The Cairngorms in the Highlands of Scotland is an ancient landscape of stern beauty. One of the last wild places in the British Isles, you'll find a magnificent unspoilt wilderness of brooding mountains, rare wildlife and sweeping, romantic views.
The Cairngorms are the closest thing the UK has to the Arctic. Located in the eastern Highlands it's tough and awe-inspiring terrain, with rearing granite mountains, freezing lochs and rugged moorland. You can even ski here in winter - but underestimate the weather at your peril, the climate can be unforgiving to the under-prepared.
At 1,748 square miles - twice the size of the Lake District - the Cairngorms is the largest national park in the British Isles. It’s home to a quarter of all the rare and endangered plants and animals in the UK – red squirrels, wild cats and golden eagles roam the hillsides. You’ll also find some of the last remaining areas of the Caledonian forest, the legendary ancient woodland which once covered much of Scotland.
If you want to escape the crowds, this is the place. You can tramp for miles here without seeing a soul. The air is full of the green scent of pine and you'll have vast mountainsides, hundred-mile views and endless forests of old Scots Pine, birch and heather all to yourself. The peace is profound.
And if you do want to seek out your fellow humans, you'll find the fringes of the mountains dotted with remote villages of traditional, pretty cottages and handsome granite houses. The area's biggest town is Aviemore, a neat little place of sturdy grey and white buildings, with a useful scatter of shops and restaurants.
Things to do in the Cairngorms
Our pick of some of the unforgettable experiences on offer in the Cairngorms.
Visit the Cairngorm reindeer herd
Around 150 reindeer roam free across the Cairngorms. You can drive out across the hills from the Reindeer Centre at Glenmore to pay these hardy, stately creatures a visit, or see a few of them up close in the paddock. As the Reindeer Centre so rightly say on their website, reindeers aren't just for Christmas!
Nature watch at Loch Garten
Loch Garten Nature Reserve in Abernethy is home to one of the last significant chunks of the ancient pine forest which once covered most of the Highlands. Among the old, gnarled pines and purple heather there is a wealth of amazing wildlife. You might see an osprey dipping into the loch - the UK's only colony nests here - while dainty roe deer and sassy red squirrels forage among the trees.
An Lochan Uaine (the Green Loch)
This loch in Glenmore with its jewel-like green water is a magical place. Legend has it the water is green because the pixies wash their socks in it. The real explanation could be the loch water reflecting the colour of the surrounding trees. Or it could be pixie socks. Whatever the reason, it's a glorious spot for an easy stroll from Glenmore Visitor Centre along the Ryvoan Trail and round the mysterious loch.
The Dark Sky National Park
The Tomintoul and Glenlivet Dark Sky Park is the northern-most dark sky park in the world and has International Dark Sky status. The almost total lack of light pollution makes it an amazing place to star-gaze and if you're lucky, maybe even see the Northern Lights. The best time of year to visit is the winter months, when the skies are at their darkest. Wrap up warm, bring a flask of hot chocolate and maybe a wee dram of whisky and settle down to watch this awe-inspiring natural show.
Rothiemurchus Forest
Rothiemurchus is a wild Highland playground at the heart of the Cairngorms. This ancient Caledonian pine forest is more than just stunning scenery – it offers you and your loved ones an abundance of unforgettable adventures. Paddleboard across still lochs, spot red squirrels on woodland trails or go full-throttle with quad biking and off-road safaris. Refuel with local treats at The Barn Café, then browse the Farm Shop for a true taste of the Highlands. From axe throwing to high ropes, pony trekking to clay shooting, there’s something for every thrill-seeker or slow wanderer.
Balmoral Castle
Step into royal history with a visit to Balmoral Castle, the Scottish retreat of the Royal Family since 1852. Nestled in the heart of the Cairngorms, the estate is open daily until 11th August 2024, inviting you to wander the immaculately kept gardens and grounds at your own pace. Discover fascinating exhibitions, then indulge in local Scottish flavours at the on-site restaurant. Don’t miss the Mews Gift Shop for elegant keepsakes with a regal twist. With over 150 years of royal heritage to explore, we suggest setting aside 90 minutes to soak it all in. Admission charges apply.
Cairngorms Mountain Railway
Hop aboard Scotland’s only mountain railway for a ride like no other. The Cairngorm Funicular whisks you from 635m to 1097m in under 10 minutes, offering jaw-dropping views over the Grampian Mountains, Loch Morlich and the ancient forests of Rothiemurchus. Fully accessible and open year-round, it’s an unforgettable way to experience the wild beauty of the Cairngorms - without breaking a sweat. At the Ptarmigan Top Station, take in panoramic vistas, explore the exhibition and sip a coffee with a view. To protect this fragile mountain environment, passengers must stay within the station, so the nature around you stays wild, and the magic lasts.
Visit whisky distilleries
Raise a glass to adventure in the Cairngorms National Park, home to six distinctive whisky distilleries nestled among dramatic Highland landscapes. From the regal charm of Royal Lochnagar to the iconic Glenlivet and the alpine vibes of Dalwhinnie, each stop offers something unique - think cutting-edge design, royal heritage, and immersive tasting tours. Visitor centres at Glenlivet, Dalwhinnie, Cairngorm Brewery and Royal Lochnagar deliver warm welcomes and expert insight. Some distilleries open by appointment, making each experience feel exclusive. And it’s not just about whisky - this region’s gin scene is thriving, too. Come thirsty. Leave inspired. This is Highland spirit at its finest.
Skiing at Cairngorm Mountain Resort
If you are travelling in winter and love a bit of an outdoor adventure, then you should seriously consider heading to the Cairngorm Mountain ski resort. Cairngorm Mountain Resort is Scotland’s ultimate winter playground for families, adrenaline junkies, eager first timers and everyone in between. With over 30km of pisted runs, 13 surface lifts, freestyle terrain and on-site equipment rental, this resort truly offers something for all. Located just 11 miles from picturesque Aviemore, in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park, the resort offers unforgettable views, exhilarating slopes and Highland winter magic.
Where to stay in the Cairngorms
Coolstays has a wide variety of wonderfully warm and snug places to come back to after a long day out bagging munros. Whether you are looking for spectacular lodges and grand houses for big groups or cosy cabins for a wilderness retreat we're sure you'll find something to suit.
You can browser all our Cairngorms lodging here!
