Sightseeing

There’s lots to see in the Cairngorms and further afield. Historic castles, whisky and gin distilleries, battlefields and clan museums are all within easy reach. For families, there are numerous organised activities available on the Rothiemurchus estate, as well as the ever-popular Landmark Park in Carrbridge. Further afield is the Moray Coast, with clifftop walks and picturesque coastal villages, and also within reach on a day trip is the dramatic west coast with it’s steep mountains and countless islands.

Click here to download the Badenoch Storylands itinerary for some local inspiration and ideas, or scroll down to see some of our favourites!

Cairngorm Reindeer Herd

Tame and friendly, this is Britain’s only free-ranging reindeer herd which has lived here for over 50 years. You can see them in the paddock or on a guided walk on the hill where you will have the opportunity to hand-feed the reindeer. See more..

Sleeping European wolves in the forest — Sleepy wolves in the forest

Just a few minutes away near Kincraig, a great day out where you can see native animals like the Scottish wildcat, as well as species from around the world including snow leopards, Amur tigers, Japanese macaques and Scotland’s only polar bears. See more..

RZSS Highland Wildlife Park

A Turkmenian Marcher looking into the camera — Turkmenian Marchor

In neighbouring Newtonmore, this fascinating open-air museum takes you back in time to experience life in the Highlands from 1700s to the 1950s. There are over 35 historical buildings onsite for you to explore. See more..

Highland Folk Museum

A few miles up the dramatic ski road from Aviemore, the Cairngorm mountain funicular railway speeds you up to the Ptarmigan Restaurant at 3500’ above sea-level for spectacular views and skiing in the winter. There’s a new bike park and family tubing too. See more..

Cairngorm Mountain

Starting at the Wildcat Centre on Newtonmore High Street, the Wildcat Trail is a series of way marked paths following the banks of the River Spey, wooded glens, and open moorland, as well as the spectacular Glen Banchor. See more...

Newtonmore Wildcat Trail

An Aspen tree in autumn colour on the River Calder near Newtonmore — River Calder

Waves washing through a groin on Findhorn beach — Findhorn beach

The Moray Coast about 90 minutes drive away. The lovely Moray Coastal Trail is an excellent walking route linking attractive fishing villages, wide sandy beaches, some dramatic cliffs and coastal formations. If you’re lucky you might spot dolphins or porpoises.

Moray Coast

A beautiful and dramatic coastline with hundreds of islands, beaches and sea lochs to explore, along with some amazing castles. There are dramatic lighthouses and lots of wildlife to see. Boat trips and ferry rides are a great way to get around the coast. Parts of the west coast including Arisaig and Torridon can easily be visited as a day trip from Drumguish, or why not follow up your stay at Aonach with a few days on an island?

West Coast