The nature, wildlife, and outdoor pursuits of the Cairngorms National Park are widely known, but perhaps a little more unexpected is this area's status as an artistic and creative hub
It's no great surprise that the scenery of the Cairngorms inspires people to create. For many of the artists based here, it forms the central theme of their work.
There's a cluster of small fine art galleries around the village of Braemar in the east and Kingussie in the north-west of the park, and another collection close to Pitlochry in the south. These are a mix of styles and sizes and old and new, and visiting and browsing a few of them is a wonderful way for any art lover to spend part of a day.
A few of our favourites on the eastern side of the Cairngorms include The Butterworth Gallery near Aboyne and the Braemar Gallery. Although not technically a gallery, the Fife Arms Hotel, whose walls, ceilings and halls are a vibrant celebration of art of all types and generations, is also in the area. It's well worth stopping off for a coffee or lunch to view and appreciate the incredible art in these grand surroundings. In the north-west, try 1896 in Boat of Garten, the Carrbridge Studio in Carrbridge, and in Kingussie, the Iona Gallery, Chapel House Arts and Eleven41.
The Braemar Creative Arts Festival, which sees exhibitions, events, workshops and entertainment taking place across the area to celebrate the arts.