Cairngorm Mountain Railway - Aviemore Highlands Scotland

If you’re planning to take your holidays in the Highlands then you will be delighted that Aviemore and CairnGorm Mountain is not a winter only destination. Yes, the area thrives under a foot of snow, but there is plenty to keep you entertained during the rest of the year too.

One of the highlights when you visit here is to go walking in the area. You can do the guided Walk at the Top from the top station of the funicular to the summit and back or take the funicular up and a Guided Walk Down. Or go on the Guided Northern Corries Walk any Wednesday between May and October. Our experienced guides help you to enjoy the fresh mountain air while taking in the incredible scenery, and give you the full benefit of all their local knowledge. To check the 3 day mountain weather forecast click here.

For a thrilling half day’s activity you can Bike CairnGorm This is a guided mountain bike descent of nearly 3000ft from the Top Station all the way to Rothiemurchus, lasting approximately 3½ hours and running once in the morning and once in the afternoon. A great family activity for anyone who has done some mountain biking (min age 12). We provide the bikes, helmets and everything you need except long-fingered gloves.

If walking or biking isn’t your thing then you can take the mountain railway, which has become one of the area’s leading visitor attractions in its own right. Visitors can travel in comfort and safety for 2km from the Base Station at car park level to the Ptarmigan Top Station.

Once you’re at the top of the mountain you can settle in at the Ptarmigan Restaurant, which is the highest restaurant in the UK at 1,097m above sea level. It offers spectacular views of the area and you can enjoy locally sourced produce from the daily menu. The weather watching terrace at the top also affords an insight into the incredible weather the mountain experiences at all times of year – don’t be surprised to find snow showers and cold temperatures even in the summer months.

While you’re here, you may also want to check out the retail opportunities. The ‘Shop at the Top’  at the Top Station and the Mountain Shop, located at car park level. Both shops sell accessories such as hats, gloves as well as gifts,toys, handmade jewellery and a great range of clothing. The largest range can be found at the Shop at the Top but you can also find some great gifts on line too.

Another alternative is to visit the Cas Bar, which is open throughout the year and features a real log fire burning in this wood panelled licensed bar.

Other activities include visiting the wild mountain garden with so much plant life to explore and enjoy. You can also  enjoy the exhibitions on display from a range of local artists and photographers; while the camera obscura lets you explore the incredible landscapes across the Cairngorms National Park and beyond.