As the largest continuous area of upland in
the UK, the Cairngorms are Scotland's answer to winter sports. Skiers and snowboarders
will find well developed slopes and infrastructure here, in one of the most popular winter
destinations in the country. Mountain bikers, walkers, mountaineers and all kinds of
outdoor enthusiasts have a wide range of options to choose from.
A wealth of other activities have arrived here
on the back of the traditional skier. Between Rothiemurchus Estate, Glenmore Forest Park,
all the bustling centres in between, and the vast tracts of mountain, active leisure
seekers of all kinds can glory in the sheet variety of activities spread out before them.
Mountain bike trails through forest dirt tracks, ponytrekking through dramatic scenery,
testing your off-road driving skills on mud-strewn tracks, walking in the valleys,
tackling the ridges and ice climbing up challenging gullies are just a few of the
temptations away from the piste.
The sub-artic summit plateau area in the east
has unbeatable snow-holding properties, enabling Nordic or cross-country enthusiasts to
traverse large tracts of land taking in spectacular scenery. Do take care though - as the
plateau is vast and featureless under snow, you will need excellent navigational skills,
or a good guide. Furthermore if the level ground and gentle slopes become wearing, there
are first class downhill runs radiating out from the plateau snowfield. with nearly thirty
runs on Cairngorm itself.
For the intrepid experts there is access to all
parts of the development from the Coirce na Ciste car park with its chairlift. For the
less confident, there are easier runs accessible from the main car park and Day Lodge on
the Coire Cas side of the mountain. Skilful skiers and boarders come here specifically for
the West Wall, one of the most demanding and thrilling runs in Scotland and all the better
for its easy access. The less experienced need not feel neglected as they can ski or board
all the way from the top station by the high-level Ptarmigan Cafe to the Day Lodge by way
of easy but enjoyable slopes. In recent years the whole area has become increasingly
popular with snowboarders, with instruction and equipment widely available for those who
feel like joining in this evermore fashionable sport.
The sheet vastness of the area elevates
orienteering and winter walking to the level of high adventure. Moving at a walking pace
is probably the best way to catch sight of the rich wildlife which includes wild cat,
mountain hares, deer, ptarmigam and eagles.
For latest snow, road and weather
conditions call Ski Hotline Scotland on 09001 654 655
For general information from the Ski Centre, call them direct on 01479 861 261 |
