A journey through the heart of Scotland’s Cairngorms National Park reveals some of the country’s most dramatic winter landscapes. Emma Gibbs and her friend Anna embarked on an unforgettable road trip in a red campervan, aptly named Rowan, through the snow-covered mountains, frosty trails, and charming villages of the Cairngorms. From snowy mountains to magical ziplining experiences, here’s a look at their epic winter adventure.
A Scenic Journey Through the Cairngorms
The Cairngorms National Park, covering an impressive 1,748 square miles, is the largest national park in the UK, stretching from Perthshire in the south to Moray in the north. For Emma and Anna, the park’s beauty was apparent right from the start as they journeyed north from Edinburgh, past villages like Dunkeld, where they picked up pastries from the famous Aran Bakery. The landscape was painted with frost, with hazy hills and rowan trees adorned with vibrant red berries.
The pair had ventured into the Cairngorms before, but they were determined this time to get deeper into the mountains and enjoy the stunning winter scenery. Their road trip took them north along the A9 before transitioning onto the Snow Roads, a 90-mile route that showcases some of the highest public roads in Britain. This scenic drive winds through mountain passes to Blairgowrie, outside the park, before looping back through Blair Atholl.
Chasing the Winter Sun
With winter’s short days, Emma and Anna found themselves chasing the low sun that barely crept above the hills. The landscape, though beautiful, grew darker as the day progressed. Their first stop was RSPB Insh Marshes, where they ventured along a one-mile track through frosty birch trees. The air was crisp, and the mountains, dusted with snow, towered in the distance. The sky was alive with the sounds of geese flying overhead in V-shaped formations, creating an unforgettable winter atmosphere.
After the walk, they set up camp at Dalraddy Holiday Park on the Alvie Estate. Originally established in the 1960s to cater to skiers, the park now offers year-round camping with stunning mountain views. Emma and Anna settled into their cosy campervan, with duvets, blankets, and hot-water bottles making for a warm and comfortable night despite the winter chill.
Adventure Awaits: Ziplining and Outdoor Exploration
The next day, Emma and Anna explored the estate, which partners with local businesses offering activities like horse riding and ziplining. As the weather remained unpredictable, Emma took the opportunity to try ziplining after dark. Whizzing above a glistening river, the experience added a sense of adventure to their trip. The estate’s manager, Jonny, explained how many of these businesses were run by people who had transitioned from the ski industry due to the changing climate and less reliable snowfall.
A sense of wildness still pervaded the Cairngorms, especially as Emma and Anna hiked above the tree line to enjoy the snow-streaked mountain views. They spent time in a candlelit bothy for lunch, surrounded by the peaceful sight of red deer grazing nearby. Their outdoor adventures continued as they explored hides in search of red squirrels, though the creatures only offered a fleeting glimpse.
The Challenges of Winter in the Cairngorms
While the Cairngorms’ beauty was undeniable, the winter conditions posed challenges. With only seven hours of daylight, there was much to explore but limited time. On the Snow Roads, thick fog descended without warning, obscuring the road ahead. Despite the adverse weather, Emma and Anna found respite at Howe of Torbeg, a hillside spot outside the Cairngorms’ dark sky park. While stargazing would have been ideal in clearer conditions, the cozy pods offered a perfect retreat after a day of winter exploration.
Emma and Anna’s campervan adventure through the Cairngorms in winter was a journey filled with breathtaking scenery, outdoor activities, and memorable experiences. From ziplining in the dark to peaceful walks through frosty landscapes, their time in the Scottish mountains was an unforgettable exploration of nature’s beauty in one of the UK’s most stunning national parks.
