Discover a Highland Escape at Glen Tanar
Set across 25,000 acres within the Cairngorms National Park, Glen Tanar offers an unforgettable escape amid ancient woodland, peaceful lochs and sweeping open hills. Surrounded by the spectacular landscapes of Royal Deeside, the estate provides an idyllic setting for those looking to slow down, enjoy the outdoors and experience the natural beauty of the Scottish Highlands.
Whether visitors prefer long walks through Scots pine forests, days spent discovering local wildlife or simply relaxing in the tranquillity of the countryside, Glen Tanar provides plenty of opportunities to experience the landscape at their own pace.
Characterful Cottages in the Cairngorms
Glen Tanar's collection of beautifully renovated Victorian cottages combines original character with contemporary comfort. Each property has been thoughtfully furnished with quality pieces and practical touches to create a welcoming home from home.
The cottages are well equipped for self-catering holidays and include useful facilities such as storage for bikes and fishing equipment, outdoor barbecue areas, books and cosy wood-burning stoves. Many of the properties also welcome pets, making them a great choice for visitors who would like to bring their four-legged companions along.
With cottages sleeping from two to six guests, there are options for romantic escapes, family holidays and countryside breaks with friends.
Tower O'Ess – Sleeps 2
Tower O'Ess is a distinctive Highland retreat created within a listed Victorian tower. Designed for two guests, it combines historic character with stylish Scandinavian-inspired interiors and modern comforts.
Set beside the River Tanar and surrounded by towering Scots pines, the property enjoys a wonderfully secluded atmosphere. Inside, guests will find a super-king bed, double-ended roll-top bath and inviting fire, while original Victorian features include the unusual gatehouse pulley system.
Outside, Tower O'Ess has its own fairy-lit hot tub overlooking the woodland, providing a memorable place to unwind beneath the stars. It is the only Glen Tanar cottage with a hot tub.
STL Licence: AS 00198F.
Rowan Cottage – Sleeps 4
Once a simple farm workers' bothy, Rowan Cottage has been transformed into an eco-friendly, open-plan retreat while retaining plenty of its traditional charm.
Exposed ceiling beams and a granite fireplace reflect the cottage's history, while thoughtful contemporary touches provide the comforts needed for a relaxing stay. After a day spent exploring Glen Tanar and the surrounding countryside, guests can return to the warmth of the fire and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
STL Licence: AS 00193F.
Garden Cottage – Sleeps 4
Garden Cottage occupies a beautiful position within Glen Tanar's walled garden, surrounded by flowering shrubs and fruit trees.
Formerly the home of the estate's head gardener, this charming granite cottage combines traditional character with a warm, contemporary interior. Its peaceful and private setting is ideal for relaxing, while opportunities for outdoor dining make the most of the attractive surroundings.
Garden Cottage is a pet-free property.
STL Licence: AS 00195F.
Woodend – Sleeps 4
Bright, welcoming and sustainably designed, Woodend Cottage has an unusual history as a former hydropower sub-station.
Today, it offers a spacious and comfortable living area with rustic beams, skylights and a wood-burning stove. French doors open onto a secluded patio and enclosed garden, giving guests their own outdoor space in which to relax.
The nearby forest, trout loch and Victorian Ballroom are all just a short stroll away, making Woodend an excellent base for discovering more of the estate.
STL Licence: AS 00194F.
Joiner's Cottage – Sleeps 4
Joiner's Cottage celebrates Glen Tanar's working heritage while providing a cosy base for a Highland holiday.
Once the home of the estate's joiner, the cottage has been carefully restored to preserve its individual character. Stone walls, natural textures, surviving handcrafted details and a wood-burning stove create an inviting atmosphere, particularly after a day spent outdoors.
STL Licence: AS 01225F.
West Millfield – Sleeps 5
Overlooking the forests and fields of Glen Tanar, West Millfield Cottage is a characterful granite retreat with fascinating links to the estate's past.
The cottage was once occupied by the estate's forestry horse handler and has since been thoughtfully renovated. Original features including low ceilings, wood-panelled walls and stained-glass windows add to its distinctive charm.
The Glen Tanar Visitor Centre is also just a short walk away, making the cottage a convenient base for exploring the estate.
STL Licence: AS 00199F.
Butler's Lodge – Sleeps 6
Sleeping up to six guests, Butler's Lodge is the largest of the Glen Tanar cottages and is particularly well suited to families and groups.
Once the home of Lord Glen Tanar's butler, the property has been carefully restored to retain its heritage. Original doors, period antiques and quirky historic features are complemented by modern comforts and a generous open-plan living space.
Outside, an enclosed garden provides additional room to relax, while the forest, walled garden and Victorian Ballroom can all be reached within a short stroll.
STL Licence: AS 00196F.
Outdoor Experiences at Glen Tanar
A stay at Glen Tanar provides far more than beautiful accommodation. The estate offers a wealth of opportunities to experience the Highland landscape, from active adventures to leisurely days surrounded by nature.
Visitors can enjoy salmon fishing on the River Dee, trout fishing on the estate's private loch, deer stalking, horse riding and cycling. Miles of walking routes also lead through ancient pine forests and across open moorland, providing plenty of opportunities to explore on foot.
Wildlife enthusiasts and photographers can discover the estate at a gentler pace, taking time to appreciate its scenery and native wildlife. Further details about available experiences can be found on the Glen Tanar website.
Exploring Royal Deeside and the Cairngorms
Glen Tanar is ideally positioned for discovering Royal Deeside and the wider Cairngorms National Park.
The picturesque village of Ballater is nearby, offering independent shops, cafés and attractive riverside walks. Balmoral Castle and its famous estate are also within easy reach, while the historic village of Braemar makes another rewarding destination for a day out.
Visitors can explore the impressive grounds and gardens of Crathes Castle or travel towards the Aberdeenshire coast to see the dramatic ruins of Dunnottar Castle.
For those who prefer to spend their time outdoors, the Cairngorms provide countless possibilities for walking, cycling and wildlife watching. Scenic routes following the River Dee are also a wonderful way to discover the villages, countryside and changing landscapes of Royal Deeside.
Plan a Stay at Glen Tanar
With spectacular Highland scenery, characterful Victorian cottages and an abundance of outdoor experiences on the doorstep, Glen Tanar offers a memorable countryside escape throughout the seasons.
Weekly rates range from £870 to £1,970 depending on the cottage and season. Accommodation is available for up to six people in the largest property, children are welcome and pets are accepted in most of the cottages. Wi-Fi access and off-street parking are also available.
For more information about the cottages, experiences, availability and booking, visitors can visit the Glen Tanar website.
https://www.theholidaycottages.co.uk/Aberdeenshire/18431
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