Aviemore, Scotland
Aviemore isn’t a huge place. In fact, it’s a small town in the middle of nowhere, with pretty much only one street. However if you have an interest in almost any outdoor activity at all - you’ll definitely have heard of it. In fact, you’ll probably have been there. Every other shop on that single street in Aviemore is an outdoors shop. If you wanted to buy a nice set of ice axes, or new pair of climbing shoes, you’d find more of a range in Aviemore than you would in the whole of the South of England.
The reason for the nature of this unusual little town is its fantastic location. It is nestled in the heart of the Cairngorms - one of Scotland’s most stunning mountain ranges, hosting a wide range of outdoor activities. So if you find yourself in this little corner of Scotland for a few days - here are a few suggestions of what to do with your time:
1 - Hire a mountain bike from one of the many bike hire shops in the town, and head up to the Rothiemurchus region. This predominantly forested area has a host of great paths and routes, and you can take it as fast or as slow as you like. Ensure that you pack layered running clothing though, it can get chilly up there!
2 - Take a kayak or a canoe down the river Spey. If you’re used to the temperatures of English waters you might find the Spey a bit chilly, but the scenery you’ll pass through, whichever stretch you choose, is second to none. It’s one of the more leisurely ways to see the Cairgorm region.
3 - Climb a Munro. These are Scottish mountains over 3000ft high, and there are many brilliant peaks to bag near Aviemore. This is one of the best ways to get up high and admire the surroundings.