Cabins in Craigellachie National Nature Reserve

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Craigellachie couldn’t be easier to get to—west of Aviemore, in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park, it’s easily accessible by boot and bike and only moments away from bus stops and the town’s train station. Even better, the popularity of the mountains to the east means Craigellachie rarely gets overrun by visitors, leaving its woodland trails and viewpoints tranquil and perfect for meditative hikes. Ramblers have a choice of four forest paths to follow, ranging from 0.7 to 4.4 kilometres in length, while every season brings different highlights for nature lovers and birdwatchers. In particular, the reserve is a popular hangout for peregrine falcons, who come to nest in the craggy summits.

Top-rated campgrounds near Craigellachie National Nature Reserve

Cragdhu Log Cabin

1. Cragdhu Log Cabin

1 unit · Glamping · Scotland
Escape to the tranquility of Cragdhu, a charming two-bedroom self-catering log cabin perched high on a scenic hillside, offering breathtaking 360° mountain views. With a private setting and rustic charm, Cragdhu is a favorite among returning guests who come for the peace, comfort, and natural beauty. The cabin comfortably sleeps up to 5 guests, with two bedrooms - a cosy double with ensuite shower room/WC and a twin bedroom - plus a fold-down single futon in the living room for additional flexibility. Inside, you’ll find an open-plan living and dining area with comfy sofas, ideal for relaxing after a day of exploring. The fully equipped kitchen includes a hob with fan oven and grill, microwave, full-size fridge/freezer, washing machine, kettle, toas
Showers
Hot Tub
Wifi
from 
£126
 / night
Mondhuie Chalets

2. Mondhuie Chalets

1 unit · Glamping · Nethy Bridge, Scotland
Just under an acre, close to Ancient Caledonia Forest , on the Speyside Way (which runs from Elgin to the South) Garden space for pets, kids and a run around! Our house and 2 Chalets (1 sleeps 5, 1 ideal for 2 or small family) are on the property. Not fully fenced from road. On the outskirts of NethyBridge. Private driveway, and car park
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£114
 / night

Craigellachie couldn’t be easier to get to—west of Aviemore, in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park, it’s easily accessible by boot and bike and only moments away from bus stops and the town’s train station. Even better, the popularity of the mountains to the east means Craigellachie rarely gets overrun by visitors, leaving its woodland trails and viewpoints tranquil and perfect for meditative hikes. Ramblers have a choice of four forest paths to follow, ranging from 0.7 to 4.4 kilometres in length, while every season brings different highlights for nature lovers and birdwatchers. In particular, the reserve is a popular hangout for peregrine falcons, who come to nest in the craggy summits.

Top-rated campgrounds near Craigellachie National Nature Reserve

Cragdhu Log Cabin

1. Cragdhu Log Cabin

1 unit · Glamping · Scotland
Escape to the tranquility of Cragdhu, a charming two-bedroom self-catering log cabin perched high on a scenic hillside, offering breathtaking 360° mountain views. With a private setting and rustic charm, Cragdhu is a favorite among returning guests who come for the peace, comfort, and natural beauty. The cabin comfortably sleeps up to 5 guests, with two bedrooms - a cosy double with ensuite shower room/WC and a twin bedroom - plus a fold-down single futon in the living room for additional flexibility. Inside, you’ll find an open-plan living and dining area with comfy sofas, ideal for relaxing after a day of exploring. The fully equipped kitchen includes a hob with fan oven and grill, microwave, full-size fridge/freezer, washing machine, kettle, toas
Showers
Hot Tub
Wifi
from 
£126
 / night
Mondhuie Chalets

2. Mondhuie Chalets

1 unit · Glamping · Nethy Bridge, Scotland
Just under an acre, close to Ancient Caledonia Forest , on the Speyside Way (which runs from Elgin to the South) Garden space for pets, kids and a run around! Our house and 2 Chalets (1 sleeps 5, 1 ideal for 2 or small family) are on the property. Not fully fenced from road. On the outskirts of NethyBridge. Private driveway, and car park
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£114
 / night
Value Prop
Value Prop
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Cabins in Craigellachie National Nature Reserve guide

Notable campgrounds

  1. Best for caravans: Oakwood Caravan and Camping Park is open all-year round, with plenty of facilities for campers and motorhomes.
  2. Best for privacy: Rothiemurcus Camp and Caravan Park is hidden deep with a tract of Caledonian pine, birch and juniper, with space no matter how busy it can get. 
  3. Best for winter sports: Glenmore Camping is close to the snow fields of Cairngorm Mountain resort. More than 200 pitches on site and a long-time popular choice.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  • The Cairngorms get chockablock in summer. As such, some campsites insist on non-refundable deposits to secure bookings. Full payment can also be required up to six weeks prior to arrival. 
  • Commonly, the bulk of campers arrive in the late afternoon or evening. Early arrival is recommended for the most attractive pitches. 
  • The Cairngorms offer some of Scotland’s best wild camping spots. Make sure you abide by the Scottish Outdoor Access Code, keeping the Cairngorms as clean as you found them.

When to go

One of the largest swathes of birch woodlands in Strathspey, this terrain is a joy to discover at any time of year. Highlights abound, particularly from March to May, which is best for woodland blooms, and June to early September, when the forests come alive with butterflies and dragonflies. In winter, birches reflect the mood of the coldest season, with leaves replaced by frosted boughs and snow-laden branches. For sensational, Alpine-style panoramas, visit from January to February.

Know before you go

  • There are no toilet facilities in the reserve. The closest public toilets are in the centre of nearby Aviemore. 
  • The reserve’s entrance is at Aviemore Youth Hostel, which is also home to the reserve’s car park, a visitor hub, and a webcam showing live footage from a peregrine nest.
  • Motorhomes and caravans are prohibited from parking in the hostel car park overnight.