The Cairngorm

Families and larger groups will find The Cairngorm works well for a Highland base. The house sleeps eight across three bedrooms—a double with ensuite, a twin, and a bunk room—plus a family bathroom in the hall. Ground-floor living means the sitting room, dining area and kitchen flow together naturally, with sofas and armchairs arranged around a woodburner, and a table that seats the full party. One dog is welcome here.

Aviemore's town centre is a short walk away via a path at the property's edge, so you can reach restaurants, bars and shops on foot without the car. The kitchen is properly equipped for cooking, from oven and hob to dishwasher and washing machine. Bed linen, towels, wi-fi and heating are all included. During the colder months, October to April, the first night's logs and kindling for the woodburner are provided. The real draw for many is the sauna tucked into the property—genuine recovery after days spent skiing or walking in the Cairngorms. Off-season fires are possible too; reception can supply logs. Private parking covers three cars, and the enclosed garden has a barbecue and space to move around.