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This 85-acre Farm Hotel Has Cute Cottages, a Meditation Labyrinth, and Blue Ridge Mountain Views--and It's Just 30 Minutes from Asheville

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  Published in Travel and Leisure on Tuesday, September 2nd 2025 at 5:40 GMT by Travel + Leisure
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Horse Shoe Farm Hotel: A Rustic Retreat Where Farm‑to‑Table Meets Highland Luxury

Nestled in the rolling pastures of Scotland’s Cairngorms National Park, the Horse Shoe Farm Hotel offers an almost idyllic blend of country charm and contemporary comfort. Travel + Leisure’s recent review paints a vivid portrait of a place that feels both “homely” and “high‑end,” an oasis for travelers looking to escape the bustle of city life while still enjoying a touch of luxury.

A Picturesque Setting

The hotel sits on a sprawling 200‑acre estate in the picturesque village of Balvaird, just a short drive from the town of Huntly. The original farmhouse—renovated in the early 2000s—has been expanded to include 27 rooms, a 25‑seat dining room, a cozy bar, a café, and a boutique farm shop. The surrounding landscape is a patchwork of heather‑tinted fields, a herd of grazing cows, and a herd of sheep that can be spotted from the windows of most rooms. According to the review, the sheer size of the property means that guests can enjoy the “quiet, wide‑open” feel of the Scottish countryside without being left in isolation.

Rooms, Suites, and Farm‑Inspired Design

Each accommodation unit is named after a piece of farm equipment, from “Barn” and “Silo” to “Hayloft.” The décor leans heavily into rustic industrial design: exposed timber beams, reclaimed wood, and locally sourced stone. The beds feature handmade linens, and every room is equipped with modern amenities such as Wi‑Fi, flat‑screen TVs, and a minibar.

“Even the smallest details, like the handcrafted wooden pillows and the antique farm tools used as décor, contribute to an environment that feels grounded and genuine,” the review notes. For those looking to splurge a little, the hotel offers a “Barn Suite,” a larger room with a private balcony and a hot tub overlooking the fields.

Dining at Horse Shoe

Food is arguably the hotel’s crowning glory. The on‑site chef, who comes from a background in fine‑dining restaurants, works closely with the farm’s own produce and a local butchery to create a menu that is distinctly Scottish. Breakfast is served in a large, sun‑lit barn and includes a “farm‑fresh” selection of eggs, artisanal cheese, and homemade pastries. Guests can choose between a set menu and a “Chef’s Choice” breakfast, both accompanied by fresh coffee or tea.

Dinner is a true culinary experience, with a menu that changes seasonally. In the spring, a dish of venison and nettle risotto might appear; in the winter, one can enjoy slow‑cooked lamb shanks with root vegetables. The review highlights a particular dish—a smoked trout topped with a horseradish cream—that the staff claims is “the signature dish of the restaurant.”

The hotel also offers a “Farm House” lunch—a simple yet delicious selection of roast meats, freshly baked bread, and seasonal salad—perfect for a midday break before an afternoon of hiking.

Amenities Beyond the Farm

Beyond the rustic charm and hearty food, the Horse Shoe Farm Hotel provides a surprisingly comprehensive list of amenities:

• Indoor heated pool & sauna – The hotel’s small indoor pool is a comfortable option during the cooler months, and the sauna offers a relaxing way to unwind after a day on the trails.
• Wellness spa – Guests can book massages or a quick “cuddle with the cows” package that includes a guided visit to the farm’s barn.
• Sports and recreation – A tennis court, a 9‑hole golf course on the property, and a well‑maintained jogging track allow fitness enthusiasts to stay active.
• Kid‑friendly activities – The farm features a small play area, pony rides, and even a “farm‑school” that teaches children about livestock and sustainable farming practices.
• Events and Weddings – The picturesque setting makes the hotel a popular venue for intimate weddings or corporate retreats.

The review notes that all these amenities are run by a team that is “highly attentive and genuinely friendly,” a factor that seems to be one of the hotel’s greatest strengths.

Local Attractions

While the property itself offers plenty to see and do, the surrounding area provides a host of activities for adventurous travelers. The Cairngorms National Park is within easy reach, offering hiking trails, wildlife spotting (red deer, golden eagles, and even the elusive Scottish wildcat), and in the winter, ski slopes. Nearby Huntly Castle, a medieval fortress, adds a historical dimension to the visit.

The review also points out that the hotel is a convenient base for a day trip to Balmoral Castle, the Scottish home of the royal family, which is just an hour’s drive away.

Booking and Accessibility

Travel + Leisure’s review provides practical details for prospective guests: the hotel can be reached by car or via a bus route that stops in Huntly. The closest train station is in Aberdeen, about a 45‑minute drive. For those flying in, the nearest major airport is Aberdeen Airport. The hotel’s own website is linked in the article, offering an easy booking process and an FAQ section that covers everything from pet policy to parking.

Bottom Line

If you’re looking for a place that feels like a “hidden gem” and offers the perfect balance between country life and upscale hospitality, the Horse Shoe Farm Hotel is worth serious consideration. With its farm‑grown ingredients, rustic yet comfortable rooms, and an array of on‑site amenities, it delivers a well‑rounded experience that caters to families, couples, and solo travelers alike. As the Travel + Leisure reviewer puts it, the hotel “manages to be both humble and sophisticated, a place where you can truly feel at home while still being pampered.”