Auld Alliance

The Viewmount and the service provided by Esther Botha was phenomenal. The meals were scrumptious and very creative Scottish, including freshly baked bread. There is an amazing wine cellar and we enjoyed one of the wonderful South African wines in the collection. We stayed for two nights and we enjoyed the visit immensely.

Esther is the perfect host for a Highland getaway. The updated rooms in the traditional home are comfortable and luxurious. Great breakfast and attention to detail throughout the stay. Kingussie is the ideal spot for exploring the Highlands.

From the moment we were met at the train station by Esther we knew we were going to have a great stay. She gave us a quick tour of her beautiful house, with amazing library where we would dine in evening and breakfast and the living room which was warmly furnished with comfy leather sofas and chairs. Through a sliding door in the living room was a room stocked with wines and liquors available for the guests to purchase and enjoy. Our upstairs room, The Leslie, had beautiful view out front where you could see the Fort/barracks in the distance. Beautiful bed with fluffy linens, and gas fireplace, desk and ample comfy chairs. Complementary whiskey from the region, coffee and teas. The bathroom was a treat: full freestanding tub and huge separate shower. Bathrobes and slippers encouraged us to relax! We were fortunate to have booked prior to August after which dinners would not be available to guests. Esther served us a six course gourmet meal which was truly amazing: huge, perfectly pan seared scallops, freshly baked bread accompanied the delicate soup course; choice of venison or chicken - both delicious ; desserts of lime meringue and strawberry cake wedge with berry coulis with lovely cheeses to finish the perfect dinner. Breakfast was equally well prepared, accompanied with French pressed coffee, fresh berries and yogurt and warm bread that Esther had made earlier that morning. Unfortunately we had a very very short stay at the Viewmount and we wished for longer. We left some things in the room and Esther contacted us immediately and arranged for them to be sent by post to our location a few days ahead. We were so appreciative! Thank you Esther for the wonderful stay and hospitality!

We have traveled to many countries and stayed in many excellent lodgings. The Viewmount may be one of our most favorite places. The home is beautiful and so elegant. This place is a showcase of elegant interior design. Esther could not have been more hospitable. She is a wonderful host.

We splurged to stay at this beautiful inn and I’m so glad we did. The views from the porch across the valley are stunning. The owner, Esther, has superb taste and has lovingly restored this home to make it warm and inviting. There are no cramped quarters here, just spacious rooms and over-sized baths. No need to go to a gallery because Esther has curated a fine collection of original pieces that are beautifully displayed throughout the home. Breakfast was so good we decided not to eat lunch. And all of this is served up by the kindest innkeeper I have ever met. So glad we came, so sad we had to leave.

We had a wonderful stay at The Viewmount. Our bedroom was well appointed with everything we needed and wonderful views of the Cairngorms. The bed was extra comfy and the pillows perfect for us. We had a huge bathroom with superb quality fittings and lots of hot water. The public rooms were equally attractive and comfortable. The honesty bar and selection of wines were excellent. The real strength of The Viewmount, though, is Esther, whose warmth, care, and attention to detail are exemplary. We really enjoyed our stay.