Aviemore is in the heart of the Scottish Highlands and is known as a gateway to the breathtaking Cairngorms National Park. Aviemore attracts visitors year-round with its stunning natural landscapes, outdoor adventures, and welcoming atmosphere. Aviemore evolved from a small village into a bustling hub during the Victorian era, thanks to the arrival of the railway, which connected it to the rest of Scotland. Today, it serves as a base for exploring some of Scotland's most picturesque scenery and can easily be located just off the A9 road.
The Cairngorm Mountain range is Aviemore's most famous landmark. In winter, it becomes popular with skiers and snowboarders, while summer welcomes hill walkers, mountain bikers, nature lovers, and those keen to experience the Funicular Railway, the Cairngorms Mountain Railway with sweeping views of the surrounding Highlands.
The beautiful Rothiemurchus Estate is just a short distance from Aviemore. With accommodation and activities ranging from forest walks to archery, clay pigeon shooting, and even the Hairy Coo Safari, there's something for everyone. The estate's ancient Caledonian Forest is worth a walk to enjoy its natural wildlife.
Loch Morlich, often called Scotland's only freshwater beach, features stunning scenery with its sandy shores. Ideal for kayaking, paddleboarding, or just unwinding, this family-friendly loch is just a quick drive from Aviemore.
For the golfers, you will find Spey Valley Golf Course in Aviemore, an 18-hole championship course designed by architect Dave Thomas. This par-72 course winds through ancient Caledonian pine forests along the banks of the River Spey, featuring one of Scotland's longest holes—the 635-yard par-5, 5th hole. Golfers can take pleasure in magnificent views of the Cairngorm Mountains. Boat of Garten Golf Club is another fantastic 18-hole course often called the "Osprey Village" due to its local bird population. It offers another enjoyable golfing experience amid the Highlands' natural beauty, just a few miles from Aviemore.
The Landmark Forest Adventure Park is a must-visit for families in Carrbridge. Carrbridge is famed for its historic stone bridge, The Old Packhorse Bridge. Nearby, Grantown-on-Spey, to the northeast, offers a charming setting for exploring the River Spey, famous for its salmon fishing and the beautiful Speyside countryside and distilleries.
The towns of Kingussie and Newtonmore, which are to the southwest of Aviemore, have cultural attractions like the Highland Folk Museum and the Ruthven Barracks.
Aviemore can be accessed easily utilising the A9, which connects Perth to Inverness. Travelling by car, Aviemore is located around forty minutes South of Inverness and an hour and forty minutes North of Perth. This drive on a good day is breathtaking.
