Blair Castle at Blair Atholl in Perthshire is home to the Atholl Highlands - Britain's only private regiment. Open daily from April - October with extensive grounds, it is one of the most visited places in the area. Famous visitors over the years include: Edward III, James V, Mary Queen of Scots, Bonnie Prince Charlie, Robert Burns

Near Stonehaven in Aberdeenshire is Dunnottar Castle which, although mostly a ruin, is spectacularly sited on a promontory of the cliffs jutting out into the North Sea.
Some shots for the movie 'Hamlet' by Zeffirelli, starring Mel Gibson were filmed here

Dunrobin Castle in Sutherland is the historic seat of the Earls and Dukes of Sutherland. This beautiful castle with a French influence sits looking out across the North Sea and is well worth a visit. With 189 rooms, it is the largest house in the Northern Highlands. Reputed to be haunted! Open daily from April - October. Gardens open all year.