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Characters of the Cairngorms
The Cairngorms
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Where Winter Comes To Life
With the splendour of the Cairngorm Mountain range and the beauty of its forest, lochs & rivers...the Cairngorms National Park is the perfect playground for you as winter approaches. Whether you are looking for adventure or a quiet place to escape and unwind, there really is something for everyone. A chance to enjoy some of life's creature comforts; there is no better time or place to embrace a slower pace and feel winter come to life.
Find a cosy pub with a roaring fire, a cafe with a steaming bowl of Cullen Skink and a big chunk of warm bread... mmmm delicious! Hire a guide for the day and go by bike or by foot to experience some of our spectacular views, the Cairngorms has it all. Here are some of our November top picks.
Cosy up by the fire
There are cottages, B&B’s, pubs and some seriously cosy glamping options in the National Park…with sofas to sink into, roaring fires for cold toes and mugs waiting to be filled with steaming hot chocolate. Loch an Eilein Cottage, on the shore of picturesque Loch an Eilein, embodies everything we seek in a comforting hideaway, while the mysterious Secret Bothy in Killiecrankie is just waiting to be discovered. Happiness is a Happiness is a Highland lunch Highland lunch
Is there any better combination than a brisk winter walk followed by a warming lunch? We are not talking a strenuous hike, just a blast of fresh air, some colour on your cheeks and a spring in your step. A wander up and around Craigellachie National Nature Reserve will do just that; spectacular views, wonderful colours and a bit of solitude. Afterwards you can tumble into Aviemore’s Cairngorm Hotel and tuck into Haggis, Neeps and Tatties, safe in the knowledge that the rest of the day can be spent exploring Aviemore.
There’s nowhere to go but everywhere
The SnowRoads is one of the most scenic routes to drive in the UK - 90 miles of highland heaven running from Blairgowrie to Grantown-on-Spey. A clear and crisp November day is the perfect time to pick up a section of the SnowRoads and journey through some of the more scenic and undiscovered corners of the Cairngorms, especially with some insider know-how on its little known gems. The SnowRoads are the slow roads, take you time and immerse yourself in the rich culture and beauty of the landscape. Spectacular views, castles, culture and wonderful cafes line the route so you really can take your pick. Check out the SnowRoads website and download the App for a fully immersive experience. Some of the castles will be closed for the season but there is still much to discover. You could visit Knock Castle at Ballater and Castle Roy in Nethy Bridge. Castle Roy has been a 30 year labour of love for its trustees and opened to the public this September. The history of the 12th century fortress built on a small glacial mound is fascinating and the restoration is a testament to the passion and determination of the wonderful Cairngorms communities to preserve and celebrate the Park’s heritage. Discover some secluded spots like The Linn of Quoich, also known as the Earl of Mar’s Punch Bowl, near Braemar. It’s a natural, midstream, hole in the rock that was used as a punchbowl after a day of hunting deer in the neighbouring forest - The area was a favourite of Queen Victoria; it’s easy to understand why - secluded escapism at its finest.
The SnowRoads is a spectacular route and as with all road trips it’s good to plan ahead. Check out the snow cameras before you set off and make sure you have the essentials, including your favourite travel buddy, a cracking playlist, warm layers and a flask!
There’s always time for a wee dram
There is a very good reason the Highlands is the whisky capital of the world - nothing warms your cockles like a wee dram. We are spoiled for choice when it comes to distilleries. The Dalwhinnie, Blair Athol and Glenlivet distilleries are among those who offer tours into the winter months, if you are a Malt Whisky expert or a keen beginner, there will be the perfect experience for you. And of course not forgetting “The Cairn” distillery, a brand new distillery just outside Grantown, why not be one of the first to visit. They say there is a whisky for everyone’s palette - have fun finding yours!
Most of our favourite attractions stay open throughout the year so a visit to the Highland Wildlife Park, Landmark Forest Adventure Park, Aviemore Ice Rink and Rothiemurchus for lots of activities make for brilliant days out without the crowds of school holidays. Have fun exploring the Cairngorms this winter, there’s plenty to see & do here and you set the pace. Enjoy our winter wonderland!
Billy Connolly, Scottish Comedian and Actor.
