Destination · 02 · 57.12°N · 3.68°W
The Cairngorms
Ancient forests, arctic plateaus, hidden lochs.
The Cairngorms
Britain's largest national park
The Cairngorms hold a sub-arctic plateau unlike anywhere else in Britain — a high, wild tableland ringed by ancient Caledonian pine forest, glittering lochs and some of the country's most important wildlife habitats.
Gentle loch loops and forest trails make it perfect for families, while the high tops offer serious mountain days for those with the skills to take them on.
Hand-picked · Top 3
Routes in The Cairngorms
ExpertCairngorms
Cairn Gorm Plateau
A high, exposed arctic plateau crossing for experienced hill-walkers with serious navigation skills.
- Distance
- 18 km
- Ascent
- 900 m
- Time
- 9 h
EasyCairngorms
Loch an Eilein Circuit
A gentle, family-friendly loop around a tranquil loch with an island castle, framed by ancient Caledonian pine forest.
- Distance
- 5.5 km
- Ascent
- 60 m
- Time
- 1.5 h
ModerateCairngorms
Meall a' Bhuachaille
A shapely hill above Glenmore giving a huge Cairngorm panorama for a fraction of the effort of the high tops.
- Distance
- 10 km
- Ascent
- 540 m
- Time
- 4 h
Best time to visit
Summer for the high plateau; spring and autumn for the forests and lochs. Winter turns the tops into a serious mountaineering environment.
Getting there
Aviemore is the gateway town, served by direct trains from the central belt. The funicular and ski roads give quick access to the high ground.
Field notes · From the trail
A glimpse of The Cairngorms
Loch an Eilein
Pines and still water
Cairn Gorm
Onto the plateau
Glenmore
Reindeer country
Rothiemurchus
Frosted heather
Ready to explore The Cairngorms?
Build an itinerary around this region, or keep exploring the rest of Scotland.
