Tips on how to cope with short daylight hours –
As winter cloaks the Highlands in frost and the days grow short, venturing outside for exercise might feel like a tall order. But with a wee bit of planning and a hearty spirit, you can not only keep your fitness ticking along but also revel in the unique beauty of winter in Scotland.
The trick to making the most of winter’s fleeting daylight? Shift your routine to the morning. Greet the day with a brisk walk along a frost-dusted path, a jog through the glens, or even a bit of yoga by the window before heading out. Morning movement doesn’t just get the blood pumping; it also sets you up to soak in those precious hours of Highland daylight.
Over the past 10 years, many yogi have moved to the area so it’s not difficult now to find a yoga class at virtually any time of the day on any day of the week. If you plan to come up to Boat of Garten on one of our trips, or just to stay at the Lodge, please do ask if you’re interested in any group yoga stretches to ease off after a day of activity.
There’s no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing (even Billy Connolly was known to subscribe to this point of view) —sound advice in these parts! Layer up with a snug thermal base, a mid-layer for warmth, and a weatherproof outer shell to fend off the Highland chill and the occasional rain. With the right kit, even a cold wind feels invigorating, and you’ll be ready to enjoy the crisp air on your adventures.
Winter’s shorter days are perfect for discovering seasonal activities. From skiing in the Cairngorms to a gentle skate on a local ice rink (there’s a community ice rink in Aviemore which has been up and running for a couple of years now and there’s also the imitation ice at Loch Insh), there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the colder months while getting a cracking workout. Plus, there’s nothing quite like the thrill of carving through snow with the mountains as your backdrop. There’s also a lot more to winter sports than the traditional skiing and ice skating. Winter hiking is popular too.
Don’t let daylight pass unnoticed—grab your coat and take a quick stroll during lunch. Even a ten-minute wander can do wonders for your mood. Why not rope in a pal or colleague for a wee walk? It’s a grand way to catch up and get some fresh air, even if the skies are a bit dreich.
The Highlands come into their own at the weekends. Pack a flask, don your boots, and head out to explore your favourite hills or forest trails. Whether it’s a family ramble, a cycle along scenic routes, or a hike with friends, these little excursions will make the most of the light and help banish the winter blues.
Once night falls, don’t let it hold you back. Embrace the magic of the Highlands by taking to the trails after dark. With a good head torch and reflective gear, you can enjoy a quiet run or a moonlit walk beneath a sky brimming with stars. There’s something quite special about the calm of winter nights, especially if you’re lucky enough to catch the northern lights.
Running in the snow; running in the dark – both have a special kind of magic. It concentrates the silence somehow and makes you feel like the only person in the world. But above all, the most special thing about the longer nights is that it gives a better opportunity to see the northern lights.
By tweaking your exercise routine and embracing the season, winter can become a time for adventure and well-being. Get out there, breathe in the crisp air, and discover the joy of staying active in this beautiful season. Here in the Highlands, winter isn’t just something to endure—it’s something to celebrate.
Seize the daylight, savour the stillness, and make your winter workouts a source of happiness and vitality. Go on, give it a go—you might just love it!
Andy Bateman has instructed and guided for over 25 winter seasons across Scotland. At times its blue skies and a winter wonderland but being based in the Cairngorms he is no stranger to the sometimes uncompromising conditions that can be encountered on Scotland’s high mountains during the winter months.
Putting aside the obvious need to dress properly for the conditions, here are a few of his expert winter skills tips:
Unless your rucksack has a facility specifically for carrying crampons safely on the outside, they should be in a crampon bag inside your rucksack when not on your boots. They are heavy items of kit and can easily work loose when attached with exterior straps or bungee. Crampons carried on the outside can also be a source of injury for other members of the party e.g. in high winds.
The snow and ice conditions can be as varied as the weather that creates them. Don’t limit the techniques at your disposal before you’ve even set foot on the mountain by wearing bendy boots. A key and often overlooked feature of a stiff boot is that it allows you to concentrate your weight on the edges of the sole so you’re able to use them to cut into the snow surface. Your boot is as much a tool as your ice-axe or crampons. B1 “winter” boots are often too flexible to effectively kick steps in hard snow; if you try to front point, the toes tend to bend up and the heel drops causing the wearer to feel unstable. Fully rigid B3 mountaineering boots don’t feel overkill for a winter mountain walk.
Crampons at work
There are a few situations where a long shaft is an advantage but they are outweighed by the number of situations where a short shafted axe is your best bet. Go for an axe with a relatively straight shaft and no longer than 55cm irrespective of your height.
Remember in winter trekking your rucksack will be heavier, plus the extra weight of winter boots and crampons on your feet, the underfoot conditions and having to check the map more frequently all conspire to slow your pace. On top of this there are fewer daylight hours. It’s important that you’re not over ambitious with your route plan to prevent being caught out. Always make sure you have a decent headtorch.
Your rucksack is already heavier with all the necessary gear required by winter. Heavy boots, crampons and underfoot conditions will sap energy and slow you down. Don’t burden yourself further with superfluous kit by considering whether an item is really necessary for the day. At the same time, be sure you have everything you need.
Even with an insulated jacket around the tube, once the temperature drops below -3 deg C hydration bladders tend to easily freeze. You are better off with a water bottle in your sack as close to your back as possible to receive a little body heat. Better still take a thermos flask.
There are situations where an ice axe leash is an advantage but there are also a good number of situations where they can be a hazard. Have an arrangement where the leash can be easily added or removed from the head of the axe, i.e. tie a loop in the end of the leash and larks-foot it through the head of the axe. When you aren’t cutting steps or climbing the leash is probably best kept in your rucksack.
Remember, as your core temperature cools your body reduces its circulation to your extremities, like your hands. If you have cold hands, it may well be worth considering putting an extra layer on, as well as warmer gloves. If the body is compensating for a cooling core, to a certain extent, it doesn’t matter how well insulated your hands are, it’s not going to send anymore warm blood to the extremities.
Your body can burn up 40% more calories just by keeping itself warm. Underfoot conditions and heavy gear add to your body’s energy demands. Standing around for more than 10 minutes can mean folks start to get chilled. Schedule-in regular breaks where possible. I find a 10 min break after approximately every 80 min of walking is optimal. You need good judgement and one of the most sensitive organs in your body to a drop in temperature or a lack of energy is your brain. It needs to be well nourished by both.
Striding out to conquer the winter Cairngorms
Why do it? Because this is why it’s worth it.
Staying warm in the winter mountains is a vital winter skill. Andy Bateman has been guiding for Scot Mountain Holidays more than 25 years, so here are his 21 tips on staying winter warm and surviving the cold…
1, Don’t just think about putting on gloves. Your body conserves the core temperature by restricting the blood circulation to the extremities (e.g. lower limbs, hands & feet). So even though your torso may not necessarily feel cold, still think about adding an extra layer. If your core is “toasty” your body will be happy to send plenty of warm blood to your hands! If it isn’t it doesn’t matter how well insulated your hands are they aren’t going to warm quickly. A warm torso means your hands will be far more resilient against becoming cold.
2, Dress warm on the legs and regulate your body temperature by adding and removing tops. It’s a lot easier to add/remove the latter than it is the former.
3, Try and keep on the move as much as possible since this is the most effective way of re-establishing/maintaining a comfortable temperature in an adequately insulated body.
4, Plan regular but short breaks. You will be burning energy and loosing moisture through breathing and sweating. It needs to be replaced. The first organ in your body to be affected by a lack of either of these is your brain. To stay warm in winter mountains you most definitely need your judgement!
5, Keep breaks brief – to a maximum of 10 mins. Any more than this and you can start to get chilled. I find a good balance is 80 to 110 minutes hiking followed by a 10 minute break. From stopping, eating a sandwich, having a drink, to actually being on the move again, 10 minutes is easily taken up.
6, Rather than adding a warm layer at the exposed summit, think about doing a little before. You them have the last 5 mins of ascent to warm you back up. You may have a terrain feature to shelter behind where as that may not be an option on the summit.
7, Discipline is crucial! Aim to be pro active rather than reactive. Be on top of your game! The first organ in your body to be affected by the cold is your brain and you need your judgement. Don’t fall into of the trap of not wanting to be bothered. Don’t necessarily wait for the next up hill climb to warm you up. Cold and hypothermia are insidious. If you are uncomfortable, seek shelter if it’s close at hand, stop and deal with it! 5 minutes later you’ll be feeling much better. Sadly, people have died from hypothermia whilst carrying enough to probably survive. Don’t let the cold get the better of you!
8, Overheating? Stop and take a layer off. Later on sweaty cloths can have a real chilling effect on the body.
9, Invest in a good pair of winter gloves. Don’t under estimate the agony of sever hot aches! Spending £70 upwards can seem money well spent. Liner gloves keep them hygienic.
10, A spare pair of adequate winter gloves is crucial. A glove can be easily lost in the wind. An unprotected hand in Scotland’s winter mountains can mean frostbite. Dachstein mitts are old school but they are cheap and they have a long established reputation of working in Scotland.
11, Consider purchasing an overlay jacket. It’s a very quick and efficient way to add a very warm layer when you take a break in the winter mountains.
12, Think about packing a vacuum flask of warm drink. If you’re a little chilled, there’s nothing like the uplifting comfort of warm fluid draining down into your core.
13, In the coldest conditions place a neck gaiter over the mouth and breathe through the fabric. It will act as a heat exchanger – extracting heat from the expired air and using it to warm the inhaled air. It can be surprisingly effective!
14, Wear Ski goggles (anti fog). No only do they provide physical protection for the eyes but they also help to keep the face a lot warmer.
15, You will be often wear your waterproofs as much for windproofing as you will for waterproofing. Remember increasing wind has more effective on wind chill than dropping temperature.
16, Use the terrain to give you shelter from the wind if you can e.g. walk down the lee side of a ridge.
17, Winter boots – Apart from the vital requirement of being adequately stiff, proper winter mountain boots will generally be better insulated.
18, Wear warm (winter) hiking socks and make sure your boots are large enough to accommodate them without impinging your circulation.
19, Gaiters – You need to make sure snow doesn’t go in over the tops of your boots. It’s one of the best ways to get wet (and possibly cold) feet. Generally, I’m not a great fan but in winter some type of gaiter is a necessity. Internal gaiters in some leg wear, in my experience haven’t been up to the job. When interlaced with an appropriately sized conventional gaiter though, they provided a very secure closure.
20, Some insulating (duvet) jackets have such a light drape that when you add another layer over the top the air is squashed out of the insulation thus greatly reducing their warmth. Some of them simply don’t have enough insulation in them to be winter warm. I tend to carry a thick fleece that doesn’t compress and still works well when wet.
21, Wear the right fabrics. Do your research and avoid hydrophilic fabrics like cotton which looses a lot of its insulation when wet.
There are a lot of gear options on the market. What works for you is not necessarily what works for your friends, but there will definitely be something out on the market which will be good for you. Remember when you go out on the hill make sure you have enough clothing to keep you warm when you need to stop. In winter, you can’t often stop for long to eat and definitely need to think long and hard about when you’re going to add/subtract layers. The key is not to put off any decisions and if you’re out with others, don’t be shy about asking for help.
Looking for an active New Year. Looking for a fresh, invigorating way to end the year and start 2025 on a high note? Our New Year Winter Walking Break from 27th December to 2nd January offers an unforgettable blend of adventure, skill-building, and celebration.
This isn’t your typical New Year experience. Say goodbye to overindulging on the sofa and hello to crisp winter air, stunning Highland landscapes, and the camaraderie of like-minded adventurers. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a beginner, this trip is a unique opportunity to connect with nature and yourself.
This trip isn’t all about the trails. Your adventure culminates in the lively street party in Grantown-on-Spey, where you’ll ring in the New Year with music, dancing, and fireworks under the starry Highland skies.
This experience is perfect for anyone active who enjoys the mountains and loves the idea of blending adventure with a touch of comfort and community. If you’ve got a passion for the outdoors and want to start 2025 with purpose and excitement, this trip is for you.
The week between Christmas and New Year can feel like a no-man’s-land. Instead of spending it stuck in the same routine, why not embrace something different? Our winter walking break offers the perfect balance of activity, relaxation, and celebration.
Don’t wait too long—spaces are limited, and this trip fills up fast!
📸 Need more inspiration? Check out the trip slideshow below and imagine yourself in the Highlands this New Year.
Start 2025 with an adventure worth remembering. Book your spot today!
When you have built your company yourself it becomes like a baby for you – very personal. It can also make it difficult to define in a nutshell why anyone should buy from us rather than anyone else. So we thought perhaps an independent viewpoint would be the easiest way to portray the many benefits of using our services.
We have recently touched base with one of our retired clients who due to poor health has not been able to come on one of our trips for a couple of years. Here’s his view of our walking holidays (many of which he has attended, which you’ll see from his comments below), His comments might give you some insights into why he has been booking holidays with us regularly for several years:
“I recall saying on many occasions when out walking that you should put the sites/sounds in your memory banks as you are 6’ under for a long time. Believe me, this is true. I still think joyfully of striding long with Tina on a descent with Looi and Caroline giggling and getting damp trying to keep up, somewhere behind us, of shared meals with like-minded people and of plodding behind Andy – the “click” from my poles winding him up but he was too professional to say anything, and as we walked I spent my time trying to think of a question that would throw him (one was “what is the life cycle of a slug”, it threw him and was my proudest moment!!!!!!!!!!!!!!).
I will never forget Knoydart and one evening as we descended from the mt that overlooks Inverie I spooked an eagle which was roosting just below the edge of the ridge, it flew within 20 feet of me. They are big. Really big.
On one of my first trips, it was around the Cairngorms, we were descending in the dark – it was pitch black – all we had was a pool of light in front of us from our head torches. All you could see if you looked up were the pin pricks of red light in the dark from the deers’ eyes and the “roaring” of the stags as we were then in their domain. Spine tingling.
I have so many memories of you all and wish you all the best.”
Courtesy of Paul Chapman
Paul has visited many of the wild parts of the Scottish Highlands with us. To check out any of the places he mentions, use this link
Clans and clan ties are a strong pull for a lot of our visitors from the US, Canada and Australia. Many of these visitors are coming to the Highlands to trace their ancestral roots. The local clans here are “Grant” and “Macpherson”. You’ll still find a high number of families with these surnames in the area.
The clan system in Scotland has a fascinating history and has been associated with many famous stories like the Outlander series and Kidnapped by Robert Louis Stevenson. From ancient origins in the Celtic, Norse or Norman-French traditions, by the 13th century, the clans had grown firm roots in the Highlands of Scotland.
While the term ‘clan’ means family or children in Gaelic, not all the member of the same clan were related. The clans lived off the land, with cattle being their main source of wealth. Over time the clan system has been romanticised. Along with border disputes, the prime cause of inter-clan unrest was cattle “reiving”. Cattle were frequently raided if the opportunity presented itself. The most important clan chiefs at this time were part-time kings, protectorates and judges. They held real power over their controlled lands.
The system remained largely intact until the time of the bloody Battle of Culloden in 1746. The royal troops of King George II ruthlessly crushed the rebellion. However, the conflict should not be romanticised. The facts behind the scenes are much more murky than you might think.
By this point, improved trade and communication links between northern and southern clans were already leading to the dilution of the clan system and the infamous Highland Clearances effectively signalled the end as thousands of Scottish land workers sought the promise of a better life on distant shores.
Today, many clans can be traced back to a specific part of Scotland, for example the MacLeods of Skye, the MacNeils of Barra or the MacNabs of St Fillan on Loch Earn. Do you have ancestry in the Highlands? Most clans have a particular tartan associated with them instead of a coat of arms. At the Kilt exhibition in Inverness you can see a huge array of different tartan patterns which have evolved over the years.
Ultimately clans and troops liked to compete. A show of power and strength. In heavy contests, including the hammer throw and weight for height, see competitors putting their muscles to the test, while field events such as the hill race and cycling competition test speed and stamina. Over the centuries, the Heavy Events evolved from military exercises into festivals for the Scottish public. With the addition of dancing, music, food and drink, the Highland Games were born
Abernethy Highland Games
Do you know where the idea of caber tossing orginated? It was part of the logging industry. The lumberjacks would fell the trees and then have to float them down the river to the sawmill. The toss was the most effective way of landing the tree in the river.
Did you know that Baron Coubertin, the founder of the modern Olympics, was so impressed by a Highland display he saw at the 1889 Paris Exhibition that he introduced the hammer throw, shot put and the tug o’ war to his competition? The former two are still included in the Olympics programme to this day however I think it’s time to start a campaign #bringtheolympictugowarback.
Usually the final event at the Games but always great entertainment
That’s what I think Scotland is most famous for… what do you think?
There are calendars online where you can see lists of dates for all the Highland Games and Gatherings throughout the year. Each one tends to take place on a set date. For example, our closest games (the Abernethy Highland Games), always take place on the 2nd Saturday in August. But if you’re not in the area then, you could always go to Tomintoul, Newtonmore, Braemar or Grantown Games.
The Highland Games are a truly spectacular event. If you do have the chance to attend, it really will be an event to remember. The sound of a mass pipe band is something which will stay for you for a long time and the “heavy” events are properly stunning. Tossing the cabre is uniquely Scottish and we can even boast a local world record holder in the event!
We’ve scheduled our Complete Cairngorms trip in 2025 to run between the Newtonmore Highland Games and the Abernethy Highland Games. When you book the trip, be sure to let us know if you’d like to extend to go to either or both of these events.
What does ‘off the beaten track mean to you’? Depending on how adventurous you are, the phrase can mean different things to different people. It can be scary to choose the path less travelled by, but the benefits from getting off the beaten track in Scotland are exhilarating.
But, this certainly doesn’t mean you need to skip all the top sites like Loch Ness. For some, getting out of cities is rural enough and therefore Loch Ness is a great choice. But for those feeling adventurous and wanting to get a little more remote, we can help you there.
Wanting to find a little peace and quiet is the most natural thing in the world whether you’re most at home surrounded by nature, a city dweller or somewhere in between. And arguably, there is no better place than the Highlands of Scotland. Known for its epic beauty, contrasting scenery and out of this world views, you’ll soon find yourself where the air and water are fresher and the most prominent noises keeping you company is nature at its finest.
The Cairngorm National Park is the ideal base for you to experience and explore the remoteness the Highlands can offer. Depending how far off the beaten track you want to get you’ll find an array of options suited for all fitness levels and ages. Offering options to be guided, or self exploration if you prefer, Scot Mountain Holidays has it all.
We understand that only you know what getting off the beaten track means. But, Scot Mountain Holiday trips, by definition are all off the beaten track. It’s unlikely you’ll see crowds of people during any typical day with us. Choosing one of our trips is a great way to decide if the more unusual spots and a more active vacation is the way forward for you.
Whether you’re after hiking, mountain biking, walking or countryside relaxation, you’ll find it here. We can help organise a tailor-made trip for you, friends and family. Or, you can join one of our scheduled trips where you’ll meet like-minded people and gain friends for life. The choice is yours.
The Cairngorms National Park offers some of the most exhilarating mountain biking experiences in the UK. From expertly designed trail centres to expansive natural trails, the Cairngorms cater to riders of all skill levels. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie seeking challenging descents or a family looking for a leisurely ride through stunning landscapes, the Cairngorms have something for everyone. Let’s dive into the details of what makes this region a must-visit destination for mountain biking enthusiasts.
The Cairngorms boast several well-developed trail centres that provide a variety of routes and facilities to ensure a fantastic biking experience. Here are some of the top trail centres you shouldn’t miss:
Laggan Wolftrax is a premier trail centre known for its challenging routes and spectacular views. It offers trails ranging from green (easy) to black (expert), ensuring that every rider finds a suitable path. The trails are well-maintained and designed to provide a thrilling ride through the heart of the forest.
There are also some trails across the road where you can explore a hill fort too.
Glenlivet is another top destination for mountain bikers. It features flowing singletrack trails that cater to intermediate and advanced riders. The centre also offers bike hire, a café, and ample parking, making it a convenient and enjoyable stop for bikers.
Glenlivet now have a zip wire development too and are constantly adding and maintaining their tracks. It’s one of our favourite places to go, if we head to a trail centre.
MTB trail riding at Glenlivet, Cairngorms National Park
For those looking to hone their skills, the Grantown Skills Park is the perfect place. It features a variety of obstacles and practice areas where riders can improve their technique. Whether you’re a beginner learning the basics or an experienced rider looking to perfect your jumps and turns, this skills park has something for you.
The Boat of Garten Pump Track is ideal for riders of all ages and skill levels. This compact track is designed to help riders develop their balance and bike handling skills. It’s a great spot for a quick ride or for families to enjoy together.
The pump track is literally on our doorstep. If you’re looking for a wee practise cornering or pumping your bike it’s a great place to go and all the locals are very friendly and hopeful if you’re after some tips.
Tarland Trails offers a mix of trails suitable for all abilities. From flowy singletracks to technical sections, it provides a diverse riding experience. The community-driven development of these trails ensures they are well-maintained and continuously improved.
High Burnside features a network of trails that wind through beautiful woodland. It’s known for its natural feel and varied terrain, offering a great mix of climbs and descents. This trail centre is perfect for those who enjoy riding in a more natural setting.
There are now plans to add a multi-million pound purpose built mountain biking trail centre near Loch Ness, which should complement what’s on offer already.
For those who crave adventure beyond the structured trail centres, the Cairngorms’ natural trails offer virtually unlimited options. You can embark on epic journeys, cycling almost entirely off-road for over 100km in loops from the base in Boat of Garten. Here are some classic routes to consider:
The Burma Road is a challenging route that rewards riders with stunning views of the Cairngorms. This trail features a mix of steep climbs and exhilarating descents, making it a favourite among experienced bikers.
Map of the Burma Road Route.
Gleann Einich is a picturesque route that takes you deep into the heart of the Cairngorms. The trail follows a glacial valley, offering breathtaking scenery and a sense of remote wilderness.
The Abernethy Loop is a diverse trail that takes you through ancient Caledonian pine forests and open moorlands. It’s a fantastic way to experience the varied landscapes of the Cairngorms.
This section of the Cairngorm Circuit is known for its challenging terrain and beautiful vistas. It’s a demanding ride that will test your endurance and technical skills, but the rewards are well worth the effort.
Glenfeshie offers a mix of technical singletrack and scenic forest trails. It’s a lesser-known gem that provides a peaceful and enjoyable ride away from the more crowded areas.
To make the most of your mountain biking adventure in the Cairngorms, it’s essential to have reliable maps. Trailmaps are highly recommended as they provide detailed information on the routes, including difficulty levels, elevation profiles, and points of interest. These maps are invaluable for planning your rides and ensuring you stay on track.
The Cairngorms are a mountain biker’s dream, offering a blend of well-developed trail centres and endless natural trails. Whether you’re seeking the thrill of expertly designed routes or the adventure of exploring rugged landscapes, the Cairngorms have it all. Pack your bike, grab your trail maps, and get ready for an unforgettable mountain biking experience in one of Scotland’s most stunning regions.
COVID and retirement plans have created complete havoc in the cafe market here. Our list of cafes is now seriously outdated and we’ve been forced to revise it completely as when re-reading the list in October 2021, we noticed that at least half of the recommended cafes have now closed. Watch this space over the next week or so and we’ll give you the new improved list.
Graeme McLean of Developing Mountain Biking in Scotland recently described Aviemore to me as having a “cycle culture”. At the time this meant nothing to me, until they went on to explain that when you visit Aviemore you become seduced into cycling just because it seems to be the thing to do. When everyone else seems to be cycling around this must mean that it is the thing to do. Hence in our area it is not difficult to come up with a list of cyclist friendly cafes.
Certainly here at Fraoch Lodge we have noticed a definite increase in the number of people driving around the area with bikes mounted on the car and also a definite increase of bike use on the tracks.
These are the cafes we are most familiar with and are therefore almost all on the north side of the Cairngorms, in and around Aviemore. However, we will be in Deeside for a week in July and will be very happy to update our list after 16th July with some additions from Braemar, Ballater etc – if we find anything which meets our criteria: superb food (especially cakes), somewhere to safely leave your bike locked, somewhere to work on your bike, bike/cycling route advice, bike/cycling related reading materials, maps for sale.
After consultation with my fellow members of Petal Power (the Cairngorms area female mountain biking group), I’ve come up with the following list.
Listed in order of their proximity to Fraoch Lodge:
The Osprey Coffee House has come on in leaps and bounds since it re-opened after Covid. It is now owned and managed by Andreas and Tanya Perch. The Perches have plenty of Coffee Shop experience having previously run their own enterprise in Val d’Isere (French Alps). They offer soup as well as “Fika” (coffee and cake, Swedish style).
Routes close by: Speyside Way, Burma Road, Ryvoan Pass plus numerous local routes through the woods, Woodland Wheels (Boat of Garten pump track)
Unfortunately Nethy House is currently up for sale but it is a highlight of any route in the area. They get any meat they need for their lunch options from Balliefurth Farm Shop next door (the highest quality of meat). Cairngorms Connect venison is also available through the butchers at the farm shop. If you eat meat, certainly make the time to fit in a visit.
Routes nearby: Speyside Way, Abernethy Forest, Forest Lodge, Ryvoan Pass, plenty of forest routes and Rynettin also a highlight
Delicious smells were emanating from the door when I went by to take a peek at the menu. Great selection of hot food. The Cullen Skink is exceptional and the cakes are very hard to resist, especially the cheesecake.
Recommended by Petal Power
Routes nearby: Burma Road, Tomatin on Route 7, off road route to Boat of Garten via Route 7
Despite it’s proxmity to Mike’s Bikes, I have yet to sample the delights of Ryvoan Cafe personally, but I have had universally good reports from friends who have been there.
Under the personal supervision of owners, Nina and Daniel, Ryvoan Cafe isn’t just Aviemore’s latest neighbourhood deli-cafe – they’re passionate about creating a warm and inviting space where you can unwind and indulge.
“Our menus are carefully crafted to delight your palate with simplicity and finesse. We embrace the ever-changing seasons, incorporating locally sourced ingredients for an authentic and memorable dining experience. From sophisticated snacks and charcuterie to be shared, perfectly complemented by our selection of organic wines, to drinks and dining that draw visitors from far and wide.”
Routes close by: Rothiemurchus estate, Lairig Ghru, Glen Feshie and Glenmore to Inshriach
(Petal Power comments) Inschriach Nursery Cafe have always been very welcoming, even when wet and muddy.
The Barn does take away cake etc as well as eat in. There is usually plenty of choice and there is the Rothiemurchus shop just across the car park if you’re looking for any treats to take home. Meat from the estate is also sold there.
Routes nearby: Burma Road, Loch an Eilean, Rothiemurchus estate, Speyside Way, Badenoch Way, Glenn Einich
Another popular spot right next to Glenmore campsite and very convenient if you’re looping around Loch Morlich or more widely through Rothiemurchus estate or the Ryvoan pass. They have a bar but also do a roaring trade in coffee, hot chocolate and hot food plus they have a wee shop attached if you just want a snack. If you’re lucky enough to be out for a late ride you might even catch some of the live entertainment.
Routes nearby: Ryvoan pass, Glenmore Forest Park, Loch Morlich
One of my favourite places to stop if I’m ever over this way. I just love the atmosphere and Tony himself (owner and front of house) is a keen cyclist too. They go the extra mile for cyclists for sure. There isn’t a massively extensive menu but everything they offer is top quality and reflects their Italian heritage. Ann Vastano (co-owner of the cafe) is a renowned local artist who sells prints and cards of her work, alongside the orginals displayed in the cafe.
Being a purpose built MTB centre, the Coffee Still at Glenlivet ticks all the best practice boxes. Currently run by the owners of Nethy House. There are bike racks, wee track to keep the kids happy, trail maps for sale, bike hire available, range of food – not only cakes but hot food like pizza and burgers too. The trails are great too and very family friendly.
Routes nearby: Glenlivet MTB trails, Glenlivet Distillery routes, Kinkardine Hills, Ladder Hills
Not forgetting the south side of the park (nominated by Petal Power, an all-female mountain biking club in the Cairngorms, centred around Aviemore and Nethybridge)
The Bothy is an excellent relaxing spot attached to Braemar Mountain Sports. Bikes can be hired here and the back of the cafe looks out over the river. The cakes and hot chocolate also deserve some praise. Plenty of choice at the cake bar.
Honorary mentions nearby the Cairngorms
Linda, who runs the Pottery cafe and bunkhouse, has been baking bread and cake for more years than she cares to count. Her cakes are always light and the soup is delicious. The cafe is a hop-skip-and-a-jump from Laggan Wolftrax and though I haven’t eaten at Laggan so I can’t compare the two – Linda’s opening hours were longer and she’s open all year round. When I was at Laggan (before the main season opened) the cafe was closed.
Routes nearby: Laggan Wolftrax
2. Olive Tree Cafe (Logie Steading) – on the Dava Way, just outside Forres
Logie Steading is a collection of up-market operators selling all kinds of things from second-hand books to plants to pictures and not forgetting food. You can also catch up with
From the Daily Record: Top cycle friendly cafes in Scotland
http://www.skinnytyres.com/2010/10/14/great-cycling-cafes-is-scotland/
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