CALL OF THE WILD
Britain’s largest national park has natural beauty – and species at risk
THE Cairngorms National Park is the largest in the UK and was voted one of the top 20 places to visit in the world by National Geographic Traveller magazine. With everything from castles and distilleries to fun parks for the family, wildlife watching and adventure sports, the area will keep you entertained time and time again.
Autumn is a spectacular time to visit, as the outstanding and colourful beauty of the natural environment is perfectly complemented by glimpses of local wildlife.
The Cairngorms contain some of the best habitats in the UK and is home to 25 per cent of the UK’s endangered species. The BBC’s Springwatch and Winterwatch are regular visitors, with Mar Lodge in Royal Deeside hosting Winterwatch for the past two years.
Take time out to see herds of red deer sweeping across the skyline, and hear the roar of the annual stag rut echoing through the glens. Mar Lodge, Atholl Estates, Glen Tanar Estate and Braemar Highland Safaris all run guided trips to see the stag rut.
For younger children, a visit to Blair Castle provides lots of wildlife excitement, where they can become deer detectives, hunting for clues along a beautiful woodland trail. You can also see deer in the grounds and hear the story of Tilt the Stag. Hop on board a Land Rover for a tour of Atholl Estate on its Red Squirrel or Roaring Stag Safaris; this is a wonderful chance to travel into the rugged landscape to search for wildlife in their natural habitat.
A great way to experience the Cairngorms National Park and its stunning scenery is to get on your bike. Boasting an impressive 40 miles of off-road bike routes, the National Cycle Network lets you enjoy the surroundings at your own pace.
If you’re feeling more adventurous, the park is home to some of the best mountain bike centres i n Scotland including Bike Glenlivet near Tomintoul, and Laggan Wolftrax, where a newlyopened centre offers cycle hire, changing facilities and post-ride refreshments.
For road cycling enthusiasts, this Sunday sees the first Etape Royale event taking place in Royal Deeside. If you haven’t entered, then head for Ballater to cheer on thousands of competitors tackling the routes.
While you’re there, stop off at Braemar Castle, just one of many historic castles in the area. You’ll uncover the fascinating history of the Cairngorms, from royal feuds and bloody battles to illicit distilling and industrial revolution.
The Cairngorms has a long history of growing, rearing and producing world-class food and drink.
The region is also home to renowned single malt whiskies. Take a tour of the Dalwhinnie, Glenlivet and Royal Lochnagar distilleries. While you may have heard of these whiskies, have you tried the Cairngorm Brewery’s award-winning beers?
Make sure you take time to sample the delights of Royal Deeside venison, Aberdeen Angus beef and salmon and trout from the Dee and Spey. For a blend of fine food and local culture, the Food and Fiddle Fortnight festival from October 2 to 18 across Royal Deeside showcases musical talent alongside stunning local produce. There’s lots to see and do including food demonstrations, farmers’ markets, cookery classes, live music and fiddle workshops.
And next month visit the 22nd annual World Porridge Making Championships in Carrbridge on Saturday, October 10. The event draws competitors from around the globe to compete for the coveted Golden Spurtle trophy and title of World Porridge Making Champion. Find out more about the Cairngorms National Park, where to stay, what to do and upcoming events at:
www.visitcairngorms.com