Nira Caledonia

Nira Caledonia occupies two typically charming Georgian properties built in 1823 by renowned Scottish architect William Playfair and was once home to renowned literary figure -- and hedonist -- John Wilson (commemorated on a plaque under his pseudonym Christopher North). Stepping inside, the interiors immediately impress with swathes of lightly shimmering gold set off by shades of cream and dark tones creating a stylish, distinctive, and refined ambience. Elegantly arched ceilings, floor-to-ceiling sash windows, and ornate cornicing add period touches to the otherwise contemporary atmosphere that -- together with particularly friendly and efficient staff and chic restaurant-bar -- completes the hotel's quintessentially high-end boutique vibe. 

Nira Caledonia overlooks a particularly quiet and picturesque cobbled street in Edinburgh's New Town neighborhood (and UNESCO World Heritage Site). The popular and upmarket George Street is just five minutes' walk away and one more block is Princes Street -- Edinburgh's main shopping thoroughfare. While the city's historical center is a bit of a distance on foot, it's a five-minute taxi ride or there are plenty of public transport links into town nearby. The quaintly village-like neighborhood of Stockbridge -- full of cafes, restaurants, and upmarket boutiques -- is also just five minutes away on foot. 

The hotel has 28 rooms, all gorgeously decorated with chic metallic styling, smart contemporary furnishings, and Eastern-inspired flourishes. While super-comfy beds feature 2,000 pocket springs with duck-feather down pillows and duvets, other luxury touches include iPod docks, Nespresso machines, and huge flat-screen TVs with DVD players (plus loaner DVDs available from the movie library). Bathrooms are also immaculately finished with rainfall showers over jetted tubs, and high-end bath products. Some of the suites also include large Japanese-style soaking tubs, while two apartment-style rooms have access to a pleasant shared garden. Windows at the rear of the house also provide lovely views over Stockbridge and the Water of Leith.

Typical of its ilk, this boutique property is short on facilities. What it lacks in features it strives to make up for in on-site dining, especially in its breakfast service which includes items such as eight-day, dry-cured bacon and artisan oak-smoked salmon -- all included in the rate. The Blackwood's Bar & Grill also provides an outstanding, if pricey, dinner menu with a focus on locally sourced produce, while the bar boasts over 25 Scotch whisky blends and single malts. Wi-Fi throughout is free.