The Rowan Tree Country Hotel

This charming country hotel offers a truly cosy and welcoming atmosphere, making guests feel right at home. Its signature feature is the combination of exceptional dining and a genuinely dog-friendly environment, all set in an idyllic location by Loch Alvie. The hotel is ideal for couples seeking a relaxing retreat, families (including those with specific needs or pets) looking for accommodating service, and outdoor enthusiasts eager to explore the Cairngorms. Many guests return repeatedly, highlighting the consistent quality and warmth. To make the most of your stay, consider booking dinner in advance as the restaurant is very popular, and be sure to explore the beautiful walks directly accessible from the hotel.

Facilities & Amenities
Guests appreciate the hotel's inviting common areas, especially the presence of warm open log fires in the lounge and bar, creating a perfect spot to relax. The hotel provides good Wi-Fi connectivity, which is particularly helpful for families. Ample and free parking is available, and for those traveling with electric vehicles, EV chargers are a convenient addition. Uniquely, the hotel also offers dedicated campervan hook-up spaces, allowing guests to enjoy the hotel's amenities while staying in their own vehicles. The bar is well-stocked with a wide selection of drinks, including an extensive whisky collection, complementing the overall comfortable and traditional ambiance.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests consistently praise the spotless cleanliness of the rooms and bathrooms, noting the hotel's high standards. Many rooms feature comfortable beds, often described as super king-sized and "cloud-like," ensuring a restful night's sleep with high-quality linens. The modern bathrooms are generally well-appointed, with good showers and fluffy towels, though some guests found certain showers to be small or had minor temperature regulation issues. While most rooms are quiet, some located near the railway line experienced train noise and vibrations, and a few noted kitchen noise. Some rooms were initially chilly, but staff provided mobile heaters. In-room amenities like tea/coffee facilities, TVs with FreeSat, and USB ports are appreciated.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's dining experience is a major highlight, frequently described as exceptional and gourmet. Breakfast receives high praise for its quality, variety, and being cooked-to-order, with options ranging from a full Scottish breakfast to granola and French toast, all served directly to the table without a buffet. Dinner is consistently lauded for its high quality, use of local produce, and exquisite preparation, with dishes like beef Wellington, lamb, venison, and aubergine rolls receiving special mention. While the restaurant atmosphere is professional and often busy, some guests found certain portion sizes to be small for the price, leading to mixed feedback on value for money for dinner. The hotel also caters to specific dietary needs, offering gluten-free and vegan options.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts an idyllic setting by Loch Alvie, offering beautiful views and direct access to pleasant walks. Its central location is highly convenient, being just a minute off the A9 and a short drive from Aviemore, making it an excellent base for exploring the Cairngorms National Park. Guests appreciate its proximity to various attractions, including the Highland Wildlife Park, Landmark, and local distilleries. The hotel's ample parking facilities are a significant advantage for those traveling by car. While some rooms experience minor noise from the nearby railway, the overall peaceful and picturesque surroundings are a major draw for visitors.

Staff & Service
The staff at this hotel consistently receive glowing reviews for their friendliness, warm welcome, and exceptional attentiveness. Guests frequently highlight their helpfulness and efficiency, noting a smooth check-in process and a willingness to accommodate requests. The team is also praised for their knowledge of the local area, offering valuable suggestions for activities. A standout aspect is the hotel's highly dog-friendly service, with staff going above and beyond to make canine guests feel welcome, providing treats and allowing them to dine with their owners in the bar area. This level of personalized and family-friendly service contributes significantly to a memorable stay.

Additional Information
The hotel maintains a highly pet-friendly policy, actively welcoming dogs and ensuring they are well-cared for, even allowing them in the bar area during meals. For those traveling with their own accommodation, the hotel provides convenient campervan hook-ups in dedicated spaces. Guests should be aware that breakfast orders are typically taken the night before, a system designed to minimize waste and ensure freshly cooked meals, though some found this less flexible. While rooms are generally serviced, one review noted an instance where this did not occur during their stay.