In the shadow of the Cairngorm mountain range is the picturesque town of Aviemore. Listen out for the steam train leaving the station on one of it’s daily tours North, taking tourists past beautiful countryside. Just outside of town is the stunning Rothiemurchus estate, proud Caledonian pine trees standing tall, whilst visitors enjoy scenic bike rides or hang from the high ropes courses. There really is something for everyone in this small town, evidenced by the fact that there are also plenty of Scottish visitors flocking here too!
Aviemore is located in the Scottish highlands, easily accessed by road on the A9 or by bus and train. It can be very popular with tourists throughour the year. In Winter people arrive for snowsports on the Cairngorm mountain and in summer to explore the area under the Scottish sun (it does appear!).
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Why Visit The Town of Aviemore?
So why would you want to visit Aviemore? It’s often a pitstop for heading further North along the A9. But it’s also a great holiday destination in it’s own right. The town has plenty of eateries and a surprising amount to see and do for such a small place. Located in the Cairngorm National Park there are lots of excellent walks (not all uphill!) and outdoor activities to enjoy too.
Camping In Aviemore – Best campsites
First you need to find a good place to stay and one of the best budget travel options is camping in Aviemore. It’s also a fun way to stay close to nature in this area of the world. There are several Aviemore campsites to choose from, depending on your needs. Please only try wild camping if you can stick to the outdoor access code and wild camping rules.
Glenmore Campsite
The Glenmore campsite is located right beside the shores of Loch Morlich. It’s just a 15 minute drive from Aviemore town and an excellent place to try out some water sports on the loch. It’s one of our favourite camping site locations. And the first campsite we took our children to!
Glenmore campsite is in the shadow of the Cairgorm mountains and an excellent family campsite. Both tent pitches and motorhome pitches are available, along with electric hook-up required. Most of the site is sandy pitches, although there are also some hard standing for motor homes. It’s a great spot to explore the National Park, Loch Morlich and Aviemore.
Facilities include two toilet and shower blocks, laundrette, waste disposal, drinking water taps and battery charge points. The site is also partly open during the winter season for those who are using the snowsports facilities on Cairngorm mountain. Although visitors in Winter must be prepared for the much colder weather.
Beside the campsite is a small shop and cafe frequented by both those on the campsite and walkers and of course direct access to the sandy beach of Loch Morlich. Plus younger kids will love the little play park beside the campsite, it’s a fun little area under the trees when kids need to run off some energy.
Rothiemurchus Estate Campsite
Located just a short drive from Aviemore is the Rothiemurchus estate campsite, where you will receive a warm welcome from staff. Tucked into the beautiful Rothiemurchus forest, with cycle and walking paths starting right at your door! Both touring and tent pitches are available, nestled into the forest itself within the heart of the Cairngorms National Park. This really feels like a remote location, yet has all the modern facilities you would expect on a camping holiday.
There is a heated amenity building with toilets, showers, dish washing facilities and a laundrette. Enjoy being right amongst the trees, perfect for those who love the outdoor lifestyle. You may even be lucky enough to see red squirrels!
This is certainly one of the best places to explore the surrounding area by foot or bike. Loch an Eilein and the cairngorms are close by, as are plenty of cycle routes.
Dalraddy Holiday Park
A little further away, just to the South of Aviemore near Loch Alvie is Dalraddy Holiday Park. It’s about a 10-minute drive from Aviemore, but still within the heart of the Scottish Highlands!
There is availability for a range of accommodations, including tents, caravans, motorhomes, static caravans and chalets. There is plenty of room at the campsite, with various locations that can be used for camping. It’s an ideal spot to explore the Aviemore area. Don’t miss the Alvie Forest Food truck at the entrance to the park, local foraged and grown on Alvie and Dalraddy estates.
Facilities include 2 toilet and shower blocks, dishwashing area, laundrette and drinking water taps. There is also a lovely little fenced play park for children. Keep an eye out fro roe deer and red squirrels in the area.
Wild Camping
Of course there is also the possibility to wild camp near Aviemore. Wild camping does not include vehicles, only tents, so please do check out the do’s and don’ts of wild camping in Scotland. Wild camping in Scotland is lightweight camping, with only a small number of people staying for no more than 2-3 nights in one place. You must be well away from buildings, roads, historic structures and enclosed fields. And you should leave no trace, including none of fires, litter and human waste. Human waste should be disposed of by digging a hole and burying it.
There are not many good places to wild camp around the immediate vicinity of Aviemore. However, you can definitely find some secluded areas by walking up into the hills.
What To Do In Aviemore
Aviemore itself is a small town, but there is plenty to do! The most popular attraction is the Strathspey Steam Railway which has a range of different booking options, including a light lunch or afternoon tea. Or just enjoy the railway journey along the 20 miles of track and back.
There is also an ice rink in Aviemore if you need some indoor time and the fantastic Craigellachie National Nature Reserve, with the entrance at the Southern end of Aviemore. You will also find plenty of shops and eateries within Aviemore itself.
Things To Do Near Aviemore
Most activities at Aviemore are just outside the town. From the Highland Wildlife Park and Landmark Adventure Park, to cycling and hiking routes, there is plenty around a short distance from Aviemore campsites.
Outdoor Activities
Tubing at Cairngorm Mountain
Head up to Cairngorm mountain from Spring to Autumn and try out the tubing high up in the Cairngorm Mountains! There are options for under 1m as well as taller kids.
Skiing at Cairngorm Mountain
In the winter there is skiing available at Cairngorm Mountain, although this is dependant on enough snowfall of course. There are lots of different routes, including the funicular railway to get you to the top of the mountain.
Watersports at Loch Morlich
From Aviemore there is easy access to Loch Morlich, which is a great place for watersports. You can hire kayaks, canoes, rowing boats and SUP’s or book a guided tour or even lesson on the laser fun boats.
Cycling and Walking Paths
There are plenty of excellent walking and cycling paths all around Aviemore and further afield. From Glenmore Forest Park to Cairngorm National Park (the largest National Park in the UK). There is also the National Cycle Route 7 cycle route that passes through Aviemore, which stretches from Sunderland all the way to Inverness.
Attractions
Highland Wildlife Park
The Highland Wildlife Park is a popular place to spend a day out with the family. The polar bears are star attractions, along with the Amur tigers, Japanese Macaques and wolves. The park is run in conjugation with RZSS to help connect people with nature and safeguard threatened species. Part of the park is a drive through area, whilst others require you to walk around. There is also a couple of cafes, play area and shop.
Cairngorm Reindeer Centre
Near Loch Morlich is the Cairngorm Reindeer Centre where you can meet the reindeer herd up close in the paddocks from autumn or even on a trip up the hill. They are a free ranging reindeer herd, so you may not see them easily!
Landmark Forest Adventure Park
The Landmark Forest Adventure Park is a short distance from Aviemore and a great area to spend the entire playing! With the wild water coasters and new bouncy net networks being big favourites of kids! There are also short rope courses, butterfly house, life size animatronic dinosaurs, mind boggling tricks in bamboozleum and lots of smaller play areas for younger children. There are various eateries, benches for packed lunches and toilets around the park.
Rothiemurchus Centre
The Rothiemurchus Estate has a whole range of activities near Aviemore. You can choose from clay pigeon shooting, quad biking and horse riding to name a few. Or why not try out archery, axe throwing or even the treezone high ropes course. There are a large range of activities for all ages to choose from and only minutes away from Aviemore itself.
Highland Folk Museum
A little further away from Aviemore is the Highland Folk Museum at Newtonmore. It’s an open air museum where you can step back in time and experience highland life in all its glory between the years of 1700’s to 1950’s. With 35 historical buildings to explore, it’s a great day out for all ages.
Claire says
Looks like a lovely trip, great memories for the future! And I love the hammock, I love the idea of them but can never quite get comfy!! #whatevertheweather
Kaye says
I actually love camping but haven’t been in years, no idea how A would take to it (would probably love it though). We have a hammock in our back garden so perhaps I’ll just go and have a swing on that instead haha. #whatevertheweather
teacuptoria says
Ahh I love a camping trip! Good advice about 2 pairs of wellies as one always gets wet and plenty of changes of clothes. I have learnt what to take over the years and now have a great set of equipment. I always take a torch for every member of the family too. Great post 🙂 #whatevertheweather xx
Lauren says
We camped in Scotland last year and loved it-apart from the midges! I know what you mean about needing more changes of clothes than you thought possible! I’ve yet to experience camping with older children-my little boy is only 7 months-but all I can add is bananas and wet wipes.
Jenny Eaves says
Ha ha, yes you have to get it just right! I don’t like the hammocks all saggy, they need to be tight and almost flat to begin with to make them comfy! 🙂 x
Jenny Eaves says
Ha ha! Yes that sounds like a good idea! You should definitely try camping with Archie, it’s great really! 🙂 x
Jenny Eaves says
Thanks! Yes, we torches too, but as it’s still light late and early here it wasn’t a problem. Still can’t believe how many changes of clothes we needed! 🙂 x
Jenny Eaves says
Both good things to bring too! The midges can be horrific when the weather is still, you need a good breeze. We used to camp at the top of cliffs for the main reason that it was windy and would keep way the midges! 🙂 x
Mummy on a Budget says
No camping trip is complete without some rain! Looks like you had lots of fun despite the rain. We love camping and always say we’re going to do more of it! #whatevertheweather
Erin - Yorkshire Tots says
Oh, you’re brave! We haven’t been camping with the kiddos yet! Love your tips at the end – I also like that you’re honest about it being work! I know it would be but I also know the kids would have a great time. #whatevertheweather
Sarah says
Our camping this year was also very wet, it does make it more challenging! I would highly recommend the self-inflating mats, and whiskey x #whatevertheweather x
Jenny Eaves says
That’s true! We did have lots of fun thank you! 🙂 x
Jenny Eaves says
It really is great fun, even if it’s a bit harder work! 🙂 x
Jenny Eaves says
Lol at the whiskey! I will have to research the self inflating mats! 🙂 x
Aisling Ozdemir says
My tip would be to stay in a hotel lol. Camping is my idea of hell (bad memories of the scouts) The photos and boys are gorgeous but you didn’t sell the camping idea to me; midges, puddles etc ewww
Sally@Toddlers on Tour says
It’s been years since I went camping and Mr Toddlers is not keen on even trying it no matter how often Mr7 asks to go. So we opt for chalets – you stay dry and warm 🙂
Jenny Eaves says
Ha ha! Some people aren’t going to like camping and that’s ok! 😉 I used to love it when I was younger, especially wild camping, so much more different with kids, but I’m sure once the kids are used to it will get easier. You can avoid midges by camping somewhere windy! 🙂 x
Jenny Eaves says
Ha ha! You should try it just once! Can even go glamping these days?! I love camping and hoping the boys will get more used to it as we go more often! 🙂 x
Claire at Tin Box Traveller says
What a shame you didn’t get more sleep out of the boys. Fresh air usually does the trick. My top tip is always take a torch for trips to the loo in the middle of the night x #WhateverTheWeather
Mae @ OutdoorsMom says
Self-inflating sleeping pad make all the difference. We just bought new ones for Christmas. I have found that wide one are more comfortable. You don’t roll off of them during the night as much.
Baby Isabella says
We always pack too many clothes!! A great start on your camping journey! The first time I camped I could sleep and the last time we went camping it was in a storm!! #Whatevertheweather
Cheryl @ Reimer and Ruby says
You looked like you all have a fab time… I’m jealous with the hammock! We have tried camping before with my hubby and his friends in Red Squirrel in Glencoe, it was really a nice experience. I would love to go camping again and tag along the kids this time. Great tips here! Thanks for sharing. #WhateverTheWeather
Jenny Eaves says
Yes, I don’t quite know what was going on! Fingers crossed for next time we go! We had torches in the car but fortunately didn’t need them this time. 🙂 x
Jenny Eaves says
I shall bear that in mind when I get mats, wide self-inflating ones! 🙂 x
Jenny Eaves says
Eek, not sure about camping in a storm! Ha ha, next time I will pack loads of clothes too! 🙂 x
Jenny Eaves says
Red Squirrel is on my list of campsites to visit too, I live Glencoe and have heard good things about that site. The hammock will definitely be a camping essential I think! 🙂 x
Sherry says
Looks like a fab time, despite the weather. I really want to go camping with mine but am petrified of dealing with her and the inevitable mud, water, mess and general child activities I can wash off so easily at home. Thanks for hosting #whatevertheweather
Jenny Eaves says
It’s definitely not as easy as at home to get cleaned up, but if you get a tent with the larger living area and bring a few towels then most thing’s are easy enough to clean up. It is fun though! 🙂 x
Sophie @ Mum, M & More says
This sounds like a lot of wet fun!! I’m not a big camping fan (more of a glamping person!) but I would love to take M just to give her the experience 🙂 #whatevertheweather x
Jenny Eaves says
It certainly a great experience for the kids and despite the lack of sleep this time, we’ll still take them again next year! 🙂 x
Mudpie Fridays says
Thanks for the tips, we are yet to camp with Monkey but what to give it a go if I can convince Hubby. Looks like you had great fun despite the weather. Thank you for hosting #whatevertheweather xx
Jenny Eaves says
Good luck convincing him, it’s definitely worth it for the experience and I’m sure it’s easier once they’re used to the routine when camping. 🙂 x
Alana says
It sounds like you had a lovely trip despite the weather. I’m very jealous of your hammock – great idea to take it with you. It looks like a lovely part of the world to visit.
Alana x
Jenny Eaves says
Thank you, it was a great trip and the hammock was fun to have! 🙂 x
Merlinda Little (@pixiedusk) says
I really wanted to camp but the rain! It would be nice if our kit is rain friendly but we are not kitted well.
This made me long for camping. What a lovely trip! #whatevertheweather
Beth says
Looks like you had a lovely time despite the rain and lack of clothes. We had a similar experience last week in Cornwall. My husband pitched a tent in Porth and spent a couple of nights camping with Annabelle. She loved it and was too excited to sleep. I couldn’t camp out with them which was a shame as our tent was too small. Maybe next time. Bx
Elizabeth (Wander Mum) says
Well done for braving a camping trip. Total respect! I always think you just have to go ahead and make it fun, be positive about it – even with the lack of sleep – and sounds like you did just that! Can’t imagine my daughter sleeping well either but the inflatable mats sound like a very good idea xx
Kate B says
Oooh, looks like you had a lovely time. I definitely want to go camping in the future and would love to take everyone to Scotland as it was a favourite holiday destination for us growing up 🙂
Cindy says
Looks like it was a great family experience and a fun weekend! I loved camping when I was growing up and hope to go with my husband and son at some point. Thank you for hosting #WhatevertheWeather
Chloe says
What a great trip! Even when it’s wet, camping is still so much fun isn’t it! Haha A sounds so much like Evie. She is drawn to water and dives straight in. We have to keep spare clothes in the car now! We’re planning on going camping before winter, so I’ll definitely keep in mind these tips. It looks like everyone is having so much fun in the pictures. Are hammocks really that stable? I’d be so afraid I’d roll over and fall out. x
Jenny Eaves says
Oh no, bring lots of clothes for Evie when you go camping, more than you think you might need! It doesn’t matter to A that he’s wet, but I don’t want him to get cold! Hammocks are great, once you can get in and out ok, then you won’t fall out, this is an army hammock and you can open it up so you can completely cover yourself and spin around if you want! :b x
Jenny Eaves says
Hope you enjoy it when you go, we love camping so much. Hopefully the boys will learn how to sleep in other places! 🙂 x
Jenny Eaves says
Scotland is a gorgeous country, would highly recommend a holiday here, of course I’m biased though! Make sure you have midge spray for when there is no breeze! 🙂 x
Jenny Eaves says
Oh yes, even when you are exhausted, you just need to think positive thoughts and keep on going! Hoping for better sleep when they get used to it! 🙂 x
Jenny Eaves says
That’s lovely they had a camping trip together, hopefully you can borrow a bigger tent so you can go along next time too. 🙂 x
Jenny Eaves says
We had to get a new tent as our old one wasn’t big enough, we’re used to wet weather in Scotland and so the boys have all the waterproofs and wellies for it! It’s definitely a fun thing to do! 🙂 x
Catherine@ pushingthemoon says
Sounds like a brilliant weekend! We want to take our two camping but think we ate going to wait another year or two.
My daughter also LOVES water and will splash in the smallest amount if she gets the chance, so I probably wouldn’t have bought enough clothes either! ? Xxx #WhateverTheWeather
Jenny Eaves says
Even after all the lack of sleep and wet clothes, it was still lots of fun! If you do go make sure you bring loads of clothes then! 🙂 xx