Guest Comments
Every comment listed – but some guests do not leave comments as they come so regularly that they know – we know – that they just love the place 🙂
2023
25th Jul – 5th Aug 2023
Thank you for another amazing Holiday!. We truly loved the wildlife as well as the peace and quiet. We have made so many wonderful memories. We were lucky to see Ospreys, Stoats, deer and an abundance of other wildlife.
D, J, C, M, B, L A
24th Jun – 8th Jul 2023
Another fantastic stay. Thank you.
B,J & G W
27th May – 3rd Jun 2023
Another fantastic week at Lochan Lodge
A & C F
20th – 27th May 2023
First time here …. and won’t be the last. Thank You. Just perfect!
FF
6th- 13th May 2023
Thanks for another wonderful week. House has everything needed ….. and more :-). Wildlife and scenery spectacular, just wish Osprey came for dinner even more often. Special mention for Alex’s eggs!
D,J & S O
1st – 15th Apr 2023
Once again a memorable holiday at Lochan Lodge with three generations of the family. Grandchildren enjoyed catching the free-rising trout and watching the Osprey doing the same! Hope to be back next year.
R & A S
25th Mar – 1st Apr 2023
Another fabulous week! Simply love this house; its setting and everything there is to do in the area.
J & M
25th Feb – 4th Mar 2023
Another wonderful stay in this beautiful home. Thank you Bill, Steph and Alex for your hospitality. A fabulous week of walking and bird watching. The highlight of course was the Northern Lights on Sunday evening. The perfect end to a perfect day. Hope to be back next year.
S & K
18th – 25th Feb 2023
Have had a wonderful stay, the house is lovely, amazing views, lots of space and total peace! I haven’t been anywhere so dark for ages [Ed – the skies!]. Visited Culloden, Clava Cairns, Fort George, sailed Loch Ness. Pottery Painting in Grantown was fab! Hope to visit again. Thank You!
L, M, D, K, L & R
11th – 18th Feb 2023
An amazing and restful stay. Walks through the forest and up mountains and then returning to sit in the hot tub under the stars. It’s no surprise that so many of your guests come back year after year. Thank you for being such fantastic hosts. See you again.
M, T, S, & A
22nd – 27th Jan 2023
Third time we are here. It is still ‘home from home’ here at Lochan Lodge !!! Thanks for the hospitality and we hope we can come back 🙂
D, M, A, N (Be and N)
1st – 6th Jan 2023
Lovely New Year’s celebration at Lochan Lodge. Loved the Welcome Pack with home made bread and jam :-). So well equipped and every comfort to make this such an enjoyable stay. We will be back.
JA
2022
1st – 8th Oct 2022
Another superb stay at Lochan Lodge. Thanks for all the wildlife, especially the Hare, bats and stoat. For the record bats were: Common Pipistrelle, Soprano Pipistrelle and Brown Long-eared.
D & L (8th visit to LL!!)
23rd – 30th Sept 2022
A big thank you to Bill, Steph & Alex for a truly wonderful week. The wonderful scenery and wildlife, despite the rain we have thoroughly enjoyed spending the time here. Silence scenery, great hosts and those Guinea Fowl! So funny!
J & C
27th Aug – 1st Sept 2022
Thank you Bill, Steph and Alex. A fantastic stay as always. Highlights this time included paddle-boarding on the Lochan, swimming in shorts in there too! Kids loved a day out at Landmark. BBQs in the sunshire and of course the occasional whisky. See you all again soon.
M, J, R, S & J
13th – 27th Aug 2022
Whether it’s an energetic hike or bike ride or just a book and coffee (with cake from KJ’s Bothy Bakery), admiring the views, Lochan Lodge is the perfect spot! We have had an amazing fortnight (our second stay) with the added bonus this time of clay pigeon shooting and a gin tour and some spectacular wild swimming locations. The wildlife kept us entertained again and we’ve grown very fond of the Guinea Fowl! Thank you Bill, Steph and Alex for the warm (unlike the Lochan!) welcome (& wonderful basket of goodies) – we look forward to seeing you all again.
R, R & J
25th Jun – 9th Jul 2022
Another wonderful holiday at Lochan Lodge. We truly love the abundance of wildlife right on your doorstep and the superb views of the mountains; the changeable weather with magnificant rainbows. Thank you Bill, Steph and Alex for always making us feel so welcome.
J, D, C & J
11th -25th Jun 2022
Another superb fortnight. Osprey fishing in the Lochan, calves, Oyster catcher chicks. Stoat activity fantastic in the sunshine. But the final word has to go to the Guinea Fowl chicks that arrived just before we had to leave – very cute! Thanks to Bill, Steph and Alex as always. Looking at dates for next year!
B, J & G
28th May – 4th Jun 2022
Thank you for a wonderful holiday and your kind hospitality. The ‘Lodge’ was excellent and we thoroughly enjoyed ourselves. A special “thank you” to Bill for showing ‘O’ how to catch a trout!
S, E and Family
21st – 28th May 2022
We loved staying here accompanied with all the farm animals and birds. Thank you for the welcome you gave us! I loved the Guinea Fowl very much!
T, J, M & M (Netherlands)
7th – 14th May 2022
A great week with excellent hospitality in beautiful and peaceful surroundings. We enjoyed everything!
B & I
9th – 16th Apr 2022
Another excellent holiday. Enjoyed watching all the wildlife. Grandchildren especially enjoyed Landmark and the Games Room! Plenty of walking and caught one 11/2 lb brown trout in good condition from Loachan.
A & R
2nd – 9th Apr 2022
Thank you! We had an amazing holiday with some great days out …. but even better days in! We loved going on the walks around the house and we really enjoyed the weather and surroundings.
Chikdren of B family
26th Mar – 2nd Apr 2022
Our fifth visit!! Lochan Lodge continues to be our fabourite place to escape to on holiday in Scotland. Peaceful, comfortable, relaxing. We see something new each time we visit and will keep coming back. Thank you!
J, M
26th Feb – 5th Mar 2022
Walking through the front door was like coming home. Thank you yet again for another warm welcome. We had a lovely week of fine weather and the great walks at Loch an Eilean and Loch Garton and Rothiemurchus. Love all the birdlife around Lochan Lodge. Can’t wait to return.
S & K
12th – 19th Feb 2022
What a super week we have had in a fantastic location. In spite of the weather we managed walks, climb a Munro, visit Fort George, go to Treezone (never before in snow!) and take in the hot tub which was great. And the mad girls even kayaking in their swimsuits!! Thank you for looking after us so well, including the wonderful welcome basket.
H Family
23rd Jan – 5th Feb 2022
Thank you once again for a nice warm welcome and stay. Shame storm Malik wrecked a few things. My brother and his wife thoroughly enjoyed their visit. With the arrival of snow it is time to return south but we will be back.
A & S K
2021
19th Dec 2021 – 8th Jan 2022
Thank you Bill, Steph & Alex for making us feel so welcome & for all the lovely treats. It is with heavy hearts that we have to leave the Highlands & return back to normality. Three weeks have whizzed past and we’ve enjoyed every minute. Can’t wait to return again!!
D, J, B, C & J
30th Oct – 6th Nov 2021
Despite all the heavy rain we have had a wonderful relaxing time. The best bits were the comfortable Lodge and the wonderful views from the Lounge as we watched dawn approaching.
A & S
23rd – 30th Oct 2021
Thank you for letting us share your beautiful cottage and facilities with us. we have had a wonderful week’s stay with you. The children have had a fun time exploring the farm, animals, loch and hot tub :-). We have had an amazing trip and hope to return xx
D Family
16th – 23rd Oct 2021
Very comfortable Lodge. Hot Tub an added bonus. Plenty of room for 6 adults to spread out. Upper level Games Room well used :-). Hope to return.
A, D & F etc
28th Aug – 18th Sept 2021
What more can I say that I’ve not said before? We have really enjoyed our 3rd visit here and the three weeks have just flown by. We have been very lucky with the weather which has been dry, warm and sunny on most days. Thank you Steph for the lovely bread and welcome pack, and thank you Alex for the eggs! It has been wonderful to catch up with all your news and we’re so pleased that COVID restrictions allowed us to come here and enjoy a great relaxing holiday in such wonderful surroundings. Who needs to go abroad when you can come to a place as stunning as this one …..? We’ve enjoyed lots of fabulous walks and can’t wait to return next year, or the next, or the next …….!
N, P & C
21st – 28th Aug 2021
We have had a fabulous week. You were wonderful hosts and we have really enjoyed staying in your beautiful Lodge. The views were breathtaking and I will miss waking up to them each morning. The Welcome basket was brilliant and filled with everything we enjoy. The bread and jam were delicious! Thanks Steph. Also thanks to Alex for the eggs. They were lovely. Thanks to you all for being so thoughtful and providing everything we needed. It was very much appreciated. We have made some lovely memories.
C, R, R & T
14th – 21st Aug 2021
What a brilliant week we have had in a fantastic location. The scenery and abundance of wildlife is absolutely second to none. We could easily stay another week! Thank you so much for sharing your beautiful property with us. (Ed – second guest) Totally agree it’s been a wonderful week and you have been the perfect hosts – nothing is too much trouble as you welcomed us to this beautiful place.
K, K, E, M, S & A
7th – 14th Aug 2021
Thank you so much for a wonderful holiday and letting us stay here 2 times. We’d love to come back …. (Ed – written by small children in group)
S, G, O, E, E & L
24th – 31st Jul 2021
Wow! Wow! Wow! Thank you so much for sharing your beautiful Lodge with such amazing views, wildlife and such knowlegeable and friendly owners. A huge thanks to Alex for the eggs and showing us his beautiful hens and cockerel and “Tony” the Turkey. Please look after “Dingwall” (sheep) and give him “fusses” from me. A week has felt like a lifetime but we wish we could stay longer. We have to return soon and will spread the word!!
D, S, C, M & A
10th – 24th Jul 2021
Fabulous stay again! Weather fantastic, welcome fantastic and C enjoyed his time on the farm. Relaxation was in order alongside a special holiday home. Thank you – see you all again.
Y, B, R, C, C & T
25th June – 10th Jul 2021
Bill, Steph & Alex – Thank you for yet another wonderful holiday. Lochan Lodge is truly a wonderful place to stay with an abundance of wildlife, spectacular views. A magical place to create memories. Thank you again for the very kind welcome basket! See you all again very soon.
D, J, B, C & J
12th – 19th June 2021
Thank you once again for a superb holiday. Luxury accommodation, wonderful scenery, wldlife, good weather and salmon & trout from the Spey and Lochan. Trying to work out when we can come again next year!
A, R & family
5th – 12th June 2021
Another wonderful week. So quiet – even with the noisy wildlife! Alex’s eggs are amazing. Thank you for an enjoyable week again.
D, J & S
29th May – 5th June 2021
Fantastic weather, superb wildlife for a wonderful week’s break. Thank you for the super hospitality – as ever. Already thinking of planning the next visit ….
J & B
15th – 22nd May 2021
Wonderful relaxing place – A tonic as we come out of ‘lockdown’. 6 fuine fish all on slow retrieve lures (orange & black and blue & black). Great photos of Highland cattle which might find their way into a painting. The Lodge is well equipped and very relaxing. Enjoyed walks through the pine trees. Love your eggs Alex!
M & M
1st – 8th May 2021
Our 4th visit!! And, the perfect tonic after COVID Lockdown. Another perfect week – even with the ‘wintry’ weather! It all added to the beauty of the surroundings. Many thanks to Steph, Bill & Alex for making us so welcome. We’ll be back!!
J & M
2020
17th – 31st Oct 2020
Didn’t expect COVID to do us a favour but by forcing us to have a ‘staycation’ we journeyed 1hr south and stayed 14 nights at this amazing place. Lochan Lodge has surpassed all our expectations. Although we are very familiar with the area, it was a true delight to find this beautiful place. The Lodge is wonderfully presented with everything we needed. Loved the Hot Tub and the endless supply of logs. Watching all the wildlife from bed, hot tub or lounge was the highlight of our stay. We got out everyday by foot or by bike to enjoy the surrounding area (loads of choice of walks and cycle routes). Bill, Steph and Alex are so welcoming and we immediately felt at home. Loved the Welcome box, bread & Alex’s hens’ eggs and potatoes. We have been self-catering at home and abroad for over 25 years and Lochan Lodge is up there with the best. Thank You.
Wildlife spotted (all from the Lodge):- Greater Spotted Woodpecker, Barn Owl, Coal Tit, Great Tit, Blue Tit, Chaffinch, Rook, Pheasant, Rabbit, Kestrel, Red Legged Partridge, Red Squirrel, Wren, Brown Hare (from Hot Tub!!), Heron, Robin, Sparrowhawk, Mallards, Wood Pigeon, Blackbird, Tree Creeper, Jay, Starlings, Chiff Chaff, Dunnock, Red Kites (and Roe Deer in woods by Lodge).
S & R
10th – 17th Oct 2020
As usual a good relaxing week, watching wildlife, the changing weather from the house. Very enjoyable. Thanks to Steph, Bill & Alex for sharing this landscape with us.
3rd – 10th Oct 2020
Another fabulous time here. It is so relaxing. Scenery is amazing. Steph, Bill and Alex made us feel so welcome. A Home from Home 🙂
A & C
12th – 26th Sept 2020
Used as a base for Spey fishing. First Class! Lovely setting, wildlife and people. Thank you. Alex – “One Cool Dude” x
L & A
28th Aug – 12th Sept 2020
Another super holiday. Osprey, stoat, kingfisher ….. What more can we say?
B, J &G
22nd – 29th Aug 2020
Relaxing week swimming and paddle-boarding in the loch. Kids loved the visit to Landmark and the Highland Wildlife Park. Spotted red squirrels, Osprey, woodpeckers and a verey tame pheasant. Many thanks to Bill, Steph and Alex. We will be back x
J, M, J, R, D & J
15th – 22nd Aug 2020
Our first visit to Lochan Lodge. Hard to find the right words – such a stunning location and fabulous home to stay in. It was a perfect place to relax and to escape from the real world. Combine the birdlife, fishing and Highland coos and you’ll not find a better place to stay. Very much exceeded expectations for us. Thanks to Steph, Bill & Alex for providing such a fabulous experience.
R, R, S, S & J (deepest Cornwall :-))
1st – 8th Aug 2020
First time here and what a brilliant 5 star place! Ospreys were visiting several times a day; red squirrels, woodpeckers and pheasants too. Loved the Welcome Basket and the thought put into everything. Thank you!
L, S, J & B
25th Jul – 1st Aug 2020
Huge thanks to Steph, Bill & Alex for being fantastic hosts. We have all had a superb holiday. The Lodge was perfect and so well equipped and we had all the outdoor space, especially the Lochan. The kids will always remember all the fun they had swimming and kayaking. We will definitely return. Hopefully sooner than later.
A, O, E, L J, G, E & D
18th – 25th Jul 2020
Our third visit to the lovely Lochan Lodge. It is our favourite place to escape to. The Osprey, stoat and red squrrels kept us entertained all week. Would recommend going to Fortrose to see the Dolphins …. fabulous! We’ll be back again!
J & M
21st – 28th Mar 2020
Many thanks for allowing us to rent the Lodge at such short notice. Kitchens very well equipped (I’m a Chef!). Comfortable, quiet. Birdlife amazing. Will recommend to others. Hope to visit again without ‘Lockdown’ restrictions.
G, S F & A
29th Feb – 7th Mar 2020
Thank you to both Steph & Bill for a wonderful break. What a marvellous location – good (if muddy) walks straight out of the door, beautiful views, wonderful wildlife pluys a great base to explore the area. The Welcome Pack, bread and subsequent brownies were all very gratefully received! Thanks to Alex for his delicious eggs and for introducing the cockerels and hens to the kids – they loved it. We can’t wait for the opportuinity to visit again, hopefully for longer next time.
L, D, P and Z
24th – 29th Feb 2020
Thanks to Steph & Bill for another fantastic week in the cottage. Snow every day, lots of wildlife in the area and lots of great walking. A true winter wonderland. Hope to be back next year. The cottage was presented so well again. Thank you so much.
S & K S
2019
26th Oct – 2nd Nov 2019
The house worked so well for our family. We have enjoyed coming back to all the home comforts. The views are amazing and Steph always there if we needed anything. So kind of you to let us stay and enjoy the rugby :-). We hope to return, we would like to experience all the seasons here.
W & R Families
12th – 19th Oct 2019
Our first visit and loved every minute. Thank you for the bread and cake, they were delicious. T, B & C enjoyed their time casting on the Lochan. We hope to see you next year. Brilliant wildlife.
T, C, F, B, R & C
21st Sept – 5th Oct 2019
Our second visit, Home from Home. Very relaxing break. Good fun fishing the lochan as well as flying our birds. Another nice cake from Steph :-). Thank you and will see you again.
S, S, G, R & P
15th – 21st Sept 2019
Lived up to expectations. Beautiful views all around. Saw red squrrels which was a bonus. Highlight of the holiday was watching Dolphins at Channonry Point. Very good meal at Garth Hotel. Thank you for your hospitality, home made bread, fresh eggs (Thank You Alex) etc
M, B, S & A
24th Aug – 14th Sept 2019
How wonderful it has been to return to Lochan Lodge, this time for 3 weeks (‘though wish it was for longer)! Steph and Bill greeted us like old friends and we felt like we were returning to our home-from-home. Thank you Steph for all the lovel;y home-baked goodies and for preparing a special ‘study room’ for C to use while revising for his exam. It was really kind of you and much appreciated. The weather has been a real mix but we have enjoyed some beautiful sunny days between the rain and have been able to sit out and relax on the patio just enjoying the peace, watch the wildlife and look at the fantastic views. We have had some stunning sunsets and varied cloud formations which we never tire of seeing. We have again done some walks on the Glenlivet Estate, driven the wonderful route through to Tomintoul and down to Balmoral and Ballater. Not forgetting our favourite walk from Glemore Visitor Centre to Meall a’ Bhuachaille and past the Ryvoan Bothy and Green Lochan – beautiful. Thanks again for letting us share your lovely home and piece of Scotland xxx
PD A personal thanks to Alex for his wonderful eggs, great service and hard work looking after his Happy Hens! Keep it up!
N, P & C
17th – 24th Aug 2019
Wow! What an amazing place, beautiful scenery, so relaxing. Enjoyed many hours just watching the birds and ever changing views from the sitting room :-). Wished I was brave enough to have gone for a swim in the Loch. Maybe next time! Steph & Bill – thank you so much for your hospitality 10/10! Loved the welcome basket. Steph Banana Walnut cake = yummy! Happy Hen eggs were very tasty. Bill – thanks for the tips on where to visit and help getting tyre fixed.
S & R
3rd – 10th Aug 2019
Amazing place, we have had lots of fun despite the rain. The kids (and some dults!) loved swimming in the Loch! We have had an amazing stay here. We love the house and surroundings. Thank you!
P & C Familes
20th Jul – 3rd Aug 2019
We’ve had a fantastic stay at Lochan Lodge – just sorry we were not staying longer! Kids had so much fun exploring your farm with Alex and hope to get another chance soon. We’ve had a relaxing and fun-filled holiday. Thank you Steph, Bill & Alex for your hospitality xxx. PS – The banana & walnut loaf was delicious!
M, L, M, C & L
29th Jun – 13th Jul 2019
Another superb stay at Lochan Lodge. Fantastic wildlife and birdlife – Osprey, stoats and red squirrels not to mention the Highland cattle and sheep. Very hard to make ourselves pack up and leave :-(. Thank you for sharing your fantastic location with us. We hope to return!
J, B & G
8th – 22nd June 2019
How can 2 weeks pass so quickly? Another wonderfully tranquil (and very exciting) visit. As always, Steph and Bill make you feel very welcome. I managed to see one more bird species than last time (35 in total) and the Osprey visits have increased my blood pressure whilst trying to photograph! Counting the days until next time!
C & S, A
1st – 8th June 2019
Weather could have been better but we had a great time. Plenty of birds with young. Red Sqirrels which came on the hopper outside the main bedroom window. Views magnificent, especially Thursday with all the mist around. We had a lovely meal at the Grant Arms and coffee in the bakery opposite the Coop.
D, J, S & J
11th – 25th May 2019
Another brilliant holiday at Lochan Lodge. Enjoyed seeing all the wildlife. Grandchildren had a great time catching tadpoles and trout in the Lochan. Hope to be back again next year!
A & R S
1st – 11th May 2019
Dear Steph & Bill – thanks for an amazing stay at Lochan Lodge. We loved every minute of our time here. In Speyside, the beautiful countryside, constant Four-Seasons-in-One Day, hill climbing and sampling the local produce. Hope to be back for another visit one day.
P & J R
6th – 12th Apr 2019
Our second visit (first for our parents whom we brought with us for a few nights). Simply love this place. Very special and so relaxing. We recommend Logie Steading. Great lunch at Loch Morlich cafe and walk at Loch an Eilean. Even saw the Osprey over Lochan Lodge on our last morning!
J & M, J & J
16th – 23rd Mar 2019
We have had a great week again. The walks around local forests are beautiful. Try Loch Garten walk! Ballater was a nice town and a lovely drive over to Deeside. The wood-fired pizzas at Grantown East Dining Cars were great as was the curry from Sylhet Brasserie. We WILL be back!
J & B
23rd Feb – 2nd Mar 2019
Another wonderful week in this lovely cottage. No snow but beautiful spring sunshine. Lovely walks at Tulloch Ghrae and Loch an Eilean. Bird watching at Loch Garten. Sadly did not see any Crested Tits. Thank you for your hospitality and we hope to return again.
S & K
9th – 16th Feb 2019
Cairngorm virgins! Beautiful introduction to beautiful scenery and loads of lovely places to visit. House was perfect with constantly changing views and the children were so excited by the “coos”. Thank You x
S, H, A & A
2nd – 9th Feb 2019
First time here in winter and lots of lovely deep snow! Sadly no “Sid the Stoat” in his winter coat this year – maybe next time. Thoroughly enjoyed ourselves again.
D & L
5th – 12th Jan 2019
We had a wonderful time in your lovely home. The location is superb and the facilities are excellent. We would love to come back some day.
R, P, M, I, M & I
2018
Christmas 2018
Thank You Bill, Steph & Alex for another wonderful stay at Lochan Lodge and for the lovely welcome basket & Christmas cake. So kind of you. We have had such a relaxing holiday in a truly beautiful part of the world. We can’t wait to return.
D, J, B, C & J
23rd Oct – 3rd Nov 2018
Fantastic week in a beautiful and peaceful place. Spectacular views. Saw red squirrel at Landmark Adventure Park, Polar Bears at the Wildlife Park and Birds of Prey at Ballindalloch. Went looking for “Nessie” at Inverness. We were lucky enough to see snow-covered mountains and even had a good snowball fight. We will definitely be back x
P, L, A, C & K
20th – 27th Oct 2018
What a wonderful week we have had in an amazing property and location. Feeling very priviledged to have been able to fly our birds to their full potential. Steph and Bill made us feel very welcomed and we are looking forward to returning in the very near future.
S, G, S, J, P, & D (Falconers)
6th – 13th Oct 2018
Thank you for a wonderful weel in such a beautiful haven. We’ve woken up to different views/weather every morning and have enjoyed it all. As for the stars at night …. amazing
J and Family
Sept 2018
Yet another (how many guests say this?) wonderful visit to Lochan Lodge. Although the birdlife isn’t as plentiful at this time of year, the hospitality and tranquility are unrivalled. Thank you Steph, Bill & Alex for making us feel so at home. Needless to say we will be back!
S & C A
25th Aug – 1st Sept 2018
Thank You for another week in this beautiful accommodation. We’ve had another fantastic week. Boating on Loch Insch folloowed by a fantastic meal. Highly recommended. Thank you too for the wonderful Welcome Pack.
G, J, T, E, G, & A
4th – 11th Aug 2018
Lovely accommodation with amazing views from picture windows. Thank You!
E, I, L, I, S & S
July/Aug 2018
Super accommodation in fantastic surroundings. Great wildlfe, birdlife and relaxation. Lots to see and do in the surrounding countryside. G is planning the next trip. Thanks to Alex for his ‘farm knowledge’ and lamb feeding tuition 🙂
J, B & G
July 2018
Deux semaines de vacances dans une location excellente, tres propre, tres bien equipee au coeur des Highlands. Super sejour. Nous reviendrons!! Un special Merci a Steph et Bill (et Alex) pour leurs hospitalite et conseils.
S, E, A, A, V, C & A
July 2018
Our second visit. Just lovely. Every need catered for. Very restful holiday. I’m sure we will be back.
K, M, S, J, T,& W
1st Jun – 8th Jun 2018
Our second visit (parents first) and Lochan Lodge is becoming a home from home! We have found it to be very comfortable and has everything we need. The hot tub has been a bonus! Thanks to Steph & Bill for their hospitality and advice.
M, D, J & I
26th May – 1st Jun 2018
We have stayed at many self-catering places but … wow! This place sets the bar at a new high standard. Coupled with the hosts friendliness and generosity, a week of 20C sunshine and visiting Ospreys – it’s been a perfect holiday. Very many thanks Steph, Bill & Alex
T, A, K, J & A
12th May – 26th May 2018
Another brilliant holiday. Thank you. We will be back
A, R and S
7th Apr – 14th Apr 2018
An amazing week in a cottage that exceeded our expectations in every way! Thank you for making us feel so welcome and we can’t wait to come back.
J, M, A, D & A
31st Mar – 7th Apri 2018
Steph, Bill & Alex – Thank you very much for the wonderful stay in your Lodge. Although the weather was not good we enjoyed this brilliant house. We have had a lazy but fabulous week especially Kata who was fishing with Alex and learned to paddle the boat. The bread and jam were delicious! Thank you again.
K T K and J
17th Mar – 20th Mar 2018
Thank you again Steph, Bill & Alex for a wonderful week. Very stylish coffee/lunch at Muckrach Country Hotel near Dulnain Bridge and Lochindorb for a beautiful drive and grouse spotting. Enjoyed a walk from the Old Bridge at Grantown to the bridge at Cromdale. A lovely riverside open walk with benches all the way.
D, A & D
24th Feb – 3rd Mar 2018
We have had the most amazing week. Beautiful sunshine until Tuesday then snow – snow – snow. Fantastic. The Lodge is beautiful. So warm and cozy. Thank you Steph for your hospitality. The Welcome pack was wonderful. You looked after us so well. Lovely walks at Loch Garten and Lochan Eilean. Recommend a drive to Lochindorb to see the Red Grouse.
S, K S
17th – 24th Feb 2018
We’ve had an amazing time here at Lochan Lodge. Beautiful setting. Excellent wildlife, including red Squirrels on site, and crested tits too. Highly recommend the Wee Puffin in Grantown for food. Lochindorb was great for Red Grouse and look out for the Barn Owl flying around all night. Thanks Bill and Steph for a perfect stay. Welcome pack was best we’ve seen anywhere. Hot tub amazing! See you again! xx
J, G, E, G, K, N, P T
10th – 17th Feb 2018
Had a really great holiday and the house is lovely. Skiing at the Lecht, sledging at the Hayfield in Glenmore. Visiting family and friends in Carrbridge. Shopping in Aviemore and Grantown. A lovely welcome basket and home-made flapjack for the journey home. thank You.
A, C, F, J G
6th – 13th Jan 2018
Second time visiting the Lodge and just the same home from home. Day one ski resort Lecht 40 mins – A939 out of Tomintoul. Day two Elgin. Cheap fuel at Tescos Lossiemouth (cafe on harbour very nice). Coast drive to Findhorn Bay & Nairn. Day three, Loch Garten Osprey Centre. No Osprey in winter but nice walks and lots of little birds to photo and feed. Day four, Fort William, Ben Nevis. Long drive but well worth it. Other days – nice walk behind Lodge, taking in the views. Thank you for everything.
S, P, F & P D
31st Dec – 5th Jan 2018
Thank you so much for a wonderful week away. Such a great house to be with friends and family. Plenty of space for all and every detail of the house has been planned and presented perfectly. 18m L had a fab time and the adults walked and partied to our hearts content! Amazing hot tub!
A ,K, L D
2017
22nd – 30th Dec 2017
Another wonderful stay at Lochan Lodge, wonderful place to celebrate Christmas! Thank you Bill, Steph and Alex for making us feel so welcome and for the very thoughtful basket of goodies. With breathtaking views, a roaring fire and presents under the tree, who could wish for more? Treasured family time. So many happy memories. We just love it here and look forward to returning xx
D,J,B,C,J A
9th – 16th Dec 2017
Our second stay here and it was as comfortable as ever. Definitely a home away from home. Steph, Thanks for looking after us so well and thanks for arranging all the snow. It was magical and exactly what we were hoping for.
S,A,A,J,MB
4th – 11th Nov 2017
We had such a wonderful week – just too short! The Lodge is amazing. Warm and cozy with so much wildlife, including Red Squirrels. Lovely to see the Highland Cows on the path too!! Really relaxed – saw seals at Nairn – do go look! We had snow, sun a gale and a wee bit of rain. Can’t wait to return!!!
G,K,C M
28th Oct – 4th Nov 2017
Finally got the chance to bring the family after numerous visits for business. They absolutely loved it. Had a great time at Brodie Castle, Dallas Dhu (distillery which kids can go in), Culloden and not forgetting the Whisky Castle and Highland Market!! Thank you all so much for sharing your beautiful part of the world. And a big Thank You to Alex for entertaining M & I. Hopefully see you again soon 🙂
C, S H
14th – 21st Oct 2017
Lovely well equipped comfy home! Thank You,. Had some great outings and walks to Fort George and Culloden. Walked to Loch Ruaine from Glenmore – Lovely! Also the Blairfindy Moorland walk from Glenlivet – great views.
E, A & A L
7th – 14th Oct 2017
Had a wonderful week here, loads to see and do. The Lodge is very well equipped – short of nothing. Log fire and hot tub, what more could you want! Thanks for the welcome basket of goodies and the home baking.
J, A & A M
16th – 23rd Sept 2017
What a wonderful place to spend a week.Lovely house and magnificent views. Plenty of wildlife; Red Squirrels, Birds, Highland Cattle. Had a very nice meal at the Grant Hotel. Very helpful staff. Bakery in town excellent. Visited the Cairngorm mountain. Blowing a gale. Sunny for 20 mins then mist. Lovely to meet Bill, Steph & Alex.
D.J.S.J O
2nd – 9th Sept 2017
Sad to say our week has come to an end. This has been a great holiday break. We cannot thank Steph & Bill enough for the use of this beautiful house. Special thanks must go to Steph for the lovely bread and amazing flan. The hospitality has been next to none, the best we have had and it was like a home from home. We will certainly spread the word about this amazing experience. Thank you both so much.
L.M & A.
26th Aug – 2nd Sept 2017
We have had such a marvelous time and simply can’t wait to return to this lovely and cozy home. Would recommend the Highland Wildlife Park and Loch Morlich, Fort George and any Historic Scotland site is worth a visit. Will never forget the wonderful holiday with our Fab Foursome. Hot tub a great addition!
The F tribe
19th – 26th Aug 2017
Fantastic place to spend quality time with the family. We had some great days out at the Highland Wildlife Park, Landmark, Lossiemouth beach etc. The kids really liked Smarty Art in Grantown (good for rainy days)!
The A Clan
29th July – 12th Aug 2017
We have rented many places in the UK and some abroad over the last 25 years. Every time searching for the perfect dream place to stay. Finally we can stop our search. I think we’ve found it here. Bill, Steph and Alex have made us feel so welcome and been so kind to us. Thank you Steph for the Welcome Pack and all your lovely home-cooked treats. We have visited this area of Scotland many times and never tire of it. We will definitely be back again soon. We have enjoyed many lovely walks and would recommend routes 5 and 12 of the Glenlivet Estate trails. We have loved watching all the wildlife from here and the view ….. what can I say. Can never tire of that ever changing view, whatever the weather. It is just superb. The sunsets and clouds at dusk are amazing. Thank you for letting us share this beautiful place with you.
N P & C O’S
22nd – 29th July 2017
Our third visit in as many years ….! And not our last by any means!! Once more we have been blessed by the wonderful experiences afforded by Balnafettach and the surrounding region. Bill, Steph and Alex were as always the consummate hosts and made us all feel at home. Thanks too to your Mum and Dad!! All that remains is for us to say “see you soon ….”!! All the very best.
The H. Clan
8th – 15th July 2017
Thank you all for a truly wonderful stay! The House baked bread and cakes were lovely and we appreciated your warm welcome and generosity. Thanks for the help and tips for fishing. We enjoyed some beautiful evenings fishing in the Lochan. The children enjoyed playing with Alex and taking lovely walks around your estate. What a wonderful house with amazing views! We all had a memorable holiday. Thanks for making it possible!
P Family, P & E
1st – 8th July 2017
Amazing views, wildlife, facilities and hospitality from Steph & Bill. Saw Osprey, Red Breasted Merganser, Stoats, Foxes, Roe Deer, Red Squirrels and so much more. Perfect location – very close to Grantown and less than 30 mins to Aviemore. Had visits to see the Dolphins on the Black Isle, The CairnGorm Funicular, Highland Wildlife Park and 2 Osprey photographic sessions at Aviemore. Chocolate Brownies from Steph were legendary. Thank you so much.
K,A,S,J,N & W
17th Jun – 1st Jul 2017
Another excellent holiday at Lochan Lodge. Many thanks for Steph and Bill’s generous hospitality – the banoffee cheesecake was excellent!! Highlights this year included Pine Marten, Stoat, small Pearl-Bordered Fritillary and of course the Wild Orchids.
D&L P
10th – 17th June 2017
Lochan Lodge is so lovely. Amazing views. Saw the Osprey on our first morning but no further visits. It was a treat to be in a cottage with such high quality TV and HiFi. Thanks Steph for the lovely home baking – much appreciated.
D&S K
20th May – 10th June 2017
Another fantastic holiday at Lochan Lodge (3 weeks this time!). Birdlife as diverse as ever. After Osprey sightings I was hoping to see one too but after EJs 3 chicks died at Loch Garten during our first week, no visits ….. until the day before our departure. As ever Steph & Bill have an eye to the highest standards and to issuing a very warm welcome. Needless to say this is not our last visit 🙂
S&C A
6th – 20th May 2017
Another super holiday in this spot. Good weather for all our time here. Enjoyed watching all the wildlife, including visits from an Osprey. Saw 2 otters while fishing the river and managed to land a salmon! Have stayed in many self catering cottages and nothing surpasses Lochan Lodge!
A&R S
8th – 15th April 2017
Lochan Lodge was the perfect place for our family reunion and we enjoyed every minute. The house did not feel like a rental at all, it was luxurious and tons of space for uss to spread out. We had everything we needed and were very comfortable. Bill & Steph are so kind and welcoming and Alex was a great playmate for Callum! We were a bit concerned about the distance from Grantown (where the rest of the family were staying) but we found it convenient enough. Thanks for everything; we thoroughly enjoyed our stay.
N&H C (France), J,V&C F (England), G&G F (USA)
2nd – 7th April 2017
Lochan Lodge is such a perfect retreat. My first stay but definitely not my last! I cant’t wait to come back and bring more friends to see the beauty that surrounds it. Steph, Bill & Alex all made the stay so much better and the Lodge is beautifully clean, cosy and I wish I lived here full time! Thank you and see you again very soon.
LB
18th – 25th March 2017
This is our first stay here and hopefully not our last! The place is much better than it looks on the website. It’s a wonderful property with everything you need. Love the high quality Hi Fi. The views on an evening as the sun goes down are just great. We could sit with that view every night no problem. Weather was kind and got some good walking in. Beef from farm was excellent. Thanks for a great week!
J&B M
25th Feb – 4th March 2017
Another amazing holiday at Lochan Lodge! Could say we only come each year for the delicious bread but the whole place is wonderful. We’ll be back for 2 weeks in May. Can’t wait!!
AS, RS, BC, JS, KE-J
18th – 25th February 2017
Thanks you so much for a wonderful holiday. Fore the lovely break and the welcome basket. The cottage is amazing. The best I have ever stayed at *****. So comfortable and clean. You have thought of everything.
G.McH and family
11th – 18th February 2017
Another wonderful stay at our favourite place in Scotland. Many thanks. See you next year.
LB, MT and RB
28th January – 4th February 2017
We had a lovely holiday in Lochan Lodge. Thanks for the welcome basket and the home made banana nut bread. Feeling home from home. We will be back!
NJ, AB, DD, MP (Holland and Belgium)
21st – 28th January 2017
We have thoroughly enjoyed our stay at Lochan Lodge. Thank you to Bill & Steph for making us so welcome. The “Far” flan was delicious! The Lodge must rate as the best we’ve stayed in and we’ve stayed in a good few nice ones. The weather has been fantastic (no rain all week until the morning we leave!). Though some snow would have been nice! Lots of homely touches in the Lodge – like simple things such as hooks on the backs of bathroom doors and clock radios – oh and so warm and snug. Thank you once again!
J & D.W
