Railway Cottage is a cosy, dog-friendly self-catering holiday cottage - nestled between Balavil Estate and the RSPB nature reserve at Insh - ideally located just a short drive from Aviemore in the Cairngorms National Park.
Comfortable, welcoming and full of character, the cottage is perfect for couples or small families looking for a relaxed Highland base with countryside views and easy access to walking, cycling and wildlife - sleeps 4 guests
Select dates in our calendar below to view rates and availability.
Amenities
Railway Cottage is thoughtfully furnished to feel like a home rather than a holiday let. The living space is warm and comfortable, with a wood-burning stove, well-equipped kitchen and cosy seating — ideal after a day exploring the Cairngorms.
The bedrooms offer a calm and restful space, while the layout works well for both short breaks and longer stays.
Key features include:
Two double bedrooms (king size beds) with high quality, Egyptian cotton bed linen, woollen blankets, and dressing gowns provided for extra comfort
One bathroom with roll top bath, luxury shower and complimentary toiletries
Bath towels provided
1 x hairdyer
The living room boasts a 40 inch, wi-fi enabled smart TV, with Netflix, Spotify, catch up TV, DVD, and BOSE stereo, with bluetooth, radio and line-in, to connect music players / laptops
Everything you might expect in a modern kitchen: dishwasher, fridge-freezer, separate wine-cooler, 4 way ceramic hob, double oven / grill - basics are provided, such as salt and pepper, cooking oil
We also provide toilet paper, dishwasher tablets, matches and other household essentials
You’ll find an array of books about the local area covering topics about the Cairngorms and outdoor pursuits such as mountain climbing and bird watching along with an eclectic collection of films and board games
Parking space for two cars
Garden with decking area and BBQ for al fresco dining (when the opportunity arises!) and fire pit
Complimentary basket of firewood to get you started
1 x high chair and travel cot (minus bed linen)
Wifi
The location
Railway Cottage sits in a wonderfully open, rural setting just south of Aviemore, where the landscape begins to slow and the Cairngorms stretch out around you. Directly opposite the cottage lies the RSPB Insh Marshes, a vast and ever-changing nature reserve that brings a real sense of space, light and wildlife to the surroundings.
This is a place where mornings begin quietly, with big skies and the subtle movement of birds across the marshes, yet Aviemore’s cafés, shops and outdoor activities are only a short drive away when you want them.
Railway Cottage offers a rare opportunity to stay right beside one of the Cairngorms’ most important wildlife landscapes. Seasonal wetlands, winding channels and wide views across the River Spey floodplain create a setting that feels both peaceful and alive.
From the cottage, you can enjoy:
Gentle walks and wildlife watching straight from the doorstep
Easy access to walking and cycling routes, including sections of the Speyside Way, and wild swimming spots
Quiet back roads, open countryside and forest tracks nearby
Short drives to Aviemore, Kincraig and surrounding Highland villages
Some of the Strathspey area’s top attractions, such as the Highland Wildlife park and Highland Folk museum, are just a bike ride or short drive away.
It’s an ideal base for slow mornings, long walks and outdoor adventures, whether you’re visiting for a short break or a longer stay.
Railway Cottage sits beside a working railway line, which is part of its character and charm. Trains pass at intervals throughout the day and evening, and many guests — especially families with young children — enjoy watching them whizz by. The bedrooms are positioned away from the line on the far side of the property, and for guests the sound becomes part of the cottage’s rhythm. Have a read of our guest testimonials to get a feel for what makes this cottage such a special place to stay.
Railway Cottage is dog friendly
Railway Cottage is also well suited to guests travelling with dogs, with plenty of space to explore nearby. The local tracks and paths offer relaxed, dog-friendly walks, with woodland, riverside and open moorland all close at hand.
Whether you’re looking for a peaceful escape near Aviemore or a self-catering holiday immersed in the Cairngorms, Railway Cottage offers a setting that feels calm, spacious and connected to the natural world.
Looking for the best places to walk your dog nearby? See our guide to dog-friendly walks in the Cairngorms.
The interiors
Railway Cottage combines rustic Highland charm with modern comfort, creating a warm and inviting interior. The living area has been thoughtfully designed to offer a cosy retreat after a day exploring the Cairngorms National Park, with a substantial wood-burning stove that adds real character and winter warmth.
The décor blends vintage finds and industrial touches with modern furnishings, giving the space a unique and homely feel that appeals to both couples and small families. Light-filled rooms and thoughtfully curated art and accessories — provide a relaxed atmosphere ideal for a Highland holiday.
Both bedrooms are designed with comfort in mind, featuring quality bedding and distinctive design touches. The thoughtfully styled vintage-inspired bathroom adds a little extra luxury to your stay, with features that enhance relaxation after exploring local walking trails, nature reserves and outdoor activities in the surrounding area.
Perfect for those in search of a unique holiday home with real soul and character.
The Garden
Step outside to discover a large, rustic garden that reflects the natural beauty of the surrounding environment. The garden offers a decking area equipped with outdoor dining space, a BBQ, and a fire pit—ideal for al fresco meals and evening gatherings. Nature enthusiasts will delight in the abundance of wildlife that frequents the area, making it a perfect spot for bird-watching and immersing oneself in the tranquility of the Highlands.
Reviews
What a place - a little heaven on Earth!
“Absolutely fantastic, cosy and peaceful cottage. We loved little touches of miss matched decorations throughout the house, it gave it that warm, country, stylish feeling. The amenities were fantastic, you’ll find everything you need for a short stay. The cottage is sparkly clean and the bathroom is amazing - the bath especially! The location is good too, not far from local villages but at the same time very quiet (well, apart from occasional train ;)). Views are breathtaking, but that’s Scottish highlands for you! And of course, I couldn’t not mention the fireplace - WOW. Definitely adds points to that ‘hygge’ atmosphere, absolutely fantastic. Kim is a great host, very approachable and accommodating, thank you Kim for your hospitality!”
— Ania
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