The Castle Bothy, self-catering accommodation next to historic Auchindoun Castle

Top rated by guests
Exterior
Private kitchen
Living area
Interior
Exterior detail
review stars
10.0Outstanding
(37 Ratings)
"This is a beautiful property, with everything thought through and superbly furnished and equipped. We had three really comfortable nights at the Castle Bothy, and had the bonus of seeing the Aurora B..."
Pete S.
Don't miss out! Price and availability may change
10.0 / 10.0
Outstanding(37 Ratings)

Cottage in Scotland

4 guests · 2 bedrooms · 1 bath

Reasons to book

Guests love it hereGuests give this property a top rating
High-end valueWell priced for this area
Book with confidenceWe partner with the top travel sites so you know you're getting a great deal on the perfect rental

About this cottage rental

The ‘ Castle Bothy’ is a luxury holiday apartment created out of the old stone barns (‘steading’) at former Parkhead Farm. It sits high on a hill overlooking Glen Fiddich and the heather covered slopes of The Cabrach moor, just 200m from the impressive 550 year old ruins of one of Scotland’s most iconic hilltop fortresses.

The property is a little unusual in that it has a bright open plan living space, including the kitchen and dining areas, located at first floor level above the bedrooms and bathrooms on the ground floor.

There are wonderful elevated views of the castle through the large windows, and an external timber stair that leads down into the small wild flower garden. When the ‘Northern Lights’ (Aurora Borealis) come out to play this is an exceptional viewpoint from which to experience them.

It is ideal for a couple but can accommodate up to 4 people. For larger groups it can be rented in conjunction with a similar cottage next door - ‘The Castle Byre’ (subject to availability, see separate combined listing for a discounted rate).

The beds in the main bedroom can be pre-configured as twin 3’ singles or zip linked as a Super King size double according to your stated preference. The second (smaller) bedroom has a standard (4’6” wide) double bed.

Underfloor heating throughout the ground floor and radiators at first floor level make this a very cosy little house.


The Area:

From castles to whisky, hilltops to coast, this is an exceptional area of Scotland that encompasses the best of history, hospitality and modern adventure. Principle leisure activities are hiking, cycling, fishing and golf.

The nearest town is Dufftown, two miles away and with six distilleries it is the 'Malt Whisky Capital of the World'. Here there is a range of well stocked grocery stores and places to eat, from restaurants to take-away.

Popular local events that attract people from all over the UK and around the world include:
The Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival, end of April & beginning of May.
The Moray Walking & Outdoor Festival, mid.June.
The Dufftown Highland Games, last Saturday in July.
North East Open Studios, mid.September
The Dramathon, mid. October

Just 15 miles north lies the world class Moray Firth coastline, with miles of sandy beaches, interesting and picturesque small fishing ports, forests and cliffs. It is one of the best places in the UK to get the chance of seeing dolphins and whales, with boat trips available.

To the east the countryside rolls in to Aberdeenshire with more castles, including Balmoral in Royal Deeside, and Aberdeen (‘The Granite City’), the third largest in Scotland with its restaurants, art galleries, parks and shopping centres.

A few miles to the south is the Cairngorms National Park, the largest and wildest in the UK with a wide range of organised leisure activities, and west lies Inverness, gateway to Loch Ness, the West Coast and the North Scottish Highlands.

The heather blooms from July to September (thought this is dependent on the weather).

From ensuring the accommodation meets the expected standard to providing detailed knowledge and guidance to make best of your time, we are committed to helping you have an exceptional experience.


Access & Directions:

The access road up from the public highway is un-tarmacked / stone & gravel and not suitable for very low slung cars. General road and SUV types are fine.

We'll be in touch the week before you arrive with detailed directions on how to find us.

Amenities at The Castle Bothy, self-catering accommodation next to historic Auchindoun Castle

Non-smoking
No pets allowed

Map of Scotland


$$$$
vrbo logo

Ratings and reviews

10.0 / 10.0
Outstanding(37 Ratings)
10.0 / 10.0
This is a beautiful property, with everything thought through and superbly furnished and equipped. We had three really comfortable nights at the Castle Bothy, and had the bonus of seeing the Aurora Borealis (thanks for the head up Colin!).It really was one of the best places we have stayed in over the last 15 years. Top three!
10.0 / 10.0
This was a wondeful stay at the midway point of our 19 day vacation. Loved the views from the bothy while making dinner, eatting breakfast and opening the curtains in the morning. Pheasants wandering outside in the garden commonly. The bed was comfortable and a true king size. Kitchen was well stocked with all basics and several nice additons. This was the most welcoming, comfortable accommodation of our trip and would recommend to anyone!
10.0 / 10.0
This was a lovely location. The views were stunning. Colin & Penny were very helpful and friendly. They went above and beyond to provide a wonderful visit. We would definitely stay here again.
10.0 / 10.0
beautiful barn renovation, exactly as advertised!!! owner went out of his way to stay up late and greet us and show us where to park, as we arrived late at night!!!
10.0 / 10.0
Amazing property and excellent communication with Colin. Do you want to stay in a quiet place where you can look out over a castle? This is your place. If you have the opportunity to stay here, I would highly recommend it!!
10.0 / 10.0
If you want an gorgeous view, wildlife galore, a castle to explore, and peaceful ambiance, look no further than The Castle Bothy. Colin warmly greeted us upon arrival and was ready to help us with any questions or needs. This was a last minute booking after an unexpected cancellation and boy are we glad the other owner pulled the rug out because we scored a million dollar gem with Colin & Penny.
10.0 / 10.0
This is a beautiful property and highly recommended. Colin and Penny have added so many small touches and amenities that make this so comfortable. We loved looking at the Auchindoun castle with each morning’s expresso. It was very clean and so quiet, we felt like we had it all to ourselves. When we left it brought tears to my wife’s eyes because it was truly a lifelong dream come true. The castle, the wildlife, the secluded getaway in a fairy tale setting that was wonderfully unique.I agree with another reviewer… “I've stayed in a lot of VRBO property's over the years and this is by far one of the best”
10.0 / 10.0
The Bothy is a lovely relaxing place to stay. It has everything you need for a holiday including whisky and the local delicacies called butteries. The surrounding countryside is beautiful and restful and even has a castle which is a great place to sit and take in the views. Whether you want to just chill or go exploring the area there is something for everyone. Colin and Penny,the hosts, are very helpful especially with recommending places to visit in the local area and are always on hand if there are any issues with the accommodation This is the second time we have stayed and will certainly be going back

FAQs

Is parking included with this cottage?

Parking is not specified as an available amenity at The Castle Bothy, self-catering accommodation next to historic Auchindoun Castle. For more information, we encourage you to contact the property about where to park.

Is there a pool at this cottage?

We didn’t find pool listed as an amenity for this cottage. It may be worth double checking if a pool is important for your stay.

Is The Castle Bothy, self-catering accommodation next to historic Auchindoun Castle pet friendly?

Unfortunately, this cottage is not pet-friendly. Try searching again and filter for "Pets Allowed"

What amenities are available at The Castle Bothy, self-catering accommodation next to historic Auchindoun Castle?

We found 2 amenities for this rental. This includes non-smoking, and no pets allowed.


Explore similar stays in Scotland

Explore all rentals in Scotland