Self Catering in Highlands and Islands - Cawdor

Perfect tranquil lodge with top notch facilities
We initially booked the lodge because we were looking for somewhere that had 3 bedrooms as we have 2 teenagers (a boy and a girl) who understandably didn't want to share a room and in fact preferred a double bed each. So Atlas fitted the bill and we were all very impressed. In the weeks before we arrived, Jo had been very helpful looking into activities for us such as Dolphin trips, bike hire and mountain bike trails. The lodge is situated on a slight hillside and shares a plot with one other lodge which is a good 100 yards away and cleverly oriented so that privacy is maintained without detracting from the lovely views over the Nairn valley. The lodge is appointed to the highest level of luxury and is was spotlessly clean on arrival. We were greeted shortly after arrival and shown how to operate the equipment such as the hot tub, sauna and surround sound system, wifi etc. The owners had also left some milk, bread, eggs and lovely locally made jam which was a treat. The accommodation is very spacious and airy and relaxing. The two downstairs bedrooms were both doubles and had ensuite so the kids had these and we had the upstairs double with the separate bathroom. We didn't use the other bedroom upstairs (twin). The lodge stayed lovely and warm and we didn't need to touch the heating which is underfloor and very efficient. We really cannot fault the accommodation. In fact the beds were so comfortable that when we got back home we contacted the owner to find out what mattresses they are as ours are due to be changed. We loved using the hot tub in the evenings and watching the stars and shooting stars. There was even a hint of the Northern Lights but only very faint as the moon was out. The Sauna is excellent too and kept spotlessly clean. We took our mountain bikes and were able to keep them on the decked area, under cover. It is very secure as the site has a keypad entry electric gate. From the lodge you can ride to the local woods and explore them or stick to the very quiet roads. Cawdor is just a few miles away where there is a small convenience store and cafe and a decent pub. There are supermarkets about 20 mins drive away; a Sainsburys near Nairn and a big Tesco on the way into Inverness. We would love to come back as there is so much to explore. Thank you Jo and Michelle for making our stay at Atlas a wonderful memorable experience.
moonmerlin69
2016-09-12

We had the best time staying at the Atlas cottage. It was a lovely quiet retreat, while also being perfectly located to get out and explore the highlands. We especially enjoyed the hot tub and sauna in the evening, as it was the perfect place to watch the sun go down (at 11pm!) I can't recommend this property enough and hope to revisit it one day!
Mrs McCray
2016-08-03

Amazing Lodge
We had an amazing time in this beautiful lodge, the lodge itself was absolutely stunning, plenty of space for us all, kids has good fun running around outside, we all enjoyed the hot tub and made good use of it! The kitchen was well equipped and had everything we needed, the dishwasher didn't tend to wash the dishes very well though! A lovely drive to Inverness and not far to Elgin or Landmark if you have kids! We would definitely recommend this lodge and would love to go back thanks Jo!
clairey2804
2016-04-16

Amazing, spacious lodge which exceeded expectations
We booked this lodge to celebrate a family members 60th birthday (6 adults, 2 children, 1 infant) and we were certainly not disappointed! The pictures do not do this place justice, it is huge! There was ample space for us all. The bedrooms were a very good size with big walk-in wardrobes, and the living area was very spacious also. The modern kitchen had absolutely everything we needed, even things like cling-film, tin-foil etc, which was great. The starter pack of lovely homemade jam, free-range eggs and bread was much appreciated too. In our opinion this is the best lodge we have ever stayed in, and we have stayed in a few over the years! It is of very high spec - we particularly loved the under-floor heating, sauna, hot-tub and music system. And the kids loved the games - twister was a big hit! The owners went above and beyond the call of duty for us too - as we were celebrating a special birthday they decorated the lodge for us prior to our arrival and even went to the trouble of returning my mother-in-laws shoes, which she accidentally left behind! Would 100% recommend Atlas to anybody, trust me you will not be disappointed!
Fiowat1981
2015-12-04

Well appointed Lodge in tranquil surroundings......bliss!
Originally my husband had planned to be in South Africa but due to an injury and subsequent operation we were not allowed to travel abroad.We looked on line for accommodation with a high spec and we were not disappointed when we opened the door at Atlas! The furnishings,bedding,seating,etc are all good quality.Music system,hot tub and sauna were excellent additions to our enjoyment of the lodge.While it is out in the middle of the country with stunning views it is only a 15min journey by car into Inverness.Plenty to do in the surrounding area....top quality golf,castles to visit,distilleries,potteries,cinema...... Enjoyed the Fresh Eggs,homemade jam,and other bits to get us started.lovely touch.Also nice touch getting a "run through" on how equipment works in the lodge rather than manuals!!!Most enjoyable private location.....will be back with friends to fully enjoy facilities.
SaraBotts
2015-11-21