Welcome to our The Cairngorms Where Winter Comes to Life series – a celebration of the Cairngorms through the winter.
Capture moments in the softer light of winter, wrapped in extra layers and knowing that there is a cosy fire waiting for us. There are generations who’s favourite memories are encased in the mountains, lochs and cosy nooks of the National Park…and there are so many more to capture this winter.
This is the UK’s original winter destination and it will bring your winter to life. Let the Cairngorms National Park make your winter DELICIOUS…
Special memories are often intertwined with eating, drinking and laughing with our favourite people. This is our insider guide into the best places to find a cracking sandwich, a place for a special dinner, those hot chocolates you ALWAYS remember, or a pub lunch that hits the spot.
The Old Post Office, Kincraig
The Old Post Office in Kincraig is a family affair – Toni’s looks after the cafe while Ann, an artist, has a gallery. Memorable hot chocolates, delicious lunches and beautiful art – perfect.
The Fife Arms, Braemar
The Fife Arms showcases skill and wonderful produce. Their Fondue Hut is wonderful – you can dive into a steaming pot of Swiss cheese, or keep it local, with a delicious combination of Tain ‘Fat Cow’ and Isle of Mull Cheddar.
KJ’s Bothy Bakery, Grantown on Spey
KJ’s Bothy Bakery is the stuff of legends. Relocating from The Mountain Cafe in Aviemore to Grantown, they deliver the same knock-out sandwiches, sublime baking and delicious coffee. There is a small outside seating area (no indoor seating), a wee shop and an abundance of deliciousness!
The Old Bridge, Aviemore
Is a winter walk really a winter walk if it isn’t followed by a pub lunch?! Wander along the Old Logging Way and then spend an afternoon eating, drinking and laughing at The Old Bridge Inn. Sounds good!
Braemar Chocolate Shop
On the High Street in Braemar is one of the most delicious chocolate shops in the world. The Braemar Chocolate Shop is a place of joy. Indulgent treats for you and beautiful gifts to give.
The Rowan Tree Country Hotel
The Rowan Tree Country Hotel near Loch Alvie is a small hotel with the very best Scottish dining. A beautiful menu in a cracking location with fabulous service: this is what special evenings are all about.
Dalwhinnie Distillery
The Dalwhinnie Distillery is a fabulous starting point for your distillery discovery; you can get a peek at the ins and outs of a working distillery, discover more about its unique high location, its loch water source and the iconic malt. Let a wee dram warm your cockles this winter.
Cairngorm Gin
Reindeer have lived and grazed free range in the Cairngorm Mountains since 1952. Inspired by this, Cairngorm Gin have produced a Special Edition Cairngorm Reindeer Gin to commemorate the 70th Anniversary of the Cairngorm Reindeer Herd.
The Braemar Brewing Co
The Braemar Brewing Co. is a nano brewery in the centre of Braemar with pale ale, golden ale, stout and seasonal ales produced. These can be bought straight from the brewery in 500ml bottles or on draft within the village and Ballater – this is small scale brewing with passion and provenance.
This is just a snapshot of the delicious delights which await you in the Cairngorms…there is a winter full of freshly baked treats, imaginative menus using the finest local ingredients, and of course, world-famous single malts.
Read our other blogs in the Where Winter Comes to Life Series
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