As the largest national park in the UK and spanning an area larger than Luxembourg, the Cairngorms in the Scottish highlands is the ultimate destination to visit in a campervan. With miles and miles of open road passing through spectacular views, there are plenty of locations to set up camp all offering a unique experience. We’ve rounded up some of the best base camp locations to give you an unforgettable Cairngorms trip.
The Caledonian Forest is considered one of the most important habitats for bio-diversity conservation in Scotland and there’s no better place to connect with the towering woodland than Rothiemurchus, which sits just south of Aviemore. Enjoy acres of Caledonian woodland along with Scots Pine, Juniper and Birch trees – complete escapism in nature.
The beauty of Rothiemurchus is that you can enjoy a wild camping experience but with the bonus of modern comforts including heated toilets and showers. Because of the many indigenous trees in the area, every pitch at Rothiemurchus is unique, so bookings have to be made by phone, in order for the expert team to determine the best spot for the size of campervan.
Described by some on Trip Advisor as the nicest campsite in the world, Glenmore Campsite sits right on the banks of Loch Morlich. This fresh water loch right in the heart of the Cairngorms has a beautiful sandy bay and spectacular views of the snow clad peaks of the Northern Cairngorm mountains. It’s an ideal choice for anyone who enjoys open water swimming and is great for beginners because you can swim easily along the shore. And, we can’t not mention the breathtaking sunrises and sunsets which can be enjoyed both from our campervan window or the great outdoors.
Glenmore Campsite is spacious and friendly and the towering trees give way to open, well kept sandy pitches. It’s also close to Aviemore which has a number of cafes and restaurants, perfect if you’re looking for something a bit more indulgent.
Braemar Caravan Park is located on the Invercauld Estate in Glenshee and is an ideal base if you like to be active. Part of the 90 mile Snowroads route, an epic journey of wild landscapes and adventure, the area is also home to Scotland’s highest golf course, the Glenshee Ski Centre and miles upon miles of walking and hiking routes. In September the town also hosts the world famous Braemar Gathering featuring the likes of caber tossing and tug of war – if you’re lucky you might even spot a Royal.
The caravan park itself has ample facilities year-round with heated facilities, a boot room and ski lockers for the winter months. There’s also an on-site shop and the pitches benefit from some unbelievable mountain views.
Fun Fact: Did you know the Cairngorms is home to a quarter of the UK’s most endangered species? it’s the perfect location for wildlife spotting!
The Dalraddy Holiday Park is part of the Estate, a traditional highland working estate, and is where a number of animals call home. From red squirrels and roe deer and even some ospreys flying overhead, there is no shortage of wildlife to get up and close and personal with.
The holiday park itself has a motorhome service point on-site as well as chemical waste disposal facilities. There are two wash blocks and a wet room and the pitches are all hard standing. And if you’re in need of some comfort food, then there is an award winning food truck, Alvie Forest Food, on site serving some delicious dishes using the freshest local ingredients.
As an area of such outstanding beauty and environmental importance being a responsible visitor is extremely important when it comes to visiting the Cairngorms. The Caravan and Motorhome Club has given these top tips to make sure your trip is not only enjoyable but respectful to the surroundings:
- Drive sensibly, take account of speed limits but on narrow roads give way to local traffic which may need to go faster
- Respect parking restrictions and make sure larger vehicles like cars/caravans and motorhomes don't cause an obstruction
- Don’t drive off the roadway other than in designated parking areas, so as to protect the natural environment
- Ensure rubbish and waste are disposed of correctly or taken away with you to keep the countryside as you would wish to find it
If the Cairngorms is up there on your campervan bucket list, you can discover more and plan your trip at www.visitcairngorms.com.
