Overview
Tucked away at the entrance to the charming Duffus Estate, Duffus House Lodge offers a peaceful retreat surrounded by lush woodlands, sprawling fields, and an abundance of local wildlife. The Estate is home to a healthy population of red squirrels, roe deer, pine martens, and hares, along with a whole plethora of birdlife, perfect for nature lovers. With the Estate’s network of scenic paths at your doorstep, you and your well-behaved dogs are invited to roam and explore the natural beauty of this tranquil setting.
This delightful property once served as the gate lodge to the historic family home of the Dunbars of Northfield. For over 80 years, it was part of the prestigious Gordonstoun school. Now, it stands as a private haven, offering guests a taste of history in a serene and secluded environment. The Lodge is a traditional, single-storey stone cottage, offering all the comforts of home with the added charm of its heritage. With a private garage and a fully enclosed back garden, it’s the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploration.
The property sleeps three and boasts a generously sized, south-facing bedroom with a luxurious king-sized bed, and a smaller single bedroom with a peaceful westward view. The cosy sitting room features a beautiful wood-burning stove, perfect for relaxing evenings in front of the fire. Complimentary logs from the Estate are provided for the stove or for use in the garden’s fire bowl, allowing you to enjoy the outdoors even on cooler evenings. There’s a separate utility room and a well-equipped kitchen for all your self-catering needs, as well as a modern shower room.
In the summer months, guests are welcome to use the Estate’s grass tennis court free of charge. Rackets and balls can be provided on request, perfect for a relaxed afternoon in the sun. The Lodge enjoys a prime position at the main entrance to the Estate, which will also serve as the entrance to a new campsite set to open in 2025.
The area surrounding Duffus House Lodge and the Moray Coast offers a wealth of activities and stunning sights for all interests. Just a short distance away, you can explore Duffus Castle, a fascinating 12th-century ruin that provides a glimpse into Scotland’s medieval past.
For those who enjoy walking or cycling, the Moray Coast Trail offers spectacular views of cliffs, beaches, and wildlife. Findhorn Bay is perfect for peaceful beach walks, birdwatching, and watersports, and it’s also home to the Findhorn Foundation, an eco-village promoting sustainability. At Spey Bay, you can spot dolphins and visit the Scottish Dolphin Centre to learn more about these incredible creatures.
The nearby town of Elgin boasts the impressive Elgin Cathedral, a 13th-century ruin, along with local museums and charming shops. For a coastal adventure, head to Cullen Beach, known for its sandy shoreline and perfect for relaxation, or visit Bow Fiddle Rock near Portknockie, a unique natural rock formation ideal for photography.
History lovers will enjoy visiting Brodie Castle and its beautiful grounds, or touring the nearby Aberlour Distillery, where you can learn about the distillation process and sample local whisky. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy fishing in the River Spey or explore the surrounding countryside via hiking and cycling trails. Bird lovers will appreciate the peaceful RSPB Loch Spynie nature reserve, offering opportunities to see a variety of local wildlife. With so much to see and do, the area around Duffus Lodge is a perfect destination for history, nature, and adventure.
For those wanting to explore further, Cairngorms National Park is just over an hour’s drive away, offering a wealth of outdoor activities. The park is home to dramatic mountain landscapes, dense forests, and tranquil lochs, with endless hiking and cycling trails for all levels. Whether exploring the highlands on foot or by bike, the Cairngorms provide some of Scotland's most iconic scenery.
For a more relaxed way to take in the views, the Cairngorm Mountain Funicular Railway takes visitors up the mountain for panoramic vistas and access to additional walking trails. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot rare species such as red squirrels, golden eagles, and deer, or visit one of the park's many outdoor centres for guided tours. In winter, the Cairngorm Mountain Ski Centre is a popular destination for skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing, offering excellent facilities.
Post Code: IV30 5QB
Security Deposit £150
Duffus House Lodge accepts bookings with an any day arrival with short breaks welcome throughout the year.
STL Licence: MO-00112-F
EPC: F
Accommodation for 3 on one floor.
Ground Floor: Front door; Hallway; King size bedroom; Lounge with small dining table and wood burning stove; Single bedroom; Utility room; Fully fitted kitchen; Bathroom with quadrant shower.
Outside: Garage for bike storage; EV charger; Deck with garden furniture & hammock; BBQ.
Services: Oil central heating * Bed linen and towels are included * Electric hob & oven * Washer & Drier * Fridge & Freezer (3 drawer) * Microwave * Smart TV * Wi-fi * Cot & high chair (on request) * Parking for two cars * EV charge point (additional charge applies) * No smoking * 2 Dogs welcome (Additional charges apply)
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