Everyone knows the therapeutic benefits of immersing yourself in the outdoors or being by the sea, and value of getting enough vitamin D – but you don’t have to go abroad to indulge in these things. (Well, maybe the sunshine is pushing it a bit.)

In this issue, we’ve shone a spotlight on what makes Scotland a brilliant summer holiday destination. Flick through the pages and you’ll see the golden sands of Gullane, where eternal traveller Laura Thomas fell in love with East Lothian’s laidback vibes and put down roots. Head north to Aldourie on the shores of Loch Ness for a pristine restored castle and gardens that would wow the most jaded of tourists.

Or how about an off-the beaten-track getaway, like North Berwick’s Lookout – so new, only our writer’s feedback is in the guestbook. (Spoiler: it’s a special one, especially for cold-water swimmers, birdwatchers and fans of effortlessly chic interiors.)

There are homes for all seasons, too. We meet a design-savvy couple who have poured love into their Perthshire lodge, skilfully avoiding couthy stereotypes in the process.

A new-build home on the Solway coast, meanwhile, could be mistaken for a modernist nest in the hills of California. And once you’ve returned to your own sanctuary, we have a round-up of the latest kitchen innovations, garden accessories and foodie news to keep the holiday vibes alive long after the annual leave has ended.

Poolside reading or garden sundowner? All you need is our latest issue to guide you through summer.