Elgin Bed and Breakfasts

The town of Elgin is the commercial centre of Moray and lies along the banks of the River Lossie. It's a handsome place, packed with 19th-century stone houses, winding streets and cobbled squares, dotted with mature trees and fountains. However, it's perhaps best known for its whisky production – it's home to Glen Elgin, Gordon & MacPhail, and several other distilleries. The town is also home to the ruins of Elgin Cathedral, once one of Scotland's most important. If you come to stay in an Elgin bed and breakfast, don't confine yourself to just the town, though. The rolling countryside and spectacular coastline lend themselves to outdoor adventures, like mountain biking and hiking.

• Score a Scottish weekend break without paying the earth for it
• Wake up to views of Elgin's historical monuments
• Stay in a guestroom that has character and personality
• Start the day right with a proper Scottish breakfast

Stay in Some Serious Comfort at the Boutique B&Bs, Elgin

The town might have its fair share of hotels, but nothing beats the homely atmosphere of an Elgin bed and breakfast. Many of the hosts have been running their B&Bs for years and have honed the art of hospitality. In fact, some of the B&Bs have been renovated in recent years, and transformed into boutique hideaways that offer some serious luxury. If you're sold on a B&B, the best place to start looking is Expedia, which lists every property, along with detailed descriptions and photos to help you make the right choice. Booking a stay couldn't be simpler. All you need to do is plug in your dates and budget, scan through the B&Bs and book in just a few clicks. In just a few minutes you could have confirmed your break in a stone-built country manor house, decked out in Scottish antiques and tartan, or a family home surrounded by well-manicured private gardens. If you'd rather save your cash for the attractions and restaurants in Elgin, you could always opt for one of the budget options, which offer more than you'd expect for the money. Whatever you pick, you're always guaranteed a comfortable stay when you book through Expedia.

If you've scored one of the bed and breakfasts in Elgin that have free parking spots, you could bring the car, which is always useful if you're looking to explore the coast. The guestrooms come in all shapes and sizes – that's the beauty of a B&B – and they often come equipped with everything you might find in a hotel, like a flat-screen TV on the wall, complimentary WiFi and comfortable double beds. If you pick right, you could even have a mini-bar or facilities for making hot drinks in the room. Most will have ensuite facilities, stocked with towels, and if you're looking for something specific, like a family-sized room, you won't have any trouble finding somewhere on Expedia. Take some time to chat with your hosts, who are always happy to offer advice on the best things to do or places to eat. Come daybreak, there'll be a proper Scottish breakfast waiting for you downstairs, with things like pastries, fruit, and porridge on the menu. If Elgin doesn't sound right for you, why not try a few nights in the nation's capital? With plenty of things to do in Edinburgh you won't be disappointed.

Castle Ruins, Cathedrals and Mountain Adventures Near Your B&B, Elgin

If you're staying in an Elgin bed and breakfast for the 1st time, you can't miss a visit the hauntingly beautiful ruins of Duffus Castle, a motte-and-bailey fortification dating from the 12th century. If you haven't had your fill of medieval structures, you could always visit nearby Brodie Castle, Cawdor Castle and Ballindalloch Castle. Feeling active? The nearby Cairngorm Mountains, meandering rivers and spectacular glens offer some fine walking trails and fishing spots. Of course, if you're a fan of Scotland's national sport, you could take your clubs up to Kinloss Country Club to practise your drive on the sunny fairways. In the afternoon, return to Elgin to sample a dram or 2 of whisky, either at an open distillery or a cosy local pub.