Craiglynne Hotel

Grantown-on-Spey is a planned Georgian town on the northern edge of the Cairngorms, and the Craiglynne Hotel is one of its traditional landmarks. It is a Victorian building with generous public rooms, a bar and restaurant, and the slightly formal comfort of an older Highland hotel. Choosing Grantown over Aviemore means a calmer base with broad streets, independent shops and a village atmosphere, and it is excellent for anglers, walkers and wildlife watchers. The Speyside Way long-distance path runs through the area, the Spey itself is a famous salmon river, and the forests and moors toward Abernethy and Lochindorb are on your doorstep. The town is about twenty-five minutes by car from Aviemore, so you can reach the main Cairngorms attractions in a short drive while retreating to somewhere quieter at the end of the day.

The appeal of the Craiglynne is atmosphere. Victorian hotels were built to host guests who came to fish, shoot and walk, and the best of them keep a sense of that tradition: high ceilings, solid furniture, a bar with a good range of whiskies, and staff who know the area. Rooms are traditional, varying in size and style, so ask for what you need, whether that is a quieter room, a double bed or a view over the garden. Dining on site can save a drive on a wet evening, and breakfast is generally generous.

Grantown itself is worth exploring. The town's wide main street, square and independent shops are pleasant for an evening stroll, and there are cafes, a small museum and bakeries. For outdoor activities, the Speyside Way offers easy walks along the river and old railway lines, and Anagach Woods, on the edge of town, provide forest paths and chances to spot red squirrels. Fishing is a major tradition, and local guides can arrange days on the Spey for visitors who want to try.

Location suits a particular style of trip. If your plans include the Loch Garten osprey centre, Boat of Garten and the Strathspey Railway, Grantown is close, and it is also a good base for Speyside whisky visits in neighbouring districts, although those are covered more fully in the Inverness area. In winter the town can be quiet, which is a charm for some and a drawback for others, so check which restaurants are open on the nights you plan to stay.

Book ahead for summer weekends and event dates. If you plan to base here and visit the Reindeer Centre, Rothiemurchus or the Highland Wildlife Park, allow driving time and arrive early to beat traffic. The hotel works best for visitors who appreciate traditional hospitality and a less touristy atmosphere, and who treat the drive to the main attractions as part of the scenery.