The Cairngorms National Park

The Cairngorms National Park

The Park covers an area of some 3,800 sq km of which almost half is designated as being sites of special natural heritage importance.  There is archaeological evidence of human occupancy along the Spey Valley. Hill forts and traces of very early farming settlements have been found and near Loch Kinord are the remains of a crannog – an ancient fortified loch dwelling, visible as a small island. Later came the clan system and the area became associated with families such as the Grants, Gordons or MacPhersons (their clan museum in situated in Newtonmore).

The Park contains considerably more humans today – some 16,000 altogether and 25% of Britain’s threatened bird, animal and plant species – the Capercaille and Red squirrel for instance – in fact there is a wealth of wildlife thriving in the Park.

The Cairngorm Park was granted National Park status in September 2003 achieved only by reaching the extremely high standards required, with unstinting, dedicated effort. The Park has been created to conserve, protect and nurture the wonderful and diverse natural heritage abounding in this Speyside valley and a need to promote an awareness and enjoyment of its special features.  Enjoy the working estates such as the Glenlivet Estate with their forestry, moors and farms, and the ancient Caledonian forest at Rothiemurchus or Abernethy – the sights are unforgettable. 

It is difficult and nigh impossible to find words to describe this very special place.  The rich, almost African colours of the landscape in the early morning when the sun is rising behind the Cairngorms, the vibrant colours of the lower slopes shading into warm heather tints of the ‘tops’ with the odd patch of snow still in a sheltered spot.  A special world, inhabited by special animals such as the Reindeer, Snow Hare and Ptarmigan.

The trademark adopted by the Cairngorm National Park – a soaring, regal Osprey clasping a rainbow coloured salmon in its talons – aptly signifies all the beauty, strength, dignity and freedom of spirit that is Scotland.

The Cairngorm National Park has its own dedicated website at: www.cairngorms.co.uk with additional information at: www.cairngormschamber.com

Supporting Group

The Cairngorms Rothiemurchus and Glenmore Group (CRAGG) consists of a wide range of people who are concerned with the management and care of this outstanding landscape and major access route into the Cairngorms.

Formed in 2000, CRAGG was established to develop an integrated management strategy for the area, and to provide an agreed context for future management actions. Further information at www.craggonline.org.uk

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