The Lazy Duck is a stylish, adventurous accommodation nestled in Abernethy Forest in the Cairngorms National Park, Scotland. We offer off-grid huts, a small group bunkhouse, and a picturesque forest cottage, perfect for nature lovers, adventure seekers and anyone looking to escape the city.

We are located just outside Nethy Bridge, Inverness-shire, PH25 3ED, deep in the Scottish Highlands. Surrounded by forests, rivers, and hills, it’s the ideal base for hiking, wildlife watching, and peaceful retreats.

• The Woodman’s Hut – a cozy, self-contained off-grid hut for 2

• The Duck’s Nest – romantic pond-side hut with forest views

• The Homestead – perfect for a couple looking for a gentle introduction into off-grid living

• The Lookout Bunkhouse – shared accommodation for small groups

• Traveller’s Cottage – charming forest cottage for families and friends

Each accommodation is carefully designed to combine comfort with a connection to nature.

The huts and bunkhouse offer a range of levels of off-grid living. From completely off-grid to something a wee bit more gentle. Think wood-burning stoves, compost toilets and outdoor bucket showers.

Travellers’ Cottage is our more ‘conventional offering.

• Local forest walks and hiking trails

• Wildlife and birdwatching

• Sauna sessions

• Co-working space for remote work

• Nearby lakes for fishing, kayaking, or swimming

• Well-being hut located on site where massages and story walks can be booked

We provide guidance for local adventures and hidden spots in the Cairngorms.

Absolutely! The Lookout Bunkhouse, and Traveller’s Cottage are family-friendly. Children will love exploring the forest, spotting wildlife, and enjoying the outdoor spaces.

You can check availability and book directly on our website. Bookings are available starting Mondays, Tuesdays and Fridays, and we recommend booking early during peak season.

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By car: Approximately 25 minutes from Aviemore.
By public transport: Train to Aviemore, then local bus or taxi service.

Sorry, as much as we love pets, we do not allow them on-site during a stay. This is because we are surrounded by a sensitive landscape and forest, which includes rare ground nesting birds.

Email Matt at mattlazyduck@gmail.com or send him a message at (+44)7798 512732. You can also follow us on social media: Instagram | Facebook.

Our huts and bunkhouse are off-grid, featuring wood-burning stoves, composting toilets, and rainwater systems, meaning you will use less water and electricity, making your stay as eco-conscious as it is relaxing.

Yes, depending on availability. We recommend checking our booking page for up-to-date availability, especially during peak Highland tourist season.

Yes! The Duck’s Nest, Homestead and The Woodman’s Hut offer intimate, off-grid escapes perfect for couples seeking privacy and nature immersion.

Guests often spot red squirrels, deer, woodpeckers, owls, and a variety of Highland birds. If you are lucky you may even come across a carpercaille.

Absolutely! We’re perfectly located close to Aviemore, Grantown-on-Spey, and other Cairngorms attractions like skiing, biking, hiking, wildlife tours, and so much more.

Certainly. Our Short Term Letting license and safety certificates are here.

The nearest railway station is Aviemore Train Station.

• From London & England: Direct LNER daytime trains run from London King's Cross (approx. 7 hours), or you can take the overnight Caledonian Sleeper from London Euston to wake up in Aviemore.

• From Scotland: Frequent direct trains run to Aviemore from Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Inverness.

Once you arrive at Aviemore Station, exit, turn right, and cross the road to catch a local Stagecoach bus heading toward Nethy Bridge. Buy a ticket from the driver to Nethy Bridge The Causer bus stop.

• Tip: We recommend downloading the Stagecoach app before your journey to track real-time bus timetables and connections.

Ask for or get off at The Causer bus stop in Nethy Bridge. From there, it is a gentle and scenic 10-minute walk up our driveway straight to our doorstep.

From Inverness Airport, take the train directly from the airport railway station (10-minute walk) to Inverness city center. From Inverness Station, either hop. onthe 37 bus straight to Nethy Bridge (1hr30) or catch a direct connecting train south to Aviemore, where you can then board the Stagecoach bus to Nethy Bridge.

Yes! Currently local Stagecoach bus fares in the area are very affordable (often featuring discounted single fares, such as £2 adult caps), making a car-free trip both eco-friendly and cost-effective.