Stargazing in the dark skies of the Brecon Beacons
It's only when you get somewhere really dark that you can appreciate the night sky. Here's a four-step guide to making the most of a trip to the International Dark Sky Reserve.
The Cairngorms National Park covers a spectacular area of central Scotland and provides the backdrop for a whole host of outdoor activities including walking, riding, and cycling, as well as water sports, 12 golf courses and rock climbing. But it’s not just what you do, there is a whole load just to see!
The Scottish Scenic Routes initiative aims to provide platforms for innovative design along scenic routes. This means that not only can you take in some of Scotland’s most impressive views, but you can also appreciate impressive art at the same time.
The pieces of art and design found along the routes were created by recently graduate artists and landscape architects, who were invited to submit proposals for their structures.
Loch Muick, Cairngorms National Park
Road through the Cairngorms near Ballater
In a bid to expand and enhance the activities available in the Cairngorms National Park and provide new and exciting ways to take in the magnificent views, the Park is in the process of developing the Snow Roads Scenic Route.
Running from Blairgowrie to Granton-on-Spey, through Braemar and Tomintoul and over high mountain roads at Glenshee and Lecht, the Caingorms Snow Road links communities, businesses, and attractions, so it’s a great basis for exploring this captivating region.
There are currently three Scenic Route viewpoints installed along the Snow Road. The first is an installation of sculptural seats named ‘The Watchers’ at Corgarff. The second is a viewpoint seat, path, and visitor information point installed close to Cregan Nam Cam at Devil’s Elbow at Glenshee. And the third, is an elevated viewpoint feature installed at Craighaulkie Quarry on the outskirts of Tomintoul, designed to acknowledge the site’s quarrying history.
Other things to see along the way include…
Braemar Castle is located a quarter of a mile east of Braemar. This 17th century castle has a colourful past and is bursting with history.
Built by the Earl of Mar, through the years, the castle has been used as a hunting lodge, a fortress, a garrison, and a family home. Why not take a guided tour to learn all about the castle’s fascinating history?
Braemar Castle
If you’re a keen winter sports fan or you simply fancy trying your hand at some action packed snow sports, Glenshee is home to the largest ski centre in Scotland. Glenshee is also home to the infamous Tiger, one of the most challenging black runs in Scotland – perfect for thrill seekers and experienced skiers!
Glen Shee
Located close to Tomintoul, through which the Snow Road passes, the Glenlivet Estate is home to over one hundred miles of walking and biking trails, as well as outdoor pursuits such as horse riding, clay pigeon shooting, fine fishing beats, and snow sports.
Lecht mine, Glenlivet
Whilst you travel along the Cairngorms Snow Road, take in one or two of the seven world-famous working distilleries and one historic distillery located on the Speyside Malt Whisky Trail.
Road near Lecht
Lecht is another key outdoor activity centre within the Eastern Cairngorms. As you pass through on the Snow Road, why not stop and take in the views, or enjoy a spot of skiing or snowboarding?
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