Cairngorms National Park Hotel Map

Cairngorms National Park is a vast and diverse region located in the Scottish Highlands. Established as a national park in 2003, it covers an area of approximately 1748 square miles, making it the largest national park in the British Isles. The park is known for its dramatic mountain ranges, expansive plateaus, ancient forests, sparkling rivers, and picturesque villages.
The Cairngorms, a group of high plateaus and mountain peaks, are the centrepiece of the park, offering challenging hikes and fantastic views.

The National Park is a popular destination for skiing in the UK, with a range of slopes and trails suitable for all levels of skiers and snowboarders. The ski resort at Cairngorm Mountain offers 30 km of slopes and runs, with 11 lifts, a funicular railway and two terrain parks. The resort also has a snowmaking system to ensure consistent snow cover throughout the season. Nearby, the Lecht Ski Centre offers 20 km of slopes and runs, with 12 lifts and a variety of trails for beginners and experienced skiers.

Visitors to Cairngorms National Park can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, skiing, wildlife spotting, and exploring the numerous castles and historic sites scattered throughout the region. The area offers numerous walking routes, including the famous Speyside Way, which passes through the park and follows the River Spey.

Some suggested, popular destinations within the Cairngorms National Park and close by.

1. Aviemore: This bustling town is a popular base for exploring the park and offers a range of outdoor activities, including skiing, mountain biking, and wildlife watching.
2. Cairn Gorm Mountain: At 1,245 meters above sea level, Cairn Gorm is one of the highest peaks in the park and offers challenging hikes, a mountain railway, and a visitor centre.
3. Balmoral Castle: This historic castle, a favourite summer residence of the British Royal Family, is set within beautiful grounds and offers guided tours and a range of outdoor activities.
4. Loch Morlich: This picturesque freshwater loch, surrounded by forests and hills, offers a range of water sports, including kayaking, sailing, and paddleboarding.
5. The Highland Wildlife Park: This wildlife reserve showcases native Scottish species, such as red deer, Scottish wildcats, and capercaillie, as well as animals from the world's mountain and tundra regions.
6. Glenmore Forest Park: This expansive woodland area features miles of walking and cycling trails, a visitor centre, and a range of outdoor activities, including the Loch Morlich Water sports Centre and the Cairngorm Reindeer Centre.
7. Rothiemurchus Estate: This historic estate, located near Aviemore, offers a range of outdoor activities, such as guided walks, wildlife watching, fishing, and off-road driving.

Popular Destinations in and around the Cairngorms National Park