Cottages & Castles is privileged to introduce some of the famous National Trust for Scotland properties to you. The National Trust  for Scotland is dedicated to preserving Scotland’s history, culture and landscape and their holiday accommodation reflect s this same goal. We are proud to be associated with this great charity. If you would like to learn more about the properties then click on the link through to the National Trust for Scotland Holidays website.

Mar Lodge Estate, recognised as one of the most important nature conservation landscapes in the British Isles, is owned by the National Trust for Scotland. This spectacular Scottish Highland estate occupies a substantial part of the remote and scenic Cairngorms National Park, and includes four of the five highest mountains in Britain. Full of ancient Scottish history, the estate has endless wonderful classic Highland features with remnants of the ancient Caledonian pine forest, heather moorland, juniper scrub and part of the high Cairngorm plateau as well as one of the largest areas of Scheduled Ancient Monuments and archaeological sites. The clear, fresh rainwater cascades its way off the mountains to become the headwaters of the scenic River Dee, renowned as a pristine and important habitat.

Claybokie is everything you could ever wish for in a luxury Scottish holiday home – this exquisite house, along with Creag Bhalg (sleeps 8), is in the care of the National Trust for Scotland and situated close to the historic Mar Lodge, only six miles from Braemar in beautiful Royal Deeside.  These two special houses form their own exclusive small, private Highland estate and offer the opportunity to see some of Scotland’s exceptional wildlife including all British species of grouse, golden eagles, red deer, red squirrels and, if you are lucky, pine martens.

With no expense spared and great attention to detail, Claybokie is luxurious in every way, creating the ideal location for a memorable family holiday, special occasion or a house party of friends.  Throughout, the house is bright, spacious and beautifully furnished with elegant antiques and sumptuous curtains and fittings, yet manages to retain the traditional Scottish feel.

Arrive home after an exhilarating day out exploring this exceptional area, put the kettle on the Aga in the wonderful large kitchen and enjoy a welcoming pot of tea. Soak in a deep hot bath, surrounded by modern luxury, then come down feeling fresh and relaxed for drinks in front of the crackling drawing room fire before gathering for a splendid dinner in the grand dining room. 

This perfect Highland retreat has uninterrupted views across the River Dee and Glen Ey, and offers the keen walker miles of heather-clad hills to explore right from the doorstep as well as several local Munros. The surrounding area has something for everyone, whatever the time of year, with skiing in nearby Glenshee, relaxed golf on the picturesque 18-hole Braemar golf course, and visits to one of the lovely nearby gardens or historic castles. Alternatively, deep sofas await those who are more inclined to curl up with a good book.

Ground Floor:
Dining room (seating up to 18), drawing room with open fire, conservatory with wonderful garden views, study, large kitchen with Aga, utility & cloakrooms

First Floor:
Double bedroom with ensuite bathroom, twin bedroom with ensuite bathroom, double bedroom and twin bedroom with shared bathroom, third twin bedroom and hallway bathroom

Large enclosed garden with garden furniture – please note there is an ornamental pond within the garden, therefore young children must be supervised

Linen and towels provided. Electricity included.

TV, DVD, video & CD/radio. Aga, fridge, freezer, microwave. Cot & highchair. Payphone.

Kennel facilities are available at an additional charge. Fishing available on the Dee by separate arrangement.

Short breaks by arrangement.