Sharing the LOVE
Since February is the most romantic month of the year, with Valentine’s Day on the 14th, we asked some of the locals to reveal their most loved places in the Cairngorms National Park for an article celebrating this date in our monthly free events guide, What’s On
Tamasina Kennedy, co-owner of the Rowan Tree Country House Hotel, with her husband, Jonny:
“Whenever Jonny and I get a short break together, we always go for a walk up Craigellachie Nature reserve. It takes about 1.5 hours, is a great way to see the view across Aviemore, Cairngorms and the River Spey and, if you time it right, you can watch the steam train puffing towards Boat of Garten. Because we do it quite regularly, it is an amazing way to chart the change in seasons.”
Garry Cormack, lead guide and founder of Hillgoers:
“I have a deep affection for the beautiful Lochnagar, the White Mounth plateau, the corrie, loch and the area as a whole. I feel connected with the hill like an old friend, whenever we meet we always have a good time! The lichen, moss, burns, waterfalls and snow up high. The ptarmigan and eagle. The red deer and mountain hare. There is no better mountain in the north east of Scotland.”
Judith Thurlow, co-owner of holiday rental company Seasgair: Handpicked Lodges
“I love this walk in Glenfeshie to the bridge over the River Feshie, which has a lovely path in from Invereshie. It’s great fun clambering on the rocks and playing in the river with the family. There’s lots to love here.”
Andy Bateman, owner of Scot Mountain Holidays:
“I love this walk in Glenfeshie to the bridge over “Inshriach and Invereshie National Nature Reserve is one of my favourite places. It has some wonderful side valleys that drop through a fringe of first growth native Caledonia pine forest. Draped in lichens, the atmosphere is fantastic, a place where time has stood still!”
Photo credit: Tom Bailey
Spud the Piper (Callum Fraser):
“I was brought up in Carrbridge and my dad played the pipes here for 30 years. It means the world to me, this spot, as I always think of him when I’m stood up there.”
Anna Riddell, founder and biking guide at RideOut Coaching:
“I love Laggan Wolftrax as my favourite place to ride as the mountain biking trails are challenging and exciting with the most incredible views in all directions. It’s wild, rugged, and so beautiful.
Cath Wright, founder and forest therapy guide at Highland Quiet Life:
“I love Laggan Wolftrax as my favourite place to ride as the mountain biking trails are challenging and exciting with the most incredible views in all directions. It’s wild, rugged, and so beautiful.”
Sarah and Alastair Hubbard, co-owners of Cranford Guest House, Braemar:
“We love both ski touring in the mountains and cross country skiing in the glens. Braemar is the perfect place for both!”
Ann Vastano, artist & co-founder, The Old Post Office Cafe Gallery, Kincraig:
“Looking out across the four small Uath Lochans at Farleitter Crag set amidst the lofty pines of Glen Feshie is a breathtaking location any time of year.”