Macdonald Aviemore Resort Sponsored Content
When I think of the Spey Valley, I think of water, wildlife and nature. Well, that’s what I used to think. But now, after a fantastic day at Spey Valley Shopping, part of the Macdonald Aviemore Resort in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park, I’m thinking of Barbour, Dubarry and Katie Loxton.
I’m also thinking food baskets, timeless jewelry, and quirky-chic housewares, and I’m thinking Christmas. Because in one trip I found the answers to everyone’s wish lists and even saved a few sneaky treats for myself.
There’s no need to worry about postal strikes, parking spots, or fighting the winter weather with shopping bags. Because everything I need for a wonderful, local Christmas is here.
I have known about Spey Valley Retail for a long time, but almost forgot I was there. You too? Then join me as we open the doors to this treasure trove of luxury clothing brands, gifts, homewares, and food and drink.
My mission was to do Christmas shopping for family and friends, but there’s a selfish streak in me that needs to be listened to, so I walked past the children’s toy store, making a beeline for Mos Mosh. Famous for its stylish jeans and flattering winter coats, this Danish brand is a favorite among connoisseurs. That long cream-colored jacket will keep me toasty on long winter hikes, and I loved that hint of burnt orange in the Masai sweater I tried on underneath. In the bag!
“Gift shopping!” I reminded myself. And it was working, until I saw a beautiful pair of knee-high Dubarry field boots. Blue or green? Decisions, decisions… perfect for keeping my feet comfortable as I step out in my new coat…
Let’s go back to Christmas shopping. I had not come across the impressive silver jewelry from the Spanish company Uno de 50, but what a find. I won’t tell you who that charm bracelet was for, it may spoil the surprise, but I also loved the hoop earrings and statement necklaces. Track Track…
Katie Loxton is one of the names for bags, and is there anything more cheerful than bright and bold red? They also stock their sunglasses, so if the sun is shining on my wintery walks, or I want to pretend it’s not the morning after the night before, then I’m winning.
After a detour through the skincare section (don’t you love Elemis and Neom?) and past Cairn Candle Co’s artisan candles, made right here in the Cairngorms (the one by Lairig Ghru will remind me that the walking route is still on my list) I returned to the delicatessen department.
What a welcome it offers: a festive foodie counter, stacked with chocolates and cheeses, pates and olives, and shelves and displays groaning under the weight of a handpicked selection of local produce, including ales from Cairngorm and Loch Ness Breweries. , Cairngorm and Inverness Gins and of course whiskeys from Speyside and beyond.
Pick your favorite treats for your fridge, beverage cabinet, and pantry, and the friendly team can pack anything you choose into a gift basket for someone special.
I haven’t yet touched on men’s fashion or children’s housewares, cards, gifts, or treasures; there is much more than I have space here to tell. Come for yourself and rediscover the joy of high value shopping “in real life”. I see you there!
Spey Valley Shopping at Macdonald Aviemore Highland Resort is open from 10am to 5pm, Monday to Saturday and Sunday from November 17 until the end of December. Free parking.
Shopping in the Spey Valley – make it a day!
Catch the train from Inverness (the station is just across the road) and enjoy prosecco, cocktails and wood-fired pizza after your shopping at Giovannis.
Kids will love combining holiday shopping with a visit to Santa Claus or the movies, or letting them let off steam on soft play or outdoor playgrounds.
Just 40 minutes from Inverness and about an hour from Elgin, Spey Valley Shopping is a great day out.
