AllWays Traveller Features
The Dell of Abernethy, Cairngorms
The Dell of Abernethy, is a retreat comprising six self-catering cottages in the Cairngorms, Scotland.
It is set in four acres of gardens and pine forests dotted with organic vegetable gardens, chickens and a zipline, swings, a trampoline and petanque for the kids.
Located within the wilds of the Cairngorms National Park and right on the edge of the ancient Abernethy Forest, The Dell is one hour from Inverness airport and twenty minutes from Aviemore train station.
Abernethy Nature reserve is nearby with its ancient Caledonian pine forest with over 35 km of trails marked out, ideal for walking and biking. Accessible trails for wheelchair users and buggies are also available.
The village of Nethy Bridge is one mile along the riverside walk with the Moray coast and the village of Findhorn in the area.
The Dell also offers a year round base for takin in the Cairngorms.
It was a 2019 base for the BBC Winterwatch, Springwatch and Autumnwatch; which showcased the Cairngorms through the seasons.
Wildlife that can all be spotted for spot from The Dell include Capercaillie, Pine Marten, Red squirrel, Golden Eagle, White tailed eagle, Wildcat, Crossbill, Roe Deer, Badger, Owl, Mountain Hare, Common Lizard, Crested Tits, Brambling, Greater Spotted Woodpecker and Bullfinch.
The property was built for the head forester of Seafield Estate, who planted many of the towering trees above the house today.
The Dell has been in the Fleming family since the sixties when owner Polly's Grandparents decided to purchase The Dell after years of it sitting empty.
Together, they set about the first round of renovations to create the holiday destination it is today.
The Dell is now home to Polly and husband Ross and their two young sons.
The Dell has teamed up with WildTrax, who rent out classic 4x4 Land Rovers, some of which come with a rooftop tent specially designed for the Scottish weather.
This offers a way to explore more of the landscapes and rugged terrain of the Highlands.