Six trails begin in the centre of Aviemore. Some run along the River Spey, while others pass through Craigellachie National Nature Reserve. The reserve itself is within walking distance of the centre. Aviemore therefore offers several specific options for a stay where walking and hiking trails play an important role.
Trails and terrain around Aviemore
The Viewpoint Trail climbs into Craigellachie National Nature Reserve and offers views over Aviemore towards the Northern Corries. Its landscape setting is clear: the trail leads into the protected area, while the view stretches back over the town and on towards the Northern Corries.
The condition of the route is also worth considering when planning. The Viewpoint Trail has long steep sections and several uneven stretches with exposed rock and steps. If you choose this trail, you can take these features into account alongside its viewpoint and plan your day accordingly. The other trails offer different landscape highlights, with sections along the River Spey or through the reserve.
You can choose your hiking day according to what you want to focus on: the riverside, trails through Craigellachie National Nature Reserve, or the Viewpoint Trail with its climb and views. The specific information about routes and terrain offers more practical guidance than the general idea of spending time outdoors.
By bike or by train
The Old Logging Way connects Aviemore via Inverdruie with Glenmore and is suitable for a family cycling trip to Loch an Eilein. If you are planning a cycling trip, you can make this route a focus of your stay. The places mentioned describe the route; Loch an Eilein is the destination for the family cycling trip.
The Strathspey Railway also offers a separate travel option. Its regular service runs from Aviemore via Boat of Garten to Broomhill; service details may vary seasonally, so it is worth checking the timetable before your trip. The railway also offers a ride in a restored, 20-tonne LMS Brake Van. This means you can choose between different aspects of the railway: its regular route, a special ride, and the connections to the intermediate stations.
For onward travel, ScotRail connects Perth, Aberdeen and Inverness via Aviemore. The rail connections and the Strathspey Railway service serve different purposes: one helps with travel via Aviemore, while the other concerns the route of the excursion train.
Ice skating, curling and go-karting
Aviemore Ice Rink offers ice skating in a large, Alpine-style tent. Curling sessions are also available there for people aged seven and over. The availability of ice-skating sessions and curling bookings may change; if you are planning either activity, check the relevant dates and booking options.
Another activity is Aviemore Kart Raceway, with a 550-metre track. This length is a specific point of reference for anyone comparing this activity with the trails, cycling or rail options.
A protected scheduled monument
The Ring Cairn & Stone Circle in Aviemore is a protected scheduled monument. Only five stones are visible in the inner ring. The monument provides a different focus from the trails and leisure activities: here, attention turns to a named archaeological feature in Aviemore.
Plan your stay around your own interests
If you are looking for accommodation in Aviemore, you can first consider what kind of days you want to shape your stay: trails with different terrain, a cycling trip to Loch an Eilein, a ride on the Strathspey Railway, or ice skating and curling. These options can help you tailor your search to your travel plans without turning the individual activities into a fixed itinerary.
Discover more destinations: Cromarty, Mybster, Portskerra, Applecross, Evanton, Roybridge, Portnalong, Durness
Back to the main travel overview: Highland.
