Things to Do

90 miles of memory-making

Take to the SnowRoads and experience the abundance of activities this area of the Cairngorms National Park has to offer.

Come summer or winter, you’ll find something for everyone – from tourist favourites such as Balmoral Castle to snowsports, magnificent low- and high-level hikes, and more. Whether you’re looking for romantic Scottish experiences, a luxury self-drive holiday or adrenaline-blasting outdoor activities, you’ll find it on the SnowRoads.

Arts and Crafts

Local artists and storytellers are stitched into the fabric of Scottish culture, and Scotland’s landscape, nature and history provide the perfect springboard for inspiration. Among the numerous galleries en route is Lost Gallery, which, in its tranquil woodland location in Glen Nochty, has showcased eclectic artwork since 1994. Or the Spey Bank Studio in Grantown-on-Spey, that showcases a diverse range of art, with a predominant focus on Scottish artists, particularly those from the Cairngorms National Park – from painters and photographers to sculptors and more.

Spey Bank Studio
Corgarff Castle

Cultural Heritage

Speckled along the SnowRoads are some of Scotland’s most iconic castles—Braemar, Balmoral, and Corgaff, to name a few. In the summer months, celebrate our Scottish culture with a visit to a traditional Highland games, including Lonach Highland Games and the (often royally attended) Braemar Highland Games.

Distilleries

Slàinte! Delight in a dram in the world’s whisky distillery capital with tours around Glenlivet, Royal Lochnagar, and more. Or skip the tour and head straight to the bottled goods at the Whisky Castle shop in Tomintoul. Gin lovers can head to the HQs of the likes of Persie and Caorunn.

Image: Whisky Castle
Hazelnut Patisserie
Image: Hazelnut Patisserie

Food and Drink

From unique dining experiences to hearty restaurants, Scotland’s bubbling food scene is an ode to both new and traditional flavours. Sample it for yourself at the dozens of food and drink spots along the route. Local favourites include Berties Whisky Bar at luxury Fife Arms, the Fish Shop Restaurant, Hazelnut Pattiserie and KJ’s Bothy Bakery.

Hidden Gems

Untouched land, remote lochs and ‘secret’ waterfalls: discover bountiful beauty when you wander off the beaten track. These special spots make SnowRoads an ideal destination for a romantic break.

Loch Kinord viewpoint, Muir of Dinnet.
Bike Glenlivet

Outdoor Activities

Welcome to a country that appears to have been designed for adventure sports. Bike, walk, run, cycle, swim, ski, paddleboard: experience the magnificence of the Cairngorms National Park your way.

Van Life

A bucket list destination for many motorhome owners and van lifers: experience the very best of the Scottish Highlands from the comfort of your own home on wheels.

Campervans in the Cairngorms
Campervanning along the route
Auchintaple Loch on the Cateran Trail

View Points

Settle into slow travel: you’ll have more time to take in the views! Immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring mountain scenery around you from one of our many recommended viewing locations.

Walking

From hiking some of Scotland’s highest peaks, such as Lochnagar – once hiked by Queen Victoria – to treks through ancient woodlands, the SnowRoads landscapes offer walk options to suit all ages and abilities.

Craigendarroch Hill
Resting atop Craigendarroch Hill. Image Graham Niven

Wildlife

Peak at a pine martin or gawk at a golden eagle: the Scottish Highlands are home to some of the UK’s most rare and endangered wildlife. At Balmoral Castle, a new capercaillie lek experience immerses visitors in the sights and sounds of a Caledonian forest, with up-close footage of the nation’s most endangered birds.


Uncover wild landscapes, historic tales, grand days out and more.

#VisitCairngorms to join locals and visitors on their own journey of discovery!

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