Must Do Things In Aviemore | Cairngorms Outdoor Town
Planning a trip to Aviemore and wondering what to see and do? After a month in the Cairngorms mountain town, I’m sharing my guide on the best things to do in Aviemore, including the best walks and restaurants.
Aviemore is a beautiful town and one of the best places in Scotland for an adventure trip.
In the heart of the Cairngorms National Park, this highland gem is a favourite destination for both couples and families wanting big walks, fresh air, and sweeping mountain views. This all means that the best things to do in Aviemore are, naturally, outdoors.
Once here you’ll also find a thriving main street of lively bars, outdoor stores, and a heap of wonderful places to eat. Plus, being a town of locals and visitors alike Aviemore has a warm and friendly atmosphere that keeps people returning time and time again.
Honestly, there’s so much to love about Aviemore.
You’ll see we visited in winter, but you can easily plan a trip at any time of the year and have plenty to see and do. So, here are the best things to do in Aviemore including where to stay, where to eat, and the best walks.
Aviemore Weather
Over the years I’ve visited Aviemore in every season, and each are incredible in their own way.
Since so many of the best things to do are outdoors, when to visit Aviemore depends solely on what type of activities you’re planning.
For hikers and walkers, summer is often best. There are heaps of waymarked forest trails to explore either on foot or by bike. Plus dozens of mountains to hike. Water sports are also an option, with lochs to swim or paddle in.
However, there’s no denying that both autumn and winter in Aviemore are magical.
Whilst the days are shorter and certainly much colder, they’re always well spent with winter walks, skiing, and leaf peeping. Then there’s the bonus of leisurely hot chocolate breaks to warm up, or mulled wine by a roaring fire in The Old Bridge Inn.
You’ll find the current Aviemore weather here.
Best things to do in Aviemore
These are my favourite things to do in Aviemore - with a big focus on getting outdoors, as you’d expect from this town in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park.
1. Walks & Hikes
One of the very best things to do in Aviemore is get outside.
There are dozens of Aviemore trails, with routes to suit all levels of experience, from forest walks to mountain hikes. Plus, the Cairngorms Mountains are never far away.
Read my full guide to the best walks close to town here, but my favourite easy options are: the Aviemore Orbital, Loch Morlich circuit, Loch an Eilein, Lochan Uaine, and nearby Uath Lochans.
If you’re looking for a more challenging hike, then check out Bynack More, Ben Macdui, and Braeriach; mighty Munros in the Cairngorm Mountains.
2. Aviemore skiing
A mecca for skiers and snowboarders, in Aviemore skiing is one of the best things to do.
Once here, head to Cairngorm Mountain to hit the slopes. The Mountain is home to everything you need to have the best Aviemore skiing experience, including: the ski centre, slopes, chair lifts, ski hire, and lessons. Plus there’s a great little café too. Afterwards, pop into the Cas Bar for après ski.
Find out how to buy a day pass, hire gear, or book lessons here.
3. Treezone
A fun activity for adults and older kids, Treezone is one of the best things to do in Aviemore for families.
An aerial adventure course through the forest, expect to tackle balance beams, zip wires, tunnels, swing from ropes, and dangle from nets - all up in the tree canopy. The exhilarating experience lasts around 1.5-hours and is suitable for anyone 8 years and up.
Looking for an activity but on the ground? You can also go axe-throwing, learn archery, or brush up on your bookcraft skills.
Check out the full range of activities here.
4. Ride The Mountain Railway
Looking to get outdoors but not keen on a challenging hike or dealing with the elements? No problem.
Head up to Cairngorm Mountain Resort, where you’ll find the mountain railway. This is the highest funicular in the UK and the ride up to the mountain viewing terrace is easily one of the best things to do in Aviemore.
It’s an incredible way to experience the mountains and the panoramic views are utterly stunning. As well as the viewing platform, at the top is the Ptarmigan Restaurant, Cairngorm Gin Bar, and a small gift shop.
Afterwards, stop by the ski-chalet inspired Cairngorm Cafe for a coffee by the roaring fire.
Note: at the time of writing (Nov 2023), the railway is closed for repairs. Check here to find it when it reopens.
5. Cairngorms reindeer Herd
For a truly unique experience, visit the UK’s only free-ranging reindeer herd.
Roaming freely across the Cairngorm Mountains, the 150-strong herd can be visited daily.
The Cairngorm reindeer were re-introduced to the area in 1952 by Mikel Utsi and his wife Dr. Ethel Lindgren. Once native to Scotland, the last wild reindeer were recorded around 800 years ago. Nowadays, the Cairngorms cold and wild weather, plus acres of open land, is the perfect place for this herd to thrive.
Your trip to the reindeers is guaranteed to be an incredible experience. Lasting around 2-hours in total, you’ll get to hang out with the reindeer, gentle giants who get super close during your visit.
Be prepared for a walk across the hills so hiking boots or sturdy, waterproof shoes are a must. Plus, you’ll be out in the exposed Cairngorms, so waterproofs and warm clothes are strongly recommended.
Book in advance and check opening times online here.
6. Go camping
For those of you looking to fully embrace the Aviemore outdoor experience, why not sleep under the stars in an Aviemore campsite.
Aviemore is one the best places in Scotland to go camping, with heaps of incredible campsites to suit all travel styles.
You can read my favourite sites for tents and tourers here, but my favourites in the Aviemore area are: Oakwood, Rothiemurchus, and Dalraddy.
7. Check out the food scene
There’s no shortage of places to eat in this Cairngorms town and enjoying the foodie scene is another of the best things to do in Aviemore.
After all, with all that walking, hiking, and skiing, you’ll need to stay energised!
You can read my full list of Aviemore coffee shops & cafes but for a quick overview:
Restaurants and cafes dot the high street and there’s an option to suit all tastes and budgets. From traditional Scottish breakfasts (The Coffee Pot or The Barn) to pub grub classics (Old Bridge Inn), hot chocolates (The Explorer Cafe), and Mediterranean style cafes (Ryvoan Cafe), I’m absolutely certain you’ll love eating out in Aviemore.
In summer, head to the Boathouse Cafe at Loch Morlich (we didn’t make it but hear good things).
Most cafes are open for breakfast and lunch, whilst restaurants tend to open early evening and close around 9pm. When it comes to dinner, be sure to book a table in advance.
8. Drinks in town
Equally wonderful is Aviemore’s nightlife and going for a local beer, gin, or whisky, is a must-do in Aviemore.
There’s a handful of really excellent pubs, but The Old Bridge Inn and The Balavoulin are my favourites for a relaxed and casual drink. Plus, both serve delicious mulled wine in winter!
Alternatively, try the Winking Owl at the weekend for something more lively.
Whilst travellers heading to Loch Morlich or Cairngorm Mountain should make a point of stopping by the Pine Martin Bar.
9. Hit the shops
Mountain hikes, forest walks, a ski centre, and mountain bike trails means one thing – an abundance of outdoor stores. Once here, if you need new boots or ski poles, head into one of these Aviemore shops:
Tiso | Absolutely packed with gear for every outdoor pursuit, from walking boots to mountain biking. Personally, I think Tiso Aviemore has the best range of kit and the friendliest staff.
Ellis Brigham | A well-stocked outdoor store specialising in really excellent outdoor gear. Their range of women’s walking clothes is especially good.
Blacks | Budget friendly and selling the essentials, Blacks is an ideal place to pick up the basics at a good price.
10. Visit the local spa
After a day of walking there’s nothing quite like a relaxing massage.
Whilst there are spas in some of the larger hotels in town, they genuinely don’t get the best reviews. However there are wonderful independent options like Aviemore Beauty, Sleeping Beauty Salon, and Mountain Spa Retreat.
Though neither have a pool, they do have a wide range of therapeutic massages, beauty treatments, and excellent reviews.
What to pack for Aviemore
Walking shoes | You’ll be walking a lot, so bring comfortable walking shoes. I’m a big fan of the Merrell Moab 3 GTX shoes.
Hiking boots | Alternatively, pack waterproof and sturdy shoes for bigger hikes. These Scarpa boots are incredibly comfortable.
Rucksack | For your camera and other essentials. Something like this Osprey Sirrus is comfortable, looks good, and holds heaps.
Fleece | Even in spring and summer, the weather can be changeable and chilly. Bring your favourite cosy layer or fleece, like this fleece from Patagonia.
Waterproof jacket | This is Scotland and there’s always a chance of rain! Pack a waterproof jacket just in case. The Finisterre rainbird jacket is a great option.
Puffy jacket | Temperatures in Aviemore in winter can drop as low as -15, so a warm, puffy jacket is crucial in the colder months.
Woolly hat | Another cold weather necessity, pack a woolly hat and gloves. My go-to is this warm woolly beanie.
