At the heart of the Scottish Highlands, The Fife Arms emerges like a scene from an enchanting tale, a place where “luxury meets legend.” Tucked away in the picturesque village of Braemar, this former Victorian coaching inn has been reimagined into a sanctuary where the past dances with the present. Every nook of The Fife Arms, from The Flying Stag’s oak bar to the fanciful Elsa’s cocktail bar, spins a yarn, blending Scottish heritage and contemporary flair.
Over 16,000 antiques and myriad curiosities make the hotel a trove of wonders, carefully chosen by the distinguished Russell Sage. His design narrative, steeped in the locale’s lore, marries bespoke tweed, tartan, and artisan wallpapers, pulling the wild Scottish landscape indoors. Ethically sourced antlers and locally knitted red squirrels add whimsy, while Araminta Campbell’s custom tweed and tartan echo Braemar’s evolving scenery, marrying design with nature’s artistry.
Yet, the Fife Arms experience is not confined to its enchanting decor. The hotel’s culinary offerings are a feast for the senses, with a dedicated whisky afternoon tea and Bertie’s Bar’s extensive collection of over 365 whiskies. Please, adventure and leisure intertwine seamlessly here. Guests can partake in various activities, from the exhilaration of shooting and wild swimming in pristine Highland waters to the creative satisfaction of crafting their own tartan.
Here, in the heart of Braemar, the Fife Arms stands as a beacon of Scottish hospitality, inviting guests to live out a legend of their own making.
Top Takeaways
Location: Braemar, Scottish Highlands
Rating: Five-star
The vibe: Feel like royalty in a cozy, elegant retreat where luxury meets the warmth of Scottish hospitality.
Food + Drink: The Fife Arms elevates Scottish dining to an art form, with its dedicated whisky afternoon tea, and Bertie’s Bar offering over 365 whiskies. The Clunie Dining Room, where local produce meets traditional flavors with a modern twist, provides an exquisite culinary experience. For those looking for a more intimate setting, the hotel offers private dining options that showcase the best of Scottish cuisine.
Amenities: Restaurant, Spa, Wi-Fi, Pet Friendly,
Any personal neighborhood recs? Explore the picturesque village of Braemar, steeped in history and surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. Don’t miss a visit to the nearby Balmoral Castle, the Scottish holiday home to the Royal Family. For the adventurous, the surrounding Cairngorms National Park offers hiking, fishing, and wildlife spotting. The Braemar Gathering, a famous annual Highland games event, is a must-see if your visit aligns.
Our favorite thing about the hotel: The seamless blend of Scottish heritage and luxury, from the meticulously curated antiques and art to the bespoke tweed and tartan decor, all set against the backdrop of the stunning Highland landscape.
What’s nearby?: Balmoral Castle, Cairngorms National Park, Braemar Golf Course, the Braemar Gathering site, Royal Lochnagar Distillery.
Rooms: 46 rooms
Pricing: Starting from £461.
Closest Airport: The closest airport to The Fife Arms in Braemar, Scottish Highlands, is Aberdeen International Airport (ABZ).
