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5 unforgettable experiences in and around Boat of Garten this winter


By Federica Stefani

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Loch Morlich on a crisp winter day.
Loch Morlich on a crisp winter day.

A new year has started and January has brought frosty and snowy days in the Highlands.

There is something special about heading out on crispy winter days, breathing in fresh air and taking in gorgeous mountain landscapes.

There is no better place for those who love winter than a getaway in the Cairngorms National Park – with paths and activities for everyone to enjoy the cold season.

If you want a base to explore the area which is well connected while being immersed in stunning nature and calm, the village of Boat of Garten is a stunning place to be in.

To make your visit even more special, The Boat Inn has the perfect winter offer to help you make the most of your stay.

Here are some top tips on some of our favourite activities in and around Boat of Garten.

Enjoy walks for everyone in Rothiemurchus and Glenmore Forest Park

The Old Logging Way back to Coylumbridge..
The Old Logging Way back to Coylumbridge..

Explore the breathtaking landscapes surrounding Boat of Garten. At only a 20 minute drive from the village you can find Rothiemurchus Forest and Glenmore Forest Park.

Both offer a wide range of trail options, from leisurely strolls to more challenging hikes to immerse yourself in the beauty of Caledonian pine forests.

With extensive footpath networks and walks for all levels winding through ancient woodland and circling picturesque lochs, these walks are perfect to immerse yourself in a winter wonderland on frosty days.

Follow the pack at Aviemore's Sledge Dog Rally

sled dog rally
sled dog rally

If you are a dog-lover, you can’t miss the thrill of one of the biggest events on the sled dog racing calendar in the UK.

Running on forest trails around the beautiful Loch Morlich with the stunning backdrop of the Cairngorms, the race is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year.

With Siberian Huskies as well as other race dogs such as Alaskan Malamutes, Samoyeds, Greenland Dogs and Canadian Eskimo Dogs taking part, the event sees mushers and teams from all over the world competing - both on snow or on wheeled rigs on ground.

This year, the rally will take place on January 27 and 28 - don’t miss out on this opportunity if you are visiting the area!

Learn more about protected species at the Highland Wildlife Park

Brodie the polar bear is a firm favourite with visitors at the Highland Wildlife Park. Picture: RZSS.
Brodie the polar bear is a firm favourite with visitors at the Highland Wildlife Park. Picture: RZSS.

Animal lovers can’t miss a visit to the Highland Wildlife Park in Kincraig.

From polar bears to wolves, passing from red pandas and snow leopards, the park is home to more than 200 amazing animals.

You can learn more about native Scottish species as well as rare and endangered animals from around the world during your visit.

The park, owned by the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland - like Edinburgh Zoo - boosts two cafes and is a great day out for all the family.

Fun for the family at Landmark Forest Adventure Park

Dinosaur World is one of the most popular attractions at Landmark Forest Adventure Park.
Dinosaur World is one of the most popular attractions at Landmark Forest Adventure Park.

If you like climbing up and moving around, then a trip to the popular Landmark Forest Adventure Park is not to be missed.

A visit here offers fun trails on high-ropes courses in the trees, or if you want to warm uo you can visit their beautiful tropical hot-house, home to hundreds of beautiful butterflies and exotic flowers.

And you are a Jurassic Park fan, then this is the best place for you as Landmark is also home to Dinosaur Kingdom, Scotland’s best Dinosaur Experience.

This is truly a great experience for all the family.

Delight in local flavours

The Boat Inn's menu is a celebration of Scottish flavours and local produce. Picture by: Alison White Photography.
The Boat Inn's menu is a celebration of Scottish flavours and local produce. Picture by: Alison White Photography.

After a day of exploration, there is no better way to charge your batteries than treating your taste buds to the exquisite notes of local produce.

If you like a dram or a great craft beer, a visit to local institutions such as Tomatin Distillery or Cairngorm Brewery in Aviemore is not to be missed.Whisky enthusiasts can also indulge in in a visit to one of the newest distilleries in the area, The Cairn Distillery. Foodies will rejoice a shopping trip for some goodies at Balliefurth Farm Shop.

If you want to cosy up and enjoy a tasty meal with fresh, local produce, then the Boat Inn is there for you: with its cosy ambience and delicious examples of Scottish cuisine, it’s the best place where to refuel from a day out and to try some great drams or craft ales from Inverness-based distillery Uile-bheist .


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