It’s officially the time of year when the weather gets a bit… dreich (for want of a better word). But… we have come up with our top 5 ways to warm your cockles after an outdoor adventure!
1. Enjoy (Probably) the Best Hot Chocolate you'll ever have at Nethy House
The Speyside Way ventures through Nethy Bridge, whether you walk from Boat of Garten or Grantown-on-Spey (or further afield), a stop at Nethy House is a must. Indulge in a hot chocolate with all the trimmings whilst cosying up on the sofas next to the fire.
Avielochan Cottages are perfectly situated for walking The Speyside Way – from Newtonmore to Buckie – it’s one of the famous four official long distance routes in Scotland.
2. Home Comforts at
The Coffee Pot
Days with the kids are full of fun – and there’s plenty to do in the Cairngorms all year round. From ice skating to mountain tubing, you’ll find adventures round every corner. And when your energy needs a top-up, and your body needs a warm-up, we recommend taking the troops to The Coffee Pot (opposite the Winking Owl).
This local treasure has genuinely lovely staff who are always happy to see you. The cafe serves hearty meals and delicious homebaking with the warmth of a wood-fired stove… the perfect end (or middle) to your family day out.
3. Coffee, Pies & Cake at
The Croft Cafe
Carr-Bridge has many short and pleasant walks to offer you, and there’s always a photo oportunity too. The Old Packhorse Bridge with the Dulnain flowing underneath takes centre stage, but further along the river and into the woods offers an abundance of stunning views and backdrops.
Fuel up at The Croft Cafe – The Old Bakery before you go (or when you come back). Fabulous coffee, homemade pies and tasty homebaking are all there waiting for you!
4. Awesome portions and whacky banter at the
Pine Marten Bar
You can’t visit the Cairngorms without visiting the Cairngorms! Whether you walk, run, cycle or drive to the mountains, be sure to add a stop at the Pine Marten Bar to your itinerary.
Stop for breakfast, lunch, dinner or just drinks and you’ll be made welcome at this wholesome wee pub at the shores of Loch Morlich.
5. Coorie-in with some takeaway soup from KJ's Bothy Bakery
This is the best time of year for enjoying our wonderful surrounding from the comfort of your cosy holiday home at Avielochan.
You don’t even have to cook. Take a wee drive to Grantown-on-Spey and bring home some amazing soup, bread, coffee, cakes and other treats. All made freshly by the awesome ladies at KJ’s Bothy Bakery.
Then head back to your cottage where it’s easy to really relax and switch off from everday life. Grab your slippers and a blanket and coorie-up on the sofa next to the wood burning stove… bliss.
How do Highlanders survive the long cold months?
Porridge of course!
This Saturday, October 8, sees the 29th Annual Golden Spurtle World Porridge Making Championship make its first in-person return to Carr-Bridge since the pandemic. On the culinary events menu long before Bake Off or Master Chef, this is the ultimate cook-off between global competitors to make the absolute best porridge.
There’s no better way to warm yourself up than a hearty bowl of porridge!
