Name: Macdonald Highlands Hotel At Macdonald Aviemore Resort
Address: Aviemore, Inverness-Shire, Aviemore, Highlands, PH22 1PN
Price range: US$175+
Rating: 9.0

Macdonald Highlands Hotel At Macdonald Aviemore Resort Skyline photo

Macdonald Highlands Hotel At Macdonald Aviemore Resort Exterior photo

Key details

About the Hotel

Aviemore, Inverness-Shire, Aviemore, PH22 1PN

Close to Cairngorms National Park Entrance

Very good

7.4

/10

3.5

3.6

Loved by Macdonald Highlands Hotel At Macdonald Aviemore Resort guests

Friendly staff

Good breakfast

Spacious rooms

Great pool

Great location

"The Highlands Hotel was perfect for a relaxing getaway."

Laura from United Kingdom

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"Hotel is just in front of Aviemore railway station."

Manoj from United Kingdom

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"Best Hotel in Aviemore and Family Friendly with a Fun Swimking pool ,soft play and Excellent Entertainment children's disco,bingo ,family quiz and Friendly Staff ?Very good food in all the restaurants ?"

Giulia

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Rooms and Amenities

Macdonald Highlands Hotel At Macdonald Aviemore Resort provides rooms with private bathrooms featuring showers and hair dryers. Rooms include tea and coffee facilities, a safe deposit box, and a TV. Some rooms feature bathrobes.

Dining Choices

The resort features restaurants and bars, including Spey Burger and a family lounge bar. Other restaurants within walking distance include Spey Burger in Macdonald Aviemore Hotel and Giovanni's Italian Ristorante in the Macdonald Morlich Hotel. Guests can enjoy dinner at resort restaurants and cocktails at the Laggan Bar.

Leisure and Activities

Guests have access to the Aviemore Activity Centre, which includes a 25-meter indoor leisure pool, gym, soft play area, and activity rooms for children. The Macdonald Aviemore Resort has an on-site cinema. The Spey Valley Championship Golf Course, an 18-hole course, is a short drive away. Activities such as mini archery, grass sledging, and bike rentals are available at the Aviemore Activity Zone.

Location and Access

Macdonald Highlands Hotel At Macdonald Aviemore Resort is located 700 m from Aviemore and 60 km from Inverness. Nearby landmarks include Aviemore Ring Cairn and Stone Circle (1 km), TreeZone Aviemore (2 km), and Craigellachie National Nature Reserve (1 km). The hotel is surrounded by the Cairngorms National Park, offering opportunities for watersports, snowsports, and wildlife watching.

Services Offered

The Macdonald Aviemore Resort offers facilities such as an indoor lagoon pool, whirlpool, sauna, and steam room. Ski Norwest offers ski lessons, equipment hire, and ski passes. There is an outdoor play park. Spey Valley Shopping offers premium brand clothing, homeware, and delicatessen foods.

“This resort distinguishes itself with dedicated children's activities, a large indoor pool complex, and varied dining, especially the highly-regarded Italian restaurant; the location makes outdoor pursuits and scenic views easily accessible. I found the comfortable rooms, family-friendly amenities, and leisure facilities especially appealing, especially given its Resort Hotel of the Year award. It's a solid choice for families seeking both adventure and relaxation.”

Isabella MooreSenior Editorial Director at Petfriendlyhotels

Location: Great

8.7/10Review score

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Highlights from guests

Children's AmenitiesKids' Paradise

Kids loved the soft play, activity center, and pool. Evening entertainment included disco, family bingo and a family quiz.

Chloe from Canada

Review on

DiningBreakfast Bonanza

The breakfast includes a separate section with a separate toaster for guests with celiac. Also a great option for vegetarians.

Ryan from Australia

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Spa & LeisurePool Time

The swimming pool was fab! The water is lovely and warm and it was never busy, towels are provided.

Olga from Spain

Review on

Guest ParkingEasy Parking

Plentiful parking and the hotel is within a short walk of a nature reserve.

Hans from Netherlands

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Select your room type

Cozy rooms, spacious suites, and family-friendly homes, all with flexible cancellation policies & special deals

Standard Twin Room
2 persons
230 sq. feet
2 Single beds
Shower
room details
Standard Double Room
2 persons
230 sq. feet
1 Double bed
Shower
room details
Deluxe Double Room
2 persons
230 sq. feet
1 King-size bed
Shower
room details

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Price and room availability calendar

Check availability and rates for your selected dates!

Facilities

Enjoy premium amenities for a relaxing stay with your pet

Facilities: Very good

7.7/10Review score

General

No smoking on site
Wi-Fi
Free parking
Safe deposit box
24-hour reception
Pets allowed
Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
Wheelchair access
Security
Luggage storage
Locker room
Ski storage
Allergy-free rooms
Lift
Coffee shop
Smoke detectors
Electric vehicle charging station
Fire extinguishers
Key card access

Sports & Fitness

Fitness centre
Skiing
Hiking
Horseback riding
Cycling
Tennis court
Golf course
Archery
Fishing

Services

Room service
Housekeeping
Ski pass vendor
Tours/Ticket assistance
Shops/Commercial services
Welcome drink

Dining

In-room breakfast
Restaurant
Snack bar
Bar/ Lounge area
Picnic area/ Tables
Packed lunches
Special diet menus

Business

Business centre
Meeting/ Banquet facilities
Fax/Photocopying

Children

Cots
Children's menu
Children's pool
Water slides
Children's play area
Toys
Game room

Facilities for people with disabilities

Toilet for disabled
Bathroom for disabled

Spa & Leisure

Indoor swimming pool
Sun loungers
Sun terrace
Garden area
Leisure/ TV room
Sauna
Steam room
Pedicure
Manicure
Waxing
Facial
Treatment room
Beauty treatment
Massage
Shallow end

Room features

Heating
Terrace
Garden furniture
Ironing facilities

Dining Onsite

At Macdonald Highlands Hotel within the Macdonald Aviemore Resort, a delightful range of dining options awaits, each offering a unique experience. From traditional British fare to casual favorites, meals can be enjoyed in cozy and inviting settings, ensuring a memorable taste of the region's culinary delights.

Macdonald Highlands Hotel At Macdonald Aviemore Resort Restaurant photo

Aspects

British

Ambiance

Family-friendly with a touch of romance, ideal for gatherings or intimate dinners.

Key Offerings

Enjoy a diverse menu featuring vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options, ensuring delightful choices for all preferences.

Reservation

Recommended for a guaranteed table during peak dining hours.

Open for dinner from 5 PM to 9 PM daily.

Spey Burger

Casual Dining (Burgers)

Ambiance

A laid-back family lounge bar, perfect for a relaxed meal after a day of adventures.

Key Offerings

Savor gourmet burgers crafted with quality ingredients, along with a selection of refreshing drinks. Ideal for families seeking a comforting meal.

Reservation

Not needed.

Hours vary; check locally for current opening times.

Giovanni's Italian Ristorante

Italian

Ambiance

A warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for family or romantic dinners.

Key Offerings

Indulge in classic Italian dishes from hearty pasta to fresh seafood, accompanied by an extensive wine list.

Reservation

Recommended for larger groups or during peak dining hours.

Hours vary; check locally for current opening times.

Location

Aviemore, Inverness-Shire, Aviemore, PH22 1PN

Map view

City landmarks

Landmark

Strathspey Railway

2300 ft

Landmark

Aviemore Ring Cairn and Stone Circle

4700 ft

Nature reserve

Craigellachie National Nature Reserve

3900 ft

Landmark

Glenmore Forest Park

4600 ft

Landmark

Rothiemurchus

1.3 mi

Park

TreeZone Aviemore

1.2 mi

Landmark

Extreme Dream Climbing Centre

1.2 mi

Landmark

River Druie

1.5 mi

Landmark

Loch Pityoulish

1.7 mi

Landmark

Loch an Eilein

3.0 mi

Nearby

Aviemore Centre

800 ft

Night club

The Vault

1400 ft

Restaurants

Spey Burger

700 ft

Macdonald Aviemore Resort

The Cairngorm Hotel

1400 ft

77 Grampian Road

Mambos

1500 ft

Grampian Road 12 - 13 Aviemore Centre

The Highland Line

1400 ft

Grampian Road Aviemore Railway Station

Giovanni's Italian Ristorante

1200 ft

MacDonald Aviemore Resort

Aspects Restaurant

1100 ft

Macdonald Aviemore Resort

Miele's Gelateria

1800 ft

98 Aviemore Police Station Grampian Road

Explorer Cafe

2100 ft

Myrtlefield Retail Park

Galaxy World Buffet Restaurant

2200 ft

Grampian Road Myrtlefield House

Deli Mair

2200 ft

Grampian Road

Explore Aviemore

Strathspey Steam Railway

9 minutes' walk

A historic steam railway offering scenic journeys through the stunning Highland landscapes, ideal for all ages.

Aviemore Ring Cairn and Stone Circle

17 minutes' walk

An ancient monument with rich history, perfect for those interested in archaeology and the tranquillity of nature.

Rothiemurchus

25 minutes walking

A picturesque estate with diverse wildlife, offering activities like biking and walking trails amidst stunning scenery.

Glenmore Forest Park

17 minutes' walk

A vast natural reserve featuring walking trails and breathtaking views, ideal for nature enthusiasts seeking adventure.

TreeZone Aviemore

25 minutes walking

An aerial adventure course filled with zip lines and obstacles, perfect for thrill-seekers looking to challenge themselves.

Yoga in the Forest

17 minutes' walk

Outdoor yoga sessions designed for relaxation and mindfulness, set amidst the beautiful landscapes of Rothiemurchus.

Giovanni's Italian Ristorante

5 minutes' walk

A charming Italian eatery known for its handmade pasta and warm ambiance, ideal for family dinners or romantic outings.

The Cairngorm Hotel

5 minutes' walk

A classic Scottish hotel with a vibrant bar and hearty dishes, perfect for enjoying a casual meal in a cozy setting.

Scottish Steakhouse

4 minutes' walk

A must-visit for meat lovers, serving a variety of locally sourced steaks and offering vegetarian options in a rustic atmosphere.

The Vault

5 minutes' walk

A lively bar and venue featuring live music and themed nights, great for socializing in a vibrant atmosphere.

Aviemore Centre

3 minutes' walk

Home to various shops and family activities, with seasonal events making it a hub for visitors of all ages.

Getting around

City Centre
Aviemore 8 min · 2000 ft
Airports
Inverness (INV) 89 min · 36.6 mi
Aberdeen (ABZ) 214 min · 88.6 mi
Train
Aviemore Railway Station 3 min · 700 ft
Bus
Bus stop 12 min · 4.6 mi

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Property information and rules

Check-in

from 16:00-23:59

Check-out

until 11 am

Internet

Wireless internet is available in the entire hotel for free.

Breakfast

A full breakfast is served at the price of GBP 6 per person per day.

Children & extra beds

There are no cots provided in a room.

Pets

Pets are allowed on request.

Number of floors:

Number of rooms:

146

Former name

Aviemore Highlands Hotel

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about Macdonald Highlands Hotel At Macdonald Aviemore Resort from previous guests about their experience.

Review summary

Based on recent reviews

Macdonald Highlands Hotel is often chosen as a base for exploring the Aviemore area with free parking being a plus. Guests find the rooms spacious, and appreciate the variety of on-site facilities including a swimming pool and cinema. The breakfast buffet is typically well-received; however, some guests have noted that the hotel's style could benefit from modernization. The comfortable beds and blackout blinds ensure a restful sleep.

Review score

Based on 6 verified reviews

9.0 /10

Perfect

100%

Recommend

Location

8.7/10

Staff

8.2/10

Value for money

7.1/10

Facilities

7.7/10

Pros

Good breakfast

Clean rooms

Good amenities

Cons

Dull lighting

Tired hotel

Uncomfortable beds

Luna from Spain

Family with children

Deluxe Double Room

3 nights in December 2025

Reviewed: February 20, 2026

9/10

Enchanting Stay, A Romantic Getaway!

friendly staff helpful staff delux room excellent location

All facilities were available within the times stated. We swam and enjoyed soft play before check-in. The staff were friendly and helpful-especially Ryan at reception. My daughter loved the continental breakfast. Upgrading to the beautiful room was SO worth it, I adored it. The location is excellent!!!

The walls were a bit marked in places, but it wasn't TOO much of an issue.

Facilities

9/10

The leisure facilities included a very large pool with designated sections for swimming and play, perfect for both serious swimmers and families. There are also separate sauna and steam rooms for adults to relax and unwind after a busy day. The gym features state-of-the-art equipment.

0 Helpful

Thomas from United Kingdom

Family with children

Family Room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: January 19, 2026

9/10

tasty breakfast friendly staff

the breakfast choices were extensive and tasty. the pool area included a soft play area it was grand. the staff was quite friendly too, so helpful i thought.

the christmas decorations was absent i thought. it feels a little bare with no holiday decor.

0 Helpful

Olivia from United Kingdom

Family with children

Family Room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: December 22, 2025

9.0/10

Comfortable stay with ample amenities

shopping center friendly staff pool area room decor

The hotel offered a convenient shopping center with friendly staff and reasonably priced food. My family enjoyed the pool and the waterslide. The location provided easy access to various activities, and the wifi worked very well. I found chairs in the rooms to be a nice addition to the room decor.

Rooms

9/10

The room was very clean. Fluffy towels and toiletries were provided. The shower worked well.

Service

8/10

Breakfast included a good selection of items. Tea and toast were served to the table. Staff members were pleasant. More staff were needed during busy periods.

Dining

9/10

The hotel offers a good breakfast selection. Breakfast included a variety of options. The quality was good.

Facilities

10/10

The facilities include an activity center. There is a pool and soft play area. These amenities ensure entertainment for all guests.

0 Helpful

Evelyn from United Kingdom

Family with children

family room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: December 21, 2025

9/10

pastry variety wave machine helpful staff

the breakfast buffet had a great variety of options, especially the pastries. the pool area included a wave machine and a flume (very fun!). the staff were helpful in directing me to the on-site amenities.

The shower temperature was hard to regulate. It fluctuated between very hot and cold.

0 Helpful

Mark from United Kingdom

Family with children

Family Room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: December 18, 2025

9/10

Excellent Family Hotel

breakfast selection free access soft play area

The breakfast had a good selection of items (especially the fresh fruit). Free access to the pool was excellent for the kids. The soft play area kept them busy for hours.

0 Helpful

Evelyn from United Kingdom

Family with children

Deluxe Double Room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: December 12, 2025

9/10

varied breakfast selection good size pool secure bike storage

the breakfast buffet had a good selection of food. the pool was a great size (and not too crowded ). i locked my bike securely overnight with no issues.

0 Helpful

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