Crofts of Cairngorm

Tucked away in the hills above Nethybridge in the Cairngorms National Park, the Crofts are two houses which provide a cosy hideaway for up to 12 guests and an extra two children. The separate buildings provide plenty of flexibility for families travelling together and are centred around a huge deck where you can relax in the hot tub or at the bar while you take in the stunning mountain views. Spend the day exploring the Cairngorms, hiking and biking in summer and even skiing in the winter, before heading back to the Crofts for a cocktail on the deck and session in the sauna.

The houses are traditional 18th century stone buildings which still have plenty of their original charm and character and stand just 20 metres apart. They’re in their own four acres of grounds with the River Spey flowing below and incredible views of the Cairngorm Massif rising in the distance. The large deck area outside helps you make the most of these unique surroundings as you cook outside on the BBQ or prepare some drinks at the bar. The hot tub and sauna will be welcome after long hikes in the mountains and in the evenings, gather around the fire pit and plan the next day’s adventures while stargazing and toasting some marshmallows.

The Croft House is the place to get everyone together for meals and cosy evenings inside in front of the woodburner. You’ll find the kitchen well equipped with a full range of modern appliances while retaining plenty of traditional charm with its original floors, exposed stone walls and sash windows. While the chefs start rustling up a feast, others can get to work setting the table in the bespoke dining area which seats up to 14. After dinner, there’s room for everyone to sit around the wood burning stove in the cosy living room and play some games while sampling some of the local whisky.

The bedrooms are split between the two buildings, with two doubles and a bunk room in the Croft House and a honeymoon suite and another bunk room in the Wee Croft House. The bunks are self-contained ski chalet-style with power for devices, reading lights and some with their own TVs, making them a big hit with the kids.

The Crofts make a great base for exploring the Cairngorms National Park. The bustling town of Aviemore, known as the outdoor adventure capital of the UK, is just a few minutes’ drive away. Here, you’ll find plenty of advice and kit for any outdoor activities you might want to try, from skiing in the winter to biking, hiking and canoeing in the summer. Explore the charming villages of Nethybridge and Carrbridge nearby or head a bit further north to Grantown-on-Spey and follow the famous Whisky Trial.