Balneden Steading

Beautiful self-catering holiday cottages situated in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park.

Balneden Steading

Stylish Highland self-catering retreats, perfectly located within Scotland's stunning Cairngorms National Park

Balneden Steading

Stunning Highland self-catering holiday homes set amidst the breathtaking scenery of the Cairngorms.

large landscape of the Cairngorms in Autumn
outside video of cottage with outside steel table and bottle of wine
double rainbow over grassy fields

Welcome to Balneden

Nestled on the hillside above Speyside’s River Avon, which flows from the heart of the Cairngorms' lofty mountains, our three spacious cottages offer panoramic views across the hills and valleys of the picturesque Glenlivet Estate in the Scottish Highlands.

Balneden is the ideal place to relax and unwind. Expect underfloor heating, a cosy wood-burning stove, and luxurious, high-quality bedding for the perfect night’s sleep—a Highland retreat so comfortable you can truly call it your home away from home.

Adventure and relaxation are right on your doorstep. Explore a variety of walks through the beautiful Glenlivet Estate, hit the Bike Glenlivet cycle trails, or visit the art, craft, and whisky shops of Tomintoul—perfectly placed for the Speyside Malt Whisky Trail. In winter, the Lecht Ski Centre is just a short drive south.

Beyond the valley, distillery tours, historic castles, and the RSPB Osprey Centre await. For those wishing to explore further afield, Royal Deeside, the Moray Dolphin Coast, and Loch Ness are all within easy reach. Balneden is your escape to peace, tranquillity, and adventure.

You will find us just off the Snow Roads, three miles north of Tomintoul, the highest village in the Highlands.

PS: You may like to know that we are located in one of the driest areas of Scotland and rarely encounter midges.

Your Accommodation

The Mill

The Mill

Sleeps 4

2 bedrooms - weekly bookings commencing Saturday from Easter to October with short breaks and flexible start dates available from November to March - weekly for Christmas and New Year.

The Cattle Shed

The Cattle Shed

Sleeps 2

1 king-size bedroom - flexible booking of 3 or more nights throughout the year, including the ever popular Christmas and New Year period.

The Grain Store

The Grain Store

Sleeps 4

2 bedrooms - available year-round for bookings of 3 nights or more. Simply decide when you wish your stay to begin.

For every booking,

we'll donate £1 to the Cairngorms Trust

Cairngorms Trust - Give • Protect • Grow - Accreditation
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"Dear Phil & Julie, Just wanted to thank you for another wonderful holiday at Balneden Steading. The cottage was perfect as always & we can't wait to come back again!"

Best Wishes, Em & Dave x

What To Do

Heritage Drumin castle - Historical Locations in Scotland Holiday

Heritage

With a rich local heritage, explore the nearby Cairngorms area to discover the history of the Glenlivet Estate and immerse yourself in Speyside's local culture

Walks The Bochel circuit - Walking holidays Scotland

Walking

Our Tomintoul holiday cottages in Glenlivet offer stunning walking trails around Scotland. With a Dark Sky away from the lights of urban areas, you will get a excellent view of the stars making for a wonderful outdoor experience.

cycling and Bike Glenlivet - Cycling holidays Scotland

Cycling

With numerous Cairngorms cycling trails nearby, our holiday cottages are the perfect base for a mountain biking holiday through the Scottish glens. With peaceful, rural surroundings, it's the ideal spot to relax and get back to nature

And More...

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