Photo of Aboyne

About Aboyne

Aboyne is a picturesque village in the heart of Royal Deeside, a wonderfully untamed corner of the Scottish Highlands. Known for its golf course, or as a quintessential Highland escape, this spot, between the sea and the looming grey majesty of the Cairngorms, is also known for its ancient cairns — around a thousand of them — attesting to long ago settlements, and its incredible opportunities for walking and fishing. The best places to stay in Aboyne are ideal for all of these plans and our Gurus’ recommendations offer inspiring views, great access to walking and mountain biking trails, and a promise of escape. We've discovered a charming village inn and a lovely country house turned luxury B&B.

Aboyne’s golf course is one of Scotland’s oldest, built in 1883. It really put Aboyne on the map as far as visitors were concerned, and many of the people searching for the best places to stay in Aboyne today are really looking for somewhere to pack up their golf clubs of an evening. Aboyne’s Highland Games, held each summer, mark the bustiest time to visit, but walkers and fisherfolk come almost year round. The River Dee is known for its salmon, and The Deeside Way, a spectacular 41 mile walk from Aberdeen to Ballater, runs through the town.

The Best Places to Stay in Aboyne

Best Pubs-with-rooms

  • The Boat Inn is a totally charming, traditional looking village inn, with 16 surprisingly contemporary rooms and suites, a cosy bar, and restaurant serving hearty pub grub. The fanciest of the rooms have free-standing baths under pitched roofs, and private balconies or terraces. Downstairs in the pub guests will find roading fires in traditional stoves, and a great collection of ales. A real crowd pleaser!

Best B&Bs

  • Lys-na-greyne is a luxurious B&B, converted from a charming home, with wonderful views of the River Dee. There are just six rooms, all spacious and light, decorated in muted greys and whites, with antiques, and contemporary bathrooms. No restaurant but delicious platters for dinner can be arranged if you don't fancy the walk in to town.

Prefer a Private Apartment or Cottage?

  • If you'd prefer the privacy of a self-catering option then browse through the wide variety available online with our partner, Booking.com.

Travel Information

  • The closest airport to Aboyne is Aberdeen International Airport, which is around half an hour away by car or taxi. Alternatively you can travel via train from Edinburgh, where the closest station is Stonehaven, which is also about half an hour away from Aboyne by car or taxi. From Glasgow the train goes via Laurencekirk, also about half an hour away by car or taxi.
  • If you want to hire a car we recommend you visit our online partner, Rentalcars.
  • Aboyne is cool and damp year round, and its Highland spot means it gets regular snowfall during winter. As far as the weather is concerned there’s not a bad time to visit, but Aboyne is most popular during the summer months, especially around the Highland Games in August. The golf course, walking trails, canoe centres, rock climbing walls, and mountain biking tracks are most popular in summer too.

Still not sure where to stay?

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Best Hotels in Aboyne

  • The Boat Inn Aboyne 16 rooms from CA$211

    Families  -  The laid back atmosphere, unfussy restaurant, and endless outdoor activitie makes this a great option for a family getaway
    Active Holiday  -  Whether you want to mountain bike, hike, horse ride, or even ski — there is a huge array of outdoor pursuits
    Great walks  -  With the 'right to roam' in Scotland there is a vast expanse of countryside to explore either guided or self-guided
    Restaurant  -  Traditional pub food is served in the restaurant
    RestaurantGardenPet friendlyParking

    A traditional village inn with hearty cuisine and nicely renovated accommodation. Rooms keep the building's original charm but now feel fresh and contemporary. The best have in-room freestanding bathtubs. With good ales, roaring fires, and pub grub — this is the perfect base for an outdoorsy break. See More

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  • Lys-na-greyne Aboyne 6 rooms from CA$236

    Great walks  -  The surrounding area is full of beautiful walking routes.
    Sights nearby  -  Visit the nearby Craigievar Castle and Kildrummy Castle.
    Fishing  -  Superb salmon fishing on the nearby Dee.
    Restrictions on children  -  Over 10s only
    GardenViewsParkingNo pets

    In a picturesque position overlooking the River Dee, Lys-na-greyne is a luxurious B&B. Boasting plush rooms with modern interiors and spacious bathrooms, Lys-na-greyne is perfect for a relaxing break. With excellent fishing on the doorstep, it's a great base for a fishing trip to the Dee. See More

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