you think only of tartan, shortbread and Scottish terriers, you’re underestimating this powerful, passionate country – Scotland has so much more to offer, from edgy Glasgow to elegant, culture-filled Edinburgh, and the most luxurious hotels imaginable.