Five unusual places to stay in Scotland

Looking for a little diversity in your summer vacation? We've selected some of Scotland's quirkiest accommodation for an alternative holiday experience.

RUA REIDH LIGHTHOUSE, WESTER ROSS

If simply 'getting away from it all' is your main priority, then Rua Raidh provides one of the most solitary Scottish holiday experiences. Built in 1910 by a cousin of Robert Louis Stevenson, the lighthouse dominates the coastal landscape amidst some of the finest mountain scenery in the Highlands. Feel suitably 'cast-away' as you enjoy captivating views of Skye and the Outer Hebrides while the waves from the sea of the Minch strike the rocks below. There's ample opportunity to explore your inner adventurer too. As you roam the surrounding habitat, keep your binoculars at the ready to spot a wealth of wildlife including; the magnificent golden eagle, deer, dolphins, seals and otters. Accommodation in this nautical dwelling is basic, but fittingly earthy given the encompassing raw environment. Double, single and family rooms are available as well as a hostel section. Guests can choose from bed and breakfast or self-catering options and prices range from 13-52 per night.

EAST GRANGE WIGWAMS, MORAY

Make like Hiawatha and Pocahontas down at East Grange Farm for the ultimate Wigwam experience. No need to worry about your neighbour's rain-dance, you have four- season weather protection in these durable, wooden dwellings and the farm provides a range of facilities and activities so you need never be bored. The hunter-gatherers are free to cook at their own personal outdoor camp-fire, but an on-site bar/bistro and fully-equipped indoor kitchen and dining area are also available. At sunrise you can plan a day white-water rafting or fishing for rainbow trout and at sundown you can gather your tribe at The Loft which is a live music venue situated on the farm. It plays blues, folk, jazz and Americana acts over three stages. Prices are 30 per person, per night.

PARRANDIER, THE OLD CHURCH OF URQUHART, ELGIN

Character oozes from every stone pore of this converted bed and breakfast. The church dates back to 1843 and is idyllically set in two acres of flourishing gardens and further surrounded by untouched farmland. The 58ft bell tower dominates the landscape and although the current function of Parrandier is undetectable from outside, inside is a clever melting-pot of homeliness and comfort coupled with an abundance of original features and inviting hosts with a wealth of historical knowledge about the building. The lounges, complete with wood-burning stoves and a peaceful vibe, will lift your spirits as you enjoy a dram in the heart of malt whisky country and the snug family. The double and single rooms provide a little slice of bed-time heaven. Take a leap of faith at the Old Church of Urquhart with prices starting from 48 per night for a double room with bed and breakfast. Delectable dinners are available by request from 14 per person.

THE TREEHOUSE SUITE AT FERNIE CASTLE HOTEL, FIFE

Fernie Castle's Treehouse Suite is exactly what it claims to be. This magical, elf-like abode is nestled snugly by six immense sycamore trees. The three balconies provide beautiful views of the glades and surrounding countryside. It comes complete with twinkling fairy lights and a swing for added enchantment. The 'ever-after' theme is continued inside with specially designed fableesque wooden furniture and a vast elm bed. The dcor in this retreat is suitably mythical too with each octagonal shaped room boasting artistic friezes on the walls. The bathroom being the most striking of these, painted twilight blue with unicorns, fairies and a starry ceiling. This oldy-worldy hideaway does have all mod-cons though, including central heating, electricity, tv, dvd player and telephone. But don't expect to pay with old silver as one night in this ethereal suite will cost you 445 including breakfast and dinner in the castle.

BARNS TOWER, NEAR PEEBLES

Barns Tower is a majestic miniature Scottish castle remotely situated in the valley of the River Tweed. This historic jewel has recently been restored and now serves as holiday accommodation for up to two people. Built by the 4th laird of Barns William Burns and his wife Margaret Stewart in the last quarter of the 16th century, their initials can still be seen carved above one of the upper floor windows, giving this old defence tower a real sense of romanticism. Inside the tower there are four rooms situated over four floors and each can be reached via a flight of curved, worn stone steps. The tower boasts open fires, sumptuous furnishings, a king-sized bed and a deep claw-foot bath large enough for two, securing its status as the perfect love nest. A secret stone spiral stairway leading from the corner of the bedroom down to the sitting room adds to this building's charming authenticity too. Experience the tranquillity of Barn's Tower with prices starting from 422 for a three-night minimum stay.