Cairngorms National Park

Cairngorms National Park

highlandscapercailliered-deermoorlandphotography
- Shutterstock / AndrewSproule
United Kingdom|Europe
65
Wildlife
72
Access
76
Stay
94
Safety
78
Photo
76
Crowds
62
Cost
61
Birding

The Cairngorms National Park brings together Caledonian pine forest, moorland, rivers, and high plateau habitat that support some of the most sought-after wildlife in Britain. Red deer, mountain hares, ptarmigan, capercaillie, and raptors make it especially rewarding for visitors who enjoy varied upland ecosystems rather than one single flagship species.

8°
Rain

Gallery

Wildlife Species

Red Deer

Common

Mammal · Best time: Dawn or Dusk

Mountain Hare

Common

Mammal · Best time: Morning

Capercaillie

Rare

Bird · Best time: Spring

Golden Eagle

Uncommon

Bird · Best time: Late Morning

Geography

Terrain
Pine forest, moorland, rivers, mountains, glens
Elevation
200-1,300m
Climate
Cool upland maritime
Area
Large upland national park

Weather

Best Months
MayJuneSeptemberOctober
Avg. Temperature
-10 to 20°C
Rainfall
Moderate to high
Humidity
60-90%

Getting There

Nearest Airport

Inverness or Aberdeen Airport

Road and rail access through Aviemore and surrounding towns

Transport
  • Base in Aviemore or Grantown
  • Hiking and driving wildlife routes
  • Guided lek and photography sessions

Where to Stay

Hotels and lodges in Aviemore

Mid-range

Hotel · Central park base

Guesthouses in Speyside and Deeside villages

Budget to Mid-range

Guesthouse · Distributed wildlife bases

Location

57.0800, -3.6700View larger map

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