Business Details
Luxury Self-Catering Cottages in the Cairngorms
Avielochan Cottages, owned by Ronald and Fiona Grant, has been welcoming guests to the Scottish Highlands for over 30 years. Our family's connection to this land dates back to 1905, with generations cultivating a deep understanding of the region's natural beauty and hospitality. We transitioned from farming to full-time hospitality in 2025, dedicating ourselves to maintaining four unique self-catering properties that blend traditional charm with modern comforts. Each cottage features handcrafted elements, carefully curated amenities, and unparalleled views of the Cairngorm Mountains. Our expertise in local tourism enables us to guide guests toward authentic Highland experiences, from wildlife spotting to exploring historic trails.As stewards of this land, we prioritise sustainable practices while ensuring every visitor enjoys a peaceful retreat. Our commitment to quality is evident in our EPC-rated properties and meticulous attention to detail. With generations of local knowledge, we provide insider access to the Cairngorms National Park's hidden gems. Our working collie Bess accompanies us in maintaining the grounds, embodying our hands-on approach to hospitality. We personally oversee every aspect of your stay to guarantee a memorable Highland experience rooted in genuine Scottish tradition.
Services
Hill View Cottage
Lochside Cottage
The Croft
The Hide
Self-Catering Accommodation
Pet-Friendly Stays
Mountain View Properties
Family-Friendly Cottages
Luxury Holiday Homes
Cairngorms Base Camp
Highlights and features
- Over 30 years' experience providing Highland hospitality
- Family-owned with generational local knowledge since 1905
- Unique properties combining traditional charm with modern comforts
- Direct access to Cairngorms National Park's best attractions
- Personalised guest recommendations from lifelong locals
Services
Hill View Cottage
Our largest property offers three bedrooms sleeping six guests with panoramic mountain views. This single-storey bungalow features a wood-burning stove, fully equipped kitchen, and private garden. Ideal for families seeking comfortable Highland accommodation with easy access to outdoor activities.
Lochside Cottage
A two-bedroom bungalow situated 20 metres from the loch shore. Offers stunning views of Avielochan and the Cairngorms through large windows. Includes modern kitchen facilities and comfortable living space perfect for couples or small families seeking scenic Highland holidays.
The Croft
A three-bedroom stone-built cottage sleeping five guests. Combines traditional croft architecture with modern amenities including satellite TV and oil-fired central heating. Features mountain views from both front and rear aspects with convenient self-catering facilities.
The Hide
A one-bedroom static caravan accommodating two guests. Provides modern comforts with loch views, including gas heating and electric fire. Compact yet functional layout with kitchen-dining area and outdoor seating, ideal for solo travellers or couples.
Outdoor Activities
Guided access to local outdoor pursuits including hiking, cycling, and wildlife spotting. Guests receive expert recommendations for exploring Cairngorms National Park, with nearby ski centres, fishing locations, and scenic trails. Personalised guidance available for all skill levels.
People
Ronald Grant
Owner
Third-generation steward of Avielochan land since 1905. Transitioned from dairy farming to hospitality in 2025. Combines agricultural heritage with modern hosting expertise, overseeing property maintenance and guest experiences.
Fiona Grant
Owner
Co-owner with 30+ years' hospitality experience. Manages day-to-day operations and guest relations. Utilises local knowledge to create memorable stays, focusing on sustainable practices and community connections within the Cairngorms National Park.
Questions
What self-catering options are available at Avielochan?
We offer four distinct properties: Hill View Cottage (sleeps 6), Lochside Cottage (sleeps 4), The Croft (sleeps 5), and The Hide (sleeps 2), all with full kitchen facilities.
How close are the cottages to Aviemore town?
Our properties are located just 2 miles north of Aviemore on the A95, offering easy access to shops, restaurants, and amenities while maintaining a peaceful countryside setting.
What outdoor activities are accessible from the cottages?
Guests enjoy hiking, cycling, skiing at Cairngorm Mountain, wildlife watching, and fishing. We provide expert local knowledge for exploring the Cairngorms National Park's trails and natural attractions.
Are the cottages suitable for families?
Yes, all properties accommodate families with appropriate bedding configurations. Hill View Cottage features a dedicated boot room for outdoor gear storage and easy access for children.
What amenities are included in the rentals?
All cottages include heating, electricity (metered in some properties), bed linen, towels, and kitchen essentials. Specific amenities vary by property as detailed in individual descriptions.
How to book a stay at Avielochan Cottages?
Visit our website to check availability and book directly. We offer flexible booking options with arrival from 4pm and departure by 10am, with special arrangements possible upon request.
Reviews (6)
Karen Harvey-Johnston
Dec 21, 2021
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Reasons why we have been coming back for over 17 years and why Avielochan will always be special to us;
The location is amazing. It feels so remote from everything but just outside Aviemore. The views from Lochside and The Croft are breathtaking and ever changing. You can walk or cycle a number of routes from your doorstep and so much to explore in the wider national park. The cottages have always been super clean but Fiona has introduced extra cleaning and safety measures during the pandemic so you can walk in and feel safe. The kitchen cupboards and drawers are so well equipped and organised
The location is amazing. It feels so remote from everything but just outside Aviemore. The views from Lochside and The Croft are breathtaking and ever changing. You can walk or cycle a number of routes from your doorstep and so much to explore in the wider national park. The cottages have always been super clean but Fiona has introduced extra cleaning and safety measures during the pandemic so you can walk in and feel safe. The kitchen cupboards and drawers are so well equipped and organised
Helen McKenna
Jul 27, 2021
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Beautiful location. Stunning views over the Loch to the hills. Scenery ever changing as clouds drift past. Cottage amazing. Spotlessly clean. Comfortable. Everything you could possibly need to self-cater. Fiona so welcoming. Love our Aviemore retreat. Never fails to deliver. And so many birds and rabbits to amuse entertain.
Andrea Gray
Jul 18, 2021
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Wonderful stay at Hill View Cottage. The accommodation is clean, comfy beds, well equipped kitchen & good sized rooms with plenty of storage. We had a dog with us and the garden was dog friendly & fenced. The cottage has a boot room so really great for coming in from trips out drying the dog off and a place to leave coats/shoes etc. A warm welcome from Fiona & Ronald. Avielochan is only a 10 min car journey from Aviemore for supplies. Thank you we had a really great holiday.
Clare Mills
Jul 04, 2021
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Such a lovely cottage, well equipped, fabulous views, we were comfortable & felt that everything was fresh & clean. The owner was very helpful. Good location for many activities on offer in the area. Would definitely visit again!
Richard Barrett
Jun 30, 2021
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In mobile home ..very smart and clean and good size rooms. Lovely quiet location.
Fabulous view of Cairgorms and a small lochan..lots birds.
Fabulous view of Cairgorms and a small lochan..lots birds.
Ian Blair
Sep 11, 2020
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We stayed in the caravan this time. Even in October it was lovely and cozy. It was immaculately clean, fully equipped and very comfortable. Sitting and looking out over the lochan or watching the birds on the feeders was so relaxing. Fiona is friendly, welcoming and helpful. We also have had holidays in the Croft, a charming cottage. We love coming to Avielochan and hope to be back.
