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  1. Home
  2. Places to go
  3. National Parks
  4. Cairngorms National Park

Cairngorms National Park

The Cairngorms National Park has more mountains, forest paths, rivers, lochs, wildlife hotspots and friendly villages than you can possibly imagine. You can find five of the UK's six highest mountains here, alongside 55 Munros - mountains over 3,000 ft. There is no shortage of things to see and do in the mighty, majestic Cairngorms National Park, from ancient fortresses, wildlife and distilleries to some of the best attractions and museums.

Loch an Eilein at Rothiemurchus

Key facts about the Cairngorms National Park

An Lochan Uaine (Green Loch)

© VisitScotland / Damian Shields

Where?

The park is located in the central Highlands, between the cities of Perth and Inverness.

Size & status

The Cairngorms National Park stretches 4,528 sq km (1,748 sq miles). It officially became a National Park in 2003 and was later extended to include the area of Blair Atholl in 2008.

Key towns

Aviemore, Kingussie, Grantown-on-Spey and Ballater.

Inverness is the closest city to the north of the park, roughly 30 minutes away, and Aberdeen is only an hour away from the east side. The park stretches across a number of regions including parts of Aberdeenshire, Moray, Highlands, Angus, and Perthshire.

Explore the national park by area

Aviemore

Aviemore is surrounded by lush Highland scenery in the north west corner of the majestic Cairngorms National Park.

Angus Glens

The Angus Glens are a series of tranquil valleys, offering some of the most majestic landscapes of north east Scotland.

Ballater

Explore Royal Deeside in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park for scenic landscapes, nature and views.

Braemar

Located near Ballater in the heart of the national park, explore Braemar's fascinating royal connections.

Blair Atholl

Enjoy fantastic scenery in and around Blair Atholl, with picturesque villages and glens, such as Calvine, Bruar, Killiecrankie and Struan, nearby.

Grantown-on-Spey

Located to the north of the national park, this town is a great base for exploring Strathspey.

Discover more about areas in the national park

Things to do in the Cairngorms National Park

An aerial shot of Ruthven Barracks in Badenoch

© Airborne Lens / Liam Anderstrem

Badenoch The Storylands

If you're looking for a true hidden gem, don't miss the beautiful historic region of Badenoch, just south of Aviemore. Head off the beaten-track to discover its engaging scenery with ancient ruins, castles, distilleries, real Highland culture, wildlife and more. Filled to the brim with fascinating stories shaped by the mountains and rivers in the heart of the park, you can learn something new whilst you’re here too. Why not download the app to truly immerse yourself in this magical corner of the Cairngorms?

Make sure you visit in time for the Badenoch Heritage Festival in September, featuring a wide range of events, walking tours, talks, concerts and more for everyone to enjoy.

Explore Badenoch The Storylands

Utsi Bridge

Walking & hiking

It wouldn't be a trip to the Cairngorms without a spot of walking! With hundreds of walking routes, trails and paths across the park, you won't be lost for places to explore on foot. There are walks for all abilities and ages too, whether you fancy a lochside stroll or an adventurous mountain climb, you'll find something here.

  • Glenlivet Estate
  • Wildcat Trail, Newtonmore
  • Speyside Way
  • Munros
  • Corbetts, Glens and Grahams
  • Deeside Way

If you'd rather have the knowledge and experience behind you, why not choose a guided walk or ranger-led guided tour? You'll be in experienced hands, as they know all the top places to soak up amazing views.

When you do head out into the great outdoors, it is essential to come prepared with the right equipment, and leave only footprints. Check out our outdoor safety tips.

Find more walks and hikes in the Cairngorms

A clear, starlit night across Loch Cluanie

Dark sky parks & experiences

The magic doesn't stop at night. The Cairngorms boasts the perfect conditions for you to try a spot of stargazing. The Tomintoul & Glenlivet - Cairngorms Dark Sky Park - the most northerly Dark Sky Park in the world, and the darkest in the UK - has been awarded an 'International Dark Sky Park' status. There are many amazing vantage points and vast horizons throughout the park, and with such low levels of light pollution, the Cairngorms is easily one of the best places in Scotland to stargaze! There are also a range of stargazing and astronomy events held throughout the year too - so keep an eye out for more information.

You don't always need fancy, expensive equipment to see a wealth of stars, constellations and the Northern Lights, the naked eye or a pair of binoculars work just fine. Sometimes you can even experience the dark sky from your accommodation! Easter Corrie boasts a secluded location in the National Park - creating the perfect conditions for a night of stargazing.

Find out more about dark skies in the Cairngorms

Horse riding in the Cairngorms

© VisitScotland / Airborne Lens

Horse riding & pony trekking

One way of exploring the Cairngorms that you may not have thought of is on horseback. With miles of paths and trails, dense woodlands, and open country roads, it's a great place for a pony trek. There are many horse riding centres dotted across the park that cater for all ages and abilities. If you're not confident in heading out into the landscape, you can always take a lesson in an enclosed school first. Many centres have native Highland ponies which are hardy horses that are more than capable of taking on Scotland's rugged landscapes.

  • Alvie Stables, near Aviemore
  • Highland Horse Fun, Kingussie
  • Rothiemurchus Pony Trekking

Explore the Cairngorms on horseback

Still art sculpture viewpoint near Tomintoul

Snowroads Scenic Route

The SnowRoads Scenic Route is an incredible way to experience the Cairngorms. Stretching for 90 miles, the route is a popular adventure for those looking to get outdoors in the Highlands and encompasses some of the highest public roads in Britain. Starting at Blairgowrie and heading north to Grantown-on-Spey, stop off along the way and admire the stunning views that surround you. Make sure you look out for the three scenic route installations placed along the route that will entice you to discover new perspectives - they also make for a great photo opportunity!

Explore more of the Snowroads Scenic Route

Explore more things to do

Watersports

Explore a thrilling range of watersports in the Cairngorms National Park.

Mountain Biking & Cycling

Enjoy a range of trails and routes on two wheels through the Cairngorms National Park.

Skiing & Snowsports

Navigate the slopes with skiing, snowboarding and snowsports in the Cairngorms.

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Cairngorms National Park - Where Winter Comes to Life!

Video: discover the 'longest shortest day of the year' in the Cairngorms.

Explore all things to do

Attractions to visit in the Cairngorms National Park

As well as memorable experiences and a range of options for exciting days out, the Cairngorms also boasts an array of fantastic attractions to visit and get involved in.

A Scottish Wildcat at the Highland Wildlife Park in Kincraig

Landscapes & nature

The Highland Wildlife Park in Kincraig is a popular place for families and those wanting to see Scotland's incredible wildlife up close. As well as some of the world's most endangered species, you can see a variety of well-known animals, from red pandas, Amur tigers, and snow monkeys, to camels and even polar bears. Embark on a guided tour or excursion for the chance to see native wildlife up close in their natural habitat.

  • Highland Wildlife Park
  • Cairngorm Reindeer Herd
  • RSPB Loch Garten Nature Centre
  • Highland Wildlife & Birdwatching Safaris
  • Speyside Wildlife

Glenlivet Distillery, near Ballindalloch

© North East 250 / Damian Shields

Whisky tours and distilleries

The Speyside region is world-famous for its whisky and distilleries, so why not follow The Malt Whisky Trail? This unique experience encompasses a combination of distilleries, things to see and do, quaint cafés, incredible outdoor pursuits and more in the Moray Speyside area. There are nine distilleries to visit, each featuring delectable blends of whisky that you can try or take home with you.

  • Dalwhinnie Distillery Visitor Centre & Whisky Shop
  • Royal Lochnagar Distillery
Explore the Malt Whisky Trail

Braemar Highland Games Centre

© VisitAberdeenshire

Arts, culture and museums

It wouldn't be a trip to Scotland and the Highlands without experiencing some true Scottish culture and art. Although the Cairngorms may be known for its outdoor pursuits, there's still plenty of history, craft and heritage to experience here too.

  • The Shinty Trail
  • Braemar Highland Games Centre
  • Museums in the Cairngorms
  • Art venues in the Cairngorms

Ballindalloch Castle & Gardens near Glenlivet

© North East 250 / Damian Shields

Castles & historic attractions

The Cairngorms is ancient land, so you'll find dozens of historic sites and attractions to explore, from castles and ruined fortresses to epic battlegrounds, famous Scots and more.

  • Ballindalloch Castle
  • Highland Folk Museum
  • Ruthven Barracks
  • Killiecrankie Gorge
Visit more historic sites across the Cairngorms

Family days out

The Cairngorms is a popular destination for solo travellers and families alike, with plenty of days out, activities and adventures to be had. From popular favourites that have been around for decades, to family-friendly walks that are perfect for wee legs, check out what the Cairngorms has to offer.

Landmark Forest Adventure Park

Take on a high-ropes course in the trees, plunge down one of three water coasters and walk through an amazing tropical hot-house.

Loch an Eilein

Hidden in the forest of Rothiemurchus, this beautiful place is one of the most loved in the UK.

Strathspey Railway

Step aboard the Strathspey Railway to celebrate forty years of the return of steam travel through the Highlands of Scotland.

Plan your trip to the Cairngorms National Park

The Boathouse at Loch Insh

Food & drink

With an abundance of rich natural landscapes, you can guarantee the food you’ll find in the Cairngorms is just as exquisite. Tuck into fresh local produce, homegrown goods, and freshly caught game and fish all served up in delicious dishes in restaurants, cafes, bars and pubs.

Enjoy hearty pub grub beside a roaring log fire, tuck into delectable fish & chips overlooking magnificent lochside views and stop by quirky farm shops and local shops to take away homemade produce and goodies.

Find more places to eat

Fife Arms, Braemar

Places to stay

There are plenty of accommodation options available for all budgets, preferences and groups sizes. From camping, glamping and youth hostelling to luxury hotels, exclusive use self-catering properties, and secluded cosy cottages, you’re spoilt for choice.

Immerse yourself in the outdoors with some wild camping, or enjoy a dog-friendly stay at one of the hundreds of holiday cottages in the Cairngorms. Or why not stay in a Cairngorm holiday bungalow for a cosy winter getaway amongst the mountains?

See all accommodation in the Cairngorms National Park

The Caledonian Sleeper in the Pass of Drumochter at night

Travel

Travelling to the park is very accessible by road, train, plane, or even on foot. Hop on a train direct from Inverness, Edinburgh, Glasgow and London where you can choose the Caledonian Sleeper from Euston.

There are many main roads through Aviemore - the A9 stretches from Edinburgh up to Inverness, passing through Perth, Kincraig, Aviemore and Tomatin. From Glasgow, follow the M80 out of the city towards Stirling, where you can join the A9 to Perth and into the park. If you're coming from further afield, there are airports in Inverness, Edinburgh, Glasgow and Aberdeen, where you can continue your journey by car, train or coach to the Cairngorms.

Plan your travel to the Cairngorms

Explore the national park using this interactive map

Fire safety outdoors

As the weather gets drier, the risk of wildfire in Scotland increases. Fire can ignite easily, spread fast and burn with high intensity. We're all asked not to light a fire outdoors during prolonged dry periods, and to always fully extinguish cigarettes.

Find out more on preventing wildfires in Scotland

Respect, protect and take care of the national park

Be a responsible visitor

Learn about 'the right to roam' and how to enjoy the national park whilst protecting and preserving it for others.

Campervanning Guide

Explore tips, tricks, good-to-knows and more before setting off on your campervanning adventure.

Dog-friendly Cairngorms

Take your furry four-legged friend with you as you explore the national park safely.

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