The Mill is situated in arguably one of the most scenic of spots, the magnificent scenery from the property down the valley and beyond to the Ladder hills and to the peaks of the Lecht Mountains are truly inspiring. The position of the property is ideal for exploring the Cairngorms National Park. The property part of an original barn steading is adjacent to two other properties, The Cattle Shed and The Grain Store, both of which can be booked through us making the properties ideal for a large family or a group of friends.
The cottage, the largest property at the steading, has been painstakingly converted and rebuilt by the owners, now retaining much of its original character, with double height vaulted ceilings and exposed beams. The official name for the steading is Balneden, meaning “farm on the hillside” in gaelic, and records show that it was first used as a farm from the 1740’s. The owners are located nearby and are able to offer a free shopping service of locally produced food, including meat and vegetables, and a home delivery from Asda can also be arranged.
The property, the majority of which is all on the one level has been completed in a contemporary style, and has been well equipped and furnished. The property consists of a spacious open plan lounge/kitchen, complete with a wood burning stove. A focal point of this room is the five metre floor to ceiling window, making this room very light and bright. Further facilities include a twin/double bedroom, large bathroom complete with a separate shower enclosure and roll top bath. A master bedroom with direct access to the outside decked seating and dining area, completes the facilities. The lounge/kitchen and bedrooms have all been floored with oak, and these including the tiled bathroom, benefit from underfloor heating. A private outside seating and garden area is available for the use of guests.
Facilities
Downstairs
Included in the rent
Extras on request
Private Water supply
Good Housekeeping Deposit
A Good Housekeeping Deposit of £75.00 is required at this property.
Pets Allowed
Two well behaved dogs are allowed, however as the property is located near a working farm during the lambing season, April 16th - to the end of May, no dogs are allowed. A £20 weekly charge applies.
Winter Bookings
Balneden Steading is a superb place to spend a winter break. Situated in a remote glen, the cottages are still very close to the Lecht ski area and only 30 mins drive from Cairngorm Mountain. In snowy conditions, the 200 metre access path is ploughed daily to ensure that 4WD vehicles will always be able to get to the cottages. The owners have also made arrangements for 2WD vehicles. If the access track is impassable with a 2WD vehicle, there is a parking area at the bottom of the access track, and the owner will collect you and your belongings at the start of your break and drive you up to your cottage. At the end of the week your bags & belongings can be taken down to your vehicle for you. During the week you may need to walk up and down the access track, which is a 3-4 minute walk from the cottages. The owners provide torches, and you are advised to bring appropriate clothing and footwear to suit the conditions. People driving a 4WD will have no problem with the track. If you are not able-bodied and are driving a 2WD vehicle, it is not advisable to book any of the cottages.
Best Features
STL LICENCE NO: MO-00100-F EPC RATING: C
Guests rate The Mill: Excellent from 16 reviews About Reviews
We had a really great stay. The Mill was warm, comfortable and had everything we needed - with lovely views and plenty of room for our two dogs. It was situated in a great place for us to get into the Cairngorms from Aviemore and from Braemar - and to visit the Moray coast.
The Mill is located on such a picturesque hill side view that offers the most amazing sunrises. The property itself is very spacious and comfortable with tasteful decor throughout. Cleaning standards are very high too, spotless throughout. Location of the property is just perfect for a drive to the coast or inland. We filled a full week with adventures locally and we will return. 10/10
This is without a doubt one of the nicest holiday homes we have ever stayed in. The house was spotless, beautifully decorated and very well equipped in terms of amenities. The owners live on the same property and are very friendly.
Lovely cottage in a fantastic location. We really enjoyed our stay finding the cottage warm and comfortable. We did find the furnishings a bit sparse - a chest of drawers in the master bedroom would have been a helpful addition to save living out of a suitcase for a week. Some board games / books / information on the area (restaurant recommendations, walks nearby etc) would have been nice to have also. We were unlucky with the weather during our stay so did go out and buy our own puzzle midweek! Overall though these were tiny niggles, and we would definitely stay again if in the area.
Amazing location - a true wilderness cottage. We were surrounded by wildlife literally to the door - Siskin, Swallows, and Stoats for example. The views from the property were superb. The building and all its contents were of the highest quality. Just a fantastic holiday destination!!
Me and my boyfriend had such a wonderful stay at The Mill. The place is so beautiful with stunning views, especially with the massive window at the front! Julie and Phil are so lovely and were really helpful. I couldn't recommend this place any more, what a fab relaxing week we had, wish we could have stayed longer!
The Mill
