Cairngorms

The Cairngorms rise in the eastern Highlands as a broad massif of high plateaux between 1,000 and 1,200 metres, topped by domed summits such as Ben Macdui and Cairn Gorm. The range forms the heart of Scotland’s second national park, alongside lower glens and other hill groups like the Angus Glens. Granite tors stand above boulder fields, and steep granite cliffs mark the plateau edges. The area shelters remnants of the ancient Caledonian forest along the Spey and Dee valleys. Britain’s only semi-domesticated reindeer herd grazes the high ground, while rare birds like the Scottish crossbill and capercaillie live in the forests. The mountains hold Britain’s most reliable snow and ice for climbing, with snow possible in any month and patches lasting through summer. Three alpine ski centres operate at Cairn Gorm, The Lecht and Glenshee, and the range attracts walkers and ski tourers year-round. The highest, coldest and snowiest plateaux in the British Isles include five of Scotland’s six tallest peaks. The Lairig Ghru and Lairig an Laoigh passes cut through the plateau at over 700 metres, allowing long high-level traverses without descent. The Dee and Spey rivers drain the range, fed by tributaries such as the Feshie and Avon. Visitors find wide, windswept plateaux where snow patches linger and sudden storms can close in. The granite tors and shattered terrain feel more like Arctic Canada than the Alps. Forest glens below hold Caledonian pines and rare wildlife, while the ski centres provide access to winter sports. From the south, roads end at Linn of Dee or Allanaquoich, and from the north-west at Coylumbridge and Glenmore. The harsh climate has produced Britain’s lowest recorded temperatures and some of its fiercest winds.