Salmon Fishing Vacations on the River Spey in Scotland. The Orton Water is one of the best known Salmon Beats on the River Spey, which in turn is one of the most famous Salmon fishing rivers in Scotland. It consists of a mile and a half of fishing from both banks in eleven named pools, including the renowned pools of Upper and Lower Cairnty. The Orton water lies 8 miles upstream from the mouth of the River Spey. The opportunity of fishing on this exclusively owned stretch of premier river must surely represent a must for any salmon fisherman. Situated amidst the spectacular and beautiful scenery of the Spey valley, few places in Scotland can rival the tranquility and atmosphere of this stunning location. Fishing can be from either the bank, or by wading in the river itself, or from one of our traditional boats. Up to six rods (sometimes eight if water levels permit) can fish on the river, which is let either as two three-rod beats, or one six-rod beat.

Each party of three rods has the services of a ghillie (guide) between 9am and 5 pm, Monday to Saturday inclusive Please note there is no salmon fishing in Scotland on a Sunday. The ghillie will be happy to provide you with any assistance that you may need, including rowing the boats, offering advice on which flies to use, showing you the best places to fish as well as giving casting tuition if required.

Guests are welcome to fish earlier in the morning or even later in the evening if the weather is very bright. The Lodges... The Orton Estate has five comfortable and spacious Country Lodges, all situated near the River Spey. The largest lodge, Darnethills, can sleep up to 11 guests, while the remainder can sleep between 7 to 8. The two St Mary's Lodges or the two Bruntlands Lodges can be rented together, allowing parties of up to 16 to be catered for in either of the two main lodges. Most of our Lodges are set well away from any urban development and offer the peace and tranquility that you would would expect of the Scottish countryside. Please click here for a more detailed description :  The Orton Estate Lodges

The Fishing Vacations... Your weeks fishing with fully catered accommodation usually starts with the arrival at one of the Orton Estate lodges late in the afternoon on the Sunday, often by hired car from Aberdeen or Inverness airport.

Once you have had a chance to unpack and freshen up you can enjoy afternoon tea in the living room. A three course evening meal, served (within reason) at the time of your choice, but usually at around 8 pm, will be prepared and cooked by one of our chefs, using only the finest of Scottish produce where ever possible. The menus will be agreed with you beforehand.

Sample menus might include ... Smoked Salmon mousse, followed by roast rib of Scottish Beef, followed by Scotch Whisky and Oatmeal ice cream Melon and Smoked Scottish Venison with Rowan Jelly, followed by poached Scottish Salmon with a Hollandaise sauce, followed by fresh Raspberry tart and cream. The choice can be yours. Every dietary requirement can be accommodated by our chefs. We can also provide a fine selection of wines and of course Malt Whiskies.

The next day, after a cooked breakfast, you would make the short drive to the river for about 9am, to be ready for the day’s fishing. Those who would prefer not to rush, might prefer to have a gentle stroll down to the river later.

Lunch is brought down to the river for about 1pm, which you can eat either inside one of the comfortable fishing huts beside the river, or if it is a sunny day you may prefer to sit at a table outside, right at the river’s edge. Most people fish on until 5pm, and then head back to the lodge for afternoon tea. Then perhaps enjoy a relaxing bath or shower before joining the company of your friends to chat about the events of the days fishing. Which will no doubt continue throughout your three course evening meal.

If it is inconvenient for you to bring your own fishing tackle to Orton, we can arrange through the local fishing tackle shop to hire out all that is required in the way of rods, reels and waders. (A 14ft salmon rod is recommended)

In the height of summer, if the weather is very sunny, you may prefer not to fish during the brightest part of the afternoon, but instead might go off to play a round of golf or do a spot of touring or shopping, returning to fish later in the evening after an early supper.

The Bruntlands Just one of the spacious, comfortable Lodges on The Orton Estate. This property can sleep up to 8 guests in four twin or double rooms, all of which are en-suite. There is a large lounge with an open log fire and large gently arched windows with panoramic views out over the estate. The spacious dining room can easily accommodate up to 15 people. The two St Mary's Lodges or the two Bruntlands Lodges can be rented together, allowing parties of up to 16 to be catered for in either of the main lodges.

For those of the party who might not be so keen on fishing there are plenty of other things to do in the area. There are numerous golf courses close by or go touring and visit a few of the historic old towns for a days shopping. The area is steeped in history and there are many old castles and early buildings including Elgin Cathedral, established in 1224, which are all worth a visit. A trip to Scotland wouldn't be complete unless you take in a visit to one or two of the world famous Scotch Whisky distilleries. If you prefer a more peaceful pace there are plenty of scenic walks nearby or you can spend an afternoon relaxing in the sun by the river and observing the wildlife. Please click here for a detailed map of the estate ... Orton Estate Map

The Orton Estate also boasts a Conference Centre and with its rural location and proximity to airports, combined with comfortable Lodges, makes a refreshing place in which a team can consolidate.

Activities such as Orienteering (which doesn't have to be done at a run!) and golf can be incorporated to allow members of a group to interact in a low-pressure manner outside their work environment.

Every dietary requirement can be accommodated by our chefs, who specialise in preparing locally produced food for you. The Lodges also have their own liquor licenses. Alternatively you may prefer to be independent, in which case any of the Lodges can be rented on a fully-serviced basis if you wish to provide your own professional cook, or just cook for yourselves. The management and staff will do everything they can to ensure that your stay with us is a memorable one for all the right reasons. For further information on prices, availabilty and booking please E-mail : Enquiries@ortonestate.com

Other fishing packages available... Salmon fishing vacations on the River Tay or Spey 3 day and 6 day fishing trips with accommodation. Return to Top

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