I was hiking the speyside way so had the single attic room. Possibly a personal thing for me as I run quite hot but I found the room far too warm, the temperature only normalised around 10 pm with the window fully open. I did approach the management who were very sympathetic and indicated the room was near the boiler in the eaves.

Really impressed with nearly every aspect of the hotel, very professionally run. Proper coffee and cafetiere in the room was very welcome. Nice evening meal but breakfast was star of the show, stornoway black pudding, best quality haggis etc all cooked to order with fresh, strong coffee... one of the best ever.

Stayed in April 2025

Coffee at breakfast was very weak. Would have been improved if it was a stronger cafetiere or espresso style.

Breakfast was fantastic. Location was beautiful and whisky selection was excellent.

Stayed in February 2025

Fantastic place to stay while in the area. Beautiful rooms and communal areas. Excellent food and friendly helpful staff. We will definitely be back.

Stayed in March 2025

Superb hotel. Faultless. Excellent room, friendly staff and superb food. Would throughly recommend.

Stayed in March 2025

A Luxurious Boutique Gem in the Heart of Speyside Our recent stay at The Dowans Hotel in Aberlour was nothing short of exceptional. From the moment we arrived, we were greeted with a warm and genuine welcome from Tim, whose hospitality set the tone for a truly wonderful experience. Though we arrived early, we were keen to have lunch before check-in. As we stepped into the beautifully decorated reception area, we were immediately struck by the elegant attention to detail that runs throughout the hotel. Tim guided us to the bar and lounge, where we were presented with an inviting and thoughtfully curated menu. The selection was just right—offering something for every appetite without being overwhelming. We each chose a sandwich, paired with a rich and full-bodied glass of Pinot Gris, which we were delighted to find available by the glass. The wine list was outstanding, clearly reflecting the expertise and care of Lauren and her team. My Cuban sandwich was brilliant, perfectly prepared and packed with flavor. Our room was ready ahead of schedule, allowing us to settle in before heading to the Macallan Estate for a spectacular three-hour tour and nine-course dinner. Beforehand, we took a brisk walk past the local waterfalls, enjoying the stunning natural surroundings. The hotel’s location is ideal, just a short walk from everything in Aberlour, making it a perfect base for exploring Speyside. One of the true highlights of our stay was the whisky room, a beautifully designed space that any whisky enthusiast would appreciate. Lauren, the whisky expert, was an absolute delight—her knowledge, passion, and storytelling made our time there even more special. It was a joy discussing whisky and its heritage with someone so enthusiastic and well-versed in the craft. Our experience at The Dowans Hotel was luxurious, welcoming, and truly memorable. Whether you’re visiting for whisky, relaxation, or fine dining, this boutique hotel is an absolute gem.

Stayed in March 2025

Beautiful decor with a real friendly welcome.

Stayed in March 2025

The road was steep with a sharp turn to enter and the signage could have been a bit more clear. I had the salad at dinner and it was awful. Bitter green lettuce with no dressing and way too much cheese on top. The rest of the food was excellent though.

Very clean and beautiful property. The staff were friendly although our server at dinner was not the best.

Stayed in March 2025

Beautiful, we’ll-kept grounds, attentive staff

Stayed in March 2025

Fantastic experience. Could not have spent a better first night in Scotland. Staff was great, and hanging out at the hotel tasting whiskeys was a great experience! Also the rooms seem newly updated, very clean. Location was close to everything! If you’re unsure about if you should book or not, this is your sign.

Stayed in March 2025

Room was a little warm but was adjusted promptly

Very friendly and knowledgeable staff. Whisky bar was amazing, as was breakfast

Stayed in March 2025

Large bed was 2 singles together and radiator wouldn’t work.

Service was exceptional. Food was exquisite. Location was brilliant!

Stayed in February 2025

The only thing to comment was that the common areas could have been a little warmer

Excellent small hotel, very well run. Well laid out, good decor. In a beautiful part of the country.

Stayed in January 2025

NA

The property was amazing perched up on the hill, with exceptional views across the valley. Attention to detail was on point and nothing was too difficult for the staff and management. We enjoyed every minute of our stay. Our room was perfect with a beautiful view. The grounds were well cared for. This property is a 10/10 on all levels.

Stayed in January 2025

Nothing

Superb service from all staff and stunning location. Fantastic food, drink and selection of whisky!

Stayed in January 2025

Hogmanay at the Dowans was amazing !

Stayed in January 2025

Carrying my heavy suitcase up the stairs ( lol)

Very good dinners !

Stayed in October 2024

We had stayed in this hotel 5 years previously and we were so happy to return. Hotel was just as beautiful as we remembered, staff as lovely and the food just as wonderful. Can not recommend enough!

Stayed in October 2024

Nice place where we stayed when visiting nearby Macallan distillery. The staff is very nice and helpful. Breakfast and also dinner were very good.

Stayed in October 2024

Staff was very friendly and helpful.

Stayed in October 2024

The view from hotel room is wow, whisky room with 500+ whiskies, restaurant, parking

Stayed in October 2024

Service and location

Stayed in October 2024

The lack of public transportation in the area

The breakfast was great and the staff was very friendly

Stayed in September 2024

Not having a bottle of water was the only thing, had to use the bathroom sink to fill the kettle.

Loved the staff, they’re very helpful in making dinner reservations and securing a breakfast time. The kitchen was fantastic and the whisky bar was top notch.

Stayed in September 2024

We had a small room, but this was expected and was really no problem apart from the room being very warm…the noise from the nearby road was not really a problem either. Dinner prices were high, but given the quality of meals was understandable.

An exceptionally great range on offer for breakfast, probably the best ive experienced in any hotel anywhere in the world, and with a combination of Scottish traditional and healthy foods. Dinner was likewise extremely good; no need to consider eating out. Staff were very helpful, attentive and knowledgeable. The “Whisky Snug” room for tastings is almost unbelievable, with 600 whiskys on offer!

Stayed in September 2024