Aurae

Rating
Sleeps 8
Bedrooms 4
Bathrooms 4
Pets No
View on map

Features

Hot tub
Off road parking
Ground floor bedroom
Sauna
Garden / Patio
Cot available
Highchair available
Dishwasher
Broadband / WiFi

Reviews

32 Customer Review(s)

Mrs Marsh
September 2019

“Stunning location.”

....Exceptional property..Owners very friendly & approachable. Fantastic place to stay.

....Exceptional property..Owners very friendly & approachable. Fantastic place to stay.

- Mrs Marsh, September 2019
Miss Nixon September 2020

“Having booked this lodge over a year in advance, we were so excited that it had finally arrived.”

I booked this lodge as it looked lovely plus the hot tub and sauna. This would be a great way to end our trip, a little bit of luxury to end our holiday in style and a real treat for my mum's 50th birthday. We spent a week in the Outer Hebrides then moved to Aurae for the final leg of our trip. Whilst on the islands we received an email from Blue Sky Lodges saying that we need to pay £150.00 'good housekeeping bond'. This email was received a few days before we were due to arrive which was a complete surprise. When booking we could not see that this was mentioned in any of the details. When querying this with Blue Sky Lodges they simply said 'Sykes are aware' - they may well have been but we was not. They also said it is usually collected in cash on the day of arrival but due to covid they need to receive it electronically and the day before we check in. Being in the Outer Hebrides this was not easy for us but still managed to make the payment in time by asking a friend to make the transfer for us. On arrival, we walked in to find 'Guest Information' and 'Instructions' manuals. These were actually restrictions on what we were and were not allowed to do otherwise they would withhold our money. It consisted of things like; you will be charged if the cutlery is not returned to its original place; you have to strip the beds on departure bag the linen, towels, dressing gowns and pillow/mattress protectors in the right bags otherwise another fee would be incurred. We completely understand the situation with covid but having stayed at other places in the week prior this was taken too far - to the point where we felt we couldn't touch anything or relax in fear of Blue Sky Lodges with holding our money. It states in their manual that they have a cleaning team that carried out extensive cleaning routines after each stay. But really it is the guests who are doing it all. On departure, we hoovered,(another 'request'), cleaned the surfaces, stripped the beds and bagged all the linen accordingly. We had to do all of this whilst constantly being reminded we need to be out by 10am. After this we had a 10 hour drive back to Southampton - so much for a relaxing end to our holiday. I would also add that we were charged for a 4 bedroom lodge however one of the rooms was locked and therefore in reality whilst being charged for a 4 bedroom lodge we only had a 3 bedroom lodge. It is also advertised that a 'welcome hamper' is included, but again this was missing although the price was the same. Once we hit the road, we emailed Blue Sky Lodges to ask when our deposit will arrive back in our account (now this is where the next problem arises). Basically, we have now been home for 3 days (whilst writing) and their promise of 'will be returned to you on the day of departure' has not been kept. We have been given the run around. Simon will pay it tonight; Simon will try and do it later. Simon is a farmer he is struggling to keep up with the business demand. We have learnt from this that they are quick to demand the money but not so quick to return it. We vacated the property on Tuesday 29th September, we adhered to the instructions, as of writing today is Thursday the 1st October we have now incurred penalties for a missed payment because our money was not returned when stated it would be. We should not be put in the uncomfortable position of keep having to chase this money. Would I recommend this lodge? The answer is no. The lodge itself was lovely - just a shame we wasn't allowed to enjoy it. This episode has really put a cloud over what was a lovely holiday up to this point.

- Miss Nixon, September 2020
Mrs Morton April 2019

“Super week, great location, fabulous weather”

- Mrs Morton, April 2019
Mr Vye March 2019

“The lodge was fantastic and Jo was a delight to deal with, we had one problem whilst staying and it was sorted within 2 hours of reporting it.”

- Mr Vye, March 2019
Mrs Veart February 2019

“The log cabin was amazing, it had everything there that you would need to make your stay as effortless and enjoyable as possible.”

It was like a home from home but with all the luxuries of a holiday getaway.

- Mrs Veart, February 2019
Mrs Brown November 2018

“Such a beautiful and peaceful location, lodge had everything we needed for our stay.”

Rooms were all very spacious and cosy. Loved our stay, will definitely be back in the future.

- Mrs Brown, November 2018
Hibbert October 2018

“This lodge is amazing.”

Beautifully furnished, stylish, clean and with spectacular views. Hot tub and sauna perfect after a days sightseeing. Highly recommended.

- Hibbert, October 2018
Jones September 2018

“What a great house.”

Tucked back in the Highlands with rolling hills and farms for a view. Amenities were amazing including the hot tub and dry sauna. Beds were comfortable, kitchen was stocked and having so many showers for our 4 man golf group was a key. Sykes staff was very friendly, especially the lovely Michelle, who showed us around the house, and Jo who mailed an item back to us we left behind. Great customer service. Thank you.

- Jones, September 2018
Mr Neave August 2018

“Absolutely fabulous location and property and facilities Wouldn’t hesitate to go back !”

!!!!

- Mr Neave, August 2018
Mr Jariwala May 2018

“One of the best house for long stay”

- Mr Jariwala, May 2018
Mr Perry February 2018

“This is a difficult review as by telling the truth means it will become too popular and we won't be able to book it again.”

The property is truly amazing perfect location to get away from everything. Although supermarkets, shops and even a beach are only 15 to 20 minutes away. We couldn't get over how beautiful the lodge and the scenery was. We drove over 440 miles to get there and would not hesitate to do it again. We will most definitely be booking this property again especially for special occasions.

- Mr Perry, February 2018
Mrs Makins December 2017

“Nothing was too much trouble, every need had been catered for.”

A lovely welcome pack with eggs, bread, prosecco, tea, coffee. Board games & dvds a plenty. Childrens crayons & pencils. Nintendo Wii. Enough books to fill a library! The only thing missing was a Christmas tree. A truly stunning location & a wonderful family trip before Christmas. We will definitely be back!

- Mrs Makins, December 2017
Mrs Duffy November 2017

“The house was spacious for 8 adults.”

Beautiful views and surroundings. Couldn't fault anything . Hot tub and sauna were little extras we all enjoyed. Any problems Jo would do her best to fix it. It was a very amazing holiday with my family and hope to return. I would highly recommend this lodge to anyone.

- Mrs Duffy, November 2017
Mrs Clark September 2016

“Very spacious and modern.”

Beautiful scenery and sunsets,especially when in Hot Tub. Everything was perfect.

- Mrs Clark, September 2016
787vickih September 2016

“Family get away”

One word "AMAZING" my family and my sister inlaws family just spent a week here in the lodge and it was beautiful , we had great communication with jo before we arrived and whilst we were there. When we arrived we were greeted with milk bread homemade jam and of course the famous Geddes eggs ( Devine) ... They went the extra mile and put an extra little bed up for my daughter as there were 9 of us in total .The lodge is stunning with beautiful views and decor ... The hot tub and sauna were obviously a big bonus but the little touches like robes and slippers for us to use lawn games for the children and also the awesome new BBQ which has got my husband wanting to build one too !! The showers are lovely and was nice to see hairdryers to use too . As music lovers we all enjoyed the sound system which can be played in every room . The area its self is beautiful and we had cows in the field we overlooked , on a clear night the stars were amazing too . Its the type of area where you can do as little or as much as you like and was a great base for sight seeing .we Will Deffiantly be back at some point ... The Attention to detail was second to none and jo and family were always there for help and advice THANKYOU ... Highly recommended

- 787vickih, September 2016
sarahmicah July 2016

“Absolutely beautiful. ...such a lovely place,we will be back x”

Jo was lovely and helpful throughout our stay as a family ....gorgeous place,beautiful views,we had a brilliant time and will definitely be back,told all our friends and family to ! X

- sarahmicah, July 2016
alj93xo July 2016

“Best one yet”

My boyfriend and I stayed here for a week in January and could not fault it. First impressions were great, security coded gates made us feel safe. Jo greeted us with a complimentary hamper of local produce and showed us round the lodge. She left us feeling at home and very welcome with the attentive but unobtrusive approach. The place was beautiful, very open planned with nice scottish decor. Heated flooring, surround sound music in every room and everything was easy to work. The hot tub was amazing and easy to use, as was the sauna. State of the art kitchen was a pleasure to use also, with more that enough utensils etc. Comparing it to other lodges we have stayed at, this one is the best by far, they have nailed it. Would definitely recommend this place to anyone. Will be back for sure.

- alj93xo, July 2016
Mr Comrie April 2016

“In an excellent location and the facilities of the cabin were first class, I will return in the near future.”

- Mr Comrie, April 2016
Ema759 February 2016

“Ms”

My family and our partners hired this stunning lodge for a week Of family RnR and it was simply perfect. Stunning location. Beautifully appointed property. Sumptuous furnishings and quality fitments makes it feel like a boutique hotel. We used all the amenities daily and Jo, Simon and the team couldn't be more helpful. The hot tub was treated and kept tip top, which makes all the difference when in daily use! The sauna was powerful and the underfloor heating throughout the ground floor was a real bonus when the snow was outside. You would have to go a long way to find a better place to get away from it all, yet still be 15 mins in touch of a supermarket. Cracking trout fishing with tuition just down the road, red kite feeding 40 mins away, Oh, & the egg vending machine is something to be visited!! A true getaway beauty. We will definitely be back ASAP!! Thanks team. Undeniably astounding.

- Ema759, February 2016
Lhyam November 2015

“Fantastic quality with excellent service - we'll be back!”

We just returned from a holiday with friends where we stayed over at this superb log cabin. We were impressed with this cabin right from arrival - the cabins are beautifully set in complete privacy within landscaped gardens with secure access to a parking area with plenty of space. Inside, the cabin is well spec'd with beautiful furnishings, generous sized rooms, good quality en-suites and bathroom, a separate utility area and a great living and dining area for spending time with friends. The kitchen is well stocked with plenty of pots, pans, cutlery, dishes and glasses. Upon arrival, we were presented with fresh milk, a fresh bowl of fruit and some local produce, which was a very personal touch and completely unexpected. The hot tub was large enough for 6 of us comfortably, as was the sauna, all of which are accessible from a changing area, which was supplied with robes and slippers. We loved the additions, such as the Wi-Fi, PlayStation, games, books and integrated sound system for docking our music! The hosts were fantastic - we met with Jo, who was really friendly and informative and provided us with plenty of information on local attractions and even sent us some links to nearby restaurants, take-aways and things to do. There are maps of the local area, along with loads of leaflets of nearby attractions, which meant we were never short of things to do. Overall, we have stayed at previous log cabins and Aurae has completely changed our expectations, simply due to the high quality finish, the facilities and the service we received. We had a fantastic holiday and the only downside is it went in too quick! We will most certainly be back!

- Lhyam, November 2015
Ms Grahame November 2015

“I really liked the space, we are a large family and everyone got to relax without being on top of each other.”

The bathroom in the master en suite was fabulous, as was the under floor heating. The hot tub was a winner.

- Ms Grahame, November 2015
Mr Sumal November 2015

“We just returned from a holiday with friends where we stayed over at this superb log cabin.”

We were impressed with this cabin right from arrival - the cabins are beautifully set in complete privacy within landscaped gardens with secure access to a parking area with plenty of space. Inside, the cabin is well spec'd with beautiful furnishings, generous sized rooms, good quality en-suites and bathroom, a separate utility area and a great living and dining area for spending time with friends. The kitchen is well stocked with plenty of pots, pans, cutlery, dishes and glasses. Upon arrival, we were presented with fresh milk, a fresh bowl of fruit and some local produce, which was a very personal touch and completely unexpected. The hot tub was large enough for 6 of us comfortably, as was the sauna, all of which are accessible from a changing area, which was supplied with robes and slippers. We loved the additions, such as the Wi-Fi, PlayStation, games, books and integrated sound system for docking our music! The hosts were fantastic - we met with one, who was really friendly and informative and provided us with plenty of information on local attractions and even sent us some links to nearby restaurants, take-aways and things to do. There are maps of the local area, along with loads of leaflets of nearby attractions, which meant we were never short of things to do. Overall, we have stayed at previous log cabins and Aurae has completely changed our expectations, simply due to the high quality finish, the facilities and the service we received. We had a fantastic holiday and the only downside is it went in too quick! We will most certainly be back!

- Mr Sumal, November 2015
glyn738 October 2015

“Amazing Lodge with everything you could ask for”

Jo greeted us on arrival and told us everything we needed to know about the lodge, there was even a wee starter pack of bread, milk, fresh local eggs and delicious jam. There was something for everyone, my son particularly enjoyed the PS3. The hot tub and sauna were favourites and there's nothing better than coming back from a run, quick shower and in to the hot tub .... bliss! Jo was so helpful and friendly. The lodge is outstanding quality, stunning views and close to Inverness, Nairn and Aviemore. I would highly recommend Aurae and would love to be able to go back one day.

- glyn738, October 2015
Mrs Leslie October 2015

“Amazing property, beautiful location.”

Hot tub and sauna were a real treat.

- Mrs Leslie, October 2015
Miss Glue June 2015

“A lovely, large, airy and modern property, had a wonderful time at this place.”

It was decorated to a high standard and was a great entertaining space, will definitely be back.

- Miss Glue, June 2015
Mr Miller May 2015

“I loved every part of my holiday.”

The lodge was stunning and the location was just gorgeous.

- Mr Miller, May 2015
Mrs Brown April 2015

“This was our second visit to this property and we loved everything even more than we did the first time, cannot wait to return very soon!”

- Mrs Brown, April 2015
Mr Dear October 2014

“Well appointed cottage/lodge with great views over to the Black Isle.”

Very cosy with the underfloor heating and loads of room in all areas. Will definitely be returning in the future.

- Mr Dear, October 2014
Mrs Ballard October 2014

“Beautiful country location with privacy and spectacular views.”

Easy access to town, stores and provisions while still feeling remote and secluded.

- Mrs Ballard, October 2014
Mrs Lumsden July 2014

“Very good accommodation with fantastic views.”

There were many different attractions to experience with limited travelling and the provision of the sauna and hot tub added to the luxurious ambiance of the property.

- Mrs Lumsden, July 2014
Walker June 2014

“I stayed in the Aurae lodge with seven of my friends for five days.”

The lodge was amazing. Upon arrival we were very impressed by the interior as we had not expected the lodge to be as large, the dining area was gorgeous with its high ceiling and large windows. The hot tub had a brilliant view of the valley and the Cairngorms. The time spent in the hot tub was made better as there were speakers wired to the outside area so me and my friends could relax with a bit of music. There were speakers in every room as well which was a lovely touch. The owner of the lodges was a great help, friendly and approachable. To anyone considering the lodges as a holiday destination I would recommend they do it. Whether it is a family get away or a group of friends looking for a weekend away together in a beautiful setting this is the place for you. Thank you.

- Walker, June 2014
Miss Gullan March 2014

“The property was beautiful the hot tub and sauna totally made the holiday, the house was very clean and the bed linens and beds were very comfortable, Netflix on the TV was a favourite.”

The kitchen facilities were excellent, the wine fridge added a touch of class! The showers and bathrooms were very luxurious we enjoyed using them particularly the en suite.

- Miss Gullan, March 2014
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Blue Sky Lodges

Cawdor 3 miles. Inverness 9 miles. A private road in the heart of the Scottish Highlands leads up to Blue Sky Lodges, two bespoke luxury timber-clad holiday homes occupying a stunning elevated location, with panoramic views and peaceful surroundings. Set in idyllic countryside near the hamlet of Galcantray, these fabulous lodges are just a twenty minute drive from Inverness Airport and three miles from the pretty village of Cawdor. These superior holiday lodges near Inverness have been tastefully designed to a very high standard and are accessed through electric gates with a keypad control for total privacy and security. They benefit from state-of-the art technology including a sound system that covers the whole house as well as the decked area, whilst the floor-to-ceiling windows and French doors allow for full appreciation of the stunning views surrounding the lodges. The accommodation in each Highland cottage is set over two floors, with a very spacious sitting area, dining area and kitchen along with a mezzanine upper floor overlooking the living space, and all under a magnificent beamed cathedral ceiling. Each of these superb Cawdor lodges has four sumptuous bedrooms, two with an en-suite shower room and three with walk-in wardrobes. Both Highland lodges have their own private decked area, which is covered by the surround sound music system, with a stunning 6-person barrel sauna and a large luxurious hot tub. This is a perfect place to relax, soak up the amazing views and listen to your favourite music all at the same time, whilst giving you a wonderful way to enjoy a spa getaway all in the privacy of your own holiday home. Guests may find it difficult to leave such a wonderful Highland holiday cottage, but there is so much to see and do within a short drive. Visit the attractive seaside town of Nairn with its fabulous sandy beach, or revel in the history of the area with a visit to Clava Cairns, a prehistoric burial ground. Cawdor and its castle made famous in Macbeth is just three miles away where you can enjoy a meal in the Cawdor Tavern, whilst Inverness, the capital of the Scottish Highlands, is just nine miles away and has an array of good quality restaurants and lively pubs. Ideal for a relaxing holiday in magnificent surroundings, or as a touring base for the wonderful Scottish countryside, these fabulous Highland lodges will live long in the memory.

The property

This detached Highland lodge is situated in a wonderful location with uninterrupted views towards the Black Isle and Ben Wyvis.

From the outside seating area at this lodge near Inverness, guests can relax and enjoy the superb vista, relax in the 6-person barrel sauna or let their cares drift away in the sumptuous hot tub.

Note: This property is next to Ref. 904501, together they sleep 16.

Summary

Four bedrooms with TV: 2 x ground floor double with en-suite shower, basin and WC, 1 x double, 1 x twin
Bathroom with bath, separate shower, basin and WC
Changing room with basin and WC
Open plan living area with kitchen with breakfast bar, dining area and sitting area
Utility.
Wood pellet eco-friendly heating with underground heating on ground floor
Electric oven and hob, microwave, fridge/freezer, wine cooler, washer/dryer, dishwasher, 5 x TVs (one 50") with Freeview HD, DVD, surround sound system inc. external speakers, digital radio, iPod dock, PlayStation 3, WiFi, selection of books, games and DVDs
Fuel and power inc. in rent
Bed linen and towels inc. in rent
Cot, highchair and stairgate on request
Ample off road parking
Front decked area with hot tub and 6-person barrel sauna, side decked area with furniture
Sorry, no pets and no smoking
Shop and pub 3.5 miles
Note: No stag/hen or similar.

Note: This property has a refundable Good Housekeeping bond of £150.

View on map

About the location

CAWDOR

Nairn 5 miles; Inverness 12 miles.

The picturesque and historic village of Cawdor has much to offer visitors who will appreciate the quiet ambiance of the village. Cawdor is famous for its 'Macbeth' connection with its 17th century Castle which is still home to the Cawdor family today. There is also a first class tavern boasting modern Scottish food with flair accompanied by a first class choice of wines. The city of Inverness, known as The Capital of the Highlands, is the gateway to the countless delights of the Highlands of Scotland. Of particular note is the legendary Loch Ness which is surrounded by some truly breathtaking scenery, although most visitors are usually on the lookout for something a bit more mysterious! Just outside the city is the Culloden Battlefield at Culloden Moor (National Trust). The site of the last major battle fought on British soil. Inverness is the gateway to the stunning west coast and even a day trip across the sea to Skye is possible. Inverness City itself has much to offer – museums, an art gallery, fine theatre and leisure facilities, not to mention shops, pubs and restaurants. The area is packed with opportunities for outdoor pursuits especially as the Cairngorm National Park is just 40 mins drive away where skiing, snowboarding, climbing and so much more are readily available. For the Golf enthusiast this area offers an abundance of championship courses within a short drive and of course mountain bikers will be impressed with the selection of tracks that pass through fabulous scenery. The nearby Moray Firth is home to a diverse range of wildlife and marine life including dolphins, which can be seen from the shore or on trips from the harbour.

Note: This property is identical to Ref. 904501.

This property offers the following short breaks:

Off-season
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Features

Reviews

“Stunning location.”

“Having booked this lodge over a year in advance, we were so excited that it had finally arrived.”

“Super week, great location, fabulous weather”

“The lodge was fantastic and Jo was a delight to deal with, we had one problem whilst staying and it was sorted within 2 hours of reporting it.”

“The log cabin was amazing, it had everything there that you would need to make your stay as effortless and enjoyable as possible.”

“Such a beautiful and peaceful location, lodge had everything we needed for our stay.”

“This lodge is amazing.”

“What a great house.”

“Absolutely fabulous location and property and facilities Wouldn’t hesitate to go back !”

“One of the best house for long stay”

“This is a difficult review as by telling the truth means it will become too popular and we won't be able to book it again.”

“Nothing was too much trouble, every need had been catered for.”

“The house was spacious for 8 adults.”

“Very spacious and modern.”

“Family get away”

“Absolutely beautiful. ...such a lovely place,we will be back x”

“Best one yet”

“In an excellent location and the facilities of the cabin were first class, I will return in the near future.”

“Ms”

“Fantastic quality with excellent service - we'll be back!”

“I really liked the space, we are a large family and everyone got to relax without being on top of each other.”

“We just returned from a holiday with friends where we stayed over at this superb log cabin.”

“Amazing Lodge with everything you could ask for”

“Amazing property, beautiful location.”

“A lovely, large, airy and modern property, had a wonderful time at this place.”

“I loved every part of my holiday.”

“This was our second visit to this property and we loved everything even more than we did the first time, cannot wait to return very soon!”

“Well appointed cottage/lodge with great views over to the Black Isle.”

“Beautiful country location with privacy and spectacular views.”

“Very good accommodation with fantastic views.”

“I stayed in the Aurae lodge with seven of my friends for five days.”

“The property was beautiful the hot tub and sauna totally made the holiday, the house was very clean and the bed linens and beds were very comfortable, Netflix on the TV was a favourite.”