Friday, 31 October 2008

Budget Accommodation Invergarry Lodge Scotland


Budget Accommodation Invergarry Lodge Scotland.

Tucked away off the main road near Invergarry is a delightful Lodge offering Budget Accommodation.
It's a short drive from Loch Ness and ideally placed for day trips to Fort William, Skye and Inverness. Invergarry is on the road to the Isle of Skye, the Great Glen Cycle Route and is also on the Great Glen Way.

Several mountain areas can be easily reached from Invergarry. Glen Shiel and the Grey Corries are less than half an hour away and Ben Nevis, Creag Meagaidh, Loch Quoich and Kinloch Hourn, the gateway to Knoydart, are all within 30 miles.

The lodge, although only a few minutes walk from the A82 and village amenities, lies on a single track lane which meanders for miles into Glen Garry Forest, ideal for walking or Mountain Biking.

Thursday, 30 October 2008

Budget Accommodation Portree Isle of Skye Scotland


Budget Accommodation Portree Isle of Skye Scotland.

The Portree Independent Hostel offers Budget Accommodation on the Isle of Skye off the West Coast of Scotland.

The reception and lounge is the original post office counter area, still with the original safe, clock, service counter and poste restante pigeonholes, and nowadays has a TV and comfy sofas. The hostel sleeps 60 in rooms with up to four beds, whilst there are larger dormitories sleeping 6, 10 and 12. One dorm is suitable for disabled guests with an en-suite wheelchair-friendly bathroom. I stayed in one of the larger dorms which unfortunately also housed some drunken louts which made for a very uncomfortable night.
Within easy walking distance are all necessary amenities, including Somerfield supermarket just a couple of blocks away, banks with cash machines, the main tourist information centre, car and bicycle hire, as well as a variety of eating places and several excellent pubs with regular live music (no curfew as passkeys are available).

Wednesday, 29 October 2008

Budget Accommodation Tulloch Station Scotland


Budget Accommodation Tulloch Station Scotland.

Station Lodge at Tulloch provides excellent Budget Accommodation in the heart of Scotland.
The hostel is located in a converted railway station on the famous West Highland Line, and is in an ideal location to pursue the many outdoor activities for which the Scottish Highlands are famous. These include canoeing, climbing, mountaineering and walking, to fishing, cycling, snowboarding and ski-ing.

It provide bunkhouse style hostel accommodation for up to 24 people, as individuals or groups, and of all ages, in four rooms which are furnished with double bunks and wardrobes. Bed linen is provided, with towels provided free of charge on request.

The converted railway station building sitting on the famous West Highland Railway Line dates from 1894 and has some interesting architectural features, including the Swiss-style roof and interior wooden wall linings.

Tuesday, 28 October 2008

Budget Accommodation Uig Isle of Skye Scotland


Budget Accommodation Uig Isle of Skye Scotland.

Uig Youth Hostel is another gem from the Scottish Youth Hostel Association, offering Budget Accommodation whilst staying on the wonderful Isle of Skye off the West Coast of Scotland.

Uig Hostel offers fantastic views over the bay, good facilities, including family rooms and a warm welcome. Uig is the gateway to the Outer Hebridean Islands and ferries leave daily.

The eerie pinnacles of the Quiraing, the famous Old Man of Storr, and the magical fairy Glen are not far from Uig. Locally, you can hire bikes and canoes or try pony trekking. Get away from the tourist hoards,this relaxed and friendly hostel is an ideal base for exploring the wild and magical north of the Island.

'high up on the south side of the village, with exhilarating views over the bay. - Rough Guide To Scotland

Monday, 27 October 2008

Budget Accommodation Aite Cruinnichidh Hostel Roy Bridge Scotland


Budget Accommodation Aite Cruinnichidh Hostel Roy Bridge Scotland.

Aite Cruinnichidh Hostel is a warm comfortable, friendly country hostel in a converted barn. Set in stunning mountainous surroundings near Roy Bridge, Fort William. Ideal location for walking, climbing, canoeing, and mountain biking, with 7 rivers for paddling within 20 miles of Àite Cruinnichidh.

The Hostel offers Budget Accommodation and bookings can be made by contacting 01397 712315.

Sunday, 26 October 2008

Budget Accommodation Broadford Youth Hostel Skye Scotland


Budget Accommodation Broadford Youth Hostel Skye Scotland.

I've used the budget Accommodation at Broadford on the Isle of Skye a number of times and found it to be one of the best in Scotland. Run by the Scottish Youth Hostels Association, it is perfectly placed to explore the Isle of Skye. It is very popular so remember to book well in advance.

Saturday, 25 October 2008

Budget Accommodation Great Glen Hostel Scotland


Budget Accommodation Great Glen Hostel Scotland.

Formerly the Loch Lochy Youth Hostel it's great to see that the property remains as Budget Accommodation as the Great Glen Hostel. The SYHA have sold off a few Hostels in Scotland in recent years and they are not always maintained as Budget Accommodation.

Handy for Loch Ness and with so many outdoor activities in the area it is perfectly placed. Hillwalking, cycling, fishing, sailing or Nature watching it's got everything!

Friday, 24 October 2008

Budget Accommodation Torridon Youth Hostel Scotland


Budget Accommodation Torridon Youth Hostel Scotland.

Torridon Youth Hostel has to be one of the best in Scotland. Situated beneath the towering munro of Liathach in one of the best hillwalking areas of Scotland. Add in the coast with plentiful shellfish and you've really found paradise!

We arrived last year to find the Hostel full, but there is a field set aside for camping and the toilet and shower block next to the Hostel can be used. We piched our tent and found next day that no charge was being levied.

The Hostel is very popular and provides Budget Accommodation at reasonable rates. Make sure you book before you go on the SYHA Website.

Thursday, 23 October 2008

Budget Accommodation Meanach Bothy Glen Nevis Scotland


Budget Accommodation Meanach Bothy Glen Nevis Scotland.

Meanach Bothy in Glen Nevis is a welcoming sight after a hard days walking on some boggy paths. This is one of the iconic Glens in Scotland hemmed in by mountains on all sides.

If you're on a tight budget then this accommodation is perfect for you - it's free! Just obey the Bothy Code and you'll enjoy a fabulous night in this lovely cottage. It's one of many bothies in Scotland maintained by the Mountain Bothies Association, a charity staffed by volunteers who love the the gret outdoors.

Wednesday, 22 October 2008

Budget Accommodation Lazy Crofter Hostel Durness Scotland


Budget Accommodation Lazy Crofter Hostel Durness Scotland.

Stayed at the Lazy Crofter Hostel Durness in April this year with a family group. The owners kindly gave us the whole bunkhouse at a reasonable cost and were very helpful. As budget accommodation goes, this was perfect.

Durness is on the North West Coast of Scotland and is well worth a visit. We had Ben Loyal, a corbett, in our sights and 3 generations of the Watson clan made it to the summit. As well as the mountains there are beautiful unspoilt beaches, rivers and lochs to fish in and believe it or not, a Chocolate Factory! Yes it's certainly worth a visit!

Tuesday, 21 October 2008

Budget Accommodation Culra Bothy Scotland


Budget Accommodation Culra Bothy Scotland.

As good as it gets in Scotland! The remote Culra Bothy is surrounded by fantastic mountains, lochs and rivers. It provides a superb base for munro bagging with the magnificent Ben Alder the highlight of the trip.

This Budget Accommodation comes free with the help of the Mountain Bothies Association who maintain and provide these shelters all over Scotland.

Monday, 20 October 2008

Budget Accommodation Ledgowan Lodge Achnasheen Scotland


Budget Accommodation Ledgowan Lodge Achnasheen Scotland.

Ledgowan Lodge in Achnasheen is a place that I'd always passed by on the way to Torridon, but stopping there earlier this year provided a pleasant surprise.

The Lodge is run as a Hotel with bunkhouses and even camping. The owners and staff are friendly and welcoming, the bar cosy and the food excellent. Whilst the Hotel prices for bed and breakfast are fairly standard, the Budget Accommodation provided by the bunkhouses is basic but very cheap.

There is no question that the Lodge is superbly placed for hillwalkers with many munros corbetts and grahams on the doorstep. We actually climbed Fionn Beinn in the evening sunshine after a horrible wet day and it was a pleasure to avoid driving a distance after the walk.

Congratulations to the owners for their forward thinking!

Sunday, 19 October 2008

Budget Accommodation Kingshouse Hotel Glencoe Scotland


Budget Accommodation Kingshouse Hotel Glencoe Scotland.
There are two types of Accommodation at the Kingshouse Hotel in Glencoe Scotland. The first is the Budget Accommodation.Camping is allowed next to the Hotel which is situated at the Eastern end of Glencoe on the long distance walk, the West Highland Way. You are permitted to pitch your tent on the other side of the river from the Hotel and many walkers take advantage of this during the Summer months.

If you don't fancy self catering then get your wallet out and enjoy bed and breakfast in the Hotel itself. Not as cheap as camping but very pleasant rooms and a superb breakfast.


Deer at Kingshouse Hotel Glencoe.

Saturday, 18 October 2008

Budget Accommodation Gelder Shiel Bothy Scotland


Budget Accommodation Gelder Shiel Bothy Scotland.
Gelder Shiel Bothy near Balmoral offers a welcome halt on the way to climbing Lochnagar, one of the most beautiful mountains in Scotland.

The Bothy doesn't have a fireplace, so maybe isn't the most cheery of Bothies on a cold Winter night. For Budget Accommodation though it can't be beat as it comes free, courtesy of the Mountain Bothies Association, a registered charity who maintain over 100 shelters all over Scotland.

A bulldozed track crosses from Balmoral to Loch Muick, and this can be used to reach Gelder Shiel and Lochnagar. The munro of Lochnagar boasts many 'tops' over 3000 feet and it takes a long time to climb them all - 26 years in my case!


Climbing Lochnagar from Gelder Shiel.

Friday, 17 October 2008

Budget Accommodation at Rothiemurchus Scotland


Budget Accommodation at Rothiemurchus Scotland.

Right in the heart of the Rothiemurchus forest, you'll find Budget Accommodation at the Rothiemurchus Camp and Caravan Park.

As well as chalets to rent you can bring your own caravan or tent for camping.

The camp site is right at the end of the famous Lairig Ghru long distance footpath through the Cairngorms and only a stones throw from the revitalised Aviemore Centre. The tracks throught the forest for walking and cycling are superb as is the new cycle track from Aviemore up to Glenmore alongside but screened from the main road.





Budget Accommodation Loch Chiarain Bothy Scotland


Budget Accommodation Loch Chiarain Bothy Scotland.

Another fantastic Bothy maintained by the Mountain Bothies Association. Loch Chiarain is perfectly situated in the middle of nowhere, beside a loch, river and as many munros, corbetts or grahams as you'd care to climb!

In terms of Budget Accommodation it doesn't come much better than this. Comfortable and warm with plenty space, this is the ideal way to explore Scotland and meet the natives. Credit goes to the MBA who maintain these shelters with the help of subscriptions, donations and volunteer labour. Check out the website to see some wonderful locations all over Scotland, and please get your chequebook out to support this wonderful Charity.

Thursday, 16 October 2008

Budget Accommodation Glen Brittle Isle of Skye Scotland


Budget Accommodation Glen Brittle Isle of Skye Scotland.

The campsite at Glen Brittle on the Isle of Skye off the West coast of Scotland provides the ultimate Budget Accommodation.

Sitting next to the sea and in the shadow of the mighty Black Cuillin Ridge this has got to be one of the coolest places to pitch a tent on the planet. The facilities include a fairly basic toilet block with showers and a small shop but who needs luxury with the views that you get from the campsite.

This photo was taken as we left the campsite for a superb day scrambling on the ridge. Glen Brittle provides access to the munros on the south and middle sections of the ridge and proves a magnet to walkers, climbers and holidaymakers.

If you prefer a roof over your head, the Youth Hostel is just up the road providing more Budget Accommodation with a little more comfort!

Wednesday, 15 October 2008

Budget Accommodation Maol Bhuidhe Bothy Scotland


Budget Accommodation Maol Bhuidhe Bothy Scotland.

From Cairngorms Cottages.

What a fantastic way to see the real Scotland. Get away from traffic and hassle and take a break in the Highlands of Scotland. Maol Bhuidhe Bothy is an example of what can be enjoyed in Scotland - fresh air, exercise, achievement and self confidence, all gained by navigating your way to one of the many Mountain Bothies maintained and run by the Mountain Bothies Association.

This is real Budget Self Catering Accommodation - in fact you can stay in this delightful Cottage for free - just obey the Bothy Code. And when you've enjoyed your refreshing holiday remember to join the MBA, one of the hardest working and most efficient Charities in Scotland.

Tuesday, 14 October 2008

Budget Accommodation Ben Dronaig Lodge Scotland


Budget Accommodation Ben Dronaig Lodge Scotland.

Whilst it's fair to say that it's budget accommodation it doesn't mean that it's not great fun!

Ben Dronaig Lodge is a first class Bothy maintained by the local Estate, rather than the Mountain Bothies Association who look after and maintain around 100 bothies in Scotland. The Bothy is well maintained with fireplaces and even a loo that flushed when you filled it up with a bucket!

It is a fair way off the beaten track and sits beneath the Corbett of Ben Dronaig. Many pass through the Glens on Holiday enjoying the freedom of Bothy dwelling or camping in one of the most remote areas in Scotland. We stayed the night after travelling through from Maol Bhuidhe Bothy commencing from Morvich in Kintail and passing the magnificent Falls of Glomach. We took in 4 Grahams including An Cruachan which possibly has a claim to being one of the most remote hills in Scotland.

Definitely suited to those that want to get away from it all!

Monday, 13 October 2008

Budget Accommodation Aviemore Bunkhouse Scotland



Budget Accommodation Aviemore Bunkhouse Scotland.

This hostel in the centre of Aviemore is ideal for the Cairngorm National Park. Aviemore is popular for its access to unique Highland countryside, ancient pine forests and wild mountains, outdoor activities and visitor attractions: castles, lochs, wildlife and whisky! Aviemore is also the ideal resting place en-route to Loch Ness, Orkney and Skye.

Aviemore Bunkhouse is tucked away down a quiet street by the Old Bridge Inn with views of the snow clad mountains beyond the pine trees and the awesome River Spey.

Built to high standards, the rooms are cosy. En-suite, 3 family/double rooms and 4 x 6-bunk rooms with linen and towels provided. The hostel has card keys, kitchen, laundry, drying rooms and a pub next door serving real ales and very good meals. Best of all is the friendly welcome, the cleanliness, care and genuine warm hospitality.

Aviemore Bunkhouse is just 5 minutes walk from the shops, Tourist Information Centre and Aviemore train and coach stations with regular services from Edinburgh, Glasgow and Inverness.



Beside the Inverness to Glasgow long distance cycle route and the Speyside Way long distance footpath.
Old Bridge Inn Dalfaber Road
Aviemore
Inverness-shire
PH22 1PU

Budget Accommodation Kinloch Castle Rum Scotland


Budget Accommodation Kinloch Castle Rum Scotland.

Kinloch Castle Rum Scotland. From Cottages Scotland.

The fantastic Kinloch Castle on the Isle of Rum is a superb time capsule of the Edwardian age. The tour round the castle only costs £6 per person and provides a wealth of stunning information and visual delights.

The castle also offers Budget Bunkhouse accommodation as well as beatifully furnished rooms to suit every budget.

The Isle of Rum itself is well worth a visit. There is something for everyone including the corbett baggers looking to climb the beautiful mountains of Ainshval and Askival. The Rum Cuillin is a magical place and one not to be taken for granted. Whilst the ridge can be climbed between the Calmac Ferry times, why not spend a little longer on this fabulous island.

There are bothies at Guirdil on the West coast and Dibidil along the coastal path to the South East of the Island. These are both maintained by the Mountain Bothies Association. At Guirdil earlier this year our party was able to photograph wild Red Deer at close quarters as they wandered close to the shore.

Camping is available near the Jetty at Kinloch, and although we pitched our tents in the middle of the Island, there are far better spots over at Harris on the West Coast next the impressive mausoleum.

Budget Accommodation Laggan Locks Scotland



Budget Accommodation Laggan Locks Scotland.

Floating Pub at Laggan Locks. From Cottages Scotland.

The floating pub at Laggan Locks on the Caledonian Canal in the West of Scotland. As well as food and drink, the boat also offers Budget Accommodation.

It's one of my favourite stopping off points on the way to the Isle of Skye. There's always something of interest happening with pleasure craft sailing either way down the canal.

Budget Accommodation Shiel Bridge Scotland



Budget Accommodation Shiel Bridge Scotland.

Kintail Lodge Hotel and Bunkhouse. From Cottages Scotland.

The Kintail Lodge Hotel and Bunkhouse at Shiel Bridge provides accommodation catering for all types of traveller. As well as the Hotel rooms there is budget accommodation in the Wee Bunkhouse which sleeps six.

The choice of munros corbetts and grahams within easy reach is incredible - enough climbing for a whole year! One of my favourite spots for hillwalking in Scotland.

Budget Accommodation Aberdeen Scotland


Budget Accommodation Aberdeen Scotland.

Aberdeen Youth Hostel.
Aberdeen is a beautiful city, with easy access to the countryside, fishing, golf and pony trekking. City based attractions include cinema, concerts and the arts. Youngsters will love the Children's Farm, the Maze and the mysteries of science in the Satrosphere. Aberdeen Youth Hostel is set in a historic building packed full of character, it has good facilities including family rooms. Visit local castles nearby or break your journey en route for Orkney and Shetland.

Budget Accommodation Lochan Mor Aviemore Scotland Aviemore


Budget Accommodation Lochan Mor Aviemore Scotland Aviemore.

From Cairngorms Cottages.

Lochan Mor Lodge, Aviemore. Self catering accommodation, situated in the Heart of the Cairngorms National Park, Highland Scotland. This former Show Home, is now one of the best, luxury holiday rental homes in Speyside. Make your Holiday in Aviemore really special. Escape to this fantastic area to walk, cycle, golf, fish, climb, ski, snow board, raft or simply relax and recharge your batteries.

Book your Autumn Break at Lochan Mor now,from just £650 a week.

Lochan Mor Lodge is a beautiful, former show house situated on the outskirts of the highland village of Aviemore, providing luxury accomodation for eight people.

This home offers designer interiors and furnishings ensuring complete comfort after your daily adventures in the heart of the highlands. Such is the charm of the house you may want to spend some of those days indoors. Lochan Mor has views out over the surrounding hills.

The Lodge sleeps eight people comfortably in four large bedrooms, all beautifully furnished. It has to be seen to be fully appreciated and if you choose this special home for your next Highland holiday you will not be disappointed.

Budget Accommodation Creag Mhor Aviemore Scotland


Budget Accommodation Creag Mhor Aviemore Scotland.

From Cairngorms Cottages.

This holiday rental property is situated right at the heart of the National Park, Aviemore offers the perfect base from which to explore this beautiful area and experience the vast array of leisure pursuits available, with a promise of something to suit everyone.

Creag Mhor (Gaelic for ‘big rock’) is a fully furnished and equipped home from home in the Highlands. Situated in a quiet cul-de-sac at the north end of Aviemore, it is an easy walk into or home from the village and it is close to the Aviemore orbital path.

Creag Mhor will accommodate 4 people in comfort and consists of a sizeable lounge/dining area, fully fitted and equipped kitchen, large bathroom with bath and separate walk-in shower and two twin-bedded bedrooms.

As you would expect Creag Mhor has a dishwasher, washer-dryer, fridge freezer, microwave, TV with Sky box, DVD player and CD player. All bedding and towels are provided and electricity is included.

There is also a good-sized, fully-enclosed, south-facing rear garden. From the barbecue and deck area you can enjoy panoramic views towards the Cairngorm Mountains and even check out the snow, or lack of it, on the ski slopes without leaving the house!

Within minutes from Creag Mhor you can be in primary Caledonian forest, on the shores of a beautiful loch, playing golf on a fine course or up on the slopes of a Munro. To see what Aviemore has to offer press the white triangle in the black box.

Even if you don't have time for a whole week away, you can still book a special short break, giving you the chance to escape, relax and unwind at a lovely property in idyllic surroundings.

So, why not check prices and availability on the website now and book your stay at Creag Mhor.

Budget Accommodation Tomintoul Scotland


Budget Accommodation Tomintoul Scotland.

Tomintoul Youth Hostel. From Cairngorms Cottages.
Tomintoul Youth Hostel is a small friendly hostel with great facilities set in the refurbished village school, surrounded by distilleries, walking trails and amazing wildlife. It’s no surprise that Tomintoul is an area famous for the three 'W's: whisky, walking and wildlife.The walking in the local area is superb, with many wonderful low and high level walks on the Glenlivet estate. Tomintoul is also on the Speyside Way, making it a great area for other outdoor activities such as cycling, horse riding and fishing.

Budget Accommodation Pitlochry Scotland


Budget Accommodation Pitlochry Scotland.

Pitlochry Youth Hostel.
Pitlochry is a bustling, blooming small Victorian town at the very centre of Scotland. Situated on the River Tummel it comes complete with salmon Fish Ladder and Festival Theatre (May-Oct : 50% discount for Hostellers!). It contains the smallest whisky distillery in Scotland (free tours) and a 300-year-old Inn brewing its own ales. Set amidst hills, lochs and woodland Pitlochry Youth Hostel makes a superb base for walkers and cyclists, as well as for tours by vehicle to a variety of attractions.

Budget Accommodation Loch Ness Scotland


Budget Accommodation Loch Ness Scotland.

Loch Ness Youth Hostel.
Loch Ness Youth Hostel is situated on the banks of the infamous Loch Ness. Only 30 minutes from Inverness and about two hours from the Isle of Skye, there is plenty to do in the area. The Great Glen walking track passes the door, and the end-to-end cycling route is nearby. Drumnadrochit is 12 miles away, where you could visit historic Urquhart castle and take a boat cruise. From the hostel there is easy access to the loch shore, and you will have plenty of opportunities for Nessie-watching from many of the bedrooms and the cosy dining room.

Budget Accommodation John O'Groats Scotland


Budget Accommodation John O'Groats Scotland.

John O'Groats Youth Hostel.
Set in a peaceful location John O'Groats Youth Hostel offers wonderful views across the Pentland Firth to Orkney. Close to the hostel there are many craft workshops and access to a nice beach and many coastal walks including the famous sea stacks of Duncansby Head where interesting seabirds will accompany you on your way. Then again why not take the option of a day trip to Orkney. A perfect break for birdwatchers, cyclists and coastal walkers.

Budget Accommodation Inverness Scotland


Budget Accommodation Inverness Scotland.

Inverness Youth Hostel.
Inverness Youth Hostel is one of Scotland's top Hostels. The modern and comfortable 4 star Hostel, with superb facilities in the capital of the Highlands, now offers VisitScotland-approved backpacker accommodation at prices you can afford. With a warm welcome and buzzing atmosphere the hostel is popular with guests from all over the world. Small rooms and excellent self-catering kitchens make it popular for groups and families.

Budget Accommodation Edinburgh Scotland


Budget Accommodation Edinburgh Scotland.

Edinburgh Central Youth Hostel.
This 5 star hostel is located in the heart of the city, just a few minutes walk from Waverley Station and Princes Street and ideally situated for enjoying and exploring Scotland’s vibrant capital. This stylish and modern hostel is well equipped to suit the needs of single travelers, families and larger groups. Bedrooms range from single and twin through to 8 bedded rooms and all are en-suite. Full dining, licensed bistro and self-catering facilities are available giving you plenty of choice to suit any budget.

Budget Accommodation Crianlarich Scotland


Budget Accommodation Crianlarich Scotland.

Crianlarich Youth Hostel.
The small, friendly village of Crianlarich marks the halfway point on the West Highland Way and is an ideal stop for West Highland Way walkers and hillwalkers, with 20 Munros in the locality and trout fishing nearby. This popular hostel offers good facilities and a warm welcome. The hostel is a great base for exploring the northern area of the Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park and is easily accessible with good communication links.

Budget Accommodation Carbisdale Castle Scotland


Budget Accommodation Carbisdale Castle Scotland.

Carbisdale Castle Youth Hostel.
Why not stay in a real highland castle? Carbisdale Castle Youth Hostel was built for the Dowager Duchess of Sutherland. Since then it has housed wealthy and influential people, and even served as a royal refuge. The Castle has a large art collection and a collection of Italian marble statues on display in a main gallery and even a ghost. An amazing experience not to be missed. Carbisdale is set in an area of extensive natural beauty overlooking the river Kyle with many local woodland walks.
Literally the Jewel in the Crown of the SYHA.

Budget Accommodation Cairngorm Scotland


Budget Accommodation Cairngorm Scotland.

Cairngorm Lodge Youth Hostel. From Cairngorms Cottages.
Cairngorm Lodge Youth Hostel - for budget accommodation in the Cairngorms.
Cairngorm Lodge Youth Hostel is situated in the heart of the Cairngorm National Park, 7 miles from Aviemore and just 2 miles from the Cairngorm mountain railway and snowsports area. The 4 star hostel is an old Scottish shooting lodge and offers warm, comfortable accommodation and stunning views of the Northern Corries. It's an ideal base for all outdoor activities including hillwalking, climbing, snowsports, mountain biking, pony trekking, watersports and fishing. The Loch Morlich Watersports Centre and a large beach are opposite the hostel.

Budget Accommodation Braemar Scotland


Budget Accommodation Braemar Scotland.

Braemar Youth Hostel. From Cairngorms Cottages.
Braemar Youth Hostel is an impressive former shooting lodge in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park. An ideal base for exploring Royal Deeside and the mighty Cairngorms. Great location for skiing and boarding at Glenshee. Good facilities and a warm welcome make this a popular choice. The hostel offers many homely touches, such as big comfy sofas and a pool table in the lounge, picnic benches and barbecue, and probably the best drying room in Scotland!

Budget Accommodation Aviemore Scotland


Budget Accommodation Aviemore Scotland.

Aviemore Youth Hostel. From Cairngorms Cottages.
Superb facilities at this top quality hostel at the gateway of the Cairngorms National Park. Great hostel in summer or winter for outdoor activities, including snowsports, watersports and mountain biking.
With small comfortable bedrooms and family rooms Aviemore Youth Hostel offers great value, self-catering accommodation, 5 minutes from town. It is an ideal location for all your apres-ski activities! Guests enjoy excellent facilities, a bustling nightlife in Aviemore and a wealth of activities during all seasons.

Budget Accommodation Achmelvich Scotland


Budget Accommodation Achmelvich Scotland.

Achmelvich Youth Hostel.
Achmelvich Beach is a small and remote rustic hostel in wonderful surroundings, just a short walk to a legendary white sandy beach (listed in the Good Beach Guide). Now with a shower, the former school building and cottage have been tastefully transformed into a 36-bed hostel, with rooms of various sizes including one family room. Also offers a self-catering kitchen with microwave. There is an abundance of wildlife to watch, unrivalled coastal walks and a pace of life that relaxes and unwinds. Unforgettable sunsets practically guaranteed.

Budget Accommodation Camasunary Bothy Isle of Skye Scotland


Budget Accommodation Camasunary Bothy Isle of Skye Scotland.

Camasunary Bothy on the Isle of Skye is one of the best examples of Budget accommodation that Scotland can offer. Situated beneath Blaven, one of Scotlands finest mountains and close to the majestic Black Cuillin ridge, it is unsurpassed in it's position on the rugged coast of Skye.

It is maintained by the Mountain Bothies Association who offer access to the Bothy free of charge. This charity is one that should be supported by all lovers of the outdoors, as it works selflessly to provide accommodation in the wilder places of Scotland. The accommodation is spartan, but ideal for the budget traveller who wants to experience the real Scotland.

We visited there twice this year and had a superb fire and good company. Others had chosen to camp after kayaking in to the sweeping bay. It can be accessed on foot from near Elgol on the South of Skye or on a walk through from Sligachan.

On one occasion, we traversed the Clach Glas Blaven ridge, before dropping down to Camasunary and on the next day up the Dubh ridge to Glen Brittle - an unforgettable experience.

Those staying in the bothy should respect the Bothy Code:

Respect Other Users

Please leave the bothy clean, tidy and with dry kindling for the next visitors.

Respect the Bothy

Guard against fire risk and don't cause vandalism or graffiti.
Please take out all rubbish which you don't burn.
Avoid burying rubbish: this pollutes the environment.
Please don't leave perishable food, this encourages mice and rats.

Respect The Surroundings

Human waste must be buried carefully out of sight. Please use the spade provided.
For health reasons never use the vicinity of the bothy as a toilet.
Keep well away from the water supply.
Conserve fuel. Never cut live wood.

Please Note

Bothies are available for short stays only. Permission should be obtained for longer visits.
Unless the safety of the group requires the use of shelter in bad weather, bothies are not available for groups of 6 or more because of overcrowding and the lack of facilities such as toilets.
For the same reasons groups are asked not to camp outside bothies.
Groups wishing to use a bothy should seek permission from the estate.

Finally, please ensure the fire is out and the door properly closed when you leave.

Bothies are used at your own risk.

Sunday, 12 October 2008

Budget Accommodation Mar Lodge Base Camp Scotland


Budget Accommodation Mar Lodge Base Camp Scotland.

From Cottages Scotland.

Mar Lodge is a fantastic building near Linn of Dee in the Cairngorms National Park. It is run by the National Trust for Scotland and offers luxury accommodation in a perfect setting.

For those on a tighter budget the Base Camp provides Hostel Accommodation at cheap rates. It's situated near the Lodge itself and indeed provides the ideal base for exploring the area. And what an area - the Cairngorms are a superb national resource and the National Park status offers some degree of protection from overdevelopment.

Walking, climbing, mountain biking, skiing, fishing are all available on the doorstep as well as the natural world to explore. Scotland has many beautiful areas but this has to be one of the best.

Saturday, 11 October 2008

Budget Accommodation Derry Lodge Scotland



Budget Accommodation Derry Lodge Scotland.

The famous Bob Scotts Bothy will provide you with Budget Accommodation if you are visiting Derry Lodge near Braemar in the Highlands of Scotland. This basic accommodation is provided free of charge by the Mountain Bothies Association. Whilst it is free the MBA would encourage you to join their charity which provides basic shelters all over Scotland.

Although the original bothy was burned down a few years ago, enthusiastic members have rebuilt the bothy to a very high standard. The bothy stove gives out a great heat and the platforms provide a comfortable nights sleep. If the bothy is too busy then there is ideal camping next to the river, an outstanding spot.

Derry Lodge is of course the gateway to the Cairngorms and whilst there in September this year I couldn't believe the number of walkers and mountain bikes on the track from Linn of Dee. It also provides access to the challenging Lairig Ghru path through to Aviemore.

Derry Lodge is one of my favourite camping sites in the whole of Scotland. The majestic Scots Pine set the scene for a great day out whether walking, cycling or just enjoying the wildlife.