Escape to Edinburgh's Hidden Gem: Averon Guest House Awaits!
Escape to Edinburgh's Hidden Gem: Averon Guest House Awaits!
Averon Guest House: Edinburgh's Hidden Gem? Maybe… Let's Dive In! (A Very Honest Review)
Okay, so I just got back from a trip to Edinburgh, and let me tell you, it was magical. Cobblestone streets, the castle looming over everything… I could practically feel the history seep into my bones. And the Averon Guest House? Well, that was part of the experience. But, like any human encounter, it’s a bit more complicated than just “perfect.” Buckle up, because this review is going to be a rollercoaster.
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First Impressions & The Arrival (and the slightly frantic search for the door…)
Finding Averon was a mini-adventure. Edinburgh is a city that loves hiding its treasures. Seriously, I'm pretty sure they designed the streets specifically to confuse tourists. Eventually, after circling a few times, there it was: a gorgeous, old sandstone building tucked away. The facade was charming, promising Victorian elegance, but the entrance… well, it wasn't exactly screaming "accessibility." More on that later.
Accessibility: The Elephant in the Room (and the Staircase Dilemma)
Right off the bat? This is not the place for someone with serious mobility issues. There’s a big ol’ staircase up to the main entrance, which, frankly, defeated me after lugging my suitcase. They do have an elevator (thank heavens!), but it seemed a bit, shall we say, charming in its age. It was a slow ride, and I was half-expecting a Victorian ghost to pop out. The website notes "facilities for disabled guests," but I honestly didn't scout out all the details like I should have. Lesson learned! Accessibility score: 2/5 (Needs major improvements for true accessibility).
The Room: Victorian Charm… and a Few Quirks!
My room? Ah, yes, the room. It was… interesting. Called a "superior" room, yet felt cozy. The "Extra long bed" was actually luxurious and oh-so-comfy. The "blackout curtains" were a lifesaver, since Edinburgh is practically bathed in sunlight, even at 10 PM in summer. The "complimentary tea" was a nice touch, but I spent half an hour trying to figure out how to work the mini-kettle. (Yes, I am technology-challenged. Deal with it).
The bathroom… hmm. Let's just say, the "separate shower/bathtub" situation was a little tight. The kind of tight where you're contortionist to not hit your elbows… This is where the "quirks" of an older building really showed. Still, everything was clean, the towels were fluffy (important!), and the "hair dryer" actually worked (also important!). Loved having a "window that opens," getting some fresh Scottish air. The "air conditioning," though, was a bit underwhelming.
Cleanliness & Safety: Feeling Safe… Mostly
Okay, this is where Averon really shines. Honestly, I was impressed. Post-pandemic, I'm hyper-aware of cleanliness, and Averon delivered. I saw “Anti-viral cleaning products” being used everywhere. the staff wore masks. Daily disinfection happened. My "room sanitization opt-out available" was a relief. Felt safe, and that's HUGE. "Hand sanitizer" dispensers were everywhere. They actually took the whole "safe dining setup" seriously – more on that later. They did "rooms sanitized between stays". Cleanliness and Safety score: 5/5 – A+!
Internet: Wi-Fi, the Modern Necessity
Thank goodness for the "Free Wi-Fi in all rooms!" I needed to upload approximately a bazillion photos of the castle. "Internet access – wireless" was solid, and I had no trouble staying connected. It was good. The “Internet access – LAN” felt a bit old-school, but hey, options are always good.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking:
This is where things got a little… uneven.
- Breakfast: The "Breakfast [buffet]" was actually a good buffet! the "Western breakfast" staples were there, and I got to load up on Scottish oatcakes. "Asian breakfast" dishes, though the variety was limited, were also offered. Room service breakfast was an option, too.
- Restaurants: The "A la carte in restaurant" was available and "International cuisine in restaurant" which seemed to lean towards modern/European fare. Overall, the food was good, but the service could be a little slow, and sometimes felt… overworked.
- Bar: There was a bar, which was lovely. "Happy hour" made things more affordable. I loved the "poolside bar," which was a great perk.
Things to Do & Ways to Relax: Spa, Spa, Spa!
Okay, this is where Averon really got my attention. The spa! They offered a "Body scrub", "Body wrap", "Foot bath", "Sauna", "Spa" which was just glorious, and "Steamroom" was divine. "Pool with view" was heaven. This is where Averon really shines. After a long day of sightseeing, the spa was an absolute godsend. The "Massage" was top-notch. The "Spa/sauna" was a nice combination of options. Pure bliss. Things to do and relax score: 5/5 - Seriously, go for the spa!
Services & Conveniences: The Little Extras
The "Concierge" was helpful. "Daily housekeeping" kept everything tidy. "Laundry service" was a lifesaver, after a week of exploring. The "elevator" (again, it was… charming) made getting around easier. On the whole, the staff were helpful.
For the Kids & Family: (I didn't personally test this… but…)
Averon is "Family/child friendly," with "Babysitting service" available. They offered "Kids meal" – always a plus.
Getting Around & Parking: Navigating Edinburgh
"Car park [free of charge]" was a massive bonus. Edinburgh parking is a nightmare! I didn't need "Airport transfer" but this offering is appreciated. They offer "Taxi service" also.
The Emotional Rundown (My Honest Feelings!)
Okay, I liked Averon Guest House. It wasn't perfect, but that’s what made it feel, well, real. The somewhat-clumsy charm. But: The spa was divine. The staff were lovely. Overall Impression: Charming, but not flawless. I'd go back, but I'd go in with my eyes open. And definitely book some spa time!
Final Verdict:
Averon Guest House is a worthy contender for a stay in Edinburgh, especially for those seeking a luxurious spa experience. But, absolutely check your mobility needs before booking. Remember, "hotel chain" the "Hotel chain" is charming, and has quirks. Overall score: 4/5 (With a big asterisk for accessibility). Definitely worth considering for a romantic getaway or a relaxing escape!
Uncover Crete's Royal Secret: A Dream Vacation Awaits!
Okay, buckle up, buttercup. This Averon Guest House itinerary isn't going to be all perfectly planned. We're aiming for "real life" here, which means more chaos and less Instagram-filtered perfection. Prepare for some Edinburgh magic, some minor meltdowns, and a whole lot of "ooh, shiny!" moments.
Edinburgh Adventure: The Averon Guest House Incident (And Everything Else)
Day 1: Arrival & The Great Haggis Hunt of '23 (Or Thereabouts)
- Morning (Or, Whenever I Finally Drag Myself Out of Bed):
- Flight lands at Edinburgh Airport. The queue at customs? Don't even go there. I swear I aged a decade just waiting. Finally, freedom! Well, freedom and the frantic scramble for an airport bus.
- Bus ride into the city. "Oh, look! A castle!" Cue the wide-eyed tourist. Edinburgh is already hitting different. The air smells like…history? Or maybe just rain. Either way, I dig it.
- Arrive at Averon Guest House. Cue the relief of a comfy bed. The outside is charming, a proper Victorian townhouse. Then, the inside. Oh, God. It's…cozy. And by "cozy," I mean the hallway is narrower than my bathroom at home. But the owner, Agnes, is a total sweetheart with a smile that could launch a thousand ships (or at least a hundred B&B reviews). She has a floral dress and a voice like warm honey – a very welcome change from the airport chaos.
- Minor Catastrophe: In unpacking, I discovered I'd forgotten my toothbrush. Cue the internal scream.
- The Great Haggis Hunt: After settling in and freshening up, I amble out with a plan of what to do and where to go. I had researched all the locations, read all the reviews. Then, like a moth to a flame, I ended up in a pub near the guest house called "The Giddy Goose." I'd heard the haggis was legendary. "Legendary" is an understatement. It was…an experience. The taste? I can only describe it as a complex blend of earthy, spicy, and…interesting. I ordered a pint of Guinness (because when in Rome, or rather, Edinburgh…) and bravely dug in. The verdict? I'm still not entirely sure. But I'm going to order it again. I have to.
- Afternoon:
- Wander through the Royal Mile. It's bustling, and yes, touristy, but also… magnetic. The architecture is breathtaking, the bagpipers are ear-splittingly loud (in a good way!), and the shops are a treasure trove of tartan and shortbread. I bought a scarf that screams "I'm a tourist, and I'm proud!"
- The Castle Conundrum: The majestic Edinburgh Castle. The views! The history! The… massive crowds. I'm not gonna lie. I got a little overwhelmed. Queue, after queue, after queue. I lasted about an hour before deciding to bail and come back on a different day. Note to self: Buy a ticket online ahead of time!!!
- Evening:
- Dinner at a random pub. Fish and chips. Simple, comforting, and exactly what I needed after the castle battle. Witnessed a bar brawl between two overly excited men. It was all yelling, no real fighting. Definitely a memorable experience.
- Back to Averon. Collapse into a bed that felt like heaven. Agnes said the breakfast was good. I'm still dreaming of it, even though I haven't had it yet.
Day 2: Castle Domination and Literary Dreams
- Morning:
- Breakfast at Averon Guest House. Agnes cooked the whole hog. It was delicious. The Full Scottish. The full full Scottish. Sausages, bacon, eggs, fried tomatoes, mushrooms, black pudding (yes, MORE), and of course, the haggis (again!). I thought I would burst. Agnes and her warm smile were the best company I could have asked for.
- Castle Redemption: Armed with a pre-booked ticket, I bravely faced Edinburgh Castle again. It was worth it. The history… the views… the sheer grandeur… This time, I stuck around longer. I even pretended to understand the intricacies of the Crown Jewels. The Crown Jewels were really impressive!
- Afternoon:
- Visit the Writers' Museum. I am a real sucker for literature. Found a quote by Robert Burns that almost made me cry. Found a quote by Robert Burns that almost made me cry. Found a quote by Robert Burns that almost made me cry.
- The Greyfriars Bobby Incident: Wandered over to Greyfriars Kirkyard, home to a very famous dog. I get to see the actual grave of "Greyfriars Bobby". I was getting emotional just thinking about it, and then… I saw the statue. I almost cried.
- Evening:
- Pub crawl! Did I mention Edinburgh has pubs? And they are AMAZING.
- Whisky tasting. I now know the difference between single malt and blended (sort of).
- Back to Averon. Face fully relaxed, I finally understood the reason for all the pillows.
Day 3: Arthur's Seat and Departure (Maybe… Probably… Possibly)
Morning:
- Attempt to climb Arthur's Seat. That's the big hill/volcano thing. The views at the top are supposed to be incredible. I made it halfway. It was steep. My lungs burned. I may have whined. Also, it was misty. I gave up. (Maybe I'll get it next trip.)
- Quick coffee and a pastry at a cafe to reward myself for my efforts.
- A quick stroll through the Princes Street Gardens. Beautiful. But my feet hurt.
Afternoon:
- Souvenir shopping (finally!). Bought a cashmere scarf (because I deserve it) and a tiny haggis plushie.
- Packing. Always a fun part.
Evening:
- Farewell dinner. Decided to eat at the same restaurant I went when I first arrived. The pub was welcoming, and reminded me of being in a movie.
- Back to Averon. Agnes and I started chatting. She told me her life story that I really found inspiring. I learned that her house was always open for me if I ever came back.
- Last night in Edinburgh. I wish it didn't have to end.
Departure Day:
- The flight home. A flight home!
- I would visit Edinburgh again. It was magical.
Final Thoughts:
Edinburgh, you were a whirlwind. Averon Guest House, you were a haven. And the haggis… well, that's a love story for the ages. Until next time, Scotland!
Disclaimer: This itinerary is subject to change based on mood, weather, and the availability of shortbread. Also, the author may or may not be a responsible travel planner. Proceed with caution (and maybe a backup toothbrush).
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Averon Guest House: You Think You Know Edinburgh? Think Again (Probably, You Don't)
Okay, Spill: What *Actually* Makes Averon Special? I've Seen Brochures, Heard the Hype...
Alright, deep breath. Look, the brochure's got the usual suspects: "charming," "historic," "conveniently located" – blah, blah, blah. But here's the truth. It's not just *in* Edinburgh, it's *of* Edinburgh. You step inside, and you’re not just a tourist, you're kinda-sorta-maybe-almost a local. (Don't quote me on that, the locals in Edinburgh are fiercely protective.)
I went expecting a nice stay, maybe a decent breakfast. What I *got* was a… well, a saga. My first impression? The hallway carpet. It's… *lived-in*. Like, it's seen things. Murders? Probably. Massive parties? Definitely. It’s the kind of carpet that whispers stories if you listen close enough. And that, in itself, is a tiny slice of Edinburgh magic.
Oh! And I almost forgot: That breakfast… seriously, get the full Scottish, even if you're picturing the cardiac ward. It's worth it. Trust me.
Is it *Really* as Hidden as They Claim? I’m Hopeless With Directions.
“Hidden”? Let’s just say, it's not slap-bang in the middle of the Royal Mile, which, frankly, is a *blessing*. Getting *to* it is an adventure. Google Maps will probably steer you wrong at least once, usually right at the point where you’re convinced you should just give up and sleep in a shop doorway. I KNOW!!!
My advice? Embrace the wandering. Ask a local (they're usually genuinely nice, even if they *look* like they're judging your fashion sense). And remember, the journey is as important as the destination...especially when the destination is a warm bed and a giant plate of cooked breakfast. Seriously, it’s worth the navigational trauma. Pro Tip: Look for the tiny, barely lit street you wouldn't even glance at twice. That's probably the one. And don't be afraid to ask for help. We've all been lost at some point. I'm pretty sure, I've been lost every time.
Rooms: Are They Like… Prison Cells? Or Actual, Comfortable Human Habitats?
Right, the rooms… they’re not the Ritz. They’re not minimalist, either. Think "charmingly cluttered," or “slightly eccentric,” or, in my case, "full of delightful surprises." Like, you know, a strategically placed antique (or, well, *old*) chest of drawers. They are clean, however, and the beds? Gloriously comfortable. I slept like a log. A very happy, well-rested log.
My room? Small, yes. But it had *character*. And a window with a view of… something. I think it was a wall. Or a roof. Details, details! The point is, you're not paying for sterile perfection. You're paying for something real. A place to rest your weary head after a day of exploring. A place that might just feel like home (or at least, a slightly kooky, Scottish version of home).
Breakfast: Is It Just Toast and Weak Tea? Because I Need More Than That.
Absolutely NOT! The breakfast, *the breakfast*... it's bordering on legendary. I’m not even a big breakfast person normally, but the aroma alone is enough to drag you out of bed, even if you're sporting the mother of all hangovers (which, in Edinburgh, is basically inevitable).
Forget dry toast and sad-looking cereal. We're talking the Full Scottish (haggis, black pudding, sausages, bacon, eggs, the works!), or lighter options if you’re feeling less ambitious. Seriously, it's fuel for a day of exploring. And the coffee? Strong enough to kickstart a zombie apocalypse. Just… be prepared for the food coma afterwards. It’s a real thing.
Let me tell you... my first morning, I went for the works. I ate EVERYTHING. And then, I pretty much had to be rolled out of the dining room. Worth it. Absolutely worth it. My biggest regret was not having a second breakfast later in the morning.
Okay, Let's Talk Annoyances. What's the Catch? Is There a Catch? (I'm always waiting for the catch.)
Alright, the downsides… yeah, there are a few. It's not perfect. There will be some creaky floorboards (it *is* historic, remember?). The Wi-Fi can be a bit… fickle. Like, it will work, then decide it doesn't like you for a while. And you know what? I’m okay with that. You’re in Edinburgh! Look up, not down at your phone.
And also, the shower pressure… it was… adequate. But I'm not complaining. The whole experience outshines any minor inconveniences. Seriously, I would go back in a heartbeat. The imperfections are part of the charm. And honestly, I wouldn't want it any other way. Plus, you know, you can always just grab a coffee and a pastry at a local coffee shop.
Edinburgh's a Big Place! Can I Walk To The Good Stuff?
Mostly, yes! Averon is well-positioned, even if it takes a bit of finding in the first place. You are seriously, within walking distance of a lot of the major attractions. The Royal Mile? A manageable stroll (and what a stroll!). Edinburgh Castle? Yeah, doable, depending on your stamina and tolerance for uphills. Arthur's Seat (the epic hike)? Potentially, if you're feeling ambitious. The important thing is: you're not stuck miles out in the sticks, relying on expensive taxis or confusing public transport (although the public transport is actually pretty good by UK standards, but that is a topic for another day).
Pro-Tip: Wear comfortable shoes. Edinburgh is a city of hills and cobblestones. Your feet will thank you. Also, pack an umbrella. Even if the forecast says sunshine. Trust me on this.
The Staff: Are They Actually Nice? Or Just Pretending? (I'm a cynic, I admit it.)
Okay, *this* is where Averon really shines. The staff… they're not just nice, they're genuinely lovely. I'm talking "genuinely care about you and your experience" nice. NoJaipur's Hidden Gem: Timber Garden Adventure Awaits!
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