It’s a magical time of year in the Cairngorms. Even more magical If you find yourself in the highland village of Aviemore during December. Along with an abundance of festivities and snow capped mountains overlooking the town, it’s a time of indulgence from dining from top restaurants to local culinary experiences.
Besides, this is nearby Scotland’s oldest and most famous ski resort and you’ll need a good fill after shredding those Highland hills!
Aviemore is a great place to visit all year round and the Christmas holiday season is no exception. If you find yourself here during the Christmas season Here are some of the best restaurants putting on a spread around Aviemore this December:
The Cairngorm Hotel
Let’s talk about the ultimate festive dining spot in Aviemore – The Cairngorm Hotel.
If you’re looking to dive into some serious Christmas cheer, their “Santa Special Menu” is going to be your new best friend this December. Running from the 1st to Christmas Eve, this menu is packed with all the traditional holiday dishes that’ll make your taste buds do a happy dance.
Picture this: you’re sitting in a cozy, warmly lit dining room, surrounded by the buzz of holiday excitement, tucking into a plate of hearty Highland Christmas classics. Trust me, it’s the kind of experience that’ll have you feeling like you’ve stepped into a festive postcard. Just a heads up – their Christmas Day lunch is seriously popular, so if you’re planning to book, do it early. These tables fill up faster than Santa’s sleigh on Christmas Eve!
But wait, there’s more! The Cairngorm doesn’t just stop at amazing food. They’ve got live music that’ll keep your spirits high and an atmosphere that’s more infectious than Christmas carol earworms. And for those looking to kick the festive season into high gear, their Hogmanay Hooley on New Year’s Eve is basically the ultimate Highland party. It’s the perfect way to toast goodbye to December and welcome in the new year with a bang (and probably a whisky or two).
Macdonald Resort
This Christmas, the Macdonald Hotel in Aviemore is serving up a dining experience that’s anything but ordinary. Nestled in the heart of the Cairngorms, they are transforming holiday dining into an art form for 2024.
Their Christmas Day menu includes starters such as a delicate smoked salmon and dill terrine showcasing the region’s finest produce, while the wild mushroom velouté offers a lighter, more contemporary approach to festive dining.
Main courses strike a perfect balance between classic and innovative. The traditional roast turkey comes with all the expected trimmings, while the vegetarian wellington provides a show-stopping alternative that proves plant-based doesn’t mean boring.
Macdonald Resort is one of the best places to be around Aviemore as they put on a ton of experiences throughout December. Be sure to check the “what’s on” for information on live music, afternoon teas, and Hogmanay experiences.
Rowan Tree
Rowan Tree Country Hotel near Aviemore is another big hitter in the area come Crimbo time.
A menu that combines local ingredients with precise techniques. Appetizers like duck liver pate with brioche and cranberry sauce boasts the kitchen’s technical skills. Creamy Leek and Potato Soup is a more straightforward choice for those looking for comfort.
The core curriculum respects traditional expectations while delivering high quality execution. Roast Turkey with Stuffed Onions in a rich gravy and seasonal vegetables sourced from local producers. It’s a dish that balances the familiar with the exotic.
Dessert concludes the eating with a tart lemon zest providing a sharp contrast to richer dishes. while the sticky toffee pudding delivers a delicious, classic taste.
What are some of your recommendations of best places to eat in Aviemore over the festive period?
Let us know in the comments below!
