The Cairngorms National Park

The Cairngorms National Park 

The Cairngorms is a mountain range at the heart of the Cairngorms National Park, the largest national park in the UK. Located in the Scottish Highlands, it is known for its spectacular landscapes and unique arctic-alpine environment. It is a hub for outdoor activities and a critical habitat for a quarter of the UK's rare and endangered species. 

Overview 

The park covers an area of almost 1,750 square miles and contains five of the UK's six highest mountains, including Ben Macdui, the second highest in Scotland. The landscape features wild high mountains, heather moorlands, ancient forests, lochs, and rivers, making it a diverse natural environment. The area is home to iconic wildlife such as red squirrels, pine martens and the UK's only semi-domesticated reindeer herd. 

Things to Do and See 

The Cairngorms National Park offers a wide range of activities for visitors all year round. 

Outdoor Activities: The park is a premier location for hiking and climbing, with numerous Munros (mountains over 3,000 feet) to summit. It is also a top destination for mountain biking, with dedicated centres like Laggan Wolftrax. In winter, the area is popular for snow sports, featuring three alpine ski resorts: Cairngorm Mountain, The Lecht and Glenshee. Water sports like canoeing and kayaking are available on the lochs and rivers. 

Attractions: Beyond the natural landscape, visitors can explore attractions such as the Highland Wildlife Park to see native and endangered species, historic Balmoral Castle and the Strathspey Steam Railway. 

Culture and Heritage: The region has a rich history, with museums, castles and distilleries offering insights into Highland life and local produce. The local towns such as Aviemore and Braemar provide a variety of independent shops, cafes and restaurants. 

Planning Your Visit 

The park is accessible by car via major routes like the A9 and lies just under 2 hours’ drive (74 miles) from The Station Hotel Insch by car. 

Images courtesy of Wikimedia Commons