Located in the heart of the Cairngorm National Park, at an altitude of 1,112 feet, is the popular tourist village of Braemar (shops, hotels, restaurants). However, being surrounded by nature does not mean the village is isolated. Though situated less than 60 miles from both Dundee and Aberdeen, you can still walk along the main street early in the morning and have a chance of encountering an otter or even a stag!
On a quiet road towards the outskirts of the village is Airlie House, with its remarkable exterior of exposed granite with natural larch cladding. This newly modernised property is as delightful as the community in which it sits.
Airlie House Cottage has a chic open plan living area, with sleek and stylish galley kitchen units, dining space and a sitting area with television. French doors open onto an enclosed garden to the front of the property with outstanding views over Creag Choinnich, a beautiful hill clothed in pine woods. Beyond the living area is the eminently practical wet room with shower (perfect for getting cleaned up after an adventurous day in the surrounding area) and an attractive twin bedroom with beds that can be joined to make a double. The spiral staircase in the middle of the cottage makes an impressive statement, as well as taking you to a bright, elegant and tasteful double bedroom with en-suite shower room and separate dressing area in the coombs.
The Royal Burgh of Deeside in Aberdeenshire has longstanding links to Scottish royalty and has been the playground of numerous kings and nobles since the beginning of recorded history. With its majestic, unspoilt, amazingly varied scenery it is clear to see why it is not only royals that choose to holiday in the area! Robert Louis Stevenson began writing 'Treasure Island' here in 1881 when he was on holiday, the cottage in which he stayed still stands in the village. Guests staying in Airlie House will be residents of the same street on which Stevenson's good friend 'John Silver' lived!
As the highest and most mountainous parish in the UK, Braemar becomes a mecca for walkers in the summer, for skiers in the winter and is home to the world famous Highland Games. However, the village offers numerous attractions for those who prefer a less energetic getaway. Braemar Castle stands approximately half a mile to the north east of the village with 12 fully furnished rooms on show and slightly up river from the bridge in Braemar you can explore the ruins of Kindrochit Castle, thought to have been built in the 14th century. The majestic Balmoral Castle and its extensive estate is only a 20 minutes drive from the village offering, amongst other things, guided walks of the gardens, grounds and exhibitions. By prior arrangement you can even sit back and enjoy a 3 hour luxury Land Rover wildlife safari, who knows, you may be lucky enough to see the elusive Scottish wild cats that call parts of the estate home!
There are also a number of eateries to sample, including (just 20 yards away) the owner's celebrated 'Taste' coffee shop serving fabulous home baking throughout the day. Also close by is the Highland Heritage Centre if you want to learn more about the history of the area, its royal connections and landscape.
Bed linen, towels, oil central heating and electricity are all included in the rental. Sorry, no pets or smoking.
