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Scotland’s Dazzling Dark Skies

Dark skies are key to the perfect star gazing adventure, and Scotland’s enchanting landscapes are not just confined to daylight hours; as the sun sets across the Highlands, a celestial spectacle unfolds in the skies above. Dark Skies in Scotland offer a captivating experience for stargazers and nature enthusiasts alike. Kick off your stargazing adventure by booking at a stay at The Hollies Retreats – find our guide on what makes the location of our retreats so special!

Scotland’s Dark Skies: A Celestial Wonderland

From October to March, the Cairngorms Dark Sky Park  transforms into a celestial wonderland, far removed from the hustle and bustle of city lights. The minimal artificial light pollution ensures a clear canvas for an unforgettable display of stars, planets, and even the elusive Northern Lights. This designated dark sky area provides an unparalleled opportunity to witness the vastness of the universe in all its glory. 

Guided Stargazing Tours: Unravelling the Cosmos 

For those eager to delve deeper into the mysteries of the night sky, guided stargazing tours are the key to unlocking the cosmos. Strathspey Tours offer bespoke stargazing and sightseeing tours within a 50-mile radius of Grantown-on-Spey. Knowledgeable experts lead these tours, providing insights into constellations, planets, and celestial phenomena. Whether you’re a seasoned astronomer or a first-time stargazer, the wonders of the night sky in Scotland are sure to leave you mesmerised. 

Plan Your Celestial Getaway with The Hollies Retreats

The Hollies Retreats offer the perfect base for your celestial adventure. The site is near the town of Aviemore and provides a welcoming retreat when you want a beautiful place to stay in the Scottish Highlands. The Muckrach Country Estate consists of Muckrach Country House, a large private hire house for up to 22 guests, as well as the addition of The Hollies Highland Lodges, 3 luxury self-catering lodges. Onsite The Hollies also have two residential Highland Coos / Cows, Hamish and Dougal.   

Nestled within the acres of pastureland in the Cairngorms National Park in Dulnain Bridge, just 3.8 miles from the heart of Grantown-on-Spey, 12 miles from Aviemore and 35 miles from Inverness, you are in the ideal location to explore what the Highlands have to offer. The site lends itself to a plethora of outdoor activities; from hiking around or skiing down the Cairngorm Mountain, swimming at the UK’s highest beach at Loch Morlich, having adventure days at Rothiemurchus, fishing for Salmon in the Spey River, teeing off surrounded by natural beauty, seeing the fairy magic of An Lochan Uaine or the mystery of Loch Ness; you can choose to do it all, or nothing at all… 

Muckrach Country House is a lovingly restored Victorian Shooting Lodge that sleeps up to 22 guests in the utmost of luxury and comfort. The House offers the perfect balance of space for both entertaining and relaxing. Featuring 11 uniquely designed en-suite bedrooms, a piano bar, luxury kitchen, library, snug, outdoor terrace, and a hot tub for that special time with family, friends or colleagues.  

The Hollies Highland Lodges have been designed with comfort in mind. We want you to relax and feel at home in our gorgeous self-catering cottages. The contemporary, luxury interior design creates an inviting space, with each kitchen fitted with high-end appliances so you can prepare meals at your leisure. If you’re looking for a luxury lodge with a hot tub in Scotland, The Hollies Retreats Highland has the perfect collection for you. All our Highland lodges are dog-friendly too, meaning there is no reason to leave your four-legged friends at home whilst you explore the Scottish Highlands.  

Book your unforgettable journey to Scotland’s Dark Skies with The Hollies Retreats now.