Business Details
Self-Catering Cottages in the Scottish Highlands
Avielochan Cottages, owned by Ronald and Fiona Grant, has provided self-catering holiday experiences in the Scottish Highlands for over 30 years. Our journey began with letting our own home before expanding to four unique properties nestled in the Cairngorms National Park. Each cottage reflects our commitment to maintaining high standards while preserving individual character, with some furnishings handmade by Ronald himself. We offer breathtaking mountain views, modern amenities, and a deep understanding of the local area gained through generations of family residence since 1905. Our focus on hospitality combines traditional Highland warmth with contemporary comforts, ensuring guests experience both tranquillity and convenient access to outdoor activities. With Fiona's background in hospitality and Ronald's farming heritage transitioning to full-time hosting, we bring decades of local knowledge to help visitors explore wildlife, scenic trails, and cultural attractions.Our properties feature carefully designed spaces for relaxation, including log burners, private gardens, and strategic locations near Aviemore while maintaining peaceful rural settings. We pride ourselves on sustainable practices and maintaining strong community connections through our partnerships with local businesses. Our collie Bess often joins us in welcoming guests, embodying the friendly spirit of our Highlands retreat. Having personally experienced all the region offers, we provide tailored recommendations for seasonal activities, dining options, and hidden gems across the Cairngorms.
Services
Self-Catering Cottages
Lochside Cottage
The Croft
Hill View Cottage
The Hide Caravan
Highlights and features
- Over 30 years' experience hosting guests in the Cairngorms
- Family-owned business with generations of local knowledge
- Properties combine traditional character with modern comforts
- Strategically located between peaceful countryside and Aviemore amenities
- Sustainable practices with handmade furnishings by the owner
Services
Self-Catering Cottages
Our self-catering cottages provide fully equipped accommodation with private grounds and scenic views. Each property offers comfortable living spaces with modern amenities while maintaining traditional Highland character. Guests enjoy flexible stays with options for 2-6 people across four unique properties.
Lochside Cottage
This two-bedroom bungalow offers direct loch views with wildlife watching opportunities. The open-plan design combines kitchen, dining, and living areas with modern facilities. Located just 20 metres from the water's edge, it provides a peaceful base for nature enthusiasts.
The Croft
A three-bedroom stone-built cottage preserving original features with contemporary comforts. The property combines Highland heritage with modern amenities including satellite TV and oil-fired central heating. Ideal for families seeking authentic rural experiences.
Hill View Cottage
Our largest property sleeps six with panoramic mountain views across single-level accommodation. The spacious layout includes a wood-burning stove, boot room, and extensive garden. Designed for accessibility while maintaining traditional architectural elements.
The Hide
This one-bedroom static caravan offers contemporary comforts with loch views. The compact design includes kitchen, dining, and living areas with gas heating. Provides affordable self-catering with outdoor seating and mountain vistas.
People
Ronald Grant
Owner
Third-generation custodian of Avielochan with over 30 years' hospitality experience. Transitioned from farming to full-time hosting, combining local knowledge with property maintenance expertise. Born and raised at Avielochan since 1905 family arrival.
Fiona Grant
Owner
Co-owner with extensive hospitality background from nearby Aviemore. Manages guest relations and sustainability initiatives. Combines outdoor activity expertise with administrative responsibilities to ensure quality guest experiences.
Questions
What self-catering options are available at Avielochan?
We offer four distinct properties: Hill View Cottage (sleeps 6), The Croft (sleeps 5), Lochside Cottage (sleeps 4), and The Hide caravan (sleeps 2), all with private grounds and modern amenities.
How do I check availability and book a cottage?
Use our online booking system to select arrival dates and duration. The widget displays real-time availability across all properties, with options to switch between cottage types if your preferred dates aren't available.
What local attractions are near Avielochan Cottages?
We're within easy reach of Aviemore's amenities, Cairngorm Mountain ski centre, Loch Ness, and the North Coast 500 route. Wildlife watching opportunities include ospreys, red squirrels, and Cairngorm reindeer.
What facilities do the cottages provide?
All properties include fully equipped kitchens, satellite TV, DVD players, and heating systems. Specific features vary but generally offer wood/gas burners, parking, outdoor seating, and storage for sports equipment.
How accessible are the cottages for mobility-impaired guests?
Hill View Cottage provides single-level access with wide doorways. Other properties have varied layouts with stairs, though ground-floor bedrooms and facilities exist in some cottages. Contact us for specific accessibility requirements.
What outdoor activities can guests enjoy locally?
The Cairngorms offer year-round activities including hiking, cycling, skiing, fishing, and wildlife spotting. We provide equipment storage and local knowledge to help plan adventures, with guided options available nearby.
