A historic cottage given a refined Belgian guise, encircled by a rural estate just 10 mins from Balmoral (sleeps 7)
Space & setting.
Encircled by a traditional dry-stone dyke, this cottage is rich in history and charm. Formerly a thriving village schoolhouse, it now offers a generous, welcoming backdrop for family and friends gatherings, and scenic escapes amid the still beauty of the Cairngorms. High ceilings and luminous spaces feel open yet cosy, whether you’re gathered around the log burner after a wintery walk in the snow-dusted glens or throwing open the windows to let in spring birdsong and soft Highland air. In summer, the garden is perfect for outdoor breakfasts before a day’s hiking, or sunset dinners with views of wildflower-dotted hills.
The interiors are a comforting blend of heritage and warmth: salvaged details have been cleverly combined with a soft palette, deep sofas, snuggly throws, and a big farmhouse table for leisurely dinners and late-night card games. Thoughtful touches abound too, from puzzles and books to luxurious natural toiletries for a soak in the tub. Queen Victoria and George V used to hunt grouse and wander through the hills and dales of this very estate (Balmoral is just 10 minutes away) and you can tread in their footsteps when you stay. Gather a crowd and come to fly fish on the River Dee, visit local distilleries, hike the trails of Cairngorms National Park… and relax.
Getting here: you’ll need to drive. The nearest airport is Aberdeen, and it’s 1 hr 10 mins from there; 2 hours from Edinburgh.
We came to visit Scotland from Belgium and fell in love with Royal Deeside and decided to move here. Being outdoorsy, we looked for a house with incredible views so we could disconnect from our busy lives, and we ended up custodians of the Gairnshiel Estate, with its historic main Lodge and 3 cottages. This cottage was once the village schoolhouse. We restored it and created a calm and inspiring place to help people connect and be in the moment. Families, friends or even colleagues can enjoy spending time together here.” Eric and Hilde
They love
The calm and peace from being immersed in nature.
We love
The gorgeous deep sofas; perfect for lazy hours with cups of tea and good books.
You may not love
Walking distance from the main Lodge, which is also a rental, but you’re totally private. Very rural; you’ll need a car. Price doesn’t include a £75 cleaning fee.
Surrounds.
- Wander Gairnshiel’s grounds. Work up a sweat walking then take a wild dip; the invigorating waters of the River Gairn wash the mossy banks here.
- The owners can arrange fly fishing (trout or Atlantic salmon) as well as clay-pigeon shooting (all 25 mins’ drive)
- Or book a stargazing experience – the dark skies here make for incredible celestial shows.
- Or explore the more challenging terrain with an off-road 4×4 adventure, a unique way to access some of Scotland’s most rugged, remote landscapes.
- Visit Balmoral Castle, home to the Royal family. Its grounds are open to the public from 1 April to mid August (10 mins’ drive)
- Hike to the summit of Lochnagar, a munro beloved by royals and ramblers alike, with panoramic views across the Cairngorms.
- Cycle the Deeside Way, a scenic trail that follows the old railway line from Ballater to Aberdeen. You can hire bikes in nearby Ballater.
- And whilst in town, head to the local Tarmachan Café for a speciality coffee or one of their legendary bakes. Eyes peeled for supper club dates during your stay.
- Visit the Cambus O’May Cheese Co too, for a tasting of artisanal Scottish cheeses and deli treats.
- Enjoy a dram of whisky and hearty Scottish dishes at the Flying Stag, the atmospheric bar at the Fife Arms in Braemar – think lentil soup, Shetland mussels, and Cullen skink.
Details.
- Cottage on a private estate, walking distance from the main Lodge
- 3 bedrooms: 2 x superking, 1 x triple
- 2 bathrooms: 1 with shower only, 1 with shower and bath
- Toiletries provided
- Full kitchen (fridge, freezer, oven, electric hob, Nespresso)
- Living room with sofas
- WiFi, Smart TV and games
- Private garden with BBQ
- Baby cot and highchair to borrow
- Dog friendly – see FAQs
- Drive to shops, pubs and restaurants
- Booking conditions: Booking conditions: a 2-night minimum stay all year, except during the Braemar Games when it is 3 nights. Note the price does not include a £75 cleaning fee, which will be charged separately
- Remember to pack: basic ingredients (salt, pepper and washing up liquid provided), slippers, wellies & outdoor gear, coal for the BBQ
Book your stay.
Surprise gift on arrival when you book with Kip!
30% deposit on booking, with the balance due 12 weeks prior to stay.
Cancellations permitted 12+ weeks prior to stay, with deposit refunded minus a £30 processing fee.
No refunds if booking cancelled within 12 weeks of stay.
See our full Ts & Cs
FAQs.
In 4pm / out 10am
Yes, dogs allowed for an extra charge of £50/booking per dog. No dogs allowed on sofas / beds. The garden is fenced.
Unfortunately not, but you’re welcome to bring in a chef.
They can fill your fridge for your first breakfast though (£25pp); includes bread, bacon and eggs, homemade chocolate spread, orange juice, ham and cheese, milk, jam and fruit.
Once you have booked your stay, you’ll be sent information about how to book fly fishing, off-road adventures, clay-pigeon shooting and more
No, they don’t offer a reduced tariff as you still have private use of the whole cottage.
Every season is special in a different way. In spring, everything is getting green and temperatures are warming. Summer is great with sunny days and a lot of wildlife to spot, plus the famous Highland Games, and magical purple heather in August. Autumn brings the most beautiful colour, and winter is great for snow sports; there are 2 skiing centres nearby. Note that a lot of castles/gardens and distilleries are closed in Jan and Feb.
Still have a question?
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