Aviemore and the Cairngorms

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Picture of Top things to do in Aviemore and the Cairngorms
Top things to do in Aviemore and the Cairngorms
Tripadvisor Top 20
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Tripadvisor

Top places to eat

4.2
(2082)
4.2
(2347)
affordable
Italian restaurant
La Taverna is a classic bar and eatery that offers Italian cuisine and authentic Neapolitan pizza. The restaurant boasts a clean and shiny ambiance with friendly staff and a lovely view. Despite the small menu, the food is delicious, with options for customizing dishes to personal preferences. While some found the cheese on the pizza lacking, others enjoyed the meal and praised the buffet selection.
La Taverna is a fantastic place to eat — great value for money with an ‘eat what you can’ option that’s truly worth it. The food is delicious and plentiful, with a lovely selection of tasty dishes and desserts, including ice cream. Even the kids were full before dessert — which says a lot! It’s in a good location, and the atmosphere is welcoming. Strongly recommended for families or anyone who enjoys generous portions and quality food.
A L — Google review
We ordered takeaway pizza after climbing Ben Nevis as we were just too tired to cook. Our apparentment was 20 minutes drive away from this restaurant. The buffet looked absolutely immense but sadly we had just missed the cut off time. Happy with the pizzas, consumed them very fast as we were so hungry! 👌
Hayley P — Google review
The food was absolutely amazing and the portions are big starter and main couldn't believe the size of the lasagne and it was delicious can definitely tell it's home made Robert was a great server smiling and throwing little jokes the atmosphere was great too definitely recommend the place and will be back
Greta U — Google review
The service is super friendly and the food is nice. It’s not a super fancy place but it’s clean and it’s great value for money. They have buffet deals as well as a la carte and I’d defo return.
Kenny M — Google review
The place specialises in pasta and pizza and both were very good. Staff were very friendly and attentive. Overall a great place.
Nil S — Google review
Hey there! So, we had a bit of a mixed bag at this little place we found after a long drive. On a Tuesday evening, we were hoping to enjoy a meal from the menu, but alas, it was closed. Instead, we were offered the “all you can eat buffet,” which came in at around £80 for two adults and two young ones. That was a bit steep for us, to be honest. On the bright side, the food was absolutely delicious! The salad bar and pasta choices were top-notch. The pizza was also tasty, but it could use a bit more variety in the toppings. The staff were super friendly and helpful. One lady in particular was a real gem, with a magical touch for the kids. They kept us all entertained and happy. We’ll definitely be back when we’ve saved up a bit more. Who knows, maybe we’ll find a better deal then!
Adam — Google review
What a fantastic find .Great restaurant with friendly staff and lovely atmosphere. Not a massive menu but plenty to choose from for both adults and kids .Chose off the menu on our first visit . minestrone soup,filo prawns, focaccia and pate all delicious and well presented .mains arrived and again not disappointed,great portions and the "best carbonara" our daughter has tasted. Second visit we opted for a mix of menu and buffet and again not disappointed with either . Buffet lots of choice of salad,pizza and pasta.Food was hot and really tasty ,my favourite being the pepperoni meatballs and ravioli in a creamy mushroom sauce .Great value for money .we were the last to leave but didn't feel rushed out as some have mentioned in other comments . All in all the best 2 meals of our holiday.
Sophie G — Google review
Just an all round disappointment. Me and my missus wanted to visit here for years, dunno why, seemed busy, looked nice from outsides, we had the chance being nearby that evening. Still had a 4.2 rating on google so didnt think would be bad. Id wish id read some recent reveiws. So we got seated right away and was told its either buffet or a la carte menu, ordered some drinks and by the time they came we decided just to go for the buffet as our lads would smash a whole lot of pizza no problem. Cold section was generic itailian style cold rice, pastas and a tattie salad, then warm section a creamy ravioli and some meatballs in a tomato sauce. The ravioli was bland as hell and the meatballs we soft things akin to the old tinned campbells meatballs processed lumps. Really low quality. My kids hardly ate any pizza one had a few rounds of softscoop icecream, by this point i was more than ready to leave, cut my losses. There was loads of staff around i found quite weird actually how many, the one I dealt with seated us and got our drinks, ive only given a two as its self service buffet and i went up to get/pay my bill aswell. Will never be back.
Rory S — Google review
1 Grampian Rd, Aviemore, PH22 1PT, United Kingdomhttp://www.latavernaaviemore.com/+44 1479 810683Tips and more reviews for La Taverna
4.4
(2865)
4.3
(2160)
Hotel
Pub
Restaurant
The Cairngorm Hotel in Aviemore offers a charming Highland getaway with picturesque views of the Cairngorms. The cozy property features a traditional Scottish restaurant, a welcoming pub, and comfortable rooms. Its central location provides easy access to outdoor activities and skiing at Cairngorm Mountain. After a day of adventure, guests can unwind by the fire with a whisky while enjoying the friendly and knowledgeable staff's hospitality. Visitors appreciate the hotel's Scottish charm and look forward to returning for another stay.
The Cairngorm is an historic hotel located in the centre of Aviemore. Our group didn't stay here, but we did go here for dinner. The hotel doesn't do reservations as such, rather it is a first come, first served policy. However, should you have to wait you are more than welcome to use the bar. We waited for just over an hour for a table to become available. Despite this the meal was well worth the wait. I had the lentil soup followed by the lambs liver. The liver was cooked to perfection and both dishes were delicious. Most of the lads had steaks, there were no complaints. You are also well waitered on by the staff who offer a friendly and proffesional service.The price was fairly reasonable and no more exspensive than anywhere else in Aviemore. I would definitely recommend the Cairngorm for food although judging by the interior the rooms will.probably be of excellent quality as well.
Andrew O — Google review
Rooms are small but beds comfortable. Showers average. Hotel is dog friendly but dogs aren't allowed anywhere downstairs except the foyer. Plenty of dog friendly pubs and restaurants nearby, but odd that they aren't allowed in the bar of the hotel you’re staying at. Great location and good parking. Staff are friendly.
Anna L — Google review
This hotel is directly across from the train station but I did not hear the train at night. I booked two king size rooms for our party. Both rooms were spacious with a large window. One room required a sizeable step up to access the bathroom, the other room did not. I could hear people passing by my room at night, but I did not hear noise from adjacent rooms. The highlight of my stay was the breakfast which we purchased as an add on. It’s a massive feast with so much selection. The service in the dining room was excellent. The food was also excellent. We had a drink in the pub the night we arrived. The pub was part of the hotel and it appeared to have a good mix of locals and hotel guests. This hotel had a lot of character (hunting lodge vibe) - you won’t get a chain hotel experience. I do like chain hotels and the consistency of experience they offer but this was a totally different experience that we welcomed for a change. I recommend this hotel and splurging for the breakfast; you likely won’t need lunch!
Davison F — Google review
Went for dinner with family for my two year olds birthday and honestly the service was just outstanding. Alan, our waiter, went above and beyond. We asked for the childrens meals to be ordered and to come out ASAP, and that they did. They also came out with a birthday cake for my boy and candles singing happy birthday. On top of that all our food was absolutely amazing. Will definitely be back! Thanks again!
Jade M — Google review
We stayed here from 29th September for my wife's 65th birthday in the lovely room that looks over to the station. Can't praise the staff enough. At dinner they appeared with a lovely cake with candles for my wife. On our next night they seated us at the table on its own in the turret which was smashing. Food was amazing well cooked and piping hot. Staff are so friendly and helpful.
Duncan P — Google review
The staff was very nice, the atmosphere classic and cosy. The bar was fun, the food at the restaurant also good. Overall one of the best hotels we stayed in Scotland, sadly that still doesn't mean it was perfect (sorry Scottish hospitality but gotta be honest) but for what we experienced overall it was the best out of the 5 places we stayed at!
Krisztina C — Google review
Very nice hotel, pleasent staff and good food all beit a bit pricey! But where isn't these days! The room was on the small side and outdated including the TV! which must of been over 20 yrs old! The only advice I would give is avoid staying if they have live entertainment online the bar. Especially if your not planning on going to it and you are up early the next day as it's very loud still in the bedrooms above.
Lee V — Google review
We didnt stay at the hotel but we had food which was soo good. I had the mince steak and tatties and my partner had the roast and both were perfect sportions and tasted amazing. Service was quick and staff were friendly and polite
John S — Google review
77 Grampian Rd, Aviemore, PH22 1PE, United Kingdomhttp://www.cairngorm.com/+44 1479 810233Tips and more reviews for Cairngorm Hotel
4.4
(2031)
4.3
(1999)
Restaurant
Guest house
Live music venue
The Old Bridge Inn is a charming pub and restaurant located in a converted riverside cottage along the Spey River. The cozy interior features heavy wood tables, framed pictures, and a welcoming open fire. This establishment offers a great atmosphere with weekly live music and an excellent selection of cask ales, premium lagers, and malt whiskies. Guests can enjoy delicious meals such as vegan burgers, steak with garlic butter, Sunday lunches, and hearty portions of wholesome food.
Good lunch, but I can tell there's a chef in there that really likes his or her desserts. Lots of attention into the plating and the portion sizes just about match the main course size :-). Recommend the white chocolate blondie. Service is ok but nothing outstanding. Loosen up, guys. We're just hungry people ;-).
Autekre 2 — Google review
It was okay! I feel like I expected more from this place. The food was just okay, service was hard. We walked in and were ignored for a bit before a guy behind the bar was super kind and offered to serve us. We were there for quite a long time just for lunch, I was hoping to be in and out much quicker than that
Briana V — Google review
Stopped off for a quick lunch on our way past and it did not disappoint! Really chilled atmosphere/vibe , some cool decor , friendly service from Teigan and Bev, the burgers were really good but the roulade dessert was absolutely amazing. So tasty! Highly recommend if you’re in the area!
N C — Google review
Wonderful experience. I rarely leave reviews as I work in hospitality management and tend to be overly picky, however this so lovely I felt like I had to! The staff were welcoming. The food was outstanding. The oysters were some of the best I’ve ever had, I could probably have had about 20! Normally I would not have ordered a chicken dish but oh my gosh it was delicious. You can tell the chefs really care about their cooking and put love and thought into all their dishes. The wine menu was also a really welcome change from the boring standard restaurant choices. This shows the whole operation was carefully thought out. When the bill came I was surprised by the amazing value for money! We will definitely be back time and time again!
Anna H — Google review
Best place for a real ale in Aviemore. We've visited the OBI quite a bit over the years and love this place. Most recently, the real ale selection was fantastic, and really well kept. We had the fillet steak, which was cooked exactly as we asked and had a lovely flavour. The smoked peanuts are also very good!
Emma H — Google review
We visited for a Sunday roast after a morning up in the mountains and we were not disappointed. Friendly staff, prompt service, delicious food and good portion sizes. We both had the soup followed by roast pork with all the trimmings and we felt these were good value. Would definitely recommend.
Eden C — Google review
Amazing atmosphere and staff, food not as great though - quite limited choice on the menu. Spring roll was quite tasteless, main course - chicken was tasty but the chicken breast was Asda dry as a bone. Desert was amazing - poached pear and Ice cream. If I went back I'd have a different starter then a pudding.
Laura B — Google review
Initially we tried our luck as walk ins but they were fully booked, so I booked a table for the following evening and had quite high expectations seeing as they were so busy and the reviews were amazing. We were booked in for the Sunday evening, and the service was excellent, but the food didn’t quite do it for me. I had the jerk roasted pumpkin and tofu dish, but it wasn’t the explosion of flavour I was hoping for. Instead it was disappointingly bland, and the tofu was far too dry, making it quite difficult to chew and digest. However, my son did enjoy his cod dish - so at least one of us was happy! The Old Bridge Inn is a beautiful pub, service is great, but I think it’s fair to say the food is pretty much hit and miss depending on what you order. Vegetarians/vegans often get overlooked in terms of choice and flavour, so when I saw the menu I was really excited, but unfortunately they failed to deliver. I personally wouldn’t eat here again, but my son was happy with his choice.
Caroline F — Google review
4.2
(2478)
4.1
(1771)
affordable
Pub
The Winking Owl, Craft Ale Pub & Bar is a charming chalet restaurant that offers a mix of Scottish and international cuisine, all while providing stunning mountain views from its garden. The bothy bar downstairs exudes an authentic bothy vibe and hosts live music on Fridays and Saturdays. The staff are known for their exceptional friendliness, and the pub boasts a great selection of well-maintained local real ales.
This place is exceptional for food. If you are in the area it is a must visit. The chef is a master. The menu is varied and has options for most. Prices are good with huge portions. The service is good and friendly. Recommend booking in advance if you can as can be busy. We had an hour wait on a Sunday at 6.30 before we could be seated. The view from the glass window is nice. The bothy bar downstairs is OK for a drink.
Tracey M — Google review
Wonderful experience! My husband and I had a light dinner and dessert here recently. I had the soup of the day, which was carrot & coriander soup and honestly it was the best soup I've ever had! I wanted to ask for the recipe :) My husband had the Cullen skink....which he loved. We ended with sticky toffee pudding and it did not disappoint! Staff were very friendly and attentive. We will definitely be back!
Keri A — Google review
Great laid back atmosphere. Brilliant hearty food with large portions. Good choice of beer. Nice outdoor seating. Staff although busy were friendly and professional. Recommend you book as it seemed busy.
Kris V — Google review
Stopped in for lunch after we had done the hill hike to see the Cairngorms reindeer herd. When we arrived they were still cleaning up after having a bus group that had slammed them. The staff were friendly and helpful and had us seated in no time. The food and drinks were excellent, as the steak pie and cullin skink were wonderful.
Mark E — Google review
Easy to park and lovely outdoors, weather permitting, centrally located, popular place. We visited for lunch on a quieter day. Staff were friendly and helpful. Good customer service 👍 Food was good quality and reasonably priced. This is our third visit and will come back again. Well done 👏
Stefan S — Google review
We chanced a late walk in (bad people, I know) but the staff were so accommodating and got us a table pretty quick. Really nice setting , comfortable atmosphere and very clean. Food was good and reasonably priced for what you get. Nothing fancy just simple food done well.. and sometimes that’s what you need. Great location , plenty parking, friendly staff , good range of options and a really efficient menu system regarding allergens. Was very impressed with this- more restaurants should follow the allergen layout in menus that these guys do. They advertise steak night on a Wednesday and a consistent variety of live music at the weekend. If you’re in the area , I would recommend a visit. Don’t think we’ve been here in over 10 years but we’ll definitely not leave it so long next time.
N C — Google review
Wow what a place. Went for a few drinks earlier in day and I had seen so many great reviews so decided to try out for dinner in the evening. The food was incredible, really good home comfort food and the steak pie was unbelievable. The steak was soft and the right amount of gravy. My daughter got the gambas pil pil and wanted another portion it was that tasty 😋 You have to finish off with the sticky toffee pudding. The place was full and the atmosphere was amazing. The staff were so pleasant and very attentive. Would highly recommend and will definitely come back on our next visit.
Mark S — Google review
What a great find, delicious food and even better service. Give it a shot, you won’t regret it.
Deepak S — Google review
4.7
(412)
4.6
(1159)
affordable
Restaurant
Andersons Restaurant is a top-notch dining spot that offers an unforgettable culinary experience. The food is described as exceptional, with a presentation that reflects the chef's dedication to quality. Guests appreciate the attentive and friendly service provided by the staff, particularly mentioning Claire for her warm welcome. The restaurant's bustling atmosphere adds to its charm, and diners can enjoy their meals both indoors and outdoors.
Dined in Anderson’s last night and enjoyed every bit of the experience. The service was top notch, the food was exceptional and the restaurant had a very nice atmosphere. The personal service when it came to the food by who I presume is the Head Chef was so lovely. I think he probably saw me smelling the cheesy sauce to cool down my chilli and came out to assist and explain! He then kindly mixed together a lovely spicy sauce for me to try. The portion was also huge! I had to leave half of it but it was so delicious. We were also super impressed with the bread board and padron peppers - they were not too salty but still perfectly cooked.
Isla S — Google review
Been here a number of times but last night we went for the seafood platter. Incredible! Give them 24 hours notice and they will provide you an incredible feast. Super easy to do, we had it for 4 people and it was 👌🏻👌🏻 Well done guys! So glad this is on our doorstep Book in advance, help them manage their guests 😊
Dave M — Google review
The steak was absolutely amazing. Beautifully tender, , prepared exactly as I ordered. I haven't enjoyed beef like this in a long time. Unfortunately, what completely disappointed me were the fries :-/ They were too oily and soft for my taste. The environment and the staff were very nice. The reservation was a good choice. Thanks
Zdeněk F — Google review
We stayed in Boat of Garten and dined at Anderson’s twice during our visit. The food was outstanding—succulent, fresh, and absolutely mouthwatering—paired with impeccable service that made each meal memorable. Jordan, the head chef, is clearly passionate and dedicated, with a real talent for creating dishes that are both beautifully presented and uniquely crafted. Anderson’s is a true gem, and we’ll definitely be returning the next time we’re in Scotland.
O. M — Google review
Lovely intimate restaurant in the heart of Boat of Garten. Service throughout was attentive, efficient and friendly. The food was excellent and a nice mix between bistro and pizzeria. The menu was varied but not extensive, and the food we had was delicious and well cooked. They also do takeaway wood fired pizza from a window at the side of the building and we’d definitely give that a try next time we’re in the area. We’d also visit the restaurant again to try out more of the bistro menu.
David C — Google review
Top! Forget about local hotels, food quality is atrocious. This place is top tear! Quality, taste, lovely staff.. just top
Totil M — Google review
Had a nice main meal here but I could not believe my eyes when the apple crumble was brought to the table. Absolutely appalling! I’m still in shock at what was served in front of me. The main meal was already expensive enough, so you’d think a pricey place would give you an unforgettable apple crumble especially charging £8 for it! We waited quite some time for it so we hoped it would be good and were looking forward to it until we saw this….. Tinned apple with water remains topped with cheap granola! Absolutely awful to serve this for such a price, let alone even half that price. So disappointing….
Anna H — Google review
Fantastic pizzas! Ordered takeaway online and the pickup was ready when we arrived. Dough was nice and chewy, toppings were great. My favourite would probably be the Salami Piccante, I loved the chilli honey. The padron peppers were great too.
Jieying Y — Google review
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