Fall for the Highlands

Autumn is one of the best times of year to visit the Scottish Highlands, as the landscape shifts from busy and balmy summer days to the slower pace and golden colours of the season. The purple heather which covers the hills in August gives way to tones of amber and chestnut, and the warmth of sunlight is paired with a welcome chill at dawn and dusk. Autumn is also the season of events and festivals, with the Braemar Gathering, Braemar Literary Festival, and Festival of Fashion taking place in September and November.

Braemar and the Scottish Highlands have served as sources of creative inspiration for generations of artists, fashion designers, poets and authors. Drawing inspiration from their work and motivated to encourage future talent, the Fife Arms launched the Braemar Literary Festival in 2022 and the Festival of Fashion in 2023. Taking place over exciting weekends in September and November respectively, they feature programmes of fascinating talks by both established and upcoming creatives.

The sensory landscape of Royal Deeside is truly immersive during the autumn months. From the doorstep of the Fife Arms, stroll amidst towering Caledonian pines, firs, birches, rowans, and alders, keeping an eye out for red squirrels preparing for winter and elusive pine martens climbing through the branches. Experience the quiet beauty of the Scottish woodland in a guided walk led by an expert Ghillie, who will lead a stroll to some of the most scenic spots while sharing insights into the wildlife and history of the area.

The Fife Arms is filled with cosy fireside nooks for hunkering down during the colder months. When dusk falls, sit in the welcoming courtyard beside the fire pit, wrapped up in a tartan blanket and sampling a dram of whisky from the neighbouring Bertie’s Whisky Bar. On clear nights the stellar skies of the Highlands can be enjoyed overhead – the perfect way to end a day spent out exploring the hills.

Get outdoors this autumn with curated Fife Arms experiences, each offering a unique way to enjoy the scenery surrounding Braemar. Indulge in the healing benefits of a wild river swim and sauna session, discover the best fishing spots to catch salmon and trout, or set out for an off-road 4×4 experience and picnic high in the hills. Guided by the Fife Arms Ghillies and local experts, they provide the perfect opportunities to get to know Royal Deeside.

The dishes served in The Flying Stag and The Clunie Dining Room evolve seasonally to reflect the finest produce available in the Cairngorms. In the autumn, this includes fresh berries and fruits such as blackberries and apples, foraged mushrooms, and of course wild Scottish venison and game. Hearty and deeply connected to the landscape, the menus provide an immersive way to experience the produce and culture of the Highlands.

From 19th October to 7th March, the Fog House is transformed into a traditional Swiss Alpine fondue hut, overlooking the magical courtyard. This atmospheric room, with its wood panelling and cosy fireplace, naturally lends itself as the backdrop to a traditional Swiss fondue hut. Enjoy a menu of Swiss and Scottish cheese fondues, recommended whisky pairings, and a chocolate fondue with waffles, fruit and marshmallows.

As the nights draw in and fires are lit, there is no better time than autumn to cosy up with a drink in The Flying Stag pub and listen to some traditional Scottish music. Local musicians perform every Wednesday and Friday with a mixture of guitar, fiddle, and voice. October also features Braemar Folk Festival, with a weekend of live music performed in venues across Braemar from 2nd to 4th October.

Something magical happens to whisky when tasted in the Highland wilderness, as the aromas combine with the fresh autumn air and sound of rushing burns. At the Fife Arms, the House of Hazelwood whisky tasting offers a unique opportunity to experience some of the rarest whiskies in the world within the dramatic landscapes of the Cairngorms, guided by your own dedicated whisky expert.