Luxury Stay in Speyside: Dowans Hotel Aberlour Review
Nestled in the heart of Speyside, the Dowans Hotel in Aberlour is more than just a place to rest your head, it’s a luxurious retreat wrapped in Scottish charm and Highland hospitality. From the moment you arrive to the moment you leave, Dowans delivers an experience that lingers long after checkout.
Why Dowans Hotel is a Must-Stay in Speyside
Aberlour is a charming wee town tucked into the heart of Speyside, where whisky flows and autumn puts on its finest show. As October deepens, the landscape bursts into a riot of gold, amber, and crimson, each day more dazzling than the last as November tiptoes in. On one side, the iconic Aberlour Distillery hums with heritage and spirit; on the other, the sweet scent of Walkers Shortbread drifts from its headquarters and factory. And nestled just a whisper away from Aberlour Distillery lies one of the region’s finest stays: the Dowans Hotel. Here’s what makes it truly special…
Perched high on the hillside, your arrival at the Dowans begins in the carpark, where the air already carries whispers of Speyside’s beauty. As you make your way around to the front entrance, the landscape opens up before you, an arresting vista that sweeps across the gardens and spills out over the Spey Valley beyond. It’s a view that stops you in your tracks, inviting you to linger just a moment longer before stepping inside.
The Dowans Hotel is a family-run gem, lovingly owned by the Murray family since 2012. What was once a grand Victorian mansion has been transformed into a boutique haven boasting 16 beautifully appointed en suite rooms, two characterful bars - the M Bar and The Still; a whisky snug outside in the garden, and a wee restaurant that celebrates local flavours. It’s boutique, it’s beautiful, and above all, it’s effortlessly comfortable; a true home away from home in the heart of Speyside.
Rooms, Dining and Drams : What to Expect at Dowans
Step through the doors of the Dowans Hotel and you’re immediately welcomed into a warm, elegant reception area. To your right, a sweeping staircase leads to the rooms above; to your left, the M Bar and lounge beckon with plush seating and a relaxed, fireside vibe. The staff are genuinely friendly. Check-in is swift, easy, and full of smiles. Within minutes, you’re heading up the staircase to settle into your room.
It’s worth noting: there are no lifts here, and all rooms are accessed via stairs. But what awaits is worth every step. Each room is named after a Speyside whisky distillery, adding a local touch of character and charm.
I noticed that many guests could not pronounce their room names so I’ve added in a wee - how to pronounce:
Single rooms are Cragganmore “Krag-an-more” and Tamdhu “Tam-doo”
Bijou Kings are Knockando ”Nok-an-doe” and Tormore “Tor-more”
Deluxe Kings are Mortlach “Mort-lack” and Glenfarclas “Glen-far-klas”
Club Twins include Longmorn “Long-morn” and Glenfiddich “Glen-fid-dick”
Club Doubles are Cardhu “Car-doo”, Glenlivet “Glen-liv-it”, and Tomintoul “Tom-in-towel”
Executive Club Rooms are Speyburn “Spey-burn” and Benromach “Ben-roe-mack”
Junior Suites are Macallan “Muh-kal-an”, Aberlour “Ab-er-lower”, and Balvenie “Bal-ven-ee”, offering a little extra indulgence.
Every space is thoughtfully designed, blending boutique luxury with homely comfort. Whether you’re here for a dram, a stroll through Speyside’s autumnal splendour, or a weekend of indulgence, the Dowans makes you feel right at home.
I stayed in the Tomintoul room, a penthouse room with stunning views that stretch across Speyside’s rolling beauty. The space is contemporary and fresh, styled with sleek minimalist touches that feel both luxurious and calming. Underfloor heating keeps things cosy, while sensor-operated lighting adds a modern flourish. There’s a flat-screen TV, free Wi-Fi throughout, and thoughtful amenities like a tea and coffee station, Espresso machine, Walkers Shortbread, bottled water, hairdryer, and ironing facilities. Plug points are conveniently placed bedside, and the room offers plenty of space to unwind.
The bed in the Tomintoul room was comfortable, though not quite plush. The pillows were a bit of a balancing act - one felt too thin, two felt too much - and a touch lumpy, which was surprising given the calibre of the room. I’d expected a little more indulgence in the comfort department. That said, the bed linen was white, crisp, and inviting, making for a restful night’s sleep overall.
The Tomintoul room offered a peaceful night’s sleep. Thick curtains closed snugly, blocking out any trace of morning light, while the soundproofing was exceptional, no noise from the road below, no echoes from neighbouring rooms, just pure, uninterrupted quiet. It’s the kind of hush that feels rare in a hotel, and it made all the difference.
As for the bathroom, it features a frosted sliding glass door that opens into a clean, spacious room. The walk-in shower delivers glorious water pressure, and is stocked with luxury toiletries that feel like a treat. Twin sinks offer plenty of space for getting ready, there’s soft lighting and fluffy soft bathrobes. It’s a bathroom that feels thoughtfully designed, with just the right balance of style and practicality.
Breakfast is served downstairs in the 57 Restaurant, where the service is friendly and welcoming. The menu leans into local flair, with hearty Scottish options and fresh ingredients that set you up for the day. It’s a relaxed, cheerful start to the morning, whether you’re lingering over coffee or fuelling up for a Speyside adventure.
Overall, I loved my stay at the Dowans Hotel. The rooms are beautifully appointed, with decor that nods to understated luxury and thoughtful design. The M Bar/lounge was a personal highlight, sitting in front of the fire with a refreshment in hand, soaking up the warmth and ambience, felt like a true Speyside indulgence. Highly recommended for anyone seeking style, serenity, and a touch of whisky-soaked magic.
THINGS TO NOTE ABOUT DOWANS HOTEL, ABERLOUR
There are no lifts and all rooms are up stairs
Breakfast is optional
My room cost £280 including breakfast
They do cater for food allergies
There is free wi-fi throughout
There is free parking
Dowans Hotel, Dowans Road, Aberlour, AB38 9LS www.dowanshotel.com
TartanSpoon is an Award-winning blog that brings you reviews and recommendations on the very best places to eat, drink and stay in Edinburgh, Scotland and beyond.
Adele is a writer, reviewer and judge living in Edinburgh. She sits on the Committee for the Guild of Food Writers (Scottish Events), is a Great Taste Judge for the Guild of Fine Food, Scottish Bakers, Scotland Food & Drink Excellence Awards and a Judge for the Gin Co-operative awards. Should you wish to work with, invite or collaborate with TartanSpoon, please email tartanspoon@yahoo.co.uk
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