Our Grounds And Beyond

Immerse Yourself
In The Whisky Country

Discover our serene walled garden, a haven for relaxation. Savour the fresh air and stunning views while exploring our home-grown vegetable, fruit and herb patches. For indulgent moments, a private hot tub at the garden’s edge offers sweeping views of the valley of River Avon and a tranquil space to unwind. As the dusk falls, the Cairngorms Dark Sky Park truly comes into its own and allows for unspoiled stargazing and aurora hunting under the vast Highland sky.

Outside the Old Manse, guests will find three inviting seating areas crafted for relaxation and enjoyment of the stunning surroundings. One area features a viewpoint at the edge of the garden, complete with a hot tub and a charming pergola - perfect for unwinding while soaking in the views. Another space is a delightful walled garden, rich with vegetable and herb allotments, as well as fruit trees and shrubs, creating a charming landscape.

Guests can enjoy remarkable views from the garden, with the rolling hills of Craggan Mor to the right and Creag an Tarmachain to the left, both encouraging discovery with excellent walking opportunities. A prominent feature of the area, Ben Rinnes soars majestically in the background, offering sweeping views of both the shining Moray coastline and the imposing Cairngorm mountain range. Surrounded by rolling farmland, this Corbett encapsulates the Highland landscape, rich with native fauna and flora that contribute to the unique character of the area.

The River Avon gracefully flows through the heart of the valley below the Old Manse, a scenic waterway that originates from Loch A'an within the Cairngorms National Park, enhancing the natural beauty of the area and providing opportunities for peaceful walks and salmon fishing along its banks. Meanwhile, just above the property, a short hill walk up, the Cairnacay offers a breathtaking panorama of Glenlivet Estate and the expansive countryside beyond.

Additionally, the woodland area at the edge of the Old Manse boasts a cosy firepit space, ideal for gathering with friends and family to enjoy evenings under the stars while immersed in the natural beauty that surrounds the Old Manse. Whether it's enjoying a morning coffee with the sun rising over the hills or sharing stories by the firepit at dusk, the outdoor spaces at the Old Manse of Craggan offer a unique connection to the breathtaking Highlands.

Conveniently located along the winding B9008, the Old Manse of Craggan is well connected to major routes, including the A95, making it easy to access nearby towns and attractions both north, towards the coast and south towards the heart of the breathtaking Cairngorm Plateau. This makes the Old Manse of Craggan an ideal base for day trips, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the extraordinary beauty of the Highland landscape and its myriad trails.

The Old Manse of Craggan is ideally located for a variety of outdoor pursuits.

Water Sports

Experience the lochs and rivers with activities such as kayaking, open water swimming, and paddleboarding. The scenic waters around are perfect for those looking to explore the stunning landscape from a different perspective.

Winter Sports

  • The Lecht Ski Centre
  • Cairngorm Mountain Ski Area
  • Nordic ski trails in Clashindarroch Forest
  • Huntly Nordic and Outdoor Centre
  • Glenshee Ski Centre

Other Adventures

Off-road experiences in Glenlivet

Clay Pigeon Shooting at Rothiemurchus Estate

Explore the extensive MTB trails at Ballindalloch and Glenlivet Estates or enjoy the purpose-built mountain biking and downhill centre, Bike Glenlivet.

Fishing

The fishing season runs from mid-February to late September on the River Spey, River Avon, and River Livet. Access comprehensive fishing information through the Glenlivet Estate Fishing website, and explore opportunities at the Ballindalloch Estate.

Golf

  • Maverston Golf Course
  • Cabot Highlands
  • Royal Dornoch
  • Nairn Dunbar
  • Duff House Royal
  • Royal Tarlair Golf Club
  • Braemar Golf Club
  • Ballindalloch Golf Club

Cultural Heritage

Experience the rich traditions of the area at the Braemar Highland Games Centre and the annual Tomintoul Highland Games, held every third Saturday in July. Local towns such as Dufftown, Forres, and Aberlour also host summer Highland Games.

Heritage Sites

  • Huntly Castle
  • Gordon Castle
  • Balmoral Castle
  • Ballindalloch Castle
  • Elgin Cathedral
  • Corgarff Castle
  • Drumin Castle
  • Blairfindy Castle
  • Brodie Castle

Mountain Trails

  • Ben Rinnes
  • Queen Victoria’s viewpoint near Tomintoul to Loch A'an in the heart of the Cairngorms
  • The Tomintoul Spur of the Speyside Way
  • Braes of Glenlivet - Scotland's only round glen where the ancient Ladder Road to the Royal Deeside begins
  • Cromdale Hills overlooking all three great rivers: the Spey, the Avon and the Livet

Foraging and Farms

Engage in local foraging and visit nearby farms to learn about sustainable practices and seasonal produce, enhancing your connection to Highland life.