Stretching across 4,500 square kilometres of dramatic Highland landscape, the Cairngorms National Park is the largest protected area in the UK - and one of the most exciting regions to explore by motorhome. With towering peaks, ancient pine forests, sparkling lochs and charming villages, this is where Scotland’s wild beauty meets accessibility and comfort.

For travellers setting off in a Go Explore motorhome, the Cairngorms offer the freedom to see and experience the best of Scotland’s great outdoors, all from the comfort of a modern, fully equipped home on wheels. Whether you love wildlife, hiking, local food, or simply waking up to a mountain view, the Cairngorms are the perfect base for adventure.

A Landscape Built for Exploration

The Cairngorms National Park was established in 2003 and later expanded to include parts of Perthshire and Glenshee. It’s a place defined by contrasts: rugged mountain plateaus rising above rolling glens, tranquil lochs surrounded by dense forest, and quiet roads that lead to some of Scotland’s most breathtaking scenery.

For motorhome travellers, the appeal lies in its variety and accessibility. The park is well connected by roads, yet it still feels remote and peaceful. The A9 corridor from Perth to Inverness runs along its western edge, while smaller routes through Braemar, Tomintoul, and Grantown-on-Spey offer scenic alternatives with plenty of places to stop.

Top Spots to Visit

Aviemore
Aviemore is the park’s outdoor capital and the most popular base for visitors. It’s a lively Highland town with everything you need - from outdoor gear shops and restaurants to easy access to the Cairngorm Mountain Resort. From here, you can take the funicular railway up the slopes for panoramic views or venture onto walking and cycling trails that wind through the Rothiemurchus Forest and around Loch an Eilein.

Loch Morlich & Glenmore Forest
Just a short drive from Aviemore lies Loch Morlich, one of Scotland’s most beautiful freshwater beaches. Surrounded by the Caledonian pine forest, it’s a perfect spot for paddleboarding, kayaking or a quiet picnic by the water. Glenmore Forest Park nearby is home to scenic walking trails, reindeer herds and viewpoints that look out over the Cairngorm massif.

Braemar & Royal Deeside
To the east, Braemar offers a different kind of Highland charm. Famous for the Braemar Gathering and its royal connections, this historic village sits among dramatic hills and glens. Nearby, you can explore Balmoral Estate or hike to the stunning Linn of Dee waterfall. The drive from Braemar through Glenshee towards Blairgowrie is one of Scotland’s most scenic mountain routes.

Tomintoul & The Lecht
On the northern edge of the park, Tomintoul is Britain’s highest village, known for its whisky heritage and welcoming atmosphere. The nearby Lecht Road winds through high passes and offers fantastic views - ideal for those who enjoy scenic drives. Whisky lovers can also follow the Speyside Malt Whisky Trail, with distilleries such as Glenlivet and Glenfiddich within easy reach.

Wildlife and Nature

The Cairngorms are one of the most biodiverse areas in the UK. Red deer roam the glens, ospreys hunt over lochs, and golden eagles soar above the mountains. In quieter areas, you might spot red squirrels, pine martens or even the elusive wildcat.

Autumn is an especially rewarding time for wildlife watching. The forests turn gold and russet, and the deer rutting season begins, filling the hills with the sound of stags competing for territory. Travelling by motorhome means you can reach quieter spots early in the morning or stay later in the evening when wildlife is most active.

Adventure Awaits

For active travellers, the Cairngorms offer endless opportunities. From gentle forest walks to challenging mountain hikes, there’s something for every level. Popular routes include Cairn Gorm itself, Ben Macdui (Scotland’s second-highest peak), and the Lairig Ghru - a dramatic pass that cuts through the heart of the mountains.

Cycling and mountain biking are also huge draws. Trails at Laggan Wolftrax and Glenlivet Bike Trails offer adrenaline-fuelled rides, while family-friendly paths like those around Rothiemurchus are perfect for slower-paced exploration. In winter, Cairngorm Mountain and Glenshee turn into ski resorts, offering snow sports with stunning views.

Cultural and Historical Highlights

Beyond its natural beauty, the Cairngorms have a deep cultural history. Castles such as Braemar, Blair, and Corgarff tell stories of Jacobite uprisings, royal retreats and Highland heritage. Traditional villages like Ballater, Grantown-on-Spey, and Kingussie each have their own charm, with local shops, crafts and cosy cafés.

Many visitors combine outdoor exploration with whisky tasting. The region sits at the heart of whisky country, and the famous Speyside Trail links several distilleries, offering tours and tastings that celebrate centuries of craftsmanship.

Motorhome Travel in the Cairngorms

The Cairngorms are perfectly suited to motorhome travel. Campsites and motorhome-friendly stopovers are spread throughout the park, with good facilities and stunning settings. Sites near Aviemore and Ballater are particularly popular, but smaller, quieter options exist around Loch Morlich and Braemar.

Travelling by motorhome gives you the freedom to design your own route, stopping for hikes, viewpoints, or simply a quiet night under the stars. Modern Go Explore vehicles come fully equipped with heating, cooking facilities and comfortable beds - essential for autumn and winter trips when temperatures drop in the evenings.

When travelling, always use approved sites and follow responsible travel guidelines. The park encourages visitors to support local businesses, dispose of waste properly, and respect the environment so future generations can enjoy it too.

Practical Tips for Visiting

• Best time to visit: The Cairngorms are beautiful year-round, but autumn offers the best mix of colour, wildlife activity and quieter roads.

• Weather: Conditions can change quickly - pack for all seasons. Waterproofs and warm layers are essential, even in summer.

• Driving: Many roads are narrow and winding; take your time and enjoy the journey.

• Fuel and supplies: Fill up in Aviemore, Grantown-on-Spey or Ballater before heading into more remote areas.

• Campsites: Book ahead during peak times, especially around Aviemore and Braemar.

The Perfect Highland Escape

The Cairngorms National Park is more than just a destination - it’s an experience. It’s where adventure meets tranquillity, where each day brings new discoveries, and where you can slow down and reconnect with nature.

For motorhome travellers, it offers everything you could want: spectacular scenery, welcoming communities and the freedom to explore at your own pace. Whether you’re watching sunrise over the mountains, spotting red deer in the glens, or ending the day by the warmth of your motorhome, the Cairngorms truly capture the spirit of Scotland.