The Macdonald Highlands Hotel at Macdonald Aviemore Resort is a great location for exploring the stunning Cairngorms area of Scotland with convenient access to amenities and the ski resort base. Reviews of the breakfast and dinner options are mixed with some guests disappointed with the quality and value while others found them enjoyable. The hotel offers a variety of room options with different levels of comfort and cleanliness, but the staff consistently receive high praise for their friendly and helpful service. The fitness and leisure facilities are good, though some guests note limitations such as odd opening times or outdated equipment. The hotel is also a great option for families, offering excellent facilities and activities for children. However, some guests have raised concerns about the hotel's four-star rating with some feeling that the amenities and services do not meet those standards.
Overall, Coylumbridge Resort Hotel is a great choice for those looking to explore the natural beauty of the Scottish Highlands. The location is fantastic with easy access to the Cairngorm mountains, Loch Morlich and the Highland Park and theme park. The hotel's buffet breakfast is excellent with plenty of choices including traditional Scottish haggis. Although dinner options receive mixed reviews, families with young children have more catering options available to them. The rooms are basic but comfortable with all the standard amenities provided, although some guests have reported issues with cleanliness and noise from thin walls. The staff are friendly and helpful, although a few guests have encountered rude or unprepared staff. The hotel is pet-friendly, allowing families to bring their furry friends along for the fun. Parking is free but can be a bit of a challenge at times. There are plenty of entertainment options for children, including daily cinema screenings, clown entertainers and disco nights. Despite some minor inconveniences, Coylumbridge Resort Hotel is a great destination for a family-friendly and enjoyable holiday.
Thornbank House offers guests an exceptional retreat marked by its stunning location, luxurious accommodations, and warm hospitality. Nestled in a scenic setting, the property boasts breathtaking views of the loch, providing an idyllic backdrop for leisurely walks and tranquil evenings. Its proximity to Stranraer ensures convenience without sacrificing the peacefulness of the surroundings. Guests consistently rave about the delicious and varied breakfast, which features standout offerings like smoked salmon scrambled eggs and fresh fruit, complemented by attentive and friendly service.
The rooms at Thornbank House are frequently celebrated for their immaculate cleanliness, spaciousness, and comfort, often enhanced by balconies showcasing fantastic sea views. Visitors are delighted by thoughtful features such as jacuzzi baths and bay windows that contribute to an inviting environment. The pristine condition of the entire property, including the well-maintained swimming pool and hot tub, is a testament to the dedication to maintaining a high standard.
The house’s beds are highlighted as exceptionally comfortable, ensuring a restful night's sleep for all who stay. The hospitality offered by the host, Fiona, adds to the home's charm, as she consistently goes above and beyond to make guests feel welcome and well-cared for. Overall, Thornbank House is a memorable destination where scenic beauty, comfort, and exemplary service combine to create a truly delightful experience.
The Macdonald Aviemore Hotel at Macdonald Aviemore Resort is a mixed bag according to guest reviews. While the location is a major draw with easy access to the town center and attractions, some guests found the site to be poorly lit and a long walk to the main hotel reception, bar and restaurant. The breakfast received mixed reviews with some guests praising the good quality and variety of food, while others criticized the low-grade selection and slow service. The dinner also received mixed reviews with some guests enjoying the nice food and variety of restaurants, while others found the limited menu and poor selection and quality to be disappointing. The rooms were also a mixed bag with some guests finding them excellent, big, clean and comfortable, while others found them outdated, tired and in need of modernization. The staff received mixed reviews with some guests praising their friendly and helpful nature, while others found some staff members to be unhelpful or rude. The pool and other leisure facilities make the Macdonald Aviemore Hotel a great destination for families with small children, but some guests noted poor cleanliness in the pool area and encountered issues with changing room locks. Overall, while the hotel has some positives, it falls short of its 4-star rating according to some guests.