Cairn Hotel Carrbridge | Near Cairngorms from $56

Name: Cairn Hotel, Carrbridge
Address: Craigellachie Guest House Main Street, Carrbridge, Highlands, PH23 3AS
Price range: US$56+
Rating: 8.5

22 photos

Book on our site

up to 10% cheaper

than Booking.com

Key details

About the Hotel

Craigellachie Guest House Main Street, Carrbridge, PH23 3AS

Close to Landmark Forest Adventure Park

Great

8.5

9.3

/10

4.4

4.6

Loved by Cairn Hotel guests

Friendly staff

Excellent breakfast

Comfortable mattress

Amazing food

"We ate in the bar and the food was superb."

Catherine G from United Kingdom

read full review

"The fry that I was served for breakfast was simply one of the best, most satisfying breakfasts I've ever had."

Joseph O from Ireland

read full review

"Excellent food from restaurant."

Sam-c from United Kingdom

read full review

3-star welcoming hotel in Carrbridge with Highland access

Location

Cairn Hotel is set in ancient woodland at the northern gateway to Cairngorm National Park. Located in Carrbridge, it serves as a base for exploring the Scottish Highlands, being only 7 miles north of Aviemore and 23 miles south of Inverness. The hotel is conveniently positioned just off the main A9 road along the alternative Perth-Inverness tourist route.

Rooms

Cairn Hotel offers 14 comfortable bedrooms, accommodating single travelers, families, and groups alike. Room types include single, double, twin, and family options, ensuring diverse options for its guests. The newly acquired House rooms next door add to the variety of options available.

Dining

The hotel features a lively bar and restaurant that provides a selection of 70 malt whiskies and 40 Scottish craft gins. Seasonal menus, including dishes like Haggis Lasagne and Venison Bruschetta, focus on local produce and change regularly. A private dining room is available for groups of up to 16, providing an intimate dining experience.

Activities

Cairn Hotel is an excellent base for various outdoor activities in the surrounding area. Guests can enjoy mountain biking, skiing on Ben Macdui, or visit the Landmark Forest Adventure Park. Walking and cycling groups can benefit from luggage transfers through Highland Yaks.

Pet-friendly Policies

The hotel welcomes pets, with most rooms designated as pet-friendly. Guests are encouraged to communicate their needs in advance to ensure suitable accommodations. The hotel supports a considerate atmosphere for both pet owners and other guests.

Highlights

Location: northern gateway to Cairngorm National Park

Dining: seasonal menus and 70 malt whiskies

Activities: outdoor adventures in the Highlands

Rooms: 14 comfortable bedrooms

“In my opinion, this Victorian inn provides a characterful base for exploring Cairngorms National Park, bolstered by genuine hospitality. The on-site dining is a village draw, showcasing local flavors with both casual and private options. It's an ideal spot for active visitors, with the inn facilitating sporting excursions and welcoming pets, too.”

Anna BlackEditor-in-Chief at Tohotel

Location: Perfect

9.2/10Review score

View hotel on map

Highlights from guests

DiningFood was Brilliant

Dinner by the crackling fireplace was very good. The breakfast included the best scrambled eggs. Generous portions. Very tasty venison burger with apple crumble.

Oliver Smith from United Kingdom

Review on

Guest ParkingPlenty of Space

The undercover motorcycle parking was great. Car park entrance is beside the coffee shop. Loads of parking, best in the region.

Kenji Tanaka from Japan

Review on

BedroomComfortable sleep

The beds were comfy and clean, with lovely wool covers. Spacious triple room with quality bedding. Slept very well.

Isabelle Dubois from France

Review on

Media & EntertainmentLive music

Live music in the bar created a welcoming and homely atmosphere. The old fashioned pub with wood logs on fire had a cosy ambience.

Hans Müller from Germany

Review on

Select your room type

Cairn Hotel offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals

Standard Double Room
2 persons
1 sq. feet
1 Double bed
Heating
Shower
room details
Budget Single Room
2 persons
1 sq. feet
1 Single bed
Heating
Shower
room details
Budget Twin Room
2 persons
20 sq. feet
2 Single beds
Heating
room details

Show all rooms

Price and Room Availability Calendar

Check availability and prices for your dates now!

September 2026 - September 2027

Sun

Mon

Tue

Wed

Thu

Fri

Sat

September 2026

October 2026

November 2026

December 2026

January 2027

February 2027

March 2027

April 2027

May 2027

June 2027

July 2027

August 2027

Choose dates to see prices

Check-in/ Check-out

Facilities

Cairn Hotel offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences

Facilities: Great

8.2/10Review score

General

No smoking on site
Free parking
No pets allowed
Luggage storage
ATM/Cash machine

Sports & Fitness

Canoeing
Skiing
Horseback riding
Cycling
Billiard tables
Darts
Fishing

Guest Parking

Electric kettle

Services

Airport shuttle
Housekeeping

Dining

Restaurant
Bar/ Lounge area

Business

Meeting/ Banquet facilities

Children

Cots
Children's menu

Spa & Leisure

Leisure/ TV room

Room features

Free Wi-Fi in rooms
Tea and coffee facilities
Ironing facilities

Bathroom

Free toiletries

Self-catering

Electric kettle

Media

CD player

Room decor

Carpeted floor

Dining Onsite

At Cairn Hotel, the culinary scene invites guests to savor traditional British dishes crafted with locally sourced ingredients. Whether seeking a warm gathering around a roaring log fire or a cheeky tipple from an impressive selection of whisky and gin, the dining options are designed to charm and delight every palate.

Cairn Hotel Restaurant
British
Ambiance
Nestled in the heart of the village, this inviting restaurant boasts a cozy atmosphere, enhanced by a roaring log fire, making it an ideal spot for intimate dinners and lively gatherings alike.
Key Offerings
An exciting selection of 70 malt whiskies and 40 Scottish craft gins complements robust cask ales, while seasonal menus feature vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options that celebrate the best local produce.
Reservation
Reservations are recommended to secure a spot in this popular dining hub.
Open for lunch Monday to Saturday from 12:00 to 14:30 and dinner Monday to Saturday from 17:30 to 20:30, with slightly adjusted hours on Sunday from 12:30 to 14:30 and 17:00 to 20:00.
Private Dining Experience
Customized Dining
Ambiance
A personal and exclusive setting, complete with a dedicated waiter, ensuring that every detail of the dining experience is tailored to the party's preferences amidst the warmth of a flickering log fire.
Key Offerings
This experience features a carefully curated menu aligned with the seasonal offerings, and the chance to personalize the ambiance with your music via an iPod dock.
Reservation
Reservations for private dining are essential to accommodate personalized service.
Available for booking during regular restaurant hours; specific timings can be arranged based on guest requirements.

Cairn Hotel Location

Craigellachie Guest House Main Street, Carrbridge, PH23 3AS

Explore Carrbridge

Local Highlights

Landmark Forest Adventure Park

7 minutes' walk

Adventure park featuring treetop courses, water slides, and interactive trails, perfect for families and thrill-seekers.

Carrbridge Artists Studio

1 minute' walk

Local artists exhibit their work, offering a unique insight into the creative scene of Carrbridge and surrounding areas.

Sluggan Bridge

3 minutes' walk

Historic stone bridge with picturesque views, ideal for photography and enjoying the natural beauty of the area.

The Old Packhorse Bridge

3 minutes' drive

Stone bridge dating back to the 18th century, a notable landmark showcasing historical architecture and scenic surroundings.

Treetop Adventure Courses

7 minutes' walk

Zip-lining and obstacle courses set in the treetops. Perfect for adventurous souls and families looking for fun.

Yoga in the Park

5 minutes' walk

Relaxing outdoor yoga sessions available seasonally, promoting wellness and tranquility in a beautiful natural setting.

The Cairn Hotel Restaurant

1 minute' walk

Offers traditional Scottish dishes in a cozy atmosphere, with highlights like haggis and local seafood. Reservations recommended.

The Grill Room & Bar

1 minute' walk

Casual dining with a focus on grilled specialties. Known for its steaks and gourmet burgers. Vegetarian options available.

Carrbridge Village Hall

5 minutes' walk

Hosts local events, including live music nights and community gatherings, fostering a vibrant local culture for all ages.

The Old Bridge Inn

10 minutes' drive

Charming pub with live music, offering a relaxed atmosphere for socializing. Check for scheduled events and performances.

Getting around

City Centre
Carrbridge 2 min · 400 ft
Airports
Inverness (INV) 73 min · 30.1 mi
Aberdeen (ABZ) 202 min · 83.5 mi
Bus
Bus stop 2 min · 400 ft

Want to see Exclusive Early Booking Rate?

Get exlusive rates right now!

Check Rates

Property information and rules

Check-in

from 16:00-23:00

Check-out

until 11 am

Guest Parking

Public parking is possible on site for free.

Internet

Wireless internet is available in the hotel rooms for free.

Children & extra beds

There are no extra beds provided in a room. There are no cots provided in a room.

Pets

Pets are not allowed.

Number of rooms:

Former name

Craigellachie House

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about Cairn Hotel from previous guests about their experience.

Review summary

Based on recent reviews

The Cairn Hotel, situated right on the main street, is often described as a vibrant village hub with a pub-like atmosphere and generally pleasing meals; the dining room offers pleasant views of village life. Many guests appreciate the spacious and clean rooms, some of which include smart TVs, and the convenient on-site parking. The hotel's location provides easy access to the Cairngorms, including the River Spey for activities like rafting. However, a few guests have noted that some rooms felt small relative to the price.

Show moreShow less

Review score

Based on 496 verified reviews

8.5 /10

Great

91 %

Recommend

Staff

9.5/10

Location

9.2/10

Facilities

8.2/10

Comfort

8.6/10

Pros

Good location

Friendly staff

Excellent breakfast

Clean rooms

Cons

Slow service

Awkward bathroom

Rowan from Ireland

Single

family room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: December 22, 2025

9.0/10

totally brill stay!

awesome staff bigger room fabulous breakfast extra cost

the staff were awesome! they upgraded me to a bigger room at no extra cost. i only stayed one night but i could have stayed way more days, it was fab! the breakfast was beyond my wildest dreams, fabulous!

the telly had limited channels.

Facilities

9/10

the hotel offers free parking. a pub is on-site for relaxed evenings. it has complimentary wifi is available throughout the premises, that helps a lot.

Location

8/10

the hotel benefits from an easy to reach site. getting around to nearby sights is very straightforward. the area presents opportunities for outdoor activities.

Dining

9/10

the hotel includes a pub with a very good menu. breakfast is included and offers generous portions. the food preparation appears carefully done, that adds taste.

Service

10/10

the staff is very cute and helpful, improving the whole experience. they seem dedicated to guest comfort. the service aims to offer a familiar, comfortable stay.

0 Helpful

Show less

Jennifer L from United Kingdom

Family with children

Family Room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: December 20, 2025

8.7/10

charming hotel with excellent food

central location fresh food attentive staff car charging

i appreciated the hotel's location on the main street. the food was lovely and fresh. the staff were very attentive and helpful throughout my stay. i was also pleased with the electric car charging availability.

the bar service was slow

Facilities

9/10

the hotel provides convenient electric car charging facilities upon request. there is a bar available, ideal for enjoying local beverages and socializing. guests can easily access the hotel from the main street.

Rooms

8/10

the family room offered ample space for my family and was very clean. amenities in the room included a comfortable bed and necessary furnishings. the room provided a quiet environment.

Dining

9/10

the breakfast included locally sourced ingredients and offered a traditional scottish selection. the bar served excellent local food, and the portions were generous. i found the real ale delicious and refreshing after a long day.

0 Helpful

Stella from Italy

Family with children

Standard Double Room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: December 02, 2025

6/10

slow food service unmentioned detail

The food service really needs attention. it took quite a while for the food to arrive. also, my drink did not come with the meal. I learned i had to collect it from the bar myself. the staff never mentioned this detail to me at all.

0 Helpful

Dick from United Kingdom

Single

Standard Double Room

3 nights in October 2025

Reviewed: November 24, 2025

8.8/10

Solid Stay

friendly staff breakfast variety spacious room

The staff was friendly and helpful . Breakfast included a good variety of options. The room provided ample space for my needs.

The bathroom was a bit small.

Location

9/10

The hotel has a large free car park which simplifies arrival and departure. This is a practical advantage. It is convenient because it is very close to the main roads and local amenities.

Service

9/10

The owner took my breakfast order and ensured I had everything I asked for. The staff directed us to ensure we had the best to suit our preferences and they were very friendly. I found the staff to be knowledgable on the menu.

Rooms

8/10

My large room featured a very comfortable bed and the bathroom was clean. The room included a good selection of tea and coffee for convenience. The room was very spacious so all was good there -.

Facilities

9/10

The bar had a pool table and drinks were reasonably priced providing good value. The pub atmosphere was great and I enjoyed a selection of local beers. The evening meal was really nice served in the bar.

0 Helpful

Reese from United States

Family with children

Standard Double Room

3 nights in August 2025

Reviewed: November 17, 2025

6/10

slow service old furniture

The staff seemed a little overwhelmed. I waited a long time for my drink to arrive with dinner. The order was eventually sorted, but it was a slow experience. The bedroom carpet had scuffs. There was also 1980s furniture. I was disappointed with my stay.

0 Helpful

Show more reviews

Questions of the users

About Cairn Hotel

Are the family rooms equipped with ensuite bathrooms?

10 March 2024

Yes, family rooms come with ensuite facilities, ensuring convenience for families during their stay.

Is it possible to bring my small, well-behaved dog to stay overnight?

22 April 2024

Yes, small dogs are welcome to stay overnight in designated pet-friendly rooms. Additional dog essentials like biscuits might be on offer!

Can I find ensuite options for single accommodation?

15 February 2024

Some single rooms do not have ensuites; however, several do offer private ensuite bathrooms. It's advisable to contact the hotel directly to find the best fit for your needs.

If I want to change my room to one with a private bathroom, is that an option?

14 April 2024

Yes, if a room with a private bathroom becomes available, it's possible to change your booking, depending on availability.

Are dogs allowed in the dining areas of the hotel?

5 May 2024

Yes, dogs are permitted in one of the dining rooms and the bar, making it easier to enjoy meals with furry companions.

Is the Wi-Fi suitable for working during my stay?

30 January 2024

Generally, the Wi-Fi is strong enough for work purposes. However, during peak times, streaming by multiple guests can cause it to slow down slightly.

Is parking available for guests, and is it complimentary?

18 March 2024

Parking is free for guests, providing a hassle-free experience when arriving at the hotel.

What activities can guests enjoy in the local area around Carrbridge?

10 June 2024

The area offers a variety of activities, including hiking, biking, and exploring the Cairngorms National Park, making it an ideal location for outdoor enthusiasts.

What dining options are available, and do menus change regularly?

7 July 2024

The restaurant offers a rotating seasonal menu, featuring local produce and favorites, which keeps meals fresh and interesting.

Can I make use of a private dining room for special occasions?

25 August 2024

Yes, a private dining room is available for small parties, complete with personalized service and a cozy atmosphere.