Great Scot! Reduced Scottish cottage stays

Whether it's a self-catering adventure for two people, lodging for a family of six or just a few nights for the solo traveller, Scottish cottages are truly heartening and memorable alternatives to hotels and hostels. What will you still be talking about in the run-up to next year's holiday?

Maybe you'll be recommending this website to your friends and loved ones: Embrace Scotland, which can cater for those parties booking their holidays at short notice. For example, you might want to stay at the Blaran Cottage in Argyll from just £595 per week, available from the 17th of September to the 7th of October. Based to the south of Oban, this top-rate abode can sleep up to six people and boasts a self-enclosed garden. The Coillabus Cottage can be yours from £400 a week for two people or £450 a week for between three and six, from the 24th of September to the 8th of October, from which you can investigate the nearby whisky distilleries.

Another website offering late availability prices is Undiscovered Scotland. In October, why not treat yourself to a stay at the Cockle Kitty Cottage from just £380 per week in November. This cottage provides outside decking for barbecues and is located on an organic farm. The likewise quaintly named Plum Tree Cottage, as a romantic retreat for just two people contains a wood-burning stove, south-facing garden and views across the Cheviot Hills. Available from just £330 per week in December this year.

Lastly, we have the Wilderness Cottages website, catering for those wishing for a little more seclusion on their break. Take advantage of their end-of-season discounts to enjoy a stay at the three-bed Glenara cottage in the Loch Ness area from just £400 a week, a saving of £70. Or maybe try the four-bed, five-star Silver Birch Lodge in Nairn, currently discounted by £75 off any weekly booking and yours from just £820 a week?