33+ VERY best things to do Cairngorms National Park Scotland

The Cairngorms National Park is the largest National Park in the UK and so when it comes to the best things to do Cairngorms National Park you’re not short of options (unsurprisingly).

This Scottish National Park is in the heart of Scotland and is a vast expanse of beautiful scenery, historic sites, and pretty Cairngorms towns and villages.

From driving the scenic Snow Roads route to the pretty villages like Boat of Garten and Ballater, or trekking with pack ponies, the Cairngorms are a great place for both active adventures and more gentle sightseeing.

The Cairngorms seem much wilder than Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park and I’ve always found it to feel less busy too; something I always enjoy.

During our year in travel, we spent several months living in Scotland and were able to visit the Cairngorms National Park multiple times throughout the different seasons. Its varied beautiful Scottish landscapes probably make it one of my favorite places to visit in Scotland.

The best part is, that you can easily spend a weekend in the Cairngorms if you’re visiting Glasgow or exploring some of the best things to do in Edinburgh since both cities are just a few hours’ drive away!

Whether you’re visiting Scotland for the first time or have been to the Cairngorms before, you’re sure to find some new fun things to do in the Cairngorms with this guide.

Best things to do in the Cairngorms National Park UK

Cairngorms National Park things to do map

Before we get into this list of the best things to do in Cairngorm National Park I’ve put together a handy map that you can use to get your bearings and plan your Cairngorms trip.

Simply click the image (or here) and you’ll open it up in Google Maps on your phone, tablet, or laptop and can then read more about each item on the map and save it to your own maps for future use and planning your Cairngorms travel.

For Cairngorms trail maps and hiking maps for the Cairngorms, I highly recommend using OS Maps. They’re by far the best hiking maps in the UK and include so much information on them.

You can get an OS Maps app, or buy the paper version which is nice to have at home for planning purposes and to take out with you so you’re not relying on your phone battery.

There are a few maps for the Cairngorms which include this Cairngorm OS Map bundle. Otherwise, I’d recommend this Aviemore Cairn Gorm trail map.

Navigating while on the trail: You can find this hike on AllTrails which is my usual go-to for planning my hikes, navigating, checking trail conditions and, if hiking solo, making sure others know I’m safe. The OS Map app is one of the best hiking apps for trails in the UK and is just like having hundreds of OS maps in your pocket!

1. Find the Cairngorms Pyramid / Prince Albert’s Pyramid

Ever heard of Scotland’s one and only pyramid? You’ll find the Cairngorm Pyramid in the Balmoral Estate and there’s a unique story behind how it came to be.

It’s actually one of a few Balmoral Cairns and was built as a tribute by Queen Victoria to her beloved Prince Albert after he passed away in 1861. They had a heartwarming 21-year-long marriage.

Setting off from Crathie, the Cairngorm Pyramid hike takes you through the forest and past multiple cairns which have been built to commemorate members of the royal family. At the Prince Albert Cairn, you’ll get amazing views out over the Cairngorms National Park which is well worth the little bit of climbing uphill you have to do to get there.

Note: This trail is closed for much of the year, and avoid August as that’s when the Royal family is in residence at Balmoral and thus it’s closed to the public.

2. Hike to Green Lake in the Cairngorms (An Lochan Uaine)

An Lochan Uaine is a beautifully green loch that lies within the Glenmore National Nature Reserve and is definitely one of the best things to see in the Cairngorms National Park.

Getting there is fairly easy, you’ll start from the visitor center at Glenmore where there are toilets and a cafe as well as trail maps and information about the area.

From there, it’s an easy-moderately difficult hike where you’ll head out into the forest and go a little bit uphill toward the loch.

The loch is incredibly green, even on a rainy day, and it’s a peaceful spot to sit and enjoy the views. It’s a must see Cairngorms attraction.

I highly recommend continuing up to the Ryvoan Bothy from here – it’s not too far and has even more expansive views!

3. Look at the stars in the dark skies of Cairngorms National Park

The night skies over Cairngorms National Park are some of the darkest and most beautiful in the world.

The area around Glenlivet and Tomintoul is especially dark and was even recognized as a Dark Sky Park in 2018.

While you can stargaze pretty much anywhere in the park, the three top spots are Blairfindy, near Glenlivet Distillery, Tomintoul, and Scalan near Chapelton.

If you’re here during winter, you might even catch a sighting of Cairngorms national park northern lights! Though don’t count on it, it’s still pretty rare to see them this low down.

For those keen to dive deeper, the National Park often hosts astronomy events with experts where you can learn more about the night sky.

4. Cycle to the Ryvoan Both in the Cairngorms

One of my favorite trips in the Cairngorms was when we did a longer cycling route that went past the Ryvoan Bothy in the Cairngorms.

This bothy is in a beautiful location and has expansive mountain views from just outside it. It’s a stone building that’s not too far a cycle away from the Glenmore visitor center and Aviemore.

You’ll leave the paved trails behind just after Glenmore but for most of the way, the path isn’t too tricky. There’s just one steeper section right before the bothy which is a bit tricky by bike but you’ve got this!

Along the way, you’ll also see the green-hued An Lochan Uaine: ‘Green Loch’.

We enjoyed some snacks in Ryvoan Bothy and found this traditional mountain refuge a great place to talk with other hikers and adventurers about their plans for the day.

5. Ride the Cairngorms funicular / Cairngorms Mountain Railway

The Cairngorms funicular is not just a mode of transport; it’s a ticket to Scotland’s breathtaking highland panoramas at Cairngorm Mountain.

The funicular climbs the slopes of Cairngorm Mountain, and you’ll be treated to views of the valley, lochs, and surrounding hills.

Interestingly, this is Scotiland’s only funicular railway and it’s also the highest in the UK! When you reach the Ptarmigan building at the top you’re almost 1 100 m above sea level.

It takes about 5-8 minutes to ride the railway over its 2 km length. The standard price for adults is £22.

6. Go skiing in the Cairngorms

Skiing in the UK? Absolutely! Cairngorms National Park is one of the best places to go skiing in the UK.

The largest ski hill in the Cairngorms is Glenshee which has 14 lifts and tows and if you’re a beginner skier, the Lecht Ski Centre is ideal. There’s also Cairngorm Mountain which has 10 lifts, tows, and terrain for freestyle skiing. This is where we skied and had a great time!

Skiing in the Cairngorms was actually way better than I thought it would be. We lucked out with some fresh snow falling overnight before we headed up the hill. Skiing here is definitely one of the best things to do in Aviemore in winter.

The only issue? The wind! Make sure you’ve got warm clothing and pack your ski goggles as the snow really whips up when the wind gets going.

You should also keep an eye on the forecasts and wind forecast when planning when to go skiing in the Cairngorms as lifts can often close due to high wind speed.

7. Go wild camping in the Cairngorms National Park

There’s nothing quite like wild camping in the Cairngorms. Thanks to Scotland’s access legislation, you can set up camp on most unenclosed lands.

Just remember, this style of camping is about being minimalistic – stay in small groups and change your location every couple of days.

Find a serene spot away from busy areas, pitch your tent, and truly immerse yourself in the natural beauty around you. It’s a peaceful and refreshing way to experience the Cairngorm

Scotland’s Right to Roam – Scottish Outdoor Access Code.
In Scotland, you can go on to most land to enjoy the outdoors – as long as you behave responsibly, care for the environment and respect the interests of others. You can learn more about the Scotland Outdoor Access Code, and what it means for your activities here.

8. Try and spot Osprey in the Cairngorms at the Osprey Centre at Loch Garten

Ever been up close with an Osprey? No not the backpack, the bird!

The Osprey Centre at Loch Garten, managed by the RSPB, is the best way to get to see these birds. in their natural habitats.

If there are staff there during your visit you can use telescopes and binoculars to watch the raptors in their natural habitat.

The Centre also hosts daily talks and displays that help you learn more about the Ospreys of the Cairngorms.

Plus, don’t miss out on the forest deck; it’s a relaxing spot to witness other forest wildlife. Oh, and there’s a café to grab a treat from too!

9. Go chasing waterfalls in Cairngorms National Park

For the Cairngorms, waterfalls are more than just falling waters; they’re entwined with history, myths, and stunning landscapes. In Gaelic tradition, waterfalls are considered to be places where supernatural creatures were located and it’s said that the evil spirits couldn’t cross the running water.

Some of the best waterfalls in the Cairngorms are found in the following places:

• Falls of Pattack
• Falls of Bruar
• Falls of Glas Alt
• Linn of Tanar
• Linn of Muick
• Falls of Unich

10. Ride the Strathspey Steam Railway

The Strathspey Steam Railway allows you to take a journey back in time to when steam trains were commonly heard with their whistles and click-clack of the wheels on the track.

The Strathspey Steam Railway has over 40 years of service in the Scottish Highlands and you can still ride it today from Aviemore to Boat of Garten.

The heritage railway chugs across the tracks treating you to views of heather-covered moors and Cairngorms woodlands.

When you get to the Boat of Garten, also called the “Osprey Village” because of its close proximity to the Osprey Centre, you can take a quick visit around the village or continue on to Broomhill, which you may recognize as ‘Glenbogle’ from the BBC series “Monarch of the Glen.”

The return trip takes about 2 hours so you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy the beauty of the Scottish Highlands.

11. Linn of Dee

Deep within the Mar Lodge Estate, the Linn of Dee is a beautiful place where you can watch the River Dee rush through an ancient gorge.

Once a favorite picnic spot of Queen Victoria, you can now head here yourself and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.

They have a few walking trails here and you can follow the marked routes to discover the Caledonian pinewood forests that are being regenerated and enjoy views into Glen Lui.

12. Visit Mar Lodge Estate

The Mar Lodge Estate is managed by the National Trust of Scotland which is looking to rewild and rejuvenate this part of the Cairngorms.

In the estate, you can enjoy walks along the Linn of Dee and seek out beautiful lakes and loch. There’s also the Linn of Qouich which is perfect if you’re looking for walks in the Cairngorms or go peak bagging and conquer the 15 Munro’s that you can find throughout the estate!

13. Spend some time exploring Aviemore Cairngorms Scotland

Aviemore is the largest town in the Cairngorms and one of the most well-known.

It’s a great place to base yourself while exploring this Scottish national park and has plenty of outdoor gear shops, restaurants, pubs, supermarkets, cafes, and places to rent bikes and skis from depending on the season you’re visiting.

You’ll get great views of the Cairngorms mountains just outside the town and from the center of town there are loads of trails for running, biking, and hiking that take you straight into the wilderness.

14. Muir of Dinnet

The Muir of Dinnet is super close to Ballater and is a great place for gentle walks near Loch Kinord and the Burn o Vat which is a rock formation shaped by glaciers and cascading waterfalls.

A walk on the Loch Kinord Trail is a great way to soak in the views. Do bear in mind though that since the path is so close to the loch it can get very muddy so you’ll want good walking shoes!

16. Try climbing in Cairngorms National Park

If you enjoy rock climbing, the Cairngorms is full of new routes for you to tackle.

Mountaineering Scotland says this National Park is one of the country’s best climbing destinations! You’ll find trad routes, bouldering, and winder mountaineering challenges on and around the park’s 55 Munros.

If you want to try some of the most well-known routes in the area, head to climbing spots like Creag Dubh Loch, Lochnagar, and The Shelterstone Crag.

If you’re newer to climbing or haven’t been able to transport all your gear with you, there are some great climbing tours in the Cairngorms too. On these tours, you’ll have an instructor/guide and have the gear provided. I’ve listed some of the best below:

• Private Guided Winter Mountaineering Experience in the Cairngorms: On this private mountaineering tour you’ll get to climb one or more historic mountaineering routes. Suitable for novices, beginners, and those looking for a special experience in the local area.
• Private Guided Rock Climbing Experience in the Cairngorms: Enjoy a challenge as you take on this guided rock climbing experience in the Cairngorms to some of the area’s best routes.

17. Go swimming

While Cairngorms National Park is not on a coastline, it does have more than 60 lochs, smaller lochs called lochans, and rivers for you to go for a swim in.

On a warm summer’s day, or post-hike, there’s nothing more refreshing than getting into a loch and feeling the cool waters on your skin.

I’m always surprised at just how clear the water is in Scotland’s lochs and rivers given the state of much of the water in the UK!

18. Visit the Cairngorm reindeer center

For unique things to do in the Cairngorms, visit the Cairngorm Reindeer Centre near Loch Morlich and Glen More.

The center opened in 1952 and is home to Scotland’s reindeer population and Britain’s only free-ranging herd of reindeer.

While a few reindeer reside at the center’s paddocks, most wander freely in the area nearby and you can visit the center to learn more about them and take hill walks to see where they roam.

When it comes to what to see in Cairngorms National Park, I highly recommend this!

19. Go cycling or mountain biking in Cairngorms National Park

The Cairngorms National Park is ideal for mountain bike lovers.

From gravel trails to single-track riding, you’ll find plenty to keep you entertained. You’ll find more gentle routes for beginners as well as adrenaline-pumping paths for the experts.

We did a mountain biking route up to Ryvoan Bothy and then around through some forests before coming back to Aviemore and Glenmore but there are so many trails to explore.

One of the best ways to discover mountain biking in the Cairngorms if you’re short on time is to book this Private Exploration of Cairngorm Munros by Mountain Bike. With this, you’ll get a guide who’ll show you some of the best places for biking in the park.

It’s not all about mountain biking though, there are also tonnes of great places to go gravel biking and road cycling all around the Cairngorms.

Aviemore holds numerous biking events and has plenty of rental options too.

20. Visit the Rothiemurchus Forest

The Rothiemurchus Forest is home to some of Scotland’s ancient Caledonian Forest and a walk through the forest is perfect any time of year. I always think forest walks are a bit more special when it’s a rainy day too.

Besides walking, you can also go pony trekking, quad biking or tubing, rafting, and kayaking at Rothiemurchus Estate.

21. Learn about Scottish history at the Cairngorms castles

Cairngorms National Park is rich in history, and what better way to delve into Scottish lore than by exploring its iconic castles? From ancient ruins like Kindrochit and Drumin Castle to the meticulously maintained Braemar, Corgarff, and Blair Castle, there’s a historical tale waiting at every corner.

Some of the best castles are found below:

• Balmoral Castle: The summer getaway for the Royal Family, with beautiful gardens which are open for visitors from May to July. They’re closed in August when the Royal Family is in residence.
• Braemar Castle: Once host to government troops post-Culloden, this castle now hosts the famous Braemar Gathering.
• Blair Castle: A white castle that was home to the Clan Murray. It has large gardens and woods which make it a great place for a family day out.

22. Visit Abernethy Forest

Abernethy Forest is another preserved part of Scotland’s ancient Caledonian Scots pinewood forest and one of my favorite places to visit in the Cairngorms.

Part of the Abernethy National Nature Reserve, this forest is a mix of original woods and regenerated areas and you can learn more about the ongoing efforts to replant more native species.

Whether you’re a cyclist or a hiker, the forest offers paths that meander through its dense woods, including the famous Speyside Way. For bird enthusiasts, the Loch Garten Osprey Centre is a must-visit!

23. Taste the local whisky

Scotland and whisky go hand in hand and you’re not short on places to try it when you visit the Cairngorms National Park.

In the Cairngorms, you’ll find several distilleries each with their own take on Scotch Whisky.

You can take guided distillery tours or just pop in to sample some and, of course, you’ll find plenty of options at the pubs nearby too.

The Royal Lochnagar, Dalwhinnie, and Glenlivet have visitor centers where you can learn more about the whisky-making process and others are available on an appointment-only basis.

If you’re not a whisky lover then you’ll be pleased to know that there’s an increasing number of other places opening up like the Balmenach Distillery which does gin, and the Cairngorm Brewery in Aviemore for beer lovers.

If you’re a real whisky lover, following the steps of the Malt Whisky Trail might be for you. This trail goes by many renowned distilleries from Grantown on Spey to Dufftown and you’ll find more information on where to stay and other things to do on the official website.

23. Go whitewater rafting in the Cairngorms

Go whitewater rafting in the Cairngorms for a fun adventure amidst the stunning backdrop of the Scottish Highlands. This whitewater rafting adventure on the River Feshie, near Aviemore, is a must-do!

You’ll discover hidden scenic gems that many miss out on as you cruise down the river and then tackle the thrilling rapids of the River Feshie. It’s one of the best Cairngorms national park activities.

This tour also includes a hot drink after the adventure which will be much appreciated after a few hours on the refreshing waters in the Cairngorms!

It’s one of the most fun things to do in Cairngorms National Park.

24. Glen Esk

To the Northwest of the village of Edzell, Glen Esk is the eastern gateway to the Angus Glens.

Starting from near Invermark Castle you can choose between conquering Mount Keen – Scotland’s easternmost Munro – or taking the more leisurely, scenic route around Loch Lee.

The latter is one of the best ways to see Glen Esk as you’ll pass by stunning waterfalls and get panoramic views of the glen as you go.

25. Take on one of the many walks and hikes in Cairngorms National Park

The Cairngorms National Park is a paradise for hiking lovers. With its wide open landscapes, towering mountains, and pretty lochs, the park offers countless trails for both novices and super keen hikers.

Some of the best hikes in the Cairngorms are:

• Uath Lochans: Wander amidst Glenfeshie’s pine forests, looping around four lochs, finishing at the Farleitter Crag. It’s an easy 3-mile trail that can be completed in about 2 hours.
• Meall a’ Bhuachaille: Start at Glenmore Lodge and ascend to the top of this Corbett. You can loop back via An Lochan Uaine, or walk along the ridgeline instead.
• Munros near Aviemore: For the daring, there’s an array of challenging Munros awaiting. From Braerich and Lochnagar, each promises awesome views.
• The Cairnwell Munros: Begin at the Glenshee Ski Centre and embark on a relatively easy hike across three majestic Munros with awesome views of the Cairngorms.

If you enjoy long-distance, multi-day hiking, take on the Speyside Way or the Cateran Trail.

You can also find some great guided walking tours and hikes in the Cairngorms National Park if you’re not sure about heading out on your own. I’ve listed some of my top recommendations below:

• Day Trip to the Cairngorms with Guided Walk: With pick up from Ballater, you’ll head into the Cairngorms’ hills and get up close to nature within the park. The qualified guides will help you explore the area, be it on top of a mountain or walking through the beautiful Caledonian pine forests.
• Private Walking Tour to Ben Macdui Scotland: Tackle the 2nd highest peak in the UK (After Ben Nevis), with a guide who’ll add to the experience by sharing information about the local fauna or coal tales from history.
• Private Guided Ridge Scrambling Experience in the Cairngorms: Add a touch more adrenaline to your hiking adventure with this private guided scrambling experience. You’ll get to climb one or more historic mountaineering routes; in a remote corrie, along an airy ridge, or up a sheer cliff face!

AllTrails is my go-to hiking app for finding, planning, and navigating while I’m out on the trails. With offline maps on AllTrails+ you can be confident you’re still on the right track, even without mobile signal.

26. Explore the towns + villages in Cairngorms National Park

While I love to get out on the biking and hiking trails in the Cairngorms, the best way to finish

up some outdoor adventure is by grabbing a slice of cake and tea, a hot chocolate, or a beer. And the best places to do that are in one of the cute villages and towns you’ll find dotted across the park.

Some of my favorite towns and Cairngorms villages are below:

Boat of Garten

Super close to Aviemore, this is the place to go in the Cairngorms if you love railways, and trains or have a little one who does.

The highlight of this village is its historic train station, where the Strathspey Steam Railway makes a stop during the summer months. You can enjoy the nostalgic experience of watching the steam train while having a drink or meal at the Boat Country Inn.

We ended up in Boat of Garten during their annual steam festival where steam trains, steam rollers, and more were on display.

Ballater

Known for its royal connections, the town of Ballater was once the train stop for Queen Victoria when she traveled to her Balmoral Castle.

This Victorian village also has plenty of historic sites and some great cafes and restaurants. Don’t miss the Glenmuick Church’s central square, the “Royal Station” (an old train station), and the picturesque stone bridge spanning the River Dee.

Nethy Bridge

Nethy Bridge alongside the River Nethy and Abernethy Forest has a lot of historic buildings to visit and admire. The most notable is a three-arched stone bridge from 1810, crafted by famed engineer, Thomas Telford.

Braemar

The highlight of the Royal Deeside area, Braemar takes you back in time to explore Scotland’s rich history.

Braemar Castle which dates back to the 17th century is worth visiting and you can also attend the Braemar Gathering for the Highland Games which the Royal Family often attend.

27. Paddleboard on Loch Morlich

Loch Morlich is often considered to be one of Scotland’s most scenic lakes. It’s set in the Glenmore and Rothiemurchus Forests and is a great place for paddleboarding or kayaking and paddling in the water.

28. Drive the Snow Roads

Love a scenic drive or road trip? The Snow Roads is your perfect adventure in Scotland.

The Snow Roads is a 90-mile drive that stretches from Blairgowrie to Grantown-on-Spey and is full of impressive landscapes.

Instead of racing to the end, take your time. Stop, breathe in the fresh air, and admire the views. Be prepared, though – in winter, the road can get quite snowy. You should have all-season tires for added traction, or avoid it after snow and ice.

If you’re considering the famous North Coast 500 route, the Snow Roads make for a picturesque detour between Edinburgh and Inverness.

Along the Snow Roads scenic route, there are 3 public art installations worth looking out for:

• The Watchers: a group of sculptures made from folded steel sheets. They look like standing stones overlooking the Glen and Corgarff Castle from the steep slopes of Lecht Road.
• Still: This artwork is a mirrored box on a hill near Tomintoul, it involves a short walk to get to and you’ll get some awesome views.
• Connecting Contours: Near Glenshee Pass there’s a seating area that is a bit like an ‘amphitheater for nature’.

29. Glen Clova & Loch Brandy

Glen Clova is one of the prettiest places to visit in Cairngorms National Park’.

Start your journey at the Glen Clova Hotel and follow the trail up to Loch Brandy.

It’s a great place for a short walk whatever time of day.

30. Drive the North East 250

Add another drive to your list! The North East 250 connects the Cairngorms with coastal towns like Aberdeen.

It’s a circular route that showcases iconic places like Glenshee, the Cairngorm mountains, and the royal Balmoral Castle.

31. Corrie Fee

Head over to Glen Doll near Glen Clova and follow the path from the Ranger Station along the forestry track to Corrie Fee.

This national nature reserve is home to a rich variety of rare plants and birds and you’ll be discovering. gigantic bowl-shaped area that was shaped thousands of years ago by the movement of glaciers.

32. Visit Loch Muick

Loch Muick in the Balmoral Estate is a slice of paradise in the Cairngorms.

The clear, glistening waters of the loch are very tempting to jump into on a warm day and there’s also an 8-mile trail that you can do too.

This place gets busy in the summer so going early is best if you want to find some quieter spots around the loch.

33. Spend a day at Landmark Forest Adventure Park

Landmark Forest Adventure Park is more than a traditional adventure park. Here, you’ll find treetop trails, with panoramic views of the forest, to thrilling rides like the wild water coaster. There’s something for every age and thrill level.

The park also emphasizes learning with attractions like the butterfly house and a prehistoric journey showcasing life-sized dinosaur models.

What to know before visiting Cairngorms National Park

• Best Time to Visit: The Cairngorms are stunning year-round, but spring and autumn offer pleasant weather and less crowding. For winter sports enthusiasts, January and February are ideal.
• Cairngorms Weather: The region has rapidly changing weather, often experiencing rain, so always be prepared. Winters are cold snow, ice, and frost are to be expected.
• Crowds: July and August are the busiest months due to summer vacations. For a quieter experience, consider late autumn or winter, excluding the ski season.
• Parking and Fees: Many car parks charge a fee. Take coins or download parking apps like Ringo and PaybyPhone which allow you to pay by card through your phone.
• Transport: A car offers the most flexibility, especially in remote areas. However, public transport options are available but might be limited to certain areas.
• Wildlife: The park is home to diverse wildlife active year-round, including deer and birds of prey. Always respect and keep a safe distance from animals.
• Clothing and Gear: Due to unpredictable weather, layered clothing and waterproofs are essential. Sturdy hiking boots are recommended for trekkers.
• Cairngorms national park accommodation ranges from campsites to luxury lodges; booking in advance is crucial during peak season.
• Local Etiquette and Guidelines: You should follow the “Leave No Trace” principle, ensuring you respect the environment and local guidelines, like the Countryside Code.

Where is the Cairngorms National Park?

The Cairngorms National Park sits proudly in northeast Scotland and is made up of several mountain ranges and glens.

It’s the largest of the UK’s National Parks and includes towns and villages like Blair Atholl and Glenshee in the south to Grantown on Spey in the north. It runs from Dinnet in the east to Laggan in the west.

Aviemore is the main town in the park and you’ll also find picturesque regions such as the Royal Deeside, the Strathspey region, Tomintoul & Glenlivet, Atholl & Glenshee, and the Angus Glens.

Where to stay in the Cairngorms?

Below are some recommendations for where to stay in the Cairngorms. They include Cairngorms hotels across the park so, you might decide to change hotels every few nights as you explore the park or pick one place and day trip from there.

I’ve also got a whole guide on the best places to stay in Aviemore.

• Boat Country Inn and Restaurant: Just 10 minutes from Aviemore with luxurious amenities like a monsoon shower, roll-top bath, and outdoor terrace this hotel in the Cairngorms is next to one of the best golf courses and has scenic views of the Cairngorms Mountains.
• Cairngorm Bothies: In Aboyne, Cairngorm Bothies offers a cozy retreat with private parking and terraced seating; enjoy evening barbecues, see local woodpeckers from the deck, and enjoy the ease of nearby scenic walks – an ideal haven for both you and your dog.
• Glen Clova Hotel and Luxury Lodges: This 3-star hotel has rooms with mountain views, a terrace, and modern amenities; whether you fancy a Full English/Irish breakfast or activities like hiking and cycling, Glen Clova ensures a memorable stay, just a short drive from Dundee Airport.
• The Osprey Hotel: A stone’s throw from the Highland Folk Museum in Kingussie, The Osprey Hotel has great terrace views and nearby hiking. They are also a pet friendly Cairngorms hotel.
• Cambus O’ May Hotel: In Ballater and close to iconic landmarks like Balmoral Castle, this hotel offers complimentary bikes, a garden lounge, and a terrace, for a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere for both you and your pets.
• The Balavoulin: This inn offers rooms with mountain views and a range of breakfast options; its location is ideal for hiking, skiing, and cycling enthusiasts.
• The Boat Inn: in Aboyne close to the Cairngorms National Park this hotel has 16 individually styled rooms, some with river views and freestanding baths; enjoy a hearty Scottish breakfast and delectable Scottish ingredients on the restaurant menu.

How to get to Cairngorms National Park

The Cairngorms is pretty accessible from several major cities across Scotland including Edinburgh, Inverness, and Glasgow. If you’re coming from within Scotland, or are traveling internationally to the Cairngorms, below are some basic details on how to get there.

Of course, where you’re planning to go in the Cairngorms will change the route a bit, with Aviemore being much closer to Inverness than to Edinburgh and Ballater being closer to Edinburgh than Inverness or Glasgow for example.

Driving to the Cairngorms

• From Edinburgh: The drive takes approximately 2.5-3 hours. You’d typically head north on the M90, following signs for Perth, and then continue onto the A9 towards Aviemore and the Cairngorms.
• From Glasgow: This journey also takes roughly 2.5-3 hours. Head north on the M80, merge with the A9 at Stirling, and continue northwards towards Aviemore.
• From Inverness: It’s a relatively short drive of about 40 minutes to an hour south on the A9 to enter the northern areas of the park.

I use comparison sites like DiscoverCars and RentalCars to book my car rentals as it’s easy to check prices and compare the best deals!

Flights to the Cairngorms National Park:

• Closest Airports: The nearest major airports are Inverness Airport and Aberdeen Airport. Both airports offer rental car services, which is convenient for those wanting to drive to Cairngorms National Park.
  • From Inverness Airport: It’s a drive of roughly 45 minutes to an hour to get to the park.
  • From Aberdeen Airport: The drive is approximately 1.5-2 hours.
• International Visitors: If you’re coming from abroad, you might land at larger airports like Edinburgh or Glasgow. From there, you can either drive or take public transport to the Cairngorms.

Skyscanner is what I use to find cheap flights.

Public Transport to the Cairngorms:

• By Train from Edinburgh or Glasgow: There are direct trains to Aviemore, one of the main towns in the Cairngorms. The journey from either city takes around 3-4 hours.
• By Bus: Multiple bus operators run services into the Cairngorms from cities like Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Inverness. The main bus hubs in the park are Aviemore and Ballater. National Express and CityLink are among the operators offering services to the area.

Omio is a great platform for booking European and UK travel on. You can check train and bus prices and schedules and book super easily!

Getting around the Cairngorms

If you have a car, it’s super easy to move around the Cairngorms. This is especially helpful if you want to go to hiking spots that are out of the way and hard to get to by bus or train. However, if you don’t have a car, don’t worry! There are still good train and bus options.

If you’re coming from Glasgow or Edinburgh, you can take a train to Aviemore. Once you’re in Aviemore, there are buses that can take you to Loch Morlich, Abernethy Forest, and some other hiking trails.

If you’re in Aberdeen, there’s a bus that goes through the Royal Deeside area. This bus can take you all the way to Braemar, and you’ll see some pretty villages and great views on the way.

FAQs about what to do in Cairngorms National Park Scotland

Final thoughts on visiting the Cairngorms Park

The Cairngorms National Park in Scotland is a beautiful place to visit for active, outdoor adventures and historic scenic villages and towns.

Whether you’re hiking a munro, visiting castles and unusual things to see in the Cairngorms like reindeer and the Balmoral pyramid, or going whisky tasting, you’ll find so many fun things to do in the Cairngorms National Park.

For more ideas on what to do nearby, be sure to check out this guide to the best things to do in Aviemore, as well as this list of free things to do in Edinburgh, how to spend 1 day in Glasgow, and the best places to visit in Inverness. And since you’re nearby, you should definitely head to Loch Ness, take a great boat tour on Loch Ness, and check out these other fun things to do on Loch Ness too

Or, head out to the west coast and discover these things to do on the Isle of Arran including the best Arran beaches.