Milton Lodge

Milton Lodge sleeps 14 in unrivalled comfort and peacefulness on Ralia Estate, only 20 minutes south of Aviemore. The curved, tree-lined drive which gradually unveils the grandeur of Milton Lodge is a fitting approach to this impressive property. Built in Georgian style, the lodge’s spaciousness is immediately apparent as you enter into the double-height reception hall.

Living

Through to the drawing room with an open fire, books and sofas to sink into. The furnishings in this room – and throughout the property – are elegant and sumptuous: nature-inspired prints and oriental touches rub shoulders with carefully selected furniture and original oils and watercolours. The drawing room’s huge bay window offers up the first glimpse of the view across the River Spey to Creag Dhu and the Monadhliath Mountains beyond; a view that can be enjoyed from all angles as you continue your tour of the lodge.

At the other end of the ground floor are two lounges, one with an open fire, comfy seating and a TV, and the other kitted out with board games, a billiards table and an Xbox, for cross-generational gaming. The pretty ground-floor kingsize bedroom and its ensuite is across the hall. 

Kitchen and dining

Along the corridor from the drawing room is the newly renovated kitchen, designed by owner and cook. Thanks to her expert eye, the kitchen manages to be both practical and beautiful, with its doubled-up dishwashers and fridges, Aga and larder cupboard ready for your supplies. Beyond the 12-seater dining table, French doors lead into the Lodge’s grounds. If the air feels a little too chilly, try the conservatory instead for morning coffee with a view.

Bedrooms and bathrooms

Climb the carpeted stairs, and the calming sense of comfort and airiness continues, thanks to large windows and a light, considered palette. To the left are two bedrooms that share a bathroom: a twin and a kingsize. The best views in the house are found in the principal suite: a lesson in peacefulness and warmth with its generous proportions, dressing room and opulent ensuite which features a roll-top bath in front of the south-west facing window. Keep following the corridor and you’ll arrive at the other three kingsize bedrooms, each of which has its own bathroom with a bath, a shower – or both. Older children will be delighted to discover the secret staircase leading from this floor to the attic room with table tennis and lots of space for games.

Location

If you are able to tear yourself away from the luxury of Milton Lodge, you’re sure to delight in its outdoor surroundings. In the beautifully kept, mature grounds you will find the bubbling hot tub overlooking the River Spey (both fishing and wild swimming are possible here) and the lawn is more than large enough for an impromptu game of rounders. Softly chirruping birds provide the soundtrack for alfresco meals and gentle strolls.

Milton Lodge is a property that manages to be entirely of its location. Firmly rooted in its grounds and the 20,000-acre Ralia Estate beyond. The grandeur of Milton Lodge makes it the perfect location in which to gather with loved ones and truly switch off.

Important information

Licence Number HI-70625-F

EPC Rating D