Balneden Steading

About Balneden Steading

Located near Speyside, on the northern boundaries of the National Park, you'll find our charming self-catering cottages. The area, known as Strathspey, traces the path of the River Spey, known for its exquisite distilleries. Once a 19th-century working farmstead, these three elegant cottages have been transformed with comfort and luxury in mind.

Each property features a cosy log-burning fire, ideal for combating Scotland's unpredictable climate. Perched on a hillside, our cottages offer stunning panoramas of the River Avon and the surrounding estate. This scenic view is visible from virtually every angle, due to the large windows found in the roomy and radiant accommodation.

All rooms are filled with modern amenities that are typically associated with major hotel chains, in addition to the unique personal touch we provide as a family-run enterprise. Each cottage houses a fully kitted-out kitchen for you to utilise throughout your stay.

Opting for self-catering allows you to sample the fresh local produce of Speyside and it possesses several advantages over all-inclusive catering such as cost-effectiveness and flexibility. Your amiable hosts are always on hand to advise on local shops, and we also accept supermarket deliveries even if you are away.  

Established in 2003, the Cairngorms National Park is the largest of its kind in the UK, spanning a massive 4,528 km of diverse habitats. Despite being entirely landlocked, it is home to a large number of lochs and rivers that originate from the heart of the Cairngorms. A significant 55 of Scotland’s 282 Munros can be found within the park’s perimeter, rendering the Cairngorms National Park a true embodiment of the Highlands.

Over 36 percent of the park sits at an altitude of 800m or more, offering a unique sub-arctic climate year-round. Hence, the Cairngorms National Park has a significant draw for winter sports enthusiasts. Not to mention, the park’s reputation for magnificent ski resorts extends into the spring months. For hikers and climbers, there is a wealth of terrain to explore, with the promise of awe-inspiring panoramic views as your reward.