The Aberchalder Estate encompasses some 16,000 acres of beautiful woodlands, mountains, lochs and rivers which stretch along the south side of Loch Oich in the heart of The Great Glen - that 65-mile long rift-valley that cuts across Scotland from Inverness in the north-east to Fort William on the west.
Five miles south of Loch Ness and in a commanding position above a picturesque lock on Thomas Telford's amazing Caledonian Canal, is Aberchalder Lodge, a traditional Victorian shooting lodge which fully lives up to all that implies in terms of space, style and comfort.
As such, it forms a wonderful venue for larger families and parties of friends to holiday together. It has a very large modern fitted kitchen with a farmhouse table for convivial meals, an elegant dining room for more formal occasions, and the drawing room with its wood-burning stove is just perfect for comfortable evenings reminiscing about the events of the day, perhaps with a dram or two to hand. Also downstairs is a twin bedroom and adjoining bathroom, which are ideal for those who would prefer not to tackle the stairs. Upstairs, there are four further large bedrooms, two of which are en suite and a fourth bathroom. There is also a spacious landing with a small pool table.
Outside, extensive lawns (furniture) overlook the river, loch and hills while behind the Lodge the Estate lands stretch for two miles along the lochside where guests can wander at will. There is secure storage for bikes etc in the outbuildings to the back of the Lodge and stabling and grazing for one horse may be available by arrangement.
Here you are almost equidistant between the two main access roads to the glorious north-west coast and Skye, which can be reached in just over an hour. However, there are also many attractions to be found much nearer at hand. Just three miles to the north is Fort Augustus (hotels/shops), where the Canal descends in spectacular locks through the centre of the village. Beyond there is Loch Ness itself, where you can take boat trips on the loch to do a spot of 'Nessie'-watching, visit the imposing ruins of Urquhart castle, or view the amazing scenery from horseback by way of the riding centre at Borlum near Drumnadrochit ('Drum' to the locals).
Salmon and trout fishing and stalking are available on the Estate in Season and clay pigeon shooting can also be arranged. There is wonderful walking with the chance to espy red and roe-deer, pine martens, golden eagles and grouse. Aonach Mor (20 miles) offers great ski-ing in winter and in summer transforms itself into one of the premier mountain biking venues in the country, with, among others, a World Championship downhill course. If feeling particularly energetic, you can climb Ben Nevis or, for something more relaxing, you can take the gondola up Aonach Mor. All in all. Aberchalder is a great place for a thoroughly enjoyable Highland holiday.
Fresh garden produce and free-range eggs can be purchased when available.
Oil CH, electricity, bed linen and towels are INCLUDED in the rent, while a cook and domestic help, are available at extra charge. Dogs are accepted by arrangement and heated kennels are available. Smoking is not permitted within the property. Wi-fi Broadband is available, subject to provider.
