Cairngorm Mountain ski and snowboard resort is the second largest ski snowboard resort in Scotland (after Glenshee Ski centre) and is sometimes referred to as the "Gorm" by locals. The ski resort was developed on An Càrn Gorm from 1960 onwards. It is the second largest in Scotland but has acquired a reputation for the most reliable snow conditions. By the 1980s, thousands of skiers were using the Aviemore resort on busy weekends, and the slopes could become very crowded. There was pressure to expand the resort to the west, but this was blocked by environmental objections. In 2010 the Cairngom Mountain ski resort had their best season for over 30 years, with skiing and snowboarding well into April and early May.
Click the Cairngorm Ski & Snowboard piste map to download
The Cairngorm Mountain Ski and Snowboard resort is located in the centre of the Cairngorms National Park, only 10 mins drive from Aviemore, a Cairngorms Park holiday town,. Much of the north-western slopes of the mountain are downhill skiing developments concentrated in Coire Cas. As well as ski tows, snow fences and bulldozed tracks this corrie is also now home to a funicular railway, the only one in the UK. The next corrie south of Coire Cas, Coire an t-Sneachda, is separated from the skiing area by a ridge known as Fiacaill a' Choire Chais. In fact there is a wide range of routes on offer within these corries, with the longest run running 3.3 kms. In total, 12 lifts including the funicular train service the resort, which includes seven green runs, six blue, eight red and one black piste. Cairngorm ski and snowboard resort has a ski / snowbaord terrain fun park all season located in the Ptarmigan Bowl close to the top station. The Park is open subject to snow conditions and is maintained by a group of volunteers who prepare and maintain the features.
Skiing, terrain park, snowboarding and sledging are all available subject to conditions. There are over 30km of ski runs and a fully maintained snow board fun park, suitable for all levels from beginner to expert. Cross Country, telemark, ski touring and ski mountaineering are also available from specialist operators in the Aviemore area. There is a recognised ski school that operates on site and Disability Snowsports UK also offer lessons for those with special needs. You can hire everything for skiing, snowboarding and sledging on the mountain including outer clothing. Learn to ski and board with professional instructors. Choose from either a group or private lesson. You can pre book skiing and snowboarding lessons (with equipment) by contacting their resident ski school.
If it's après ski you're after, then Aviemore's lively bars aren't far away. On the way home drop into the Woodshed for a drink next to the open fire, the woodshed is located in the Hilton complex. The Vault night club on the main street in Aviemore is the place for all styles of Apres nightlife and music, from dance and techno to cheesy pop. It is underground so the club can get very hot when busy. The Old Bridge Inn next to the Spey Bridge in Aviemore has recently changed hands and the decor, menu, bar list and events programme have all been given a shot in the arm. There are a wide range of Aviemore hotels, Aviemore B&Bs, Hostels and Selfcatering Accommodation...more info.
For other places to eat see our Cairngorms wine and dine page for more details. Apres-ski often centres around the hotels and pubs and clubs in Aviemore, are which tend to have a lively atmosphere. Check our "what's on" for more info.
Telephone - 01479 861261
Email Address - info@cairngormmountain.co.uk
Web Address - www.cairngormmountain.co.uk