Aviemore and the Cairngorms
Spectacular, awesome, beautiful: there are many superlatives to describe Aviemore and the Cairngorms. This part of the Highlands is home to some of the most stunning scenery and wonderful wildlife in Scotland, and a wide range of outdoor activities for all to enjoy.
Aviemore and the Cairngorms are hugely popular with visitors all year round, from snowboarders to birdwatchers to families. Most people come to frolic in the area's unrivalled outdoor playground - to walk, ski or simply see the sights of the natural world. There is a wide choice of places to stay, such the well-developed modern resort of Aviemore, genteel Grantown-on-Spey... or a bothy high in the mountains.
The Cairngorms National Park is an area of truly outstanding natural beauty. The Cairngorms contain some of Scotland's highest peaks, and vast wilderness areas. Skiers and snowboarders take to the slopes in winter, while there are outdoor activities on offer all year round, from gliding and climbing to cycling and sailing. Less extreme pursuits in the region include some of the best walking in Britain, golf, salmon fishing, pony trekking and a ride on Scotland's only mountain railway - a leisurely way to take you to the top of the world.
Take time to explore this incredible area and keep your eyes peeled for some special wildlife. The ancient pine forests of Abernethy and Rothiemurchus, the alpine plateau of the Cairngorms, the snowy high tops, the heather-clad moors and the lochs are home to some of our rarest native birds: the graceful osprey, dainty crested tit, hardy ptarmigan, spectacular capercaillie, unique Scottish crossbill and emblematic golden eagle. There are also lovely wee red squirrels, bouncy mountain hares, and even reindeer, which you can visit in their mountain home.
