Highland Lodge Estate

Set on a private 26 acre estate in the north of the Cairngorms National Park, you’ll find this enormous Highland Lodge. Comfortably sleeping up to 23 guests, it’s a fantastic choice for scenic getaways with big groups of friends or extended family. During the day, explore the estate’s footpaths down to the River Dulnain, hike out into the Cairngorms National Park or even do a bit of skiing in the winter. Recover in the Lodge’s own Wellness Spa with its sauna and spa bath before relaxing in front of one of the log stoves with a glass of local whisky.

The large kitchen and dining area is the social hub of the house where the chefs can get to work at one of the two range cookers while the table is set and a bottle or two is selected from the wine fridge. It’s got all the equipment you could need to whip up anything from quick breakfasts before heading out for a bike ride to decadent dinners for the whole group. After dinner, move through to the living room and get a fire going in the stove before getting stuck into some games or putting your feet up in front of a film.

If you’re looking for a bit of peace and quiet or to soothe some sore legs after a bit of skiing, make your way to the Wellness Spa. It’s complete with underfloor heating, a twin spa bath, a sauna and a walk-in shower enclosure. There’s also a comfy seating area with a log burner and views out through glass sliding doors to the deck where you’ll find an outdoor dining space with a BBQ, fire pit and a sunken hot tub.

The bedrooms are spread across all three floors of the house and offer plenty of flexibility for large groups. There are five double rooms with ensuite bathrooms, some of which have luxurious super-king beds. On the first floor you’ll find the family bunk room, equipped with a double bed and five cosy sleeping pods which have their own reading lights, power for personal devices and some even have TVs. Up the stairs again is another bunk room and a twin room, making this a great floor for the kids.

When you’ve explored the estate, perhaps even wandering down to the river for a bit of fishing, head out into the Cairngorms National Park for some of the best hiking and biking in the Highlands. The town of Aviemore is just a short drive away and this is where you’ll be able to find guides and equipment for a wide range of outdoor activities. Less than two miles from the Lodge is Carrbridge, famous for some of the best skiing in Scotland and home to the Landmark Forest Aventure Centre.