Heron Lodge in North Kessock | Must-See Inverness-Shire Hot Tub Cottage

About Heron Lodge

Heron Lodge is a genuine Canadian-style round log cabin tucked away in Craigbreck Wood near North Kessock in the Scottish Highlands. This secluded woodland retreat sits just 10 minutes from Inverness yet feels completely private within its 3-hectare forest setting.

The Scottish Highlands location is perfect for explorers. You're positioned right off the iconic North Coast 500 route with easy access to Loch Ness, Culloden Battlefield and the beautiful Moray Firth. Wildlife watchers will spot red squirrels, deer and numerous bird species right from the lodge.

The accommodation features two bedrooms - one king-size double with en-suite shower and a twin room that can convert to a king-size bed on request. The open-plan living area includes a fully-equipped kitchen with all modern appliances, dining space and a cosy sitting area with a woodburning stove. The private hot tub on the veranda is perfect for stargazing.

Visit Loch Ness (14 miles, 25 mins), spot dolphins at Chanonry Point (11 miles, 20 mins), explore Culloden Battlefield (10 miles, 18 mins), or enjoy the Highland Capital of Inverness (5 miles, 10 mins) with its shops and restaurants.

Heron Lodge offers complete peace and tranquillity while being surprisingly accessible. Perfect for families, couples or anyone seeking a woodland escape with their dogs. The hot tub and log fire make this a year-round haven.

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A homely Canadian cabin located near the village of North Kessock in the Scottish Highlands. Set in the Craigbeck Wood. Inverness 6 miles. Veranda with hot tub.

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What Guests Love

Discover why our guests keep coming back to Heron Lodge

Peaceful Woodland Setting

Set in 3 hectares of private forest, guests love the quiet seclusion while still being just 10 minutes from Inverness.

Wildlife Watching

Red squirrels, deer and many bird species visit right outside the lodge, with feeders provided for close-up viewing.

Luxury Hot Tub

The private hot tub on the veranda is perfect for relaxing after a day exploring or stargazing in the evening.

Genuine Log Cabin

Many guests mention this is a "proper" Canadian-style round log cabin - not just a wooden holiday home.

Spotlessly Clean

Reviews consistently praise the immaculate condition and high-quality furnishings throughout the lodge.

Thoughtful Welcome Pack

Guests appreciate the carefully prepared welcome basket and helpful information about local attractions.

Getting To Heron Lodge

Find your way to your perfect countryside retreat

By Car

To reach Heron Lodge by car, take the A9 north from Inverness across the Kessock Bridge, then follow signs for North Kessock. Turn off at Craigbreck Wood where you'll find the lodge nestled in its private woodland setting with convenient parking for two cars.

By Train

The nearest train station is Inverness, approximately 5 miles from the lodge. From there, you can take a short taxi ride to the property. The station connects to major Scottish cities with regular services from Edinburgh, Glasgow and Aberdeen.

Off-road parking for two cars

Inverness station (5 miles)

Just off the A9, north of Kessock Bridge

Attractions & More Nearby

Everything you need within easy reach

Loch Ness

Distance: 14 miles

IV63 6TU

Culloden Battlefield

Distance: 10 miles

IV2 5EU

Chanonry Point (Dolphin Watching)

Distance: 11 miles

IV10 8SD

Ord Hill Forest Walks

Distance: 1 mile

IV1 3ZG

Glen Affric

Distance: 28 miles

IV4 7LY

Fairy Glen Falls

Distance: 12 miles

IV10 8TT

Eastgate Shopping Centre

Distance: 5 miles

IV2 3PP

Tesco Extra Inverness

Distance: 4 miles

IV2 3TW

Victorian Market Inverness

Distance: 5 miles

IV1 1NH

Inverness Bus Station

Distance: 5 miles

IV1 1LT

Inverness Airport

Distance: 12 miles

IV2 7JB

Raigmore Hospital

Distance: 7 miles

IV2 3UJ

Loch Ness

Distance: 14 miles

IV63 6TU

Culloden Battlefield

Distance: 10 miles

IV2 5EU

Chanonry Point (Dolphin Watching)

Distance: 11 miles

IV10 8SD

Ord Hill Forest Walks

Distance: 1 mile

IV1 3ZG

Glen Affric

Distance: 28 miles

IV4 7LY

Fairy Glen Falls

Distance: 12 miles

IV10 8TT

Eastgate Shopping Centre

Distance: 5 miles

IV2 3PP

Tesco Extra Inverness

Distance: 4 miles

IV2 3TW

Victorian Market Inverness

Distance: 5 miles

IV1 1NH

Inverness Bus Station

Distance: 5 miles

IV1 1LT

Inverness Airport

Distance: 12 miles

IV2 7JB

Raigmore Hospital

Distance: 7 miles

IV2 3UJ

Is Heron Lodge Right For You?

Discover why this cottage is ideal for different types of visitors

For Families

Kids love exploring the 3-hectare private woodland surrounding Heron Lodge. They can spot red squirrels, deer and various birds from the windows or veranda. The nearby Loch Lundie offers a short, manageable walk. Inverness has family attractions including Landmark Forest Adventure Park and the Aquadome swimming pool, both within easy driving distance.

For Couples

The secluded woodland setting makes Heron Lodge perfect for couples. Evenings can be spent in the private hot tub under the stars or by the woodburning stove. The king-size bedroom with en-suite adds luxury. Nearby restaurants in Inverness offer romantic dining options, while scenic drives along the North Coast 500 provide stunning day trips with coastal views.

Pet Friendly

Dogs will love the immediate woodland walks from Heron Lodge's doorstep. The property welcomes two well-behaved dogs and provides useful extras like outdoor water bowls and waste disposal facilities. The owners offer a helpful guide to local dog-friendly beaches, including Rosemarkie Beach (11 miles away), which has sand, rocks and caves to explore.

Dining & Cafes

Taste the local flavours during your stay at Heron Lodge

The North Kessock Hotel

Located 3 miles from your accommodation.

Postcode: IV1 3XN

The Allangrange Arms

Located 5 miles from your accommodation.

Postcode: IV10 8TT

The Storehouse Restaurant

Located 7 miles from your accommodation.

Postcode: IV8 8NZ

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers to our most common questions about Heron Lodge

Does this cottage have a hot tub?

Yes, Heron Lodge features a private hot tub on the veranda. It's regularly maintained to high standards and many guests mention enjoying it for evening relaxation while stargazing or watching wildlife.

Is it pet friendly?

Yes, Heron Lodge welcomes two well-behaved dogs. The woodland setting offers immediate walking opportunities and the owners provide helpful information about dog-friendly beaches and attractions nearby.

What wildlife might I see during my stay?

The lodge is set in private woodland where you can spot red squirrels, deer, woodpeckers and various bird species. Many guests report seeing wildlife right from the veranda or through the windows.

How far is it from Inverness?

Heron Lodge is approximately 5 miles from Inverness city center, about a 10-minute drive. This gives you easy access to shops, restaurants and amenities while enjoying a peaceful forest setting.

Are there walks directly from the property?

Yes, there are several walking trails directly from the lodge through the surrounding woodland. A short walk leads to Loch Lundie and Ord Hill offers excellent hiking opportunities without needing to drive.

What kitchen facilities are provided?

The kitchen is fully equipped with an electric cooker, microwave, fridge/freezer, washer/dryer and dishwasher. All cooking utensils, crockery and cutlery are provided for self-catering.

Is there parking at the property?

Yes, Heron Lodge has off-road parking for two cars directly beside the property. The parking area is level and easily accessible from the main road.

What heating does the lodge have?

The lodge has LPG central heating throughout and a woodburning stove in the living area. A starter pack for the stove is included, making it cosy year-round regardless of Scottish weather.

Heron Lodge Reviews

Raymond

Excellent lodge in beautiful surroundings in the woods. Well equipped and extremely clean. Cannot fault anything

Over the years we have stayed in many log cabins but this is a proper round log, Canadian style log cabin and by far the most luxurious. Very impressed with the cabin, finished to a high standard, all kitchen appliances, it's location private and tranquil. The hosts Helen and David were on hand if needed but there's nothing more you could need. Loved our week there and will definitely return. Iain & Karen

Beautiful cabin in a very peaceful setting, the location is great in order to explore the surrounding area. The amenities of Inverness are also only a short drive away. Helen and David were very helpful and even sent on some gifts that we had left behind! We would definitely love to visit again!

Fantastic place to stay. Very welcoming owners and lodge was very clean with lovely welcome pack and a wee gift as it was our honeymoon. Not far from Inverness and other attractions which is definitely a fantastic benifit especially since we had our 3 children and 2 dogs with us. Some people don't like all the instructions etc but I found these very helpful and even had lists of local places to visit with dogs etc which was amazing. My only slight issue I had was after paying for the holiday was then told I had to pay 150 returnable cleaning fee I wish this was communicated straight away as we had to then save and budget for this however it was paid back straight away when we returned home so not a big issue. We will definitely be staying again as we all loved it.

Christine

We really loved our stay in this beautiful cabin in a truly lovely part of Scotland. The hosts were superhelpful. They went above and beyond to make our honeymoon special. The cabin itself is immaculate and very well equipped. We found everything to be of a very high quality from the furnishings, the bathrooms, the dishes and cutlery, the linens, the curtains which I LOVED, and the very comfortable bed. There were instructions dotted about the place but they werent especially intrusive. They were basically sensible rules about not doing yourself a damage in the hot tub, not flooding the cabin, and not setting fire to the woods. The good housekeeping bond was returned immediately after we left the place in good order. We look forward to returning.

A lovely peaceful location just north of Inverness and absolutely perfect for exploring the north of Scotland saw the northern lights from the hot tub, spent time on stunning beaches and just loved our stay. Super peaceful and comfortable, slept like a dream after amazing days out exploring the area. Lovely location, facilities and hosts absolutely nothing we didn't love!

This was the perfect getaway for us. A log cabin in the woods offering us seclusion and privacy, yet just a short hop to Inverness to take in the bars and restaurants. Our hosts, Helen and David were superb both friendly and respectful, and always on hand when needed. The cabin was cleaned to a very high standard and provided everything we could have wanted. We will definitely be returning in the future.

This is a beautiful place to stay. Helen and David are very welcoming, friendly and have gone to every effort to ensure you have everything youll need during your stay right down to the books on the bookshelf which were a great variety! The welcome pack was such a lovely touch heather ale yes please! and lots of clear instructions on how to use everything in the cabin. The envelope of ideas of places to go was also really well received. The cabin was absolutely spotless when we arrived, and I love that the dog friendly aspect is really well thought through dog bowl outside with poo bags, dog treats in the welcome pack, a special dog poo bin outside and clear rules about what is and isnt allowed just makes it much easier to manage. The setting is also just stunning. There is so much to explore immediately outside the cabin without having to get in your car. Would recommend Ord Hill and the walk to the local small Loch Lundie. Beautiful and magical! Our other favourite place to visit was Rosemarkie Beach sandy with clear water but also has rocks to climb, rock pools to investigate and also caves with a very interesting history! We just had such a lovely time staying in Heron Lodge, I would love to return!

Wonderful stay. Accommodation is clean, fresh, well equipped and spacious. Large hot tub which was a luxury to enjoy at the end of each day. Super comfy beds, meaning we slept well every night. Woke up to see so many birds in the feeders and even spotted red squirrels. Setting is idealic so quiet and peaceful in the forest yet just over 10 minutes drive from the amenities of lovely Inverness. A fabulous stay in a stunning area of Scotland. Would highly recommend.

Absolutely splendid. It is a real log cabin, spacious and very well equipped. Sheltered from the wind by fir trees, the cabin veranda was a delightful, sun trap. The bird feeders attracted a huge variety of birds, we counted 14 different kinds. There were bird books, for those who wish to identify them. It really is a superb choice for a holiday away from the rush and noise of modern life. Yet only a short drive from Inverness.

Fabulous lodge and owners were exceptionally helpful and made sure we had everything we needed. The pictures do not do the lodge justice, it is very clean, everything is of good quality and they had thought of everything you could possibly think of, a true home away from home. Would highly recommend and there was even a heron and red squirrels!!

A lovely comfortable lodge in peaceful surroundings and easy access to Inverness

I was really surprised by the land the owner had. They had their own forest for kids to explore and beautiful log cabins. It was like being in a Hollywood movie set and listening to Steven Spielberg say Action I couldnt believe my eyes when I arrived. Thanks for a wonderful experience Helen & David.

Douglas

We enjoyed a wonderful stay at Heron Lodge. The host welcomed us on arrival to and gave us some information about the lodge and the area. The lodge is beautiful, clean and extremely well equipped. The location is great for exploring with several historic sites and walks etc nearby. The host provided an extensive list of suggested places to visit and recommended restaurants etc which was very helpful. It is also only about a ten minute drive to the centre of Inverness with shopping, bars, restaurants and supermarkets. We couldnt fault our stay in any way and hope to stay at Heron lodge again in the future.

We had a fantastic week. Amazing lodge in a beautiful location. The lodge was immaculate and had everything we needed and very dog friendly. Highly recommended.

The cabin was fantastic a real home from home. The cleanliness and provisions were second to none. The hot tub was a great addition and again spotlessly clean. A real credit to the lovely owners. The location was lovely and peaceful yet only a short 5 mile trip to Inverness and ideally placed to discover the Black Isle, further north or even across to the west side of Scotland and the western isles.

Fantastic week spent at Heron lodge, could not ask for a better location or accommodation if you want to unwind and explore the highlands. The lodge was amazing and even better than expected with everything you needed for a comfortable stay. We were greeted by the owner who was extremely helpful and gave us plenty of ideas of things to do. There were so many highlights from the week and one we will not forget for a long time. Loch Ness was stunning and close by but surprisingly not over run with visitors as I would have expected. There were so many places to see that we will be back again soon. Book soon you do not want to miss out on experiencing Heron lodge or the other lodge close by Moorhen lodge.

Excellent lodge with hot tub. Great communication from the property owners prior to and during our stay. Lovely welcome pack on arrival including starter pack for log burner. Lodge is perfectly positioned for day trips to surrounding areas Inverness, Loch Ness, Culloden, Chanonry Point and many more!. We stayed for 7 nights and were not short of things to do with 2 children under 9 and our dog. Highly recommended you wont be disappointed!

Andrew

Fabulous peaceful welcoming place to stay, Every attention to detail to make our stay perfect was taken care of, The lodge is immaculate, beautifully presented and everything you could need is in the lodge, Host where fantastic and welcoming and really helpful with local information.

Amazing property we loved it

Absolutely fabulous lodge, spotlessly clean, extremely comfortable and really well equipped. Dogs made to feel welcome. Hot tub an added bonus.Great location for exploring the Black Isle, Sutherland and Inverness. Would I go back ? Absolutely ! Easily one if not the best lodge Ive been to.

Excellent holiday in a beautiful lodge. We felt very priviledged to be there. The location was brilliant in such lovely woods together with the birds. We admire the way in which you are trying to be as green as possible without losing the luxury of everything involved in staying at the lodge. The lodge was very well furnished and we were not short of anything. The surrounding area was very enjoyable to explore especially dolphin watching for a good hour or more off Chanonry Point. We had another day out where we called in at the stunning resort of Eagles Brae where we photographed the friendly deer and other wild life. Together with the Cairngorm National park and stunning scenery around the Moray Firth we had a great week.

Our stay at Heron Lodge was incredible! Everything we needed was available and the hot tub was very welcome after long days hiking. We absolutely loved it.

Christopher

Absolutely amazing place so clean and quiet. Will return 100 close enough for everything on your doorstep but 1.5 miles and your away from everything the perfect break. Chris & Nicky Halesowen

This was the best place we have ever stayed & gutted to leave will definitely return! A beautiful log cabin with everything you would ever need & immaculately clean. Welcome gift pack & lovely friendly & helpful hosts. We actually sat in the hot tub one night with snow swirling around our heads my little girl was in awe!? Also enjoyed waking up to the birds & watching them feed beautiful red squirrel visitor too wow! We also saw a tiny tree creeper & a woodpecker. The area is amazing lovely little local walk to the loch through a beautiful glen. Then Glen Affric & the Cairngorms & Fairy Glen great tiny pub in village & wonderful drives to amazing scenery mpuntains, trees, lochs, sea & castles! We really really didnt want to leave & are very sad to be home apart from to see our cat. Our little dog came with us & loved it too! Amazing holiday thank you to Helen & David for making it happen! Emma, John, Gracie & Harry me

Everything about our stay has been absolutely perfect! We loved watching the birds and squirrels and so did the dogs! The hot tub was perfect to come back to after our trips out sightseeing and the log fire was so cosy. Helen and David are so helpful and go above and beyond to make sure your visit is everything you want. The tips of where to go with the dogs were so welcomed. Although we were tucked away in the depths of the forest, Inverness was only 10 minutes away but you'd never know! We got breakfast from the bakery down the road each morning too. Thank you Helen and David, we are so sad to have to leave and we'll definitely be back if you'll have us!.

Fantastic lodge in a superb setting

Christopher

Loved every minute of our stay at the exquisite Heron Lodge. This is the best log cabin we've stayed in and we've stayed in quite a few around the uk. We thought the lodge was immaculate and the location superb, and the welcome hamper was a lovely touch. We couldn't really fault the lodge at all so we're sure we'll return again at some point in the future. Highly recommended.

We genuinely loved everything about this place. It strikes a fantastic balance between modern comforts and a truly rustic area, sitting in the hot tub whilst looking out into the forest and listening to the weather. Following that up with then being able to sit in the warmth and comfort of the cabin with the log fire burning and watch a movie or two. Even if we did feel like venturing out, we were only 10 15 minutes away from Inverness proper so never felt too isolated. On top of this the owners are amazingly communicative and approachable and made sure our stay was perfect. Thoroughly recommended across the board.

Hayley

Amazing lodge best we have ever stayed in so peaceful and well looked after. Toilet roll, dishwasher tablets, washing machine tablets, washing up liquid, soap, handwash, tea towels, hand and bath towels, flannels, oven gloves, hot tub towels are all provided so dont need to take own which is very handy, saving room in the carless to pack. Highly recommend this place if like to be somewhere peaceful.

Fantastic log cabin in a great location we will definitely return

Christopher Richard

Everything you need is at Heron Lodge. The owners are particularly keen on green issues in and surrounding the Lodges. You are in an area of oustanding natural beauty so for example don't bring fairy liquid or dishwasher tablets as they aren't on mains drainage or sewerage, they have a digester so salts and any other cleaning products are not advised. Everything is very close by and there are some very good pubs with great food. Glen Affric is a must. Make sure you prebook attractions to avoid dissapointment.

Amanda

The lodge is just perfect. Great location, everything you could possibly need provided, the hosts really have thought of everything. Great base for sight seeing, loads of places you can visit not too far from lodge. We had such a relaxing break, our dog thoroughly enjoyed it too. Hope to be back in the near future. Highly recommend staying here.

Gordon

The Heron Lodge was a fantastic location for a holiday. The accommodation was very comfortable and very well kitted out. The hot tub and bbq were very well used. The area was excellent for walking and cycling. The hosts could not have done enough for us. Thoroughly recommended.

The owners of the lodges are lovely people. ..nothing is too much trouble, so peaceful...we will go back.

Fantastic lodge. We had a brilliant stay with our dogs. Loads to do nearby. The owners are very lovely too. Thank you for the goodies basket upon our arrival. Well be coming back.

Fabulous lodge and a perfect getaway. Ideal for some relaxation and quiet time, yet close enough to shops should you need anything. The lodge was in very clean condition and the owners were superb and happy to help or advise at any time. The wood burning stove and the hot tub were a delight, and we will most certainly be back in the near future.

Karina

Brilliant location with lots to see and do. The owners were helpful and friendly and had thought of everything to make the lodge a home from home. Would recommend this property.

Daniel

Totally amazing! !! The lodge was wonderful with so many small details considered. The owners were absolutely lovely. The location is perfect, isolated yet only a 10 minute drive to Inverness and central to explore the highlands. Our expectations were exceeded and we will definitely be back to stay in the near future.

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Heron Lodge, North Kessock

About Heron Lodge

Need To Know

More Cottages With Hot Tubs You May Like

What Guests Love

Peaceful Woodland Setting

Wildlife Watching

Luxury Hot Tub

Genuine Log Cabin

Spotlessly Clean

Thoughtful Welcome Pack

Getting To Heron Lodge

By Car

By Train

Attractions & More Nearby

Is Heron Lodge Right For You?

For Families

For Couples

Pet Friendly

Dining & Cafes

The North Kessock Hotel

The Allangrange Arms

The Storehouse Restaurant

Frequently Asked Questions

Location Name

Heron Lodge Reviews