Welcome to our Ranger Series – where we catch up with one of the many Rangers who work within the Cairngorms National Park.
We were delighted to be joined by Mark Johnston from Glenlivet Estate. Read on to find out how Mark became a Ranger, his top tips for looking after this special place and his favourite days.
Thank you for your time Mark!
Tell us a bit about you and where you work.
I’m Head Ranger on Glenlivet Estate. It is around 23,000 hectares, with around 30 farm tenants, a sporting tenancy, and many private businesses and residents. We also have lots of places to come and visit and to see nice things.
What is your job – what do you do?
The Ranger Service has four strands to it:
We look after visitor infrastructure including 100 miles of way-mark trails, car parks, gates, bridges and everything that goes with that. We keep this to a good standard and make sure people know they’re welcome and where they’re going.
We also do a bit on biodiversity. This is limited as we have less ‘in-hand’ land but we do monitoring and have worked on some exciting projects like the twin flower translocation project. We are also monitoring Black Grouse, doing early morning Wader surveys and facilitate the Raptor surveys.
Community engagement is also a big part of what we do. It includes working with educational settings, from Nursery Schools up to Universities. We also work with specific groups who come to the Estate. A great example is the Wilderness Foundation, who bring young people from across Scotland who are having a hard time in school, so they can experience the benefits of the outdoors. We also work with the community associations with the local development trust.
Finally, we are the front-facing bit of the Estate, if people want to come and knock on the door with an issue or a suggestion, that falls to the Ranger Service too.
How did you get into this line of work?
I have a really varied background. I started out as a credit controller, then a lorry driver, moving on to working with young people in care in Secure Centres. This was rewarding but it was really hard work – at some stage I asked myself if I could do this for another 40 years…and the honest answer was no, but I had always been interested in the outdoors, the environment and working with young people.
I went on the study for a Countryside Management Degree, when I enrolled the Head Lecturer said that I needed to volunteer or there no sense doing this degree – on its own was not worth anything! It was great advice – I volunteered in a variety of settings and my first seasonal jobs were through the contacts that I’d made.
What is the best thing about your job and the most challenging?
The best thing about my job and the most challenging it’s the same answer: people!
We have wonderful people at Glenlivet…
We work with a National Park Volunteer Ranger Service and it is really inspiring to see the time and effort they put in.
Our local community and community associations are invested: they are positive and want to help make where they live better.
Finally, young people are one of the best parts of the job, their enthusiasm, perspective, involvement in taking a bit of ownership. All if these people are inspiring.
And then the negative side of the answer – a very small percentage of people who don’t take their litter home, have open fires where and when they shouldn’t, especially when there is an extreme fire risk, and who don’t look after their dogs responsibly.
Image: The best days can include the tastiest dishes. When it’s time to refuel, cooking on a gas stove helps protect the natural environment of the National Park from the risk of wildfires.
What do you love most about living and working in Cairngorms National Park?
This is an easy answer. I love being outdoors and I love having the opportunity to do lots of different active things. I live in Tomintoul and within an hour you’ve got the coast, and all the opportunities that it offers, and mountains, open bodies of water, amazing wildlife and scenery on the doorstep.
I could probably spend my life exploring the area around Tomintoul without even getting in a car…but if I do want something different, I can jump in the car and I don’t have to go too far.
Do you have a favorite season? And if so, what makes it extra special for you?
I don’t have a favorite season. I’ve got a favorite month: May. It took me a few years to realise this, but May is when everything comes back. The summer migrants, Black Grouse, Waders, the sounds of Lapwing and the Curlews, the scrub is full of Sedge Warblers, singing away, and Cuckoos calling in the background – it feels like everything is alive and vibrant. The flowers are coming back, the trees are looking good…so definitely…May is my favorite month!
Do you have a favorite view in the National Park? And if you do, what’s the best time of year to take it in?
My favorite view in the National Park is staying loyal to Glenlivet – it is the Victor Gaffney viewpoint on the Tomintoul Circular Walk. The walk starts and finishes in the village but when you sit on the bench at Victor Gaffney and look across at Ben A’an it is just wonderful.
It’s a beautiful morning. Where would you choose to go for your favorite walk or bike ride?
We have an ebike and I can be out at the foot of Ben A’an within 45 minutes. The whole cycle from Tomintoul is just stunning, cycling along the river. You can venture up Ben A’an or even cycle all the way to Braemar…leaving the house in Tomintoul and finishing in Braemar the next day – this is going to be one of our summer adventures.
Have you got a ‘must do’ recommendation for a visitor to the Cairngorms?
Tomintoul and Glenlivet has an International Dark Sky Park and it’s an amazing place to see the sky at night. We have dedicated Dark Sky events between September and the end of April. If you can’t get to an event, we’ve got the skyhide just on the edge of Tomintoul which is a wonderful place.
It’s stunning to sit in the skyhide with the stars and sky framed – its great for people interested in astronomy, but equally brilliant for people who just want to look up…and it’s not going to solve your problems but there is something about it that makes you realize how small you are in comparison to everything. It can make everything feel better for a short time.
The Cairngorms is home to lots of special wildlife and nature. What things do you do to help to take care and protect it?
To take care of the wildlife and nature we need to know what’s there, so we monitor the biodiversity on the Estate to inform management decisions.
We have this special area which we want people to come and see – and to do so responsibly. We provide information, both online and on the ground, and infrastructure to support this. Our 19 car parks all say welcome, have a map board with information on how to look after the place and enjoy yourself.
Going back to the tiny 1% – we tidy up the mess after people who don’t tidy up after themselves. Our Ranger Services and the National Park Ranger Service do a lot of work but there are also firefighters, locals and gamekeepers who get involved when things go wrong too.
We are very much part of that team who look out for what’s going on and try to keep things special here.
We love sharing the Cairngorms with visitors and it’s a special place for people who live far beyond Scotland. Tell us two things that you that visitors can do to help take care of this beautiful spot.
I’m going to cheat and do three things.
The overarching thing for anyone is to get to know the Scottish Outdoor Access Code and think of it as a tool to help us all to be responsible and enjoy these places, rather than something that gives you the right to do whatever you want with the ‘right to roam’. It is information to help you enjoy your stay, and help you not have a negative impact when you’re there.
On Glenlivet, people’s behaviour and management of their dogs is one of our main issues and there are two elements – dogs that aren’t under control which can impact ground nesting birds, wildlife, and livestock. The second issue is dog mess that owners refuse to clean up. It’s your responsibility. You are bringing your dog to this wonderful place; a brilliant place to walk dogs, but please pick up after your dog, bag it, take it home and put it in the bin.
I say this as a dog owner. Sometimes it’s not easy, but start out with the principle that it is your responsibility to keep your dog under control, pick up and leave no trace.
The final thing that is really topical at the minute is fires. Since the end of March, we’ve been probably been on some sort of high fire risk warning for about 75% of the time. Sometimes we all set out on a trip with an idea of what that trip is going to be. You might be thinking, I’m going to go to the National Park, with lovely scenery and I’m going to cook on a barbecue or have a campfire…it’s this romantic notion, and it is something we all like to do.
But before you even leave the house, you need to think if this is the right thing to do. Particularly when there is high fire risk, it’s a blanket message that barbecues and open fires are not permitted. There’s lots of other ways to enjoy yourself!
Do you have any tips for people looking to spot wildlife whilst being respectful of the wildlife’s home and not disrupting them?
If you love wildlife you can get caught up in the moment, especially if you’ve seen something you haven’t seen before. You can harass the wildlife to get a better view. The best way to experience wildlife when you spot something is to settle down, at a good distance, and not let the wildlife know you’re there – you will experience far more. This is especially true if you have your camera – resist the urge for a better shot. Just enjoy it for what it is.
We had a TV crew out a couple of weeks ago and we were filming Black Grouse – I was very clear before they came that keeping a distance from the Lek was essential. There was obviously a little bit of disappointment. By the time they left, the filmmaker really bought into the idea, she felt the message that it was better to show this wildlife in its environment without disturbing it, or causing any damage, was the most important outcome. This was really positive.
What do you think visitors can do to have a positive impact on the landscape of the National Park?
Come with that intention of leaving no trace. Come, enjoy it, don’t cause any damage and take everything away. When you’re sharing photographs and your trip, share that message as well: how special it is and how important it is to keep it that way.
I’ve also seen things that amaze me, in a good way – people do really positive things. Visitors in camper vans can have a bad reputation but I’ve had several incidents on the Estate where I have found camper vanning visitors walking along the trails with litter pickers and bags of waste…not only taking their own rubbish home, but other peoples too! So try and be a good person – I think that’s what a lot of this comes down to!
Have you got a random fact about the Cairngorms?
Until last year, Tomintoul and Glenlivet Dark Sky Park was the most northerly dark sky park in the whole world, which blew my mind…last year Norway took the crown as as Øvre Pasvik National Park was given Dark Sky Park status! But we are still the most Northerly Dark Sky Park in the UK and that is pretty special!
Finally, describe your perfect day in the Cairngorms.
Like a lot of people who live here I would start at KJ’s Bothy Bakery for coffee, cake and wonderful sandwiches. Followed by paddling a stretch of the Spey in a canoe – its wonderful to experience the landscape from a different perspective. I would finish up back on Glenlivet Estate for an evening dog walk on the Drumin Circular Walk, wandering by Drumin Castle and then the river side.
Mark Johnston from Glenlivet Estate, which is managed by Crown Estate Scotland on behalf of the Scottish Ministers.
We spoke to Mark in Mid May – his favourite month of the year!
Make a day of it
The Cairngorms National Park is the largest National Park in the whole of the UK at 4,528 sq km (1,748 sq miles). It is twice the size of the Lake District National Park and bigger than the whole of Luxembourg. There are many towns and villages within the National Park, home to lots of friendly communities with an amazing choice of places to stay and lots of fantastic things to do!
Here are some fabulous ideas for big days out here in the Cairngorms and surrounding areas. The Badenoch and Strathspey area spanning Grantown on Spey, Aviemore Kingussie & Newtonmmore and smaller villages in between are popular places to stay with a great choice of accommodation, things to do and places to eat, drink and shop. They also very accessible by public transport. A brilliant base to make some day trips from or to!
Atholl Estates and Blair Castle
Accessible via Train/Bus links | 1 hour from Aviemore, 1 hour 15 from Braemar
You can unleash the family’s adventurous spirit at Blair Castle exploring the vast grounds and nooks and crannies of the castle. There is a wonderful woodland playground with assault course and wooden castle fort set within Diana’s Grove which is home to some of the tallest trees in the country. Discover the ruined kirk, home to magical weddings or a place to play hide and seek!
Hercules Garden is a beautiful walled garden home to sculptures, incredible plants and lots of ducks who make the little islands in the ponds their home. You can feed the gentle red deer, and transform into knights and princesses in the castle ballroom dress up area. Interactive activity sheets are provided to keeps the kids amused while adults immerse themselves in the castle’s history. Look out for regular events suitable for all the family. There is a restaurant on site, a food cabin serving ice cream, cakes and snacks, and lots of picnic benches if you prefer to bring your own lunch. You could even check into the 4 star premier campsite or book a pod for the night to make it an overnight trip.
Braemar and the SnowRoads
1 hour 20 from Aviemore, 1 hour 15 from Blair Atholl
Traverse dramatic landscapes on the highest public roads in Britain and discover something new at every turn. There is a lot to take in on this route with amazing scenery, scenic art installations, (great photo opportunites) and wee villages to discover. Take your time. There are some narrow parts of the road over the Gairnshiel section which comes out at Crathie, perfect for visiting Balmoral Castle.
The grounds at Balmoral are beautiful and suitable for all ages with acres of space to explore. There is an onsite restaurant and childrens menu available. During May, June and July you can take guided tours of the castle.
Travel further along the side of the River Dee to Braemar, where first to greet you is Braemar Castle which has had a huge face lift and sits grandly on the edge of the village. A visit here will take your through living history where you can learn how the castle transformed from a redcoat garrison to a high society retreat with Royal connections and a host of colourful characters. You can wander round the grounds 7 days a week but check opening times for access into the castle.
The village of Braemar is well worth a wander with a lovely selection of independent shops and cafes. Discover the Braemar Highland Games Centre at the Princess Royal and Duke of Fife Memorial Park. The Pavilion’s exhibition tells the story of Highland games and gatherings throughout the ages, celebrating the deep-rooted cultural and sporting traditions of Scotland. Or dine in style with a visit to the incredible Fife Arms, an art lovers paradise. The Hazelnut Patisserie is an absolute must visit with cakes the likes you might find in Paris. Again check opening hours.
After all that history and culture a walk in nature makes a good contrast. The choice of walks here is never ending. The Linn of Dee on the Mar Lodge Estate is a popular starting point for many of the Cairngorms munros or taking on the Lairig Ghru. There is also the little hill of Creag Choinnich (short but steep), overlooking the village and Morrone a corbett also offering great views of the village and surrounds. Then lots of lovely shorter lower level walks on the Mar Lodge Estate and from the village itself.
Badenoch the Storylands
Accessible via Train/Bus links from the South (Perth) & North (Inverness, Aviemore) | 10 minutes from Aviemore, 1 hour 30 minutes from Braemar, 45 minutes from Blair Atholl
You can find Badenoch, a region steeped in history, in the South western parts of the Cairngorms National Park.
A visit to Badenoch is a brilliant day out for a family with the Highland Wildlife Park, Loch Insh Outdoor Centre, Alvie & Dalraddy Estates and the Highland Folk Museum all within a 15 minute drive.
For those seeking history and culture you can visit the ancient fortresses of Dun da Lamh (dating back to the Picts) and Ruthven Barracks (Jacobite times) and picturesque distilleries such as Dalwhinnie (the highest in Scotland). Download the Badenoch the Storylands app and enjoy the stories of the region at your fingertips, told in a variety of ways including audio, augmented reality re-creations, music, maps and walks. There is a brilliant choice of walks and cycles to explore and take in the landscape and history as you go. The area has its own mountain bike trail centre at Laggan Wolftrax where you can also hire bikes (during weekends and school holidays.)
On a day out to Badenoch there are plenty of places to refuel with a selection of cafes, restaurants, wee shops and galleries.
The Old Post Office Cafe. Image: Ed Smith Photography
Inverness and Loch Ness
Accessible via Train/Bus links | 40 minutes from Aviemore
Inverness is a mere 40 minute drive from Aviemore and there are regular bus and train services making it an ideal day trip from the Cairngorms National Park. Inverness is a small city with the usual shops, bars and restaurants. For a more independent shopping and eating experience take in the Victorian Market.
You can enjoy the UK’s most northerly Botanic Gardens in Inverness, a source of inspiration for horticulturalists. Uncover the many hidden corners, enjoy a leisurely stroll, or you could simply relax and soak in the tranquil atmosphere. Entry is by donation and you can also explore the Tropical House, Cactus House or enjoy a visit to the cafe overloooking the gardens.
Outwith the bustling city centre you can uncover the legend of the Loch Ness Monster with a visit to the centre at Drumnadrochit or a boat trip on the loch itself.
Take a journey back to Jacobite times with a visit to Culloden Battlefield and walk the battlefield now restored to how it appeared to the opposing forces on that fateful day – 16 April 1746.
ON YER BIKE!
APRIL FOOL!!
The organisers of the famous endurance bike race the Tour de France have confirmed they plan to host their first ever Scottish event and have identified the Cairngorms National Park as the official finishing point. Introducing …..Tour de la Cairngorms
Ongoing talks with the organisers and council officials identified the route north on the A9 from Edinburgh to the Cairngorms as the ideal distance for the race plus the different terrain would provide the perfect backdrop i.e. Flat & Hilly, the flat bits lending themself to the section of the race where cyclists compete in time trials.
The inaugural event is broken into 2 stages, Edinburgh – Perth, Perth – Aviemore. For the safety of the riders and spectators the A9 will be going into 100% SHUTDOWN on Saturday 24th May visitors are asked to arrange their travel plans accordingly. Consider it a national cycling holiday.
An official spokesperson for Roads & Transport Scotland (RTS) acknowledges this may hamper deliveries north therefore local residents are advised to stock up on things like bread and milk in case of any shortages.
Weather & midges had been a concern but fears were waylayed with the decision to hold the event on Saturday 24th May, over the bank holiday weekend with average temperatures ranging between 7°C – 13°C which is “perfect for the cyclists” and crucially “not quite warm enough for the midges.”
A full supporters race pack is available which includes flags & bunting plus other route information is available.
The Cairngorms are increasingly becoming a destination for those seeking the rejuvenating experience of a sauna, often combined with the invigorating practice of cold water immersion.
You can find unique sauna experiences dotted throughout the national park. These experiences allow people to combine the relaxation of a sauna with the natural beauty of the Cairngorms.
So gather your family and friends and enjoy a detox and reset with the relaxing power of one of our local saunas.
1. Sauna Cairngorms
Experience the relaxing power of a wood-fired Scandinavian sauna on the edge of Loch Insh. The location is very accessible for dooking in the cold waters of the loch and rewarming in the sauna. You can enjoy easy car parking, changing facilities and a cosy restaurant with an amazing view at the Boathouse.
Available for both communal and private bookings, accommodating groups of up to eight, standard sessions last 75 minutes, with flexible timings upon request.
2. Stravaig Saunas
Featuring a panoramic window, outdoor cold shower and changing vestibule this sauna is mobile and can come to you! Or you can book it on location near Crathie in Royal Deeside with views out over Lochnagar, Abergeldie Castle and the River Dee.
Seating up to 6 people, you can book alloted hourly slots for Crathie or days for it to come to your location.
3. Smuggler’s Sauna, Loch an Eilein
Escape to the shores of Loch an Eilein at Rothiemurchus and discover the Smugglers Sauna, a unique wellness experience steeped in local history. This converted horse box, lovingly crafted by Zeki Basan, offers the revitalizing combination of wood-fired sauna heat and invigorating cold-water immersion, known for its therapeutic benefits.
The sauna accommodates groups of 1-4 people for 50 minute sessions.
The Cairngorms National Park is a honey pot of superb and diverse fitness events – events that will challenge and inspire, in an environment that will touch your soul.
Here are our top picks for fitness and challenge events that will be taking place throughout 2025.
There is fabulous diversity – from 5 km you can walk to 60 km wilderness ultras. Take a look, feel inspired and get outside – your body and brain will thank you!
Fitnessat58° Loch Morlich Running Festival – Saturday 4th January
New year, new goals. Why not kickstart the year with the UK’s most scenic running route?
SnowRunning – Saturday 1st March
The experience of running in the snow at night in the Scottish mountains makes Snow Running a unique event in the UK Hill Running Calendar.
Dynafit British Skimo Champs – Saturday 1st March
Scotland is the home of ski mountaineering racing and Glenshee likes to keep us on our toes. Historically, there has either been not enough snow or too much snow. However, there is no denying when Glenshee is good, she is very good.
UpBattle Cairngorm Demo Weekend – 15th and 16th March
A demo of the latest kit and tech talk from TSA and The Sick and Wrong. Over the 2 days there will be the infamous raffle, with all proceeds going to the Cairngorm Mountain Rescue Team. Skills seminars from Wandering WorkShops and mountain awareness talks. Followed by the famous splitboard derby.
Run Balmoral – Saturday 26th and Sunday 27th April
Has races for children, a range of distances, a duathlon and even a corporate team option – as iconic as its location, this event has something everyone can get stuck into.
Cateran Dirt Dash – 3rd and 4th May
Join us for a cycling event and a fun and inclusive weekend in a great natural environment. The Cateran Dirt Dash bikepacking event takes you in two days through the stunning surroundings of the Cairngorms National Park to enjoy the dramatic scenery in the Cateran Ecomuseum.
Grantown Try Tri – Sunday 18th May 2025
Is back for Spring 2025 and embodies everything that is great about giving it a go. Beginners and kids can feel as involved as the pros, and you can race as a team. The atmosphere will be phenomenal.
Blair Castle Trail Weekender – Sunday 30th May to 1st June
The 5th edition of Blair Castle Trail Weekender – six trail races, outdoor cinema, talks, yoga workshops, live music, Guided runs, full weekend camping and festival vibes…phew!
The Cairngorm Ultra – Saturday 31st May
A 60 km trail race, spectacular and challenging in equal measure. The trail from Mar Lodge is superb: race in true wilderness. Places are limited and sought after.
Bikeathon 2025 with Cycle Friendly Kingussie – Sunday 15th June
Family friendly and brilliant fun. The Cairngorms on two wheels are hard to beat. The route takes you along a beautifully picturesque snapshot of the Cairngorms and is signposted and marshalled along the way.
Refreshments and entertainment are provided along the way so you can take in the sights and go at your own pace.
Fitnessat58° Speyside Triathalon – Sunday 22nd June
Based in the stunning Loch Insh near the secluded village of Kincraig, this friendly and welcoming triathlon is for athletes of all levels.
Lairig Ghru Hill Race – Sunday 29th June
2025 will see the 50th Anniversary of the Lairig Ghru Hill Race. The event has run consecutively every year without break since Eddie Campbell’s inaugural race in 1976. This Long Hill Race is over 43 km between the police stations of Braemar and Aviemore, a classic race over a drover road.
Grinduro Scotland – 18th-20th July
Grinduro combines the best elements of a MTB enduro and a gravel road race. In short, Grinduro Scotland is just what the name suggests: Gravel Road Race + Mountain Bike-Style Enduro = one long loop of pavement and dirt, where finishing times aren’t based on overall loop time, but four timed segments (each roughly five-to-ten minutes). But Grinduro is not just a bike race. It’s a celebration of cycling with as much emphasis on the fun as the ride, with excellent food, an impressive display of art and incredible handmade bikes, live music, camping and a festival atmosphere. This year Grinduro comes to Kingussie home to some fantastic cycling.
Glen Tanar Trail Running Festival – 26th-27th July
Experience an unforgettable trail running experience on the Glen Tanar Estate in Royal Deeside. You will run on tracks and trails next to rugged heather moorland through towering Caledonian pine forests, and alongside the winding River Tanar.
Cairngorm to Coast (aka C2C) – Saturday 23rd August
Is a 100km hike and bike challenge that takes place along the beautiful scenery of the Dava Way on the 23rd August. What a way to see the magnificent Cairngorms.
The Glenmore 24 – Saturday 6th September
Takes endurance to the next level. With 12 or 24 hour options, runners will be on a 4 mile loop (with a wee hill on mile 2 and 3!).
Go Swim Loch Morlich – Saturday 13th September
In the heart of the Cairngorms and in the shadow of Cairngorm Mountain, join us for an open water swim in this truly spectacular location.
At 300 meters above sea level you can swim in a loch that has one of the highest beaches in the UK!
The Aviemore Triathlon – Sunday 14th September
The Loch Morlich waters and the Glenmore forest trails are unbeatable. This triathlon has to be one of the most beautiful on the tri circuit – come and get stuck in!
Aviemore Half Marathon & 10K – 4th & 5th October
The perfect autumn challenge. Starting from Badaguish, runners will take in the fabulous forests, lochs and mountain scenery – let the landscape spur you on; the colours will be breathtaking.
The Illuminator – Saturday 25th October
Is night trail running at its best. Setting off from the beautiful Glen Tanar Estate, the trail is challenging, the dark sky awe inspiring and the lighting zone a true spectacle. Race the Cairngorms by night.
The Dava Way 50K – Saturday 8th November
The Dava Way is the perfect race to transition from marathons to ultras, or if you are a seasoned ultrarunner looking for a quick 50km. This trail links the historic towns of Grantown-on-Spey and Forres and predominantly follows the old Highland Railway line, which means an off road yet runnable trail.
The Glen Clova Half Marathon
Is our November closer and the date is TBC (usual late November). Picturesque, undulating and with runners needing to be ready for winter sun, rain, ice or snow (and maybe all four). This one is for the dedicated…but what an end to your running year!
Here are Sam Cairns from Fitnessat58° Top 3 Tips for Winter Training
1. Take the time to warm up – a cold start increases your risk of injury, the time spent on your warm up will pay dividends.
2. Dress for the conditions – use layers when you train outside, and remember to take them off and put them back on again depending on your body temperature, with extra protection for your head, hands and feet.
3. Mindset – is key for winter training. Dig deep and understand your ‘why’. This will help you to get out on the coldest of days.
Starting small…
All of this adventurous chat can feel overwhelming, tiring (!) and a bit out of reach.
But the good news is that being active does not have to mean hours pounding the trails if that is not your thing – it can be as simple as a 20 minute daily walk and stepping into nature is brilliant for our emotional wellbeing too.
Start small and keep it simple.
And the New Year is the perfect time to get going.
Health Walks
You can make your walk social too – Health Walks throughout the National Park are regular, social and great fun.
Parkrun Aviemore
Is a fabulous community event, it can actually be a Parkwalk…and maybe you will build up to a Parkrun…
Keep it small. Keep it simple. Enjoy it. You will not get a more beautiful place to do just that.
Nestled amidst the ancient pines of Glen Feshie in the Scottish Highlands lie the Uath Lochans, a collection of four small, shimmering lochs. Pronounced “wah lochans,” their name translates to “hawthorn small lochs,” hinting at the beauty of these hidden gems.
There is a fantastic network of trails around the lochans, and a slightly longer trail which slowly climbs and unveils an incredible view, looking out over the bear print layout of the lochs below.
Stories are told of kelpies who inhabit & haunt lochs in Scotland usually in the shape of a horse. Maybe to keep children from playing too close to the water?
Getting to the Uath Lochans on a bike
The Uath Lochans are best explored on foot but can also be visited on a bike. You can cycle from Kincraig and take in a loop which follows parts of the Speyside Way and visits the Uath Lochans. Or park up at the Uath Lochans and cycle around the tracks that wind through and around the lochans.
The National Park is home to 25% of the UK’s rare and endangered species, so keeping your eyes peeled for the wonderful wildlife that call this place home is a must. Lots of red squirrels make their home here in the trees. If you spot something interesting, enjoy it quietly from afar – we love to see these guys but they don’t want to see us!
Exploring the National Park by using the miles of maintained paths and trails can enhance your experience, and help to protect the natural environment. Find out more here:
Places to eat & drink nearby
The Uath Lochans are close to Kincraig where you can call in to the Loch Insh Outdoor Centre for a meal or drink and take in the beautiful views out over the Loch. Or venture over the bridge where you will find the Old Post Office Cafe & Gallery for fantastic coffees, cakes and lunches.
Important things to note
No fires or BBQ’s are permitted here. Please use a gas stove for cooking.
No parking charges apply here.
No overnight parking.
How to get there
From Kincraig travelling south turn left opposite the war memorial, signposted for Feshiebridge, and follow the road through the village and across the river at Loch Insh to a T-junction. Turn right here (signposted for Insh) and after a little less than ½ mile (800 metres), take a left fork signed as a no through road. Follow this road for 1 mile (1.6 km) and the car park is on your right.
Shopping in a Winter Wonderland…
We have some super shopping options here in the Cairngorms National Park, the streets are jam packed with many independent retailers offering unique gifts and there are lots of the recognisable big brand names too. Enjoy your shopping under the twinkle of the winter street lights, find the perfect gifts and stock up on your festive dinner supplies. Check opening hours at individual shops before travelling.
Gifting
1. C. Nicol Bags, Grantown on Spey
Local Grantown on Spey designer Cathleen Nicol is inspired by the beauty found in the understated and creates bags to last a lifetime not just a season. You can get in touch to visit her showroom and make a shopping appointment.
2. Wood and Wool, Ballater
Visit the Wood and Wool Studio on Bridge Street in Ballater, renovated in 2021 and transformed into an amazing space showcasing Alan and Julie’s work which covers dining & coffee tables, handcrafted dolls, home decor, ceramics, paintings and textiles.
3. The Bookmark, Grantown on Spey
The Bookmark in Grantown is a treasure trove of brilliant books and the owner Marjory is a special asset with her friendly welcome and amazing knowledge. A fantastic place to pick up a book for a loved one with some insughtful guidance from Marjory.
Eleven 41 Gallery, Kingussie
The Eleven41 Gallery is the place to visit if you are in love with the Cairngorm National Park scenery. Give a gift that will keep giving with a print of a favourite view or pick up a 2025 calendar or Northern Cairngorms coffee table book.
Spey Valley Shopping, Aviemore
This huge shop in the Macdonald Aviemore Resort is home to some of the best luxury leading brands including Barbour, By Rebecca, Dubarry, Elemis, Masai, Marble and Neom Wellbeing. There is a gift for everyone here and they also have a chocolate counter, stock Christmas decorations and have a coffee house at the door for refuelling on your shopping trip.
The Speyside Centre, Dulnain Bridge
A destination in itself the warm welcome at the Speyside Centre makes for a lovely day out with some gifts, whisky and even a pet supplies area, followed by a visit to the cafe to sample their famous homemade clootie dumpling! You can even pick up a Christmas tree here in the garden centre.
Outdoor Shops
Braemar Mountain Sports
Braemar Mountain Sports has stores in Braemar, Ballater and Aviemore and caters for the outdoor enthusiast with friendly knowledgeable staff on hand whose playground is the Cairngorms National Park. The place to pick up a gift for the adventurer in your life with all the products tried and tested by the staff instore.
Tiso, Aviemore
This is a huge store catering for the adventure lover and you are sure to find something in here for the perfect Christmas gift. They also have a cafe upstairs where you can sit and look at all the very tempting new winter jackets and skis while you eat and mull over your next purchase.
Food
The Cheese Neuk, Kingussie
Maybe the tiniest shop in the whole of the Cairngorms but what it lacks in size it makes up on with flavour! An absolute gem for the cheese lover, the owner Lydie is French and brings a passion for good food to the Cairngorms. The perfect place to pick up goodies for a hamper or to buy some cheese for your Christmas meal.
The Farm Shop, Rothiemurchus
The Farm Shop at Rothiemurchus is a special place to visit. Brilliant for gifts alll year round, they stock all sorts of items including Christmas decorations and a whole room dedicated to greetings cards. Rothiemurchus is a working farm and the shop stocks their own beef and venison. They have an incredible cheese counter and a very local selection of Beer, Whisky & Gin. Supporting local producers there is bread, honey, vegetables, coffee and eggs and even kombucha created in Ballater. They also stock one of the widest ranges of culinary, speciality and “free-from” ingredients in the area.
Whisky Castle & Highland Market, Tomintoul
Stocking in excess of 600 malts, if your after whisky as a gift then a beautiful drive along the Snowroads is well worth it to get some incredible expertise to guide you in your purchase. The Whisky Castle has been selling the finest malt whiskies of Scotland from it’s premises in the quaint village of Tomintoul for over 120 years. You could also buy a tasting experience as a gift.
D Gilmour Butchers, Kingussie
Priding themselves in sourcing local, this award winning family butchers also offers an online shop. Also stocking venison from the surrounding estates. Get your Christmas orders in early for the big day.
H M Sheridan Butchers, Ballater
Trading since 1963 this award winning specialist butcher stocks meat from Aberdeenshire farms. H M Sheridan also supplies the Royal Family at nearby Balmoral when they are there. You can pop into the shop for your Christmas supplies or order online.
This is just a small selection of the shops we have here in the Cairngorms that stock some fantastic gifts for your loved ones. Many of the villages also put on a Christmas shopping day and there are also Christmas markets and fairs! Come and discover them for yourself.
The Cairngorms National Park, the UK’s largest national park offers a stunning backdrop for wedding photography. With its majestic mountains, ancient forests and serene lochs, this picturesque region provides breathtaking locations for couples to capture unforgettable moments on their special day. Throw in the incredible seasons we experience here, you’re backdrop could be purple heather, a palette of autumn gold or even feature snow.
In this blog we take a look at some magical locations which would make a perfect backdrop to create special memories of your big day. All of the locations featured are a very short walk away from the road so nice and accessible when decked out in a wedding dress.
If you are planning your special day, vow renewals or an elopement and would like some expert help get in touch with local wedding planner Lindsay at Wide Sky Weddings. She has the local expertise and knowledge to work with you to create a unique celebration filled with joyful moments, thoughtful touches and the wild magic that these lochs, forests, meadows and mountaintops are bursting with.
Loch an Eilein, Rothiemurchus
With a castle island backdrop Loch an Eilein is a favourite destination for many visitors to the Cairngorms. You can park up literally a couple of hundred metres from the lochside and get some magical shots to create long lasting memories.
Loch Garten, near Boat of Garten
Loch Garten is home to some amazing wildlife so while you take some quiet time out on your day to capture your special moments, keep your eyes peeled for red squirrels and crested tits in the trees. You could even hand feed the coal tits outside the nature centre for an extra something in your photo! The backdrop here is stunning and the lochside is very accessible.
Loch Morlich, near Aviemore
Loch Morlich features in many a childhood memory playing on the sandy beach at the foot of Cairngorm Mountain. Why not revisit it to capture more lifetime memories with your wedding photographer. The backdrop here is amazing in all seasons. You can have snow on the mountains and sun on the beach or Autumn tinges through the forest. Again the beach is nice and accessible from the road but can get very busy on a sunny day in the height of summer.
Mar Lodge Estate, Braemar
The mighty Mar Lodge Estate covers a vast area but the iconic view on the way from Braemar to Mar Lodge is a favourite backdrop for wedding photos. Mar Lodge itself is an iconic backdrop for photos and if you book the Highland hunting lodge filled with rich wood panelling, antiques, and lots of stag heads unique photo opportunities abound.
Blair Castle Grounds, Blair Atholl
If you are looking for grandeur in your photos and big day then look not further than the brilliant Blair Castle’s Gardens and Grounds . If you prefer something a little more rustic then their ‘Wild Weddings’ set in the ruin of St Bride’s Kirk, the secluded woodland of Diana’s Grove or the nine-acre walled Georgian designed Hercules Garden which features a folly, a Chinese bridge, a swan house, a herb garden, a sculpture trail and an orchard of more than 100 fruit trees will make for some truly beautiful images to treasure.
Linn of Dee, Braemar
Linn of Dee is part of the Mar Lodge Estate mentioned above but gets a special mention for its really special river side setting with many options for photography with a big backdrop of the river and glen to one side of the bridge or a forest beside the river setting to the other. A quick google of this location with the word wedding will deliver you some amazing photography to browse.
Castle Roy, Nethy Bridge
This 12th century fortress built by the Clan Comyn on the edge of Nethy Bridge is handily situated next door to the old Abernethy Kirk. The castle offers a dramatic, historic background to photos and the resident Highland Cow ‘Murdo’ is a very popular feature greeting visitors to Castle Roy. The castle walls also offer a space within which to hold a marquee for a truly unique wedding venue.
Local Photographers
There are many more magical places in the Cairngorms National Park to capture the photos to treasure memories of your special day. Share your favourite places with us.
14th to 20th September 2025
The Badenoch Heritage Festival has been developed with local people showcasing the very best that local heritage has to offer in Dalwhinnie, Kincraig, Kingussie, Laggan and Newtonmore.
The programme celebrates Badenoch’s unique connections to landscape, highland community and the deep roots of storytelling. You can enjoy traditional music, living history, walks, talks and storytelling experiences. See the full Programme Here.
Festival Highlights
Insh Marshes – Past, Present and Future – RSPB Insh Marshes Car Park Kingussie PH21 1NT, 10am – 1pm, Wednesday 17th September
A walk through a small part of the RSPB Insh Marshes reserve to learn what it used to look like, how it was used, and what is being planned.
People, Places and Stories in the Highland Archive Service – Am Fasgadh, Highland Folk Museum, Newtonmore, 11am – 12.30pm, Thursday 18th September
Come along and #LearnwithLorna, in person, where she will take you through some of the collections linked to Badenoch held by the Archive Centre.
Lost Winters: Understanding Climate Heritage Through Outdoor Curling – The Iona Gallery, Spey Street, Kingussie, 7 – 8:30pm, Thursday 18th September
Why is outdoor curling happening so infrequently now? Come and hear Rachel Hunt explain what it tells us about climate change.
Heritage Festival – Concert Evening, St Bride’s Parish Church, Newtonmore, 7 – 8.30pm, Saturday 20th September
Come and enjoy an evening of music and stories from local performers.
These are just a selection of many events which are happening throughout the festival. We hope you can join us to celebrate Badenoch Heritage.
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