Cairngorms Church Hill House

Looking onto the quiet streets of the village of Kingussie on the western edge of the Cairngorms, this lovely 1820s house was once part of the Highland Folk Museum but is now a place to come and unwind into the surrounding countryside. Hike the hills or stroll down to the beaches on the Spey for a morning swim.

Inside, the combination of 19th-century architecture and 21st-century comforts works perfectly, giving the place the cosy feel of a Highland lodge. The whisky room, stocked with decanters, books, deep armchairs and a big fireplace, is the perfect spot for relaxing after a day of kayaking, walking or even deer stalking in the company of your experienced host, who lives in the house the other side of the long outbuildings.

They can arrange whisky and champagne tastings if you’re after a more indulgent trip, or simply leave you to enjoy the peaceful garden with its sitooterie – a sort of three-sided shed where you can idle, sip and watch the weather.