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The Art Gallery You Can Sleep In

annarosegeddes

Swiss gallerists Manuela and Iwan Wirth have transported their distinguished taste to the village of Braemar, nestled within the Cairngorms. Since their endeavour in restoring The Fife Arms hotel in 2018, the area has gained new interest and an outstanding new art collection.



Enter the enchanting world of The Fife Arms, a historic hotel that captivated Queen Victoria in the 1800s and continues to weave its spell on visitors today. Nestled within the untouched beauty of Braemar, renowned for its holding of the Highland Games, the hotel has matured into a global destination spot with its recent partnership with Hauser and Wirth, possessing a breathtaking art collection.

With 16, 000 pieces embellishing every corner, The Fife Arms offers more than just a stay. From the casually displayed Picasso, the 'Femme assise dans un fauteuil,' in the drawing room to Man Ray photographs in the bar, every room tells a story. Whether you are taking the opportunity to indulge in afternoon tea, cocktail hour or pub classics, the history of art can be toured in this one eclectic space. The serenity of the local town flows indoors and can be instantly felt if you are just in for a nosy, or have the luxury of staying in one of the 46 individually designed rooms, curated by Russell Sage. Yet, relaxation isn't the only option, as a range of activities are hosted from art tours to pony picnics, and wild swimming to wild sketching.

The Fife Arms is not just a haven for guests; it's a hub for events throughout the year. The Festival of Fashion, a personal favourite, brings together inspiring creatives from the fashion world. Workshops, conversations, and a star-studded attendance against the backdrop of the Cairngorms made the 2023 festival an unforgettable spectacle. Attendees had the opportunity to engage in discussions with Business of Fashion's Editor-At-Large Tim Blanks and gain insights from Oscar-winning costume designer Sandy Powell, to name a few. The festivities also showcased the local talent, blending global fashion icons with the rich cultural heritage of Braemar. The image of Game of Thrones actress Gwendoline Christie gracing St Margaret's church in full tartan lingers, promising anticipation until the next soiree.

As The Fife Arms continues to redefine the intersection of art, luxury, and culture, each event becomes a unique tapestry, weaving together the threads of tradition and contemporary creativity in the heart of the Cairngorms.

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