3 Best Hotels in Stirling and the Central Highlands, Scotland

A grand refurbished Victorian country house set amid beautiful grounds, Cromlix House is owned by Scottish tennis champion Andy Murray, and you might notice the sound of ball on racket from the tennis court. It's easy to imagine a weekend country party strolling through the trees or fishing on the private loch. Paneled wood and deep, comfortable sofas add to that sense of luxury. The rooms are furnished in harmony with the house's history, but with the most up-to-date facilities, including mirrors that are televisions. The summer house is now a Jacques Roux restaurant, where you can dine looking out over the croquet lawn. Don't miss the hidden chapel.

One of the grandes dames where Victorians would come to "take the waters," this hotel on sprawling grounds has retained elements of its original building with plenty of modern updates. The high style of its interior remains. Ample lounges and dark-wood hallways point to grander times, but the updated guest rooms are thoroughly modern, done in tones of brown or plum. The Kailyard restaurant by Nick Nairn reflects the innovative style of the well-known Scottish chef, especially his commitment to local produce. The restaurant, set in what was once the hotel's drawing room, has high ceilings and a refined atmosphere. The terrace at the front of the hotel, lined with wicker chairs, is a great place to relax after a spa treatment.

In a row of 18th-century houses overlooking the Cathedral Square, this comfortable and unpretentious hotel has a quiet, restful air. The rooms are well decorated in muted colors and most look out on to the Cathedral Square. All rooms have bathrooms en suite with showers only. The Juniper restaurant, which is open all day, offers modern Scottish cuisine (as well as vegetarian fare) in a comfortable restaurant with a wood-beamed ceiling.