Fife Arms

The Fife Arms is the most charming of hotels in the most quaint and picturesque Scottish village you can imagine. Stepping foot into the grounds almost feels like a time capsule taking you back to a bygone era of Scottish Highland luxury.

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The welcome here is superb, and we found every member of staff we interacted with to be world class in their approach to guest service.

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If you’re a foodie or a drink buff, The Fife Arms couldn’t be better recommended. Bertie’s Whisky Bar (named after Queen Victoria’s eldest son, King Edward VII) is perhaps the best whisky bar in the world – with no bars such, but over 500 different whiskies organised on shelves like books by flavour profile. Guests are encouraged to browse with the bartenders as their librarians, providing an experience like no other.

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We also loved Elsa’s, the hotels’ bijou Art Deco style cocktail and champagne bar, and spend lazy afternoons and chilled evenings wiling away time in The Flying Stag pub, which is still very much the social hub of Braemar and mixes locals and guests alike. 

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The main restaurant, The Clunie, was excellent. However, we did find the new Fondue Hut a little lacking. This was previously The Fog House but has been concerted into a Swiss Alpine fondue hut – albeit with plenty of local and Scottish ingredients available alongside the traditional Emmental.

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The rooms are gorgeous but can be a little claustrophobic due to the small windows and intensity of the décor; it’s all very richly furnished with antiques and artworks and there’s something different to look at from all angles.

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There’s no gym or fitness facilities at the hotel as such, but being set in the beautiful village of Braemar there’s plenty of opportunity to get your reps in outdoors on glorious adventures!

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The Fife Arms was a special stay for us, and one we’ll remember always.