As frequent visitors to Aviemore we know the area well and have had another fabulous holiday.  This was our first stay in Aviemore Lodge and by our experience of Aviemore self-catering holiday accommodation this is very good.  An unexpected luxury was the changing of all linen for our second week which made up for a couple of little quibbles - we couldn’t get the tumble dryer to work and there was no indoor clother airer.  However, being hardy self-caterers we had taken our own (clother airer that is, not tumble dryer!) which was a blessing as the weather was somewhat variable and we are outdoors in all weather so managed to avoid the clothes drying all over the house scenario. 

Lovely warm duvets, well equipped although felt another, larger, pan in the kitchen would have been a bonus - especially if you were trying to cater for more than 4 people.  Great to have a garage to keep the bikes and dirty walking boots in!  Very friendly owners, amenable to telephone queries - thank you.  Will definetely return in the future.

Things to do - apart from walking and biking that is!  Had a fabulous day out at Ballindalloch Castle on Speyside.  Whilst the owners of this castle run a business, they have managed to keep the notion of the property being a family home very much to the fore.

Landmark Heritage Park - good fun for the kids and if you have little ones I recommend an annual pass as you can then visit as many times as you wish for shorter spells rather than trying to do it all in one day.

The Imagination Workshop - new this year.  A craft workshop where you can paint and decopatch papier mache and wooden items.  Great for a wet day with lovely staff who are very willing to help you.  My daughter and I enjoyed a few hours in here on more than one occasion.

Loch Insh - watersport heaven!  Lots to do - sailing, kayaking, river trips, wind surfing.  Good food available in the restaurant overlooking the loch and open to all even if you are not using the facilities.

Thunder in the Glens - a Harley Davidson rally.  Always the last weekend in August I believe and the ride out to Grantown on Spey on the Saturday is amazing.

Cairngorm Mountain Railway - we tend to avoid this as we would rather walk up the mountain but the views are spectacular if you are not one for going high under your own steam.

Cairngorm Reindeer Centre - coming across reindeer on the hills is slightly disconcerting until you discover the Centre.

Eating out - lots to choose from - for lunch we enjoy the Mountain Cafe opposite the Police station - also does good breakfasts; Glenmore Visitor Centre (also good for environmental information on the area) and Ord Ban at the Rothiemurchus Centre.  Dinner for families - Ski-ing Doo; Cairngorm Hotel; Roo’s Leap; Happy Haggis fish supper take away.