Venture to the UK’s largest national park and you won’t leave disappointed. Its abundance of wildlife, winding rivers, local lochs and forest walks – all set amongst jaw-dropping mountain scenery – makes for epic holidaying. And this region is even better when it’s shared with loved ones. From kayaking down the River Spey to touring the area’s numerous quaint castles, read on to find out why the Cairngorms National Park is the best place for your next family holiday in Scotland.
Choose from countless outdoor activities to get stuck into.
From riverside rambles to treks through the trees, the many paths of the Cairngorms provide an idyllic playground for walking, biking and hiking around the area. Check out trusty Walkhighlands for walking route inspiration for all levels, or grab a day pass for a bike park, such as Glenlivet Mountain Trails or Laggan Wolftrax.
Cairngorm Mountain’s tubing park, open spring to autumn, is one of the most popular family activities on Cairngorm Mountain. It features three slides, including over 70 metres of fun on the Spindrift, thrilling twists and turns on the Cliffhanger and a small-person-friendly option on the Snowflake.
Racers at the ready! Zoom around the racetrack at Aviemore Kart Raceway for a bit of family-friendly competition.
You’ll find 60 breathtaking lochs dotted throughout the Cairngorms, plus two of Scotland’s major rivers (The Spey and The Dee). It’s no wonder watersports triumph here. For stand up paddle boarding, kayaking, canoeing, windsurfing – and then some – head to local favourite spots, such as Loch Insch Outdoor Centre and Loch Morlich, to test your and your family’s watersports skills.
Who needs the Alps when you have the magnificent mountains of Scotland? Head to the slopes at one of the Cairngorms’ three snowsports centres: Cairngorm Mountain, Glenshee and The Lecht.
Treat the family to an unforgettable experience when you zipline through this forest-based zip trek park.
You don’t need to climb a mountain to soak up Scotland’s brilliance. Experience the very best of Scottish heritage in these slower-paced activities and create memory-making magic to last a lifetime.
Go back in time at one of the Cairngorm’s many castles. From Balmoral to Castle Roy, to Blair Castle, and more, you’re spoilt for choice.
Did you know the Cairngorms provide some of the best stargazing opportunities in Scotland? Marvel at dark night skies with the experts at Wild Stargazing, who’ll guide groups of up to eight people at a time.
Families love visiting this nature-themed adventure park while on holiday, which is situated in the picturesque Highland town of Carrbridge. Climb the forest tower, wander through enchanting woodlands, dig up dino trails, and more.
Toot toot! All aboard this historic steam train, which chuffs its passengers through the stunning Spey Valley between Aviemore and Broomhill. Opt for a spot of afternoon tea amidst the 1937 Art Deco interior decor, or enjoy a mulled wine and mince pie during the Christmas season.
Quad biking, clay shooting and hairy coo safaris: experience these family-friendly activities, and more, as you bask in the beauty of the Rothiemurchus Estate.
In the Cairngorms, you’re perfectly situated for sightseeing in many other areas of Scotland, too.
Just a 35-minute car ride north of Aviemore, the capital of the Highlands makes for a delightful day trip. Plus, it’s just a stone’s throw away from the world-famous Loch Ness (don’t forget your binoculars for some Loch Ness monster spotting!).
Neighbouring the spectacular Nevis Range is Fort William, the Highland’s largest town, bustling with numerous charming shops and cafés. It’s also a popular base camp for visiting the iconic scenery of Glencoe.
Fit for a royal: With its moody mountain ranges and scores of wildlife, this dreamy area of Scotland won the heart of Queen Victoria and has welcomed generations of royals ever since.
Located south of the Cairngorms in central Scotland is Perthshire. Here you’ll find the majestic village of Dunkeld, which sits on the banks of the River Tay. Looking like something straight from a whisky ad, its ancient woodlands and sweeping valleys are something to behold.
Year-round family fun awaits you when you holiday in the Cairngorms. Peruse our seasonal guides for more tips on finding the best visitor attractions, restaurants, pubs and activities – no matter the season.