We stayed here for three nights over the Easter break, choosing it mainly for its central location as a base to explore the area. The hotel itself is a charming, traditional-style place with a lovely atmosphere. The food was very good throughout our stay, but what really stood out was the staff — friendly, chatty, and genuinely helpful. They made our stay all the more enjoyable with their warm and welcoming approach. We’re already planning to stay again and would definitely recommend it to others.

The rooms are spacious and clean. However, our particular room had a very firm mattress and loose-fitting pillow covers, which made the sleeping experience a little less comfortable than we'd hoped. That said, it wouldn’t put us off staying again.

We really enjoyed it here. Super friendly staff and a relaxed atmosphere. The rooms were great, clean and comfortable. If you want a hearty Scottish breakfast this is the place to come! The food in the evening was also very good and well portioned. It's a great location a little bit away from somewhat more crowded Aviemore. We'd have no hesitation staying here again.

Nothing, it was excellent i.e. a traditional, honest, friendly Scottish hotel in an old building (if you are after 'Premier Inn' conformity or 'Hilton' luxury it may not be for you).

The staff were amazing from the moment we arrived to the moment we left We were upgraded to the next room level up as it was free and it was a welcome surprise The food was delicious, we had breakfast and a dinner. The bar was a good size and had a great offering Although there was a large group staying, we were never made to feel that the staff were too busy or prioritising them. A big shout out to James and Mark who were both brilliant

There was nothing we did not like

The staff were friendly and the staff member on reception ensured my son and I were able to get an evening meal the first night even though I hadn't booked in advance. The room and ensuite were clean, fresh and a comfortable temperature. I had one breakfast which I felt was good value for money as there was a good selection of food.

I didn't find my bed particularly comfortable and although I wore earplugs, the traffic noise was quite loud when the road got busier. Compared to other hotels I've stayed in, the condiments were pretty stingy. I went out and bought myself some milk and coffee to make in my room.

Staff were very friendly and warm, nothing was too much trouble. The food in the restaurant was top notch, I had the best venison stew I've ever had in my life. The cosy bars have an amazing selection of local whisky and gins and all reasonably priced. Location is an ideal base for all that the area has to offer with the village itself being very pretty with lots of lovely walks around. Our room was quite basic but more than adequate for a place to stay after a day's hike. Nice hot shower, tea/coffee making facilities, hairdryer and a clean comfy bed is all you need. This was a last minute booking for my 60th birthday and was glad we chose the Balavil. We would be happy to return.

Disappointed that dogs are not allowed to stay.

The staff were really welcoming and the hotel really cosy. I needed to work late one of the evenings and the manager let me stay working in the bar area even after closing, which was kind and helpful. The pool was a lovely bonus too. It's hard to get much exercise or headspace on the road, so that was a really nice touch to be able to go for a swim.

The cups in the room were paper, it would have been nice to have proper mugs. Limited vegetarian options on the menu.

We recently stayed at the Balavil Hotel in Newtonmore, Scotland, and had a wonderful experience. The accommodations were comfortable, clean, and provided the perfect setting for our stay in the Highlands. What truly stood out was the exceptional staff. They went above and beyond to ensure our visit was enjoyable. Despite not having dinner reservations, they kindly accommodated us, and the meal was delicious. Their warm hospitality made us feel right at home. I highly recommend the Balavil Hotel for anyone looking for a cozy stay with outstanding service!

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Good bar, restaurant and pool. Nicely decorated and the staff are all lovely. Bedrooms had tea and coffee available and were fairly spacious with a clean and well supplied bathroom. We watched the football in the back bar which is the type of local hotel lounge bar you don't see much anymore. It was ace.

Told restaurant was fully booked and latest we could eat was 6pm. Then there plenty of tables free in the end. So everyone ate when we weren't really hungry. There is also a lot of noise leak from other rooms. The room above us made the light fitting in our room rattle when they walked around. But for a night or two it's fine.

What a fantastic place! We had made a mistake with the booking but the team couldn't have been more accommodating and understanding. The food was really exceptional, rooms were warm and comfy (important when its snowing outside!), the swimming pool was lovely and warm and clean, staff were all friendly and provided great recommendations on everything from whisky selection to the route we should follow for the next day! Thank you so much for everything!

Nothing it was all amazing!

Spacious bedroom, clean and. Staff amazing, very friendly and helpful.Great location. Go to the Highland folk museum. Fabulous.

.This time of year is for coach trips and was a lot noisier than the time we spent in May (2025). The cabaret for this trip was extremely loud, by Sol, was extremely loud. We prefer a quiet space. While we had a great room at the front of the hotel it meant it was noisy until 10pm