The Fife Arms in Braemar continues to distinguish itself as one of the Highlands’ most characterful hotels, pairing Scottish tradition with an extraordinary art collection and a dramatic Cairngorms backdrop. Set around two hours from Edinburgh and Aberdeen, the property sits within the UK’s largest national park, close to Glenshee’s ski slopes, wild-swimming spots, extensive hiking routes and the historic Braemar Castle. Its nearness to Balmoral has long made it a discreet retreat for notable visitors; King Charles opened the hotel in 2019 and is understood to visit privately.

Inside, the atmosphere is that of a lived-in art house rather than a formal gallery, despite the presence of more than 16,000 pieces. Works by Picasso, Brueghel the Younger and Queen Victoria sit comfortably alongside roaring fireplaces, tweed-clad walls and eccentric decorative flourishes. Contemporary commissions appear throughout, including a chandelier shaped like antlers and bagpipes in the reception, and a fresco ceiling in the drawing room inspired by Scottish agates. The bar, imagined through the lens of Elsa Schiaparelli, adds a surrealist edge with bold colour and playful design references. Public areas remain open and welcoming, with daily art tours offered to guests and visitors, and the Flying Stag pub acting as a lively social anchor for the local community.

Service is driven by a team deeply rooted in the region. Ghillies, field experts and long-standing locals lead outdoor excursions and cultural walks, sharing an intimate knowledge of the Cairngorms and its literary and natural heritage. The warmth of the staff and the sense of local identity extend through every aspect of the experience.

The hotel’s forty-six bedrooms are each individually designed, drawing on Scottish history, literature and art. Themes range from Treasure Island and Lord Byron to rooms inspired by the Jacobite Rising or the Victorian era. The Royal and Victoriana categories replicate nineteenth-century interiors with museum-level detail, informed by figures such as Queen Victoria and the Duke of Fife. All rooms include considered touches, from local snacks to curated books and bespoke amenities created for the hotel.

Service is driven by a team deeply rooted in the region. Ghillies, field experts and long-standing locals lead outdoor excursions and cultural walks, sharing an intimate knowledge of the Cairngorms and its literary and natural heritage. The warmth of the staff and the sense of local identity extend through every aspect of the experience.

The Fife Arms’ spa is tucked away at the back of the historic building. With its wood walls, shearling throws, plants and jute furnishings, the serene space has a Scandi feel – but tartan bed throws and contemporary artworks chime with the rest of the hotel. From post-hike foot massages and facials to manicures, hot-stone and exfoliating massages, the varied treatment list covers every concern. A generously sized sauna is open to guests and looks out onto the garden.

Depending on your interests, there are almost endless activities on offer at The Fife Arms – think snow sports, whisky or wine tastings and visits to nearby distilleries in the winter, or e-biking, clay pigeon shooting, wild swimming, fishing and guided hiking in the spring and summertime (Barbour coats and wellies are provided, in true Scottish style). The concierge can arrange day trips to Balmoral, creative writing workshops, tennis and golf, or simply enjoy one of the daily complimentary art tours around the hotel.