Glenlivet in the Cairngorms National Park

The Glenlivet area is perhaps most famous for its distillery The Glenlivet but there are many attractions and a rich history to keep the visitor entertained. Scotlands most beautiful long distance footpath the Speyside Way  runs from Ballindalloch to Tomintoul and can be accessed from the distillery. The remains of several ancient strongholds are dotted around heather-clad hills. Only a couple of walls remain of Alexander Stuart (The Wolf of Badenoch) Drumin Castle. The fort was probably built in the 14th century along with others at Loch Eilean on Speyside and on the moors at Lochindorb above Grantown-on-Spey. The Earl of Huntly built Blairfindy Castle in the late 16th century but little of it remains today, and whats left is considered too dangerous for a close look. The Glenlivet area makes an excellent base for discovering unspoilt Scotland. There's fishing on the Livet, skiing at The Lecht in the Cairngorms National Park and hiking on the hills  Glenlivet has something for everyone!

Strathdon in Glenlivet

Strathdon in Glenlivet, this is the westernmost parish in the Gordon District of the eastern Cairngorms. It is a place mixing rugged Highland beauty with fertile farmland on the banks of the River Don. The area boasts a number of tourist attractions, from the mountains themselves to the river and lochs along its length. A visit to the Glenlivet Distillery to sample the world-famous whisky should also be on the itinerary. The Lecht ski area is only about 15 minutes drive and boasts some of the finest winter slopes in the UK. If you're looking for somewhere to stay so you can explore the Cairngorms National Park, you can't do much better than staying in one of the bed and breakfasts located in Upper Donside.

Tomintoul in Glenlivet

Tomintoul Glenlivet, the highest village in the Cairngorms National Park (though the residents of Dalwhinnie might argue over a few metres!), Tomintoul, from the Gaelic for 'Hillock of the Barn', is often viewed as its northwest gateway and the entrance to the Glenlivet and the Highlands. As with many towns and villages in the Highlands, the Tomintoul Distillery in the heart of Speyside on the Glenlivet Estate is a must for tourists. Master distiller Robert Fleming chose the site because of its proximity to the Ballantruan Spring, the source of pure mountain water essential for producing the finest single malt whiskies. If you're looking for a Glenlivet activity-based break then there are superb golf courses in Grantown-on-Spey, Ballindalloch and Boat of Garten, and the ski areas of CairnGorm and The Lech are also on the doorstep for the winter sports enthusiast. There are restaurants, hotels and a museum bordering the picturesque central square. The village isn't short of self-catering accommodation and B&Bs either.