Katchana in Kingussie

"This was our first time at Katchana and what a place. It was very clean tidy and felt like home. We loved how close to nature you are and on arrival we was greeted by a deer on the drive and lots of lovely birds. There is plenty to do in and around the area. And after a long day's walking it's great to relax in the hot tub We will be going again "

Reviewed by M2238OVpeterc on 09/12/2018

"This is the second time at Katchana and we are booking for 2019. It really is a little gem of a property. We had a badger on the window sill, a pheasant tapping on the window, sheep drinking from the dogs bowl and deer on the driveway just to name a few of the wildlife. The views are perfect. Plenty to do and see. The property feels like home and the only time there are long faces are when its time to leave. another fabulous holiday.Thank you."

Reviewed by A TripAdvisor Member on 29/05/2018

"This was our second Xmas at Katchana and again it was simply fantastic. Gavin had excellent contact with us and provided some lovely festive touches before we arrived. The place was spotless when we arrived and everything is there for you to help cook a perfect meal. The log fire is fantastic and our Dalmatian Poppy spent a lot of time here while we sat in the hot tub enjoying the stars. The snow came on the 27th and it was the icing on the cake. A fantastic Xmas adventure again. Visit Ruthven Barracks in Kingussie for some beautiful views. "

Reviewed by ColinJackie on 12/02/2018

"Another super holiday here at katchana,kincraig,everything you would want staying in a holiday home.wildlife amazing from the front door and you can walk through forest to restaurant,pub in about 30mins. If you like to walk ,climb ,canoe any water sports this is the place to come.also an added bonus of a hot tub to enjoy."

Reviewed by rita h on 12/06/2017

"After 3 years staying near Braemar we decided to try a different part of the Cairngorms and so glad we did and found Katchana. It is a very special lodge from the lounge with its panoramic views, the hot tub, to its location. We really didn't want to leave..... It is set up a long drive overlooking loch Insch with a couple of other houses nearby but they were empty during our stay so we had the hamlet of Farr to ourselves. The wildlife round the lodge was amazing - we were visited by the badgers every night which just made our holiday, roe deer during the day, red deer in the field below in the evening and too many birds to mention throughout the day. Although red squirrels don't visit the property, just a 5 minute walk away is Inshriach forest and we saw some there as well as enjoyed lots of beautiful walks with our dog. The location is great for visiting lots of different places in the Cairngorms with the bonus of coming back to complete peace and tranquility. We are now planning a return visit next year!"

Reviewed by carolin31066 on 25/04/2017

"The house is architecturally very interesting. It occupies an elevated position. The main entrance, garage and parking lie below the level of the main part of the house which contains all the public rooms, bedrooms and bathrooms. Two further doors open from the main part of the house onto the surrounding patios including the hot tub area. The public rooms surround a central chimney. The views on all sides are marvelous with Loch Insh to the west and Glen Feshie to the east. There is a large log-burning stove rather than an open fire which was easy to use. The kitchen facilities were good as were the bathrooms and showers. Two other nearby properties were not occupied and we had the large surrounding woodlands and meadows down to the loch-side to ourselves. It was easy to walk to the nearby Uath Lochans - one of our favourite places. Our Hungarian Vizsla was delighted with it all!"

Reviewed by BGarrulus on 05/04/2017

"I don't think I need to show the inside of this wonderful property as the pictures of the property on various websites are perfect as they are. What I can say is that all the pictures of the animals I took are from the front window of the property. The badger was even sat on the window sill. The property is pretty special, the location is perfect, Gavin (the owner) was very helpful and a really nice person. We have had a great time. There is no wonder this place is booked up until September (other than the odd week). All the locals are just so pleasant and are happy to chat away. For anyone who is thinking of booking a holiday here I would just say BOOK IT NOW!!!! You won't be disappointed. Thanks for everything Gavin. All the little touches (books, DVD's, SKY etc etc etc) go a long way. Thanks again. From the Cattanach clan."

Reviewed by alistair c on 17/03/2017

"just back from a wonderful idyllic holiday location the cottage has everything you need inside fully equipped even to point of seeds and nuts to feed badgers and birds amazing sights while sat eating at table owner gavin very friendly and i approachable nothing a problem we saw deer badgers red squirrel pheasant and even caught site of stag in distance wildlife in abundance in this dream cottage hideaway cottage is clean throughout very spacious home away from home I would suggest everybody needs to spend some time there just to unwind thanks gavin our holiday will be hard to beat"

Reviewed by diadav on 10/10/2016

"just got home from week at katchana this is a secluded cottage in middle of amazing countryside we saw badgers grouse deers and even caught sight of a stag birds inabundance we took 4 dogs with us they had an amazing time the owner gavin is very friendly to speak too he has provided nuts for badgers and bird seed so whikst sat in cottage it enables you to watch wildlife hot tub is extremely relaxing and views from tub are stunning thankyou for our experience gavin"

Reviewed by diadav on 01/10/2016

"We particularly enjoyed the house itself and the beautiful views surrounding the property. The hot tub was also a highlight of the trip, as well as being able to watch badgers, deer and birds outside the windows. The house itself was beautiful inside and out and we enjoyed spending time in the lounge area which overlooks the loch. The house is also ideally placed for activities in Aviemore and even closer at the Loch Insh watersport centre. "

Reviewed by Miss Adair on 29/05/2016

"An amazing place to stay."

Reviewed by Mr Brown on 06/01/2016

"The location of the property was perfect for our needs, getting to mountain bike trails and water sports. The hot tub in the property was also a favourite for relaxing after a long day."

Reviewed by Mr Mcwilliams on 15/06/2015

"This is a wonderful house to holiday in. We felt at home from the minute we arrived. It was fully equipped with stunning views enjoyed from the luxurious hot tub. A superb area with so much to do. We can't wait to go back."

Reviewed by Mrs Weaver on 23/02/2015

"The setting of this Lodge is breath taking, as was the location with good views over the Loch. The surrounding area is very peacefully located in a wood land with an abundance of wild life, some of which i.e. grouse you see coming right up to the dinning room window every day. The hot tub is a massive bonus with views over the Loch. The log fire was lovely on some of the cold nights, there is also a very good selection of games, videos/DVD's and books to keep us entertained. Will be definitely be returning. Enjoyed by all."

Reviewed by Mrs Stewart on 27/10/2014

"The house was situated in a nice area with local amenities close by. It had plenty of room and was very comfortable. The owner contacted me on arrival to make sure we were happy and enjoying our holiday - a nice touch."

Reviewed by Mrs Main on 05/10/2014

"We had a fabulous time here. Wonderful views, accommodation and owners. Would love to come back. Without leaving the house, we enjoyed the cosy log fire, relaxing hot tub and bird watching was varied and exciting."

Reviewed by Mr Wynne on 22/02/2014

"The atmosphere of the property was unique and unlike any previous cottages I have stayed at. The views were excellent, as were the surroundings. The hot tub was a welcome addition too! Thanks for a great stay."

Reviewed by Miss Knight on 18/02/2014

"I booked the property for my partners birthday and was hoping to just relax, and what we found on arrival was just stunning...The natural surrounding backdrops where something from picture postcards. Visiting the cairngorms and Ben Nevis was a first for us and just a simple drive away, the local food at the Bridge pub was delightful as a treat. Came back home to never think of going abroad again...now thats something we didn't expect! along with washing up for the first time whilst looking at the cairngorms..."

Reviewed by joeandjayne2014 on 29/01/2014

"I booked the property for my partners birthday and was hoping to just relax, and what we found on arrival was just stunning...The natural surrounding backdrops where something from picture postcards. Visiting the cairngorms and Ben Nevis was a first for us and just a simple drive away, the local food at the Bridge pub was delightful as a treat. Came back home to never think of going abroad again....now thats something we didn't expect! along with washing up for the first time whilst looking at the cairngorms...."

Reviewed by joeandjayne2014 on 29/01/2014

"Katchana was everything we were hoping for. Nestled away from the hustle and bustle with awesome views of the snow covered peaks and over a beautiful loch. The owner of the property was easily accessible via phone and was very helpful during a wind storm where we lost power. It is close to Aviemore and the Cairngorms. A scottish friend of ours who visited us whilst we were there was so impressed by the property and its location that he will be booking it for family. The photographs are accurate of the property in the advertising. We loved it and think of our stay at Katchana as the highlight of our month long UK stay."

Reviewed by Mrs Munro on 22/12/2013

"The bungalow was large and would be lovely to take my grandchildren to. The hot tub was a real treat and very relaxing, I loved every minute in it."

Reviewed by Mrs Stewart on 30/09/2013

"Beautiful property in a beautiful location, the local wildlife also added to the holiday. The house is very large and very well equipped, like a home from home! "

Reviewed by Mr McCormack on 31/07/2013

"The house is unusual, and in a perfect location. The diversity of wildlife in its own grounds is amazing. The views are stunning from all aspects of the property. It offers privacy, and is the perfect location for a relaxing summer holiday."

Reviewed by Mrs Griffith on 06/07/2013

"The location, the wildlife, the views, the hot tub. We saw red squirrels, deer, woodpeckers and a badger from the front window. "

Reviewed by Mrs Sharp on 17/06/2013

"This is a house with a great layout and windows all around to enjoy the light and wildlife. The owners supply bird food and so we were treated to woodpeckers, red squirrels and a badger on the last night. The house has WiFi and the living/kitchen areas are large. There are loads of books etc in the house and it has a lived in feel. We like a house with some character and this house had lots but I did feel it could do with a bit more of a tidy up (random bits of stuff in most draws/cupboards/surfaces) - The main areas were clean enough (kitchen/bathrooms etc) but some areas clearly gathered a bit more dust due to the 'stuff'. would still recommend it. Some great things to do nearby for the active and the less active and nice places to eat in Aviemore. -"

Reviewed by PamOxford on 16/06/2013

"The location and size of the property were excellent. To go into the kitchen in the morning and look out of the window at deer and red squirrels was magical."

Reviewed by Mrs Samson on 14/04/2013

"Lovely property with great walks on the doorstep with the dogs. Hot tub is great in the snow. Visit the reindeer on the Cairngorms and aviemore shops! Would definitely recommend and the owners are very helpful too"

Reviewed by A FlipKey verified reviewer on 21/02/2013

"It was in a wonderful location with everything needed to enjoy a great holiday and the hot tub is lovely. Owner was helpful and easy to contact."

Reviewed by Miss Green on 17/01/2013

"We particularly enjoyed the location and seclusion of the property - the wildlife, the views and the heating. We had a lovely time."

Reviewed by Prof Cullinane on 26/07/2012

"This was a relatively last minute booking and represented good value for money. Katchana is in a beautfiul setting; close to centres of activity like aviemore (approx 9 miles) but not too far (in Scottish terms) from Inverness and tourist 'attractions' like Loch Ness, Glencoe, Ben Nevis etc. The property itself felt extremely spacious for 2 adults and a 3 year old and I would imagine that an extra child / adult would still give a feeling of space and not the sense that one is living on top of each other. That said, the bedrooms are quite small. However, the living areas (kitchen diner, dining area and living room) are, in contrast, vast and perfect for relaxing. I agree with one of the other reviews - there are a few areas in the property that aren't as inviting (the 'enclosed balcony' at the end of the lounge / utility space) - this is mainly because they look like they could do with a bit of a tidy up and appear to be an 'afterthought'. Katchana is situated in an breathtakingly beautiful location with oodles of land / view points around it (particularly if you interested in wildlife). It could be made an extremely luxurious property if a little more attention was paid to small details. (eg. replacing light bulbs, better ambient lighting, few more kitchen utensils, better tourist information booklets etc). They're only little things and on balance we absolutely loved our time here."

Reviewed by A FlipKey verified reviewer on 01/03/2012

"This was a relatively last minute booking and represented good value for money. Katchana is in a beautfiul setting; close to centres of activity like Aviemore (approx 9 miles) but not too far (in Scottish terms) from Inverness and tourist 'attractions' like Loch Ness, Glencoe, Ben Nevis etc. The property itself felt extremely spacious for 2 adults and a 3 year old and I would imagine that an extra child / adult would still give a feeling of space and not the sense that one is living on top of each other. That said, the bedrooms are quite small. However, the living areas (kitchen diner, dining area and living room) are, in contrast, vast and perfect for relaxing. I agree with one of the other reviews - there are a few areas in the property that aren't as inviting (the 'enclosed balcony' at the end of the lounge / utility space) - this is mainly because they look like they could do with a bit of a tidy up and appear to be an 'afterthought'. Katchana is situated in an breathtakingly beautiful location with oodles of land / view points around it (particularly if you interested in wildlife). It could be made an extremely luxurious property if a little more attention was paid to small details. (eg. replacing light bulbs, better ambient lighting, few more kitchen utensils, better tourist information booklets etc). They're only little things and on balance we absolutely loved our time here."

Reviewed by chopssenior on 17/02/2012

"Beautiful well kept accommodation, set within amazing scenery. We did not want to leave! "

Reviewed by Mr Beddard on 12/02/2012

"The wildlife was lovely and the setting was superb. The house was very cosy and had everything you need including board games etc for when the whether turns bad. Exceptionally clean and a gorgeous open fire. Our dog loved it too and it even accommodated a large dog run if you wanted to use it."

Reviewed by Mrs Hughes on 10/01/2012

"The setting of the cottage is great, and we where able to explore easily from it."

Reviewed by Ms Shillington on 07/12/2011

"The house was more than what we expected, beautiful setting and the wildlife was amazing.The owner was very helpful and made sure we were happy with everything. Very well situated for all the local attractions in wonderful countryside, one of the best holidays we have had. Our 2 sons aged 11 and 15 loved all the activities and we felt they were fairly priced. We were very lucky with the weather, will definitely like to go back."

Reviewed by A FlipKey verified reviewer on 21/10/2011

"A remarkable house in a marvelous setting. It was wonderful."

Reviewed by Mrs Lockley on 18/09/2011

"The scenery and wildlife was amazing and we were so lucky with the weather. We had badgers and pine martins feeding outside the back door every evening and saw lots of red squirrels. There were plenty of things to do and most of the activities weren't too expensive, we will definitely come back. We particularly enjoyed kayaking on the loch's."

Reviewed by Mrs Page on 28/08/2011

"Top experience in a wonderful location...views were worth the visit...wildlife was a bonus !!!"

Reviewed by A FlipKey verified reviewer on 17/08/2011

"This property is in a glorious location overlooking Loch Insh with the Cairngorm Mountains behind. A particularly beautiful spot for a very relaxing holiday with walks, amazing wildlife on the property and many sporting activities and interests in abundance nearby."

Reviewed by Mrs Robertson on 24/06/2011

"stayed here in April 2011 with 4 adults and 3 children and loved it. The location is fantastic with great views from all windows - the loch to one side and the mountains to the other. The living room is large and there's plenty of room for 2 families. It's also very warm and well equipped. Bedrooms are quite small, but it wasn't a problem for us, but 4 people in the family room would be really tight. Also, it's not suitable for very small children as the outside area is mainly sloping and would be quite dangerous. The area is also fantastic and we ran out days to cover all the attractions in just a very small area. it's a beautiful part of Scotland with lakes, sailing, mountains, amazing wildlife etc. Would definitely recommend the house unless you need to sleep 4 people in the family room - we had 3 in there and that was fine, but 4 would have meant zero floor space."

Reviewed by mumsell on 26/04/2011

"Stayed at Katchana with friends with children. The house was a great size for 8 and had everything we needed. We loved being right on the lochside and having great walks right outside our door. We went to the Loch Inch Watersports centre a few times where the kids had skiing lessons and we had a glass of wine! Would definitely go back."

Reviewed by A FlipKey verified reviewer on 11/03/2011

"This is a great place to stay for a relaxed holiday in a beautiful place. The house is well equipped, very comfortable, warm and cosy and in a truly fabulous location. It was absolutely spotless when we arrived and it was so refreshing to stay somewhere that doesn't have pages and pages of instructions about what you should and shouldn't do everywhere. We found the owner to be very relaxed and welcoming, anxious to ensure that we enjoyed ourselves and flexible about our leaving time, in spite of there being another set of guests due the day we left; so nice not to have to race to leave by 10am. If you are looking for designer level accommodation with perfect matching crockery, boutique style etc then this may not be the place for you, but if you want to feel at home, relaxed, comfortable with everything you need and able to just enjoy your self then we found this to be the perfect accommodation. Ours was an all adult group, with wide age range, but all enjoyed it just the same. The house would also suit a family just as well, so long as you don't mind an unfenced quite rugged garden. I would not hesitate to recommend this to anyone."

Reviewed by NeenBJ on 14/02/2011

"This is our second stay at Katchana and we have already booked for 2011. If you like to be in the countryside then this is the place. Although only a couple of miles from Kincraig so not that far from a shop or a pub if thats what you wish for. If you like wildlife then Katchana is most definitely the location in. We had the family of Osprey flying over us for about an hour. The buzzard sat in the tree near the house, visits by red squirrels, a weasel, numerous amounts of birds. But the highlight was the visit by the Pine Marten and we were lucky to see it three times. We even had the Roe Deer on the drive as well as a hare. The house inside is well equipped and has wonderful views from every window. The living room is so comfortable. Visit in June to experience the long nights and the fact that it doesn't get dark until early hours and then only dark for a short while. Loch Insh watersports is nearby as well as plenty of places for people to walk on trails. A visit to Loch Insh marshes for the RSPB reserve is worth going to, again in June it stays light and we visited the hide at 9pm to see Curlew and their young. You do need a car to stay at Katchana but its a great base for any type of holiday."

Reviewed by Heather F on 03/01/2011

"We liked the location and the lovely views although the garden area was not all that suitable for young children being on a steep slope. The lounge area was very spacious and bright but the 'family room' was very small and had very limited storage considering it can sleep 2 adults and two children. Owner needs to clear 'clutter' from garage and window area off lounge as there were potentially dangerous things lying around.Crockery also needs checked over and sliding bathroom door. Great house but needs some TLC to keep up standard."

Reviewed by A FlipKey verified reviewer on 15/09/2010

"Really loved our holiday to Kathchana. Directions were perfect, we met the owner, Gavin, who was very friendly and told us about the area, etc., the cottage was over and above our expectations. It was so well kitted out, we wanted for nothing, and the wildlife was superb. Brill!"

Reviewed by A FlipKey verified reviewer on 15/09/2010

"Wonderful property to relax in, excellent location. We loved barbecuing with music playing. Wonderful food at local Boathouse. Brill! "

Reviewed by Mrs Foster on 13/07/2010

"If you are looking for peace, quiet and comfort, Katchana is ideal. If you have an interest in nature and sport the Cairngorms National Park is perfect."

Reviewed by Ms Dunmore on 28/06/2010

"Fabulous holiday with great weather but property very cosy and welcoming. Great for children and dogs. Hope to go back."

Reviewed by Thomson on 19/04/2010

"The property was fantastic ..... all that we could have hoped for and then a bit more! It looked like a "Grand Design", but was extremely comfortable - it felt like home. "

Reviewed by Ms Vipond on 08/03/2010

"The house was amazing, it had everything you could ever need. It was hot and the log fire gorgeous. The views and wildlife fantastic. It was truly idyllic. "

Reviewed by Mrs Galletly on 13/02/2010

"Katchana is a lovely house in a wonderful, peaceful setting with lovely scenery and lots of wildlife. The house is well equiped with comfortable furniture, good beds and plenty of good towels. It was clean, well heated and there was plenty hot water. There was sufficient car parking for three cars. The house is set on the shores of Loch Insh. A mile from the house, again on the shore of Loch Insh is a visitor centre providing sailing, mountain biking, play parks and a wonderful restaurant serving delicious meals and home baking at very reasonable prices. A few more miles away is the village of Aviemore with lots of visitor attractions and lots of walks of varying distances in the most wonderful scenery. There are also lots of hills to climb and there is skiing in the winter. About ten miles away, in the village of Carrbridge, is the Landmark Visitor Centre. There are so many things to do for all the family, our favourite being the water slides, you would have to spend the whole day there. Our family all loved Katchana, we spent the most wonderful week there and I cannot think of anything that we did not like and will definitely be going back."

Reviewed by A FlipKey verified reviewer on 20/12/2009

"Excellent food at The Loch Inn Boathouse. Do not take anything to read as the house has hundreds of books! "

Reviewed by Mrs Miller on 11/11/2009

"Katchana - a beautiful setting and a lovely property. We thoroughly enjoyed ourselves."

Reviewed by Mrs Robson on 26/10/2009

"We liked Katchana and the surroundings, weather was good, found a good place to eat, wildlife and views at Katchana, walks around the Lochs."

Reviewed by Mr Rollin on 21/09/2009

"The scenery, wildlife on the doorstep, open fire, comfortable property and ideally positioned for exploring the area. Ospreys, red squirrels and pine martin a real bonus."

Reviewed by Mr Smith on 01/09/2009

"A wonderful property in a fantastic location. There are views from every window. Ideal for the person who is interested in wildlife as there are red squirrels and an amazing amount of bird life too. Lots of walks nearby and the RSPB reserve. I am so glad I chose Katchana for our holiday! "

Reviewed by Ms Fyfe on 22/06/2009

"Watching the wildlife from the house was fantastic! Excellent location for walking from the door step. Wonderful views all around"

Reviewed by Mrs Pilon on 06/04/2009

"Excellent property - 5 stars, ideal location, amazing views. One of the best properties we have stayed in over the past 20 years. "

Reviewed by Mr Edwards on 24/03/2009

"Location was great - lots of wild life. red squirrels, badger, pine martin, deer, woodland birds, birds of prey. Great view of Spey valley and the mountains."

Reviewed by Mr Baker on 11/02/2009

"I liked everything about the accommodation including the location and would love to go back, even the dog loved it. The owners had even put up a Christmas tree for us and we had snow! What more could we ask for? Must recommend the reindeer visit."

Reviewed by Ms Marsh on 22/12/2008

"We had a great time, it really is a superb location and an incredible property; we both want to return again soon. The house is exceptionally well equipped, very homely and truly welcoming! The house is most intriguing - almost a tangible presence, underlined by grace, charm, style and quality. "

Reviewed by Mr Parker on 24/10/2008