Top 10

Planning a family adventure in the Cairngorms? If you’re staying at Fraoch Lodge with Scot Mountain Holidays, you’re perfectly placed for easy-access, low-stress days out that keep primary school aged children happily active — without hours in the car.

Here’s our tried-and-tested mix of free and paid activities, all within easy reach of Fraoch Lodge in the heart of the Cairngorms.

We’ve always offered self catering facilities for our guests even in the early days (over 25 years ago when we chared a kitchen with the guests – that didn’t last long). However, these days we find that far fewer of our guests use the facilities on offer. Most take advantage of the opportunity to eat out – after all they are on holiday. Of course, we can sometimes persuade some people to join us for a meal but there are plenty of choices around the area for an excellent meal out.

There are so many places to eat out in and around the Cairngorms. It wasn’t until I started to make this list that I realised how lucky we are in this area. We have so many excellent cafes that you really are spoilt for choice when you’re out and about and want a bite to eat. They all cater for outdoor enthusiasts too so you don’t need to worry about your hiking boots or cycling gear.

It’s International Mountain Day, and what better way to celebrate than by highlighting the extraordinary variety of walks right on our doorstep?

Winter in the Cairngorms is magical — even without skiing, there are so many ways to play in the snow around Fraoch Lodge. Here are ten fantastic (mostly free) snow-based activities to try during your stay — plus one that’s a real treat, even though it costs a little.

We’ll be honest — it’s the rain that keeps the Cairngorms so lush and green. But a few drops (or even a downpour) don’t have to dampen your holiday. Around Fraoch Lodge, there are plenty of brilliant ways to make the most of a wet day — whether your little ones are puddle jumpers, wildlife lovers, or budding historians.