Posts for August, 2024

Discover the stories of the hidden 18th Century seminary of Scalan and the lives of those who lived and worked there when it was farmed during the 19th and 20th Centuries.

Soak up the atmospheric character of the landscape. Wander around the seminary building which provides information on how the Catholic faith was kept alive in this small glen as well as peeling wallpaper fragments from when it later became a home for those working the site as a farm.

See inside the two mill buildings, including areas that are usually locked, and get a glimpse of what everyday life was like for those who lived and worked here during the 19th and 20th Centuries from their own hands. The wooden walls are daubed with handwritten, dated snippets of everyday life.

The left behind objects tell their own tale of those who lived and worked here. The restored waterwheel will also be turning bringing back the sounds of the past. Videos will be playing which provide information on the whole history of the site and the surrounding Braes of Glenlivet.

There will be volunteers onsite to answer questions and bring the history of the site alive with their own stories, memories and knowledge. Drop in anytime between 1 and 4 pm.

Parking is at the Carrachs Car Park with a 0.5mile (approx) walk along a farm track to the site. The short walk in takes in the stunning scenery of the Braes of Glenlivet. There is one parking space for restricted mobility only onsite, but please note this is accessed via a rough farm track and the site is not fully wheelchair accessible.

Donations to the Scalan Association on the day are most appreciated and help them to care for this special place.

Children are very welcome to attend.
Toilets are available on site. There is also a picnic area and benches.
For further information please contact scalanseminaryandmills@gmail.com and look out on Facebook.

Come for a Wildlife Wander with someone from our knowledgeable team to see some of the amazing wildlife that late Summer brings to Insh Marshes.

September is a good time to look out for raptors like Hen Harriers hunting over the marshes. Buzzards are common and may be seen along the Tromie Trail. Butterflies and dragonflies will continue to fly as long as the weather is warm and sunny – Scotch Argus, Green-veined White, Red Admiral, Peacock and Black Darter are most likely. Many summer flowers have come and gone, but the blues and purples of Harebell, Devil’s-bit Scabious, Common Heather (Ling) and Bell Heather can be seen along the Tromie Trail. Other flowers may include the whites of Yarrow and Eyebright and the yellow of Lady’s Bedstraw.

Some areas may be rough underfoot. It is unfortunately not suitable for wheelchairs or buggies, and we recommend sturdy footwear.

Experience wellness travel at its finest with our carefully curated active getaway that seamlessly fuse adventure, fitness, and relaxation. Embark on an unforgettable journey toward improved wellbeing in a location that’s nothing short of breath-taking.

This retreat is perfect for solo travellers, small groups or couples, and promises an invigorating blend of wellness activities, beautiful scenery, nutritious locally sourced meals, and rejuvenating experiences amidst the stunning Cairngorms National Park.


DAY 1:

The adventure begins with a leisurely hike, leading you to an incredible viewpoint before we gather around the dining table to enjoy our first evening meal together, savouring local cuisine, prepared by our private chefs.

DAY 2:

After breakfast, we kick off the day with a group boot camp style workout, accommodated to all fitness levels, with the scenic backdrop of the surrounding mountains.

Following a hearty lunch, take some well-deserved time for yourself, indulging in relaxation and self-care, before a 2-hour group walk that will lead you to the cascading River Feshie and to a secluded waterfall. Immerse yourself in the fresh Highland waters with a wild dip (optional).

DAY 3:

Get up close and personal with the majestic wild reindeer that freely roam Cairngorm Mountain. These gentle creatures are not only approachable, but can also be hand-fed.

Following this unique encounter, we head to the hills to push ourselves physically to be rewarded with panoramic views of the Cairngorm Mountains.

After lunch at the lodge, we embark on an adventure through the pine forest, this time on quad bikes, before some well-deserved relaxation in our riverside wood-fired sauna.

As night falls, we conclude the retreat by gathering around the riverside campfire (weather dependant), reflecting on the cherished memories created and the lasting connections made.

Join us on this extraordinary adventure, where the Cairngorms National Park becomes the backdrop for your health and wellness transformation.

Ready, set, run!
New year, new challenge? Let’s go.

Start 2026 on a high—literally. The Loch Morlich Running Festival is back for its 8th year, and it’s going to be our biggest yet.

Whether you’re chasing a PB or just want a reason to shake off the Hogmanay cobwebs, this run through the stunning Glenmore Forest and along the shores of Loch Morlich is pure magic.

Crisp air, unreal views, and a buzzing atmosphere—that’s how we do January.

Go animal tracking around the Grantown area with expert tracker Dan Puplett, a two hour walk learning to spot the signs of birds and animals in the wild. great for families!

A two hour walk in the Grantown area with expert forager and tracker Dan Puplett and learn about the edible plants and fungi that grow wild on our doorstep.

Excellent for complete beginners to foraging.

Live music from local bands

Free pop up play session for children and families-run by trained experienced staff

Spend the day experiencing rock climbing with the support of one of our expert Instructors, who’ll make sure you have a great day. If you want to try something different, challenge yourself, a bit of excitement, or to just make unique holiday memories, this is the ideal way to do it.

Visiting the area on holiday? This one-day experience is suitable for anyone aged 14 and up, making it the perfect adventurous day out for your family!

Cairngorm is one of Scotland’s many iconic mountains, and makes for a memorable day out. With Glenmore Lodge being situated just at the foot of the mountain and not far from Aviemore, we’re the perfect place to begin your adventure. One of our expert Instructors will guide you and your group up and around the scenic Northern Coires, sharing their local knowledge about the area’s history, flora, and fauna, as you take in the stunning landscape.

Visiting the area on holiday? This one-day experience is suitable for anyone aged 14 and up, making it the perfect day out for your family.