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Tourism Scotland - Skiing
Cairngorm


CairngormCairngorm

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


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