a luxury family experience
This spacious self catering family accommodation in Aviemore is perfectly situated in the heart of Cairngorms National Park, making it the perfect destination for families seeking a truly unforgettable holiday in Scotland. Enjoy the views and the variety of family friendly activities on Rothiemurchus Estate.
- 3 Bedrooms | 3 Bathrooms | 6 Guests | Dogs Welcome
- Breathtaking mountain views
- Family friendly
- Free Wifi
- Doorstep access to family activities
Thank you for your interest in our luxury cottages in Aviemore. We offer check in/out days on Mondays and Fridays, allowing you to plan your stay with convenience and ease. We require a minimum stay of 3 nights to ensure that you have ample time to fully enjoy your Highland getaway.
Short breaks – weekend and mid-week stays are available throughout the year!
We understand that each guest may have unique preferences and scheduling needs, and we are committed to providing exceptional service to ensure your stay is tailored to your requirements. Whether you have specific date preferences or any other requests, please do not hesitate to contact us. We look forward to assisting you in planning your memorable stay at our luxury cottage +44 (0)1479 436100.
‘The house is lovely, home from home. We enjoyed the views, walks and peace and quiet. Would recommend and will be back!’ Thanks The JacksonsJune 2021
3 Bedroom | 6 Guests | 3 bathrooms/3 showers | Dogs Welcome
- Perfect size family accommodation
- Panoramic views of The Cairngorms
- Private and secluded location
- 2 Wood burning fireplaces
- Less than 10 minute drive to Aviemore and Cairngorm Mountain
At the end of your own private road in the Rothiemurchus Forest, the self catering Achnahatnich House sits in a secluded and elevated position looking out to the mountains as it has done since the 1900s. It has been beautifully renovated to provide the ultimate family break in Aviemore.
LIVING
On entering Achnahatnich House, you’ll find a light, bright and spacious atmosphere. The interiors are in a more Scandinavian style, welcoming, practical and pretty. You’ll first be met with the open plan kitchen, dining area and snug – an incredible social area for families or friends that features a wood burning fireplace. The dining table sits in front of a large window so you all can gaze out towards the mountains as you eat. The kitchen provides everything you desire if you’re looking to cook some family style meals. It is fully stocked with all the cooking essentials, plus oils and herbs. You’ll find an electric hob, cooker, fridge, freezer, wine cooler, Lavazza coffee maker and dishwasher.
As you wander down the long corridor, you’ll discover a spacious ensuite bedroom, offering a tranquil retreat. With a window overlooking the beautiful back garden, you can wake up to the soothing sight of nature and feel instantly refreshed. Continuing your journey, you’ll be welcomed into the gorgeous sitting room, where the entire family can relax. Sink into the plush sofas and chairs, designed for ultimate comfort, and let the stresses of the day melt away. The room boasts yet another wood-burning fireplace, creating a cozy and inviting ambiance. Feel the warmth of the crackling fire as you unwind and enjoy post-dinner conversations, the ultimate luxury family experience.
As you ascend the stairs, you’ll be greeted by two more simply gorgeous bedrooms, including the magnificent primary bedroom. These bedrooms have been designed with utmost care and attention to detail. Connected to the primary bedroom is the grand bathroom, a true masterpiece of relaxation. The centerpiece of this exquisite space is the freestanding tub, strategically positioned to offer breathtaking views of the ever-changing skies through the window. Picture yourself reclining in the tub, surrounded by tranquility, and embracing the natural beauty that unfolds outside.
Each of the 3 bedrooms have all been furnished with supremely comfortable beds and linens – mattresses from Cocketts and luxury 600 thread count bed linens – for the best night’s sleep you will have had in years. With such cosy and inviting sleeping arrangements, you may find it hard to resist the temptation of a long lie-in. Bask in the tranquility of your bedroom, surrounded by elegant furnishings and serene ambiance. Enjoy the underfloor heating in each of the bathrooms, adding a touch of luxury and ensuring your utmost comfort throughout your stay.
OUTSIDE
From the front of the house, you’ll be treated to captivating views of the ever-changing colours and patterns that adorn the majestic mountains of the Cairngorms. Take a seat in the newly build covered patio and immerse yourself in the tranquility of the surroundings, as the calls of pheasants, swallows, and curlews echo through the serene countryside.
Your furry companions can roam freely and safely within the large enclosed garden, ensuring they enjoy their holiday in Aviemore just as much as you do!
For an even more awe-inspiring vista, venture to the little seating area located at the top of the hill behind the house. From this elevated vantage point, you’ll be treated to magnificent views of the Lairig Ghru, one of Scotland’s most iconic mountain passes. This historic route leads to the picturesque Deeside and Braemar, offering a glimpse into the rich heritage and natural beauty of the region.
CHILDREN
Cots and highchairs can be provided during your stay, just let us know in advance and we’ll have them in the property for your arrival. Please note, since most little ones prefer their own comforts, we don’t provide linens for the cot.
PETS WELCOME
We love dogs and gladly accept them into our properties – we charge a £25 pet fee to cover the extra cleaning charges to keep everything extremely pristine for you and other guests. Please see our terms and conditions for more information about pets.
PROVIDED
- Welcome hamper
- Linen, towels and flannel
- Luxury soap, hand cream, shampoo, conditioner and body wash products by Noble Isle.
- Salt and pepper and a selection of herbs and spices
- Tea, coffee and sugar
- Coffee capsules
- Hypo-allergenic pillows and duvets available on request
- Olive oil
- Kitchen cleaning materials – Washing up liquid, washing up cloth and brush, dishwasher tablets
- Laundry essentials: Washing machine liquid and softener
- Kitchen essentials: Oven gloves, kitchen roll, aluminium foil, baking parchment, cling film, bin bags
- Bathroom/Kitchen cleaner
- Firelighters and matches
Short-term Let License Number: FS546862362
The Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating is E.
- Charcoal barbecue
- Dishwasher
- Drying cupboard
- Electronic safe
- Flat screen televisions in sitting room and snug
- Full range of appliances, crockery and cutlery
- Hair dryers in each bedroom
- Iron and ironing board
- Lavazza milk warmer/frother
- Nespresso coffee machine
- Off road parking
- Range cooker
- Storage for sports equipment
- Telephone
- Two fridges and freezer
- Two wood burning stoves
- Unlimited firewood
- Welcome hamper with food and drink from the Farm Shop
- Wi-Fi Internet access
- Wine cooler
HISTORY
Achnahatnich House’s Hidden History
Rothiemurchus is a very old human settlement, as the name dates to the 8th Century. The first inhabitants were most likely Picts and Rothiemurchus would have been the centre of the great Caledonian Pine Forest of Scotland. The Parish of Rothiemurchus belonged to the crown until 1226 when Alexander II gave it to Andrew Bishop of Moray as a hereditary thanage. Since the 16th Century it has been under the stewardship of the Grant family. In 1574 Patrick Grant, was designated “of Rothiemurchus” by King James VI and he then moved to The Doune of Rothiemurchus from Muckrach near Dulnain Bridge in 1597.
Achnahatnich House itself was built in 1900, from which time the farm and house were a tenant farm, occupied by Seamus and Belle Smith. A neighbouring tenant farm, Lower Tullochgrue, had been farmed by the Collie family for at least 200 years. During the war, the tenant farmer’s son William Collie was back on leave from fighting in Italy with the Lovat Scouts. He was told that Seamus Smith had died, and so Achnahatnich Farm was now without a tenant. William approached Sheriff Grant (grandfather of the current laird) to ask if there was a possibility of his taking on the tenancy himself. Sheriff Grant responded: “If the war spares you, it will be yours to come home to.”
William was indeed spared, and took up his tenancy in 1946. As was common in those days, he and his family let Achnahatnich House out over the summer season as a self catered holiday house and would move out to in the wooden house which still exists the other side of the farm buildings. The house would be let this way until 1963.
One of the guests was Nigel Tranter OBE, the author of Scottish historical novels, who rented the house over September 1947. Billie remembers his father advising him that there wasn’t much in the way of furniture in the house, as they were only starting out. The writer generously responded that he didn’t mind and would take the house nevertheless.
Billy Collie took over the tenancy from his father and retired to Aviemore in 2018, and work started on preparing the farmhouse to welcome a new generation of guests…
Below you’ll find a lovely collection of Extras that will make your stay that much more special
Doggy Day Care
A home away from home for your furry friends at Canine Manor, Rothiemurchus, Aviemore. Canine manor is a small doggie day care and grooming centre based on Rothiemurchus. We provide a safe, comfortable environment for your dog with lots of playtime and snuggles from our staff.Private Chef
Enjoy a luxurious dining experience during your holiday with one of our highly recommended chefs. Allow yourself to fully unwind and immerse yourself in the moment while our skilled chef takes care of all your culinary needs.Bespoke Ready Meals
From their base amongst the forests and mountains of the Cairngorms, Speyside Kitchen crafts delicious meals and dishes for everyone to enjoy, inspired by our local landscape and made with passion from local ingredients.5 Star Service Package
Hidden Highland Retreats now offer a personalised five star service to their self catering cottages set in enviable private settings on Rothiemurchus. The five star service features a private chef and supporting housekeeping during your stay.
Rothiemurchus Activities
Rothiemurchus offers a whole host of exciting outdoor activities for everyone. Some that can be enjoyed with your two feet firmly planted on the floor, such as; Archery, Wildlife Photography. However, for those that enjoy something slightly more exhilarating a few feet above the land, you’ll relish our pony trekking, or quad bike trekking to name but a few.Private Tour of Rothiemurchus by Land Rover
Embark on a captivating journey into the rich history, natural wonders, and captivating wildlife of Rothiemurchus. Led by our knowledgeable and friendly Rothiemurchus Ranger, you will delve into the heart of this remarkable estate and experience its many treasures.Private Falconry Experience
Rothiemurchus offers an exclusive and exhilarating falconry experience that will leave you soaring with excitement! Our diverse collection of magnificent birds, ranging from owls to hawks and eagles, guarantees a captivating encounter. This bespoke experience lasts up to 2 hours, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the world of birds of prey. Capture unforgettable […]Forest to Plate
Consistent with Government policy, Rothiemurchus carries out a cull of native wild Red and Roe deer, keeping nature in balance and conserving the natural heritage of the land. On this experience, you will go behind the scenes at Rothiemurchus over one or two days.Whisky Food Safari
Indulge in a truly extraordinary whisky tasting and food pairing experience unlike any other. Immerse yourself in the captivating world of whisky, expertly curated and hosted by the renowned write and broadcaster, Ghillie Basan. By breaking down the aromas and tastes in the whisky you then build them up in the food so that they complement one another on your flavour journey.Whisky
Immerse yourself in the captivating world of whisky by embarking on a remarkable journey through the Speyside distilleries. Nestled in this renowned whisky region, these distilleries boast a rich history and heritage that offer an unparalleled experience for whisky enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike.Wild Swimming
Immerse yourself in the untamed beauty of the Cairngorms National Park with a refreshing and invigorating ‘wild’ dip in one of the region’s stunning lochs. There is simply no better way to connect with nature and experience the raw power and tranquility of these pristine waters. Whether you seek a thrilling plunge or a serene […]Foraging
A truly one-off experience with Zeki Basan, and inspirational expert in foraging and woodcraft. Choose from a day, half day or two hours in the company of Zeki, learn skills like preparing and cooking a foraged meal; the medicinal and practical uses for the plants, trees and fungi of the local forest; salmon skin tanning; or carving in wood or bone.Wellness
Indulge in moments of relaxation and rejuvenation amidst the breathtaking setting of Rothiemurchus. Enhance your well-being and embrace a sense of tranquility with a range of wellness experiences available during your holiday.Sauna
Loch an Eilein was famously once voted Britain’s favourite picnic spot. Enjoy the picture perfect Loch an Eilein and create unforgettable memories with our exclusive picnic experience. Picture a picturesque setting, the sparkling waters of the loch, and the enchanting surrounding landscape. It’s the perfect backdrop for a romantic al fresco lunch.Hidden Highland Weddings
Rothiemurchus has long been the venue for romantic, intimate wedding ceremonies and elopements. Many couples have held their ceremony on the shore of beautiful Loch an Eilein itself*. Our two-sleeper cottages make the perfect elopement location, and a dream honeymoon destination to celebrate the start of your new life together.
If you would like to book any of these wonderful extras for your stay, please let us know and we’ll have it all arranged for you.
Rated 5 out of 5 stars based on 21 customer reviews
LOCATION
Achnahatnich House is incredibly accessible by road, rail and air. Situated less than 10 minutes’ drive from Aviemore, 35 minutes’ drive from Inverness through stunning Highland scenery and just over an hour’s flight from London, you can be at the heart of the Scottish Highlands quicker than you may think.
BY RAIL
Aviemore Station is 2 miles from Achnahatnich House and taxis are readily available. It is serviced by direct National Express and Caledonian Sleeper services from London and the south, and has links to all major cities (3 hours from Glasgow or Edinburgh). You can pick up a taxi from outside Aviemore Station or you can book a taxi on 01479 812 000 or 01479 811 111. If you aren’t heading straight to the cottages, you can leave your luggage with Aviemore Luggage Storage so you can easily explore without carrying your bags around with you.
Car hire – you can travel to Aviemore by train, and collect your hire car from Aviemore Car & Van Hire right outside the train station. Please see www.aviemorecarhire.co.uk who will meet you off even the earliest or latest trains.
The newly refurbished Caledonian Sleeper is the most luxurious and romantic way to arrive here and pulls in around 7am at Aviemore Station.
BY ROAD
Achnahatnich House is situated about 3 miles from the main A9 road from Perth to Inverness and 10-minutes by car from Aviemore.
BY AIR
Inverness Airport is only a 45-minute drive away, taking you through some stunning landscapes on the fast A9 road. Direct flights take just over an hour from London, with British Airways serving the airport daily from London Heathrow and Easyjet 3-5 times a day from London (Gatwick and Luton). LoganAir fly direct daily from Manchester, Birmingham and Belfast. Daily flights with KLM link Inverness to Amsterdam Schiphol, which then links to another 176 European cities. From Inverness Airport, you can collect a hire car from a number of competitively-priced providers.
We have a safe landing site if you would like to arrive by private helicopter. Please speak to us to arrange landing and onward transport.