Aviemore Hotels

Outdoor Aviemore

Aviemore is a destination for people who love the outdoors, with plenty of routes through the national park and the mountains for walkers, climbers and mountain bikers. The River Spey is a popular spot for canoeing and river tubing, and there are opportunities to do archery, horse riding, quad biking, Segway riding, fishing and clay pigeon shooting. If you fancy a more sedentary way of enjoying the scenery, the Strathspey Steam Railway runs from Aviemore to Broomhill, 10 miles away. Some trains stop at the village of Boat of Garten, known as the osprey village for its large population of ospreys.

The 18-hole Spey Valley Golf Course has hosted the European Challenge Tour's Scottish Hydro Challenge since 2009 and features the longest hole in Scotland at 635 yards. The course is a stunning place to play, with excellent views of the mountains – it runs alongside the river and through heather, Scots pines and silver birches. You might catch a glimpse of deer, red squirrels or ospreys while you're playing.

Aviemore even has countryside rangers who welcome visitors and help them discover everything the area has to offer. They also organise events throughout the year, such as guided walks and wildlife watching. Just pop into one of the ranger bases for more information.

Cairngorm

Cairngorm mountain – the sixth-highest in the United Kingdom – is Scotland's most popular ski resort and has a reputation as one of the UK's most beautiful places to ski. There are a range of ski and snowboard routes, with the longest at 3.3km. If you're not a skier, there's a much easier way to go up and down the mountain – on Scotland's only funicular railway. The railway will whisk you up to the Top Station at 3,500 feet above sea level, where there is a restaurant, gift shop, viewing terrace and exhibition centre. Here you'll also find the highest postbox in the British Isles. Conservation restrictions mean walkers aren't allowed onto the mountain from here, although you can climb up on foot and come back down on the railway.

Reindeer

The Cairngorm Mountains are also home to one third of Britain's only herd of reindeer, which were reintroduced into Scotland in 1952. You can visit them daily at the Cairngorm Reindeer Centre – a herder will take you up onto the mountainside where they live, and you can feed and stroke them. You can also join a half-day trek with the animals when you'll have the opportunity to lead your own reindeer.

Rothiemurchus forest

The Rothiemurchus forest is believed to contain more than 10 million trees, including some Scots pines more than 300 years old. It's a great place to go wildlife watching – pine martens, badgers, capercaillie, red squirrels, ospreys and Scottish crossbills are all found here, along with many varieties of trees and plants.

Where to stay to be near the popular attractions

Positioned within the heart of the Scottish Highlands, Aviemore offers varied, exceptional options for accommodation that provide close proximity to the most visited tourist attractions.

The central area of Aviemore is considered an ideal location for those seeking a comfortable stay in a prime, easily accessible location. With several hotels, guest houses and lodges available, this area provides easy access to the much-frequented shopping streets, great restaurants and cafes, thereby combining convenience and experience. Aviemore train station is nearby, making it easier for travellers to move around the area.

The popular Macdonald Aviemore Resort offers not just accommodation but a host of family-friendly activities, including indoor swimming, theatre shows, soft play and more. This resort is nestled in close vicinity to the Cairn Gorm Mountain, which is known for offering various outdoor activities such as skiing, snowboarding and mountain biking throughout the year.

The Rothiemurchus estate, located slightly outside the central area, boasts of breathtaking surroundings, and is ideal for those wanting to be surrounded by nature. The estate is home to a wide range of wildlife, scenic lochs and beautiful woodlands, and offers a range of activities such as wildlife watching, archery, clay shooting and pony trekking. Moreover, a variety of accommodation is available, from campsites to luxury lodges, presenting a range of choices to suit different preferences and budgets.

Neighbouring the Rothiemurchus estate is the Boat of Garten community, which offers a range of high-quality accommodation, ranging from B&Bs to self-catering cottages. Known as the Osprey Village, this area is a short distance away from the RSPB Osprey Centre, a known stop for birdwatching enthusiasts.

Where to stay with family

Nestled in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park, Aviemore is a picturesque town that offers a perfect escape for families looking to reconnect with nature. With a wide range of outdoor activities and stunning landscapes, it's an ideal destination for a family holiday. However, when it comes to finding the right place to stay with a young family, it can be overwhelming to navigate through the options.

When travelling with young children, the neighbourhood of Rothiemurchus is highly recommended. Located on the outskirts of Aviemore, it offers a peaceful and family-friendly atmosphere. The area is surrounded by lush forests and has plenty of open spaces for children to run around and play. There are also several family-friendly attractions nearby such as the Rothiemurchus Estate Visitor Centre and the Highland Wildlife Park. In terms of accommodation, there are a few cosy bed and breakfasts and self-catering cottages in Rothiemurchus that provide a comfortable and homely stay for families.

For families with older children, the neighbourhood of Aviemore village is a great choice. It's a lively hub with a variety of restaurants, cafes and shops. The village also has a range of family-friendly activities, including the Cairngorm Mountain Railway and the Landmark Forest Adventure Park. There are several hotels in Aviemore village that are perfect for families, offering spacious rooms and amenities like swimming pools, kids' clubs and family-friendly dining options.

To take in the tranquillity of the Scottish countryside, the neighbourhood of Glenmore is an ideal option. It's a peaceful and picturesque area with stunning views of the mountains. Families can enjoy scenic walks, bike rides and even horse riding in the nearby Glenmore Forest Park. Glenmore also has a few family-friendly accommodation options, providing a comfortable and peaceful stay away from the hustle and bustle of the town.

Where to find cheap hotels

Located in the heart of the Scottish Highlands, Aviemore is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering breathtaking views of the Cairngorms National Park and a wide range of activities such as hiking, skiing and mountain biking. However, with its stunning landscapes and appeal, finding affordable accommodation in this stunning town may seem like a daunting task.

For budget-conscious travellers, there are plenty of low-budget neighbourhoods in Aviemore that offer affordable accommodation options. One such area is the nearby village of Carrbridge. Just a 15-minute drive from the town, Carrbridge offers a range of budget-friendly B&Bs, hostels and guesthouses. This picturesque village is also well known for its traditional pubs and restaurants, making it a great alternative for those looking to save on dining expenses.

Hotel chains are often a good way to find affordable accommodation, and Aviemore has a few options that won't break the bank. Premier Inn and Travelodge are two popular hotel chains with properties in Aviemore, offering comfortable rooms at affordable rates. These hotels are located just a short distance from the town centre, making them a convenient choice for budget travellers.

When it comes to choosing the best time to visit to Aviemore, it's worth noting that hotel rates tend to be lower during the off-peak season. This is typically during the winter months (excluding Christmas and New Year's) when the town is less crowded and prices are more competitive. Additionally, booking a stay during weekdays rather than weekends can also lead to significant savings.