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Cairngorms National Park
Check which businesses and locations are open in the Park click here.
The Cairngorms National Park is where countryside and nature come together. Here, find impressive and untouched Scottish beauty.
Twice the size of the Lake District, the Cairngorms National Park is home to tranquil lochs, challenging Munros, beautiful castles and historic events - it’s no surprise that it is the largest National Park in the UK. The park is even bigger than the whole of Luxembourg!
There are plenty of walks that will allow you to explore the valleys of the Cairngorms. Take the route over to Loch Muick where you’ll be amazed by countryside views along with the herds of red deer that gather for water and the protected capercaillie that can be found in their natural habitat.
You’ll find incredible forest walks here too. Explore the winding paths through pine and ancient beech trees at Cambus O’ May forest, as you take in extensive views of mountains and countryside. This is an ideal place to get great pictures and if you pay enough attention, you might spot a golden eagle soaring high in the sky.
The area is also popular for skiers up in the snowy mountains of Glenshee and The Lecht – in the summer you can take them on as adrenaline filled mountain biking routes! But if high adrenaline adventure isn’t for you, the Cairngorms National Park has more up its sleeve to keep you occupied.
For the sound of bagpipes and to be part of an epic highland fling, there is no better place than visiting a highland games celebration in the summer months. Ballater Highland Games, Lonach Gathering & Games and The Braemar Gathering draw in thousands of visitors each year including the Royal Family and celebrities.
The Cairngorms National Park is also the backdrop to many picturesque towns like Ballater and Braemar which are wrapped in authentic Scottish traditions. The British Royal Family are often spotted here as they escape to their Scottish holiday home at Balmoral Castle. You can even have a feast that’s fit for a prince at Prince Charles’ restaurant, The Rothesay Rooms. This area holds the most royal warrants than anywhere else in the UK!
Once you’ve finished exploring the towns, head out for some castle bagging. Balmoral, Braemar and Corgarff Castle are set against stunning panoramic backdrops from untouched mountain views to ancient forests, there are impressive sights worthy of your camera lens.
Find out more Information on visiting the Cairngorms National Park as the tourism industry begins to reopen. Please always follow the Scottish Outdoor Access code.
