What to do in the Cairngorms with a young family?

what to do in the cairngorms with a young family

What to do in the Cairngorms with a young family?

Discover the best family-friendly adventures right from Fraoch Lodge’s doorstep

If you’re planning a holiday with young children, you want that perfect mix of fresh air, freedom, fun and flexibility. Luckily, the Cairngorms National Park is an incredible outdoor playground for families – and Fraoch Lodge is the perfect base for your adventures. Whether you’re looking for short walks with big rewards, wildlife spotting, or indoor options for rainy days, there’s plenty to keep all ages happy (and active!).

Here’s our guide to the best things to do in the Cairngorms with a young family.

1. Go on a Mini Adventure from the Lodge

You don’t need to go far to have fun. From Fraoch Lodge, there are several easy-going trails and nature rambles suitable for small legs and big imaginations. Try:

  • The woods behind the Lodge There are plenty of trails, both waymarked and unmarked to meander around including the all abilities Capercaillie trail. You’ll probably be able to spot quite a few makeshift shelters too, created by the local youngsters. And if your wee ones are into bikes, there’s the pump track within easy reach of the back door.
  • The Ellan Wood walk in Boat of Garten – perfect for toddlers and preschoolers, this short woodland loop includes animal carvings and bug-spotting opportunities. Bring a magnifying glass for extra explorer points!
  • The Speyside Way – start with a gentle stretch toward Aviemore or along to Nethy Bridge. It’s relatively flat, good for buggies, and filled with riverbank wildlife.

2. Take a Steam Train Ride

Step aboard the Strathspey Railway in Boat of Garten (just a short walk from Fraoch Lodge). The vintage steam train chugs through scenic Highland landscapes and is a hit with young children – especially train enthusiasts! You can hop off in Aviemore or Broomhill, explore, and return later in the day.

Strathspey Steam Railway

3. Visit Landmark Forest Adventure Park

Located just 20 minutes away in Carrbridge, Landmark is a Cairngorms must-do for families. With rides, climbing nets, a butterfly house, dinosaurs, mazes, and more, there’s something for every age. The whole park is nestled in ancient pine forest – a fun way to blend play and nature.

Landmark Forest Adventure Park

4. Wildlife Spotting Made Easy

The Cairngorms is home to red squirrels, ospreys, pine martens and more – but you don’t need to hike for miles to see them. Try:

  • RSPB Loch Garten Osprey Centre – with kid-friendly viewing hides and live camera feeds, you can watch nesting birds without needing binoculars.
  • Highland Wildlife Park (near Kingussie) – meet native species like wildcats, reindeer and wolves, plus endangered animals from similar climates. It’s part safari, part zoo, and very manageable with little ones.
Highland Wildlife Park

5. Dip a Toe in a Loch

On a sunny day, head to Loch Morlich or Loch Insh for a picnic, paddle and a play. Both have sandy beaches, safe shallows, and equipment hire for older kids. Build sandcastles, skim stones, or try a family canoe trip if your crew’s feeling brave.

Loch Morlich and the ducks

6. Create a Rainy Day Plan B

The weather can be unpredictable – this is Scotland after all – but that doesn’t mean the fun stops. Our local favourites for indoor fun include:

  • The Fun House in Aviemore – a soft play centre with slides, ball pits, and climbing frames.
  • Aviemore Ice Rink – great for older kids or a family challenge.
  • Spey Valley Cinema – small but perfectly cosy for a family movie outing.

And if you’re staying with us, we’ve always got games, books, hot chocolate, and a roaring fire to come home to.

7. Try a Guided Family Walk

We offer family-friendly guided walks tailored to your group – no long distances, no scary heights, just the chance to learn about the forest, look for tracks, and have a few marshmallows by the fire. Let us know the age of your youngest and we’ll do the rest!

Staying at Fraoch Lodge with Kids

We know what it’s like to travel with little ones – so we make it easy. Our accommodation includes:

  • Family rooms
  • Home-cooked meals (with child-friendly options)
  • Packed lunches for days out
  • Drying space for soggy boots and jackets
  • Local advice and maps on hand

We’re also happy to help you plan a flexible itinerary that suits your family’s pace and interests.

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