Wildlife spotters are in their element at this 18th-century lodge in 'a beautiful setting' on the shores of Loch Sunart. It once served as a garrison for troops hunting down Jacobite rebels, and was dubbed 'The Barracks', but it is anything but barrack-like now. A Guide trusty reports on a 'major refurbishment of all public areas' and new bedroom furnishings. The style is traditional country-house comfortable, as befits a hotel in these remote surroundings. Bedrooms have tartans, florals, stripes, antiques, home-made shortbread. One has patio doors onto a balcony, with loch and garden views. Bathrooms, some with bath and walk-in shower, have underfloor heating. You can eat casually in the brasserie, while, in the restaurant, a tasting menu includes dishes such as Angus beef fillet, smoked applewood mash, slow-cooked ox cheek, caramelised onion purée. One reader found the service at dinner below par, but our trusty fared better, with 'excellent, pro-active service from a smartly dressed waiter keen to ensure warmth and comfort'. Breakfast on a kipper or a full Scottish before a day's mountain-biking, kayaking, boating or wild swimming. (Robert Gower)