Aviemore Glamping
UK Scotland Highlands Inverness-shire
Eriskay, Craig Na Gower Avenue, Aviemore PH22 1RW
High on the northern fringes of the vast (1,748 sq mi) Cairngorms National Park, Aviemore is a year-round base for outdoors enthusiasts of all persuasions, and the destination of choice for the many of the UK's most dedicated winter sports fans. From kayaking on Loch Morlich to tackling the mighty Munros of Britain's highest, coldest, and snowiest mountain range, this unspoilt landscape is a veritable smorgasbord of epic features waiting to be explored. However, while there's a refreshing lack of exclusivity about Aviemore, accommodation at the resort proper often falls on the pricey side. What a treat then to find Aviemore Glamping – a charming glamping site with a good-value bed-and-breakfast place, the Eriskay, attached.
The four ingeniously-designed timber pods comfortably sleep a couple on the fold-out double bed. There's an immaculately maintained shower/wet room, and, most importantly, these cosy cabins stay nice and toasty on teeth-chatteringly cold Highland evenings. They're kitted out with everything you could need, including bedding, cutlery and utensils, and although there aren't full cooking facilities there's access to a microwave, toaster and hot-water boiler. Or you can nip across the gravel path to join your indoor B&B buddies for a full-on Scottish breakfast (available for an extra charge), courtesy of owners Ken and Gill.
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The Owner Says
Glamping couples, kids – yes. Groups are allowed but not hen or stag parties. No dogs.The local area
The Cairngorms National Park boasts endless eye candy and outdoor activities. Take the Cairngorm Mountain funicular railway (01479 861261) up 3,500ft to get a true sense of its scale. It's also home to the wonderful Cairngorm Reindeer Centre (01479 861228), where under the supervision of trained staff, you can feed, stroke and walk amongst these friendly animals. Situated in the centre of the Cairngorm National Park, visitors follow the herder up to the mountain enclosure, where beautiful mountain views can also be enjoyed. Aviemore is the outdoor capital of Scotland, with everything from skiing and gorge walking to loch kayaking and winter mountaineering on offer. The site is just 10 miles from the slopes with regular shuttle buses every hour. If it's your first time, the CairnGorm Mountain Snow School (01479 861319) is a good place to learn the ropes. The Glenmore Lodge (01479 861256) is a serious outdoor activity centre with courses in mountaineering for all seasons and abilities. The sprawling Rothiemurchus Forest is also waiting to be explored. Drop by the first-rate activity centre (01479 812345) for archery, pony trekking, and quad bike safaris. Loch Garten Osprey Centre (01479 831476) at Nethybridge is a fascinating look at the iconic birds of prey. For the little ones, the Landmark Forest Adventure Park (0800 7313446) boasts all manner of amusements including 'The Lost Labyrinth', 'The Runaway Timber Train', and 'The Tarzan Trail'. Ace Adventure (01309 611 729) are a specialist White water rafting and outdoor activities provider, based near Aviemore. Jim and the team cater for a wide range of activities; from high adrenaline thrills to relaxed wilderness and wildlife experiences.
Best local places to eat and drink
You can order a delicious cooked breakfast on site for just a fiver. Choose from either a full Scottish, full vegetarian or continental selection. Macdonald Aviemore Resort (0344 879 9152) boasts a wealth of dining options. Elsewhere, The Old Bridge Inn (01479 811137) serves a sophisticated gourmet menu. Also on the main drag, Mountain Café (01479 812 473) serves up a range of healthy lunches and excellent breakfasts. The Kiwi owners also make some truly decadent cakes. The Ski-ing Doo and Doo Below (01479 810392) is a cool, family-friendly hangout for snowboarders. With hearty burgers and other wholesome faves on the menu (plus lots of cool stuff on the walls), this is a veritable Aviemore institution. The award-winning Cairngorm Brewery (01479 812222) offers tasting tours for ale aficionados.
Why stay with us?
There are 4 units each sleeping two. Each has its own en-suite wet room as well as tea and coffee making facilities. All pods come fully equipped with bed linen, towels, cups, glasses (plus complimentary tea, coffee and milk). BBQ area outside with firepit (disposable BBQs and firewood available to buy).
