Balneden Steading Self Catering Cottages

Overview

Located on 50 acres of working farmland between Grantown on Spey and Tomintoul on the stunning Glenlivet Estate, within the Cairngorms National Park. Just off the Speyside Way walking trail and at the start of the Whisky & Castle Trail. 30 minutes from Aviemore and 45 minutes from the wildlife of the Moray Firth. The property is frequently visited by herds of deer and even the elusive Scottish wildcat!

Newly renovated in 2009, the accommodation offers a choice from The Mill (sleeps 4+1), The Grain Store (sleeps 4+1) and The Cattle Shed (sleeps 2). Spectacular panoramic views, double-height vaulted ceilings and exposed beams, open-plan kitchen / dining room / lounge, underfloor heating, wood-burning stoves, free wireless internet, and superb kitchens & bathrooms.

The owners live nearby and can offer a unique service by taking delivery of a supermarket shopping delivery prior to arrival if you wish (this can be added to with meat from the local butcher and local fruit & veg upon request (no charge for these services). In The Mill and The Grain Store, the second bedroom can be set up as a double or a twin depending on your preference. Cot & highchair available.

Check in time 4pm Saturday. Short breaks on request in low season.
3 superb holiday cottages consisting of:

The Mill (sleeps 4+1)

Huge 5 metre-high glazed gables revealing spectacular views of the surrounding mountains, rivers and forests. Huge master bedroom with wall mounted flat-screen TV and access to private outdoor decking / dining terrace overlooking farmland. Second bedroom can be set up as double or twin. Large luxury contemporary bathroom with bath and large shower. Open-plan kitchen / diner / lounge with wood burning stove and large sofas, large flat screen TV / DVD / iPod docking station. Underfloor heating and wooden floors throughout. Free wireless internet access. Good mobile signal. Ample parking for several cars.

The Grain Store (sleeps 4+1)

Large master bedroom with mountain views. Second bedroom can be set up as double or twin. Huge 5 metre-high glazed gables revealing spectacular views of the surrounding mountains, rivers and forests. Contemporary wet-room with open shower. Open-plan kitchen / diner / lounge with wood burning stove and large sofa. Underfloor heating and wooden floors throughout. Free wireless internet access. Good mobile signal. Ample parking for several cars. Outside dining area.

The Cattle Shed (sleeps 2)

Large master bedroom with mountain views. Contemporary wet-room with open shower. Open-plan kitchen / diner / lounge with wood burning stove, flat screen TV / DVD player / iPod docking station, leather sofa. Underfloor heating and wooden floors throughout. Free wireless internet access. Good mobile signal. Parking area. Outside dining area.

Locally available are trout/salmon fishing in the River Avon (we have two rod permits on request). We are at the start of the Speyside Way, and are minutes away from lots of great walks on the Glenlivet Estate. Good mountain biking nearby and just 10 minutes drive from the Lecht Ski area. 20 minutes from the Osprey Centre at Loch Garten and just 30 minutes drive from activity-packed Aviemore. Tomintoul is two miles away and boasts two good pubs, a great restaurant, an art gallery, and a café, not to mention the world-famous Whisky Castle.

Balneden Steading is the ideal base for touring the Highlands.

Price Guides (2010)

The Mill : £350-£550 per week
The Grain Store : £330-£530 per week
The Cattle Shed : £295-440 per week

Prices exclude Christmas and New Year