10/10 Exceptional
Manisha
17 Aug 2026Our 9-night stay in Scotland was incredibly relaxing and comfortable. We were so impressed by the thoughtful touches at Aulton Stables, including fresh fruit, milk, bread, eggs and chocolates on arrival. The bathroom was also well stocked with toiletries, including body wash, shampoo, conditioner and cotton pads.
The kitchen was fully equipped with high-quality appliances, including a toaster, kettle, hob and dishwasher. There’s no traditional oven, but the combination microwave/air fryer/oven worked perfectly. We stayed with our two dogs, who were very comfortable too. Free Wi-Fi and Netflix made for lovely cosy evenings, and the secluded location made us feel very safe and peaceful.
There is so much to explore nearby, including the Falls of Feugh, Scolty Hill, River Dee and Banchory high street, with its cafés and ice cream parlours. Within 1–1.5 hours, you can reach Balmedie Beach, Newburgh Seal Beach, Cruden Bay and the beautiful Banff coastline, including Gardenstown, Crovie, Pennan and Aberdour.
We also visited Dunnottar Castle, Slains Castle (said to have inspired Bram Stoker’s Dracula) and the Cairngorms, including Muir of Dinnet, Burn O’Vat, Linn of Dee, Loch Kinord and Loch Lui. Ballater is also a lovely village with great cafés and bakeries.
Wildlife was fantastic—we saw minke whales, seals and dolphins! Binoculars are definitely worth packing.
Bring clothes for every type of weather, and a packed lunch is useful as the area is wonderfully uncommercialised.
