Cairngorms self-catering holiday cottages

Holiday homes in The Cairngorms National Park

The Cairngorms National Park is home to some of Scotland's most spectacular landscapes, from mountain ranges and ancient Caledonian pine forests to lochs, rivers and open glens. As the UK's largest national park, it's a popular destination for walking, cycling, wildlife watching and outdoor adventures throughout the year.  

Our Cairngorms cottages and self-catering holiday homes offer a range of places to stay for couples, families and groups. Whether you're looking for a traditional Highland cottage, a luxury lodge, a countryside retreat or a base for exploring the national park, you'll find plenty of options across the region. From weekends away to longer stays, there are properties to suit every type of stay. 

Many of our pet-friendly cottages in the Cairngorms are ideal for exploring the national park with four-legged companions, while our luxury cottages and lodges offer extra comfort after a day spent outdoors. 

What is the Cairngorms National Park known for?

The Cairngorms National Park is known for its dramatic mountain scenery, rare wildlife and year-round outdoor activities. The park is home to five of the UK's six highest mountains, as well as ancient forests, freshwater lochs and the famous River Spey. Visitors travel here to enjoy everything from hiking, mountain biking and skiing to fishing, wildlife watching and scenic road trips. 

The area is also one of the best places in the UK to spot wildlife. Red squirrels, red deer, golden eagles, mountain hares and pine martens can all be found within the national park. Our Scotland Uncovered survey found that almost a third (28%) of respondents chose the Cairngorms as the place in Scotland they would most like to visit, placing it among Scotland's top five dream destinations. Wildlife and outdoor experiences were among the biggest draws, with almost half of respondents saying wildlife watching was the activity they would most like to try in Scotland. 

The Cairngorm Mountain Railway was a popular recommendation, offering visitors a unique way to experience the landscape and enjoy views across the national park. 

Can you see reindeer in the Cairngorms?  

Yes. The Cairngorms are home to Britain's only free-ranging herd of reindeer, which can be seen on guided visits from the Cairngorm Reindeer Centre near Aviemore. The reindeer were frequently recommended by respondents in our Scotland Uncovered survey, with one visitor describing the attraction as: 

"The Cairngorm Reindeer Centre was such an exhilarating part of my childhood and I'm pleased to see it still running today. The herd visit all over Scotland at Christmas and I love that the herd can be traced back for generations. I hope to see them survive for generations to come." 

For more inspiration, take a look at our guide to the Cairngorms National Park and start planning your stay.