Cairngorms National Park
The Cairngorms National Park is Britain's largest national park (4,528 km²) and is home to five of the six highest mountains in the country. Here you will find arctic plateaus, ancient pine forests, red deer, golden eagles, squirrels, and Scotland's only free-ranging reindeer herd.
Highlights
- Aviemore: The main town in the Cairngorms, with outdoor shops, restaurants, and access to the Cairngorm Mountain Railway (funicular to the plateau, 1,097 m).
- Rothiemurchus Forest: An ancient Caledonian Pine Forest — one of the last remnants of the primeval forest that once covered all of Scotland. Hiking, mountain biking, Loch-an-Eilein (island castle in the lake!).
- Cairngorm Reindeer Centre: The only free-ranging reindeer herd in Britain. Guided visits on the mountain where you can feed the reindeer. Family-friendly and unique.
- Royal Deeside: The valley of the River Dee, where Balmoral Castle is located — the royal family's summer residence. The gardens are open to visitors in summer (April–July). Braemar hosts the famous Highland Games in September.
- Skiing: Cairngorm Mountain, Lecht, and Glenshee have ski areas — small, rustic, but authentic. Season: December to April (snow-dependent).
💡 Tipp
The Cairngorm plateaus are among the most weather-exposed places in Britain — arctic conditions are possible even in summer. Never go into the mountains without waterproof clothing, a map, and a compass! The Cairngorm Mountain Railway takes you up to 1,097 m, but in fog and wind, visibility is often zero.
