Wildlife
The Cairngorms National Park is a haven for wildlife. With a relatively low human population density, particularly in the middle of the park, this is the perfect place for rare species to thrive.
Raptors do really well here and can often be seen on a day out in the park. There are 14 species of raptor and four owl species in the Cairngorms, and ospreys are especially abundant.
Red squirrels are another species that thrives in the Cairngorms and can be seen all over, in contrast to their comparative rarity elsewhere. They're especially common in the area around Rothiemurcus.
Much rarer species exist in the park, but they will require a great deal more luck and patience to see. The Scottish wildcat is under extreme threat, but they still live in the Cairngorms, and there is a conservation project underway to help conserve the species.
Almost exclusive to the Cairngorms National Park and surrounding area is the curious capercaillie - a whopping 80% of the UK's total population lives here in the park. There are none at all outside Scotland. Roughly the size of a turkey, the males are black with distinctive red eyebrows and a fanned tail, whilst females are brown and speckled. You'll certainly know a male capercaillie if you encounter one, especially if they happen to be in the middle of a 'lek', an elaborate courtship ritual performed (noisily) in a specific site to attract a mate.
You can find the latest information about the various conservation projects underway and the best places to see certain species by visiting one or more of the dedicated visitor centres in the park.
Nature and views
There are too many beautiful views in the park to list them all - make sure you leave plenty of time if you're driving or hiking in the park, as you'll want to stop and take photos or marvel at the ever-improving scenery surrounding you. Mountains, forests, lochs, and big open skies will take your breath away at every turn.
Some of the loveliest views to seek out in the park include Loch Uaine ("green loch", so-called for its distinctive bright green colour). Another 'classic Cairngorms' view is the one of (or from) Nethy Bridge, a pretty forest village with a distinctive wooden bridge across the River Spey. Muir of Dinnet National Nature Reserve is full of fairytale beauty with its woodland glades and waterfalls, and Mar Lodge Estate also has some excellent walks. Finally, if you have the time and fitness to tackle one of the Munros in the park, you'll be rewarded on a clear day with views of the most incredible landscape you'll have ever encountered.
Not-so-wild-life
As well as abundant wildlife, there are also some less wild animals to visit and spend time within the Cairngorms National Park.
A highlight is the herd of tame reindeer, Britain's only free-ranging herd of over 100. You can take a walk to visit them on the hill and watch them going about their day, or for a more leisurely option, you can meet and greet some of the reindeer in their paddock at the exhibition centre.
Other popular activities for families and animal lovers are to take a Hairy Coo Safari from Rothiemurcus, visit the llamas at Glenshee Ecocamp or visit the array of native and non-native species at the Highland Wildlife Park near Kingussie.
Dark skies and stargazing
As if there wasn't enough to do by day, the low population density in the Cairngorms National Park means low light pollution and excellent stargazing conditions. This is the case in most of the park, but especially in the area of Glenlivet & Tomintoul, where you'll find the UK's most northerly Dark Sky Park.