Snow Roads: A Local’s Guide to Cairngorms

The Snow Roads is a scenic driving route which takes you on a spectacular journey through the Cairngorms National Park.

It all begins in the south of the Cairngorms, the route starts at the small picturesque town in Perthshire called Blairgowrie.

Then, after a thrilling ninety miles north you will reach the finish line in the traditional Highland town of Grantown-on-Spey.

During this drive you will be witnessing the most spectacular landscapes in Britain and following through one of the highest roads in the whole of the country.

You might recognise the route from Top Gear and it is really popular with classic car drivers and motorcyclists. The route crosses the eastern side of the Cairngorms National Park through Glenshee, Royal Deeside, The Lecht and Tomintoul. 

As the name of the route suggests, during the winter months, the Cairngorms usually experience heavy snowfall. There are snow gates which close the road when the snowfall has been too heavy. 

However, when they are open it unleashes the most amazing sights. The white mountains against a blue sky is one of the best sights on the planet. 

Also, as the seasons change from Winter to Spring and the snow begins to melt, it creates a dramatic backdrop with white top covered snow peaks.

The Cairngorms are perfect to visit in any season, when the snow clears in the summer it is the perfect opportunity to embrace nature and tackle a Munro or two. 

This itinerary will entail all the historic castles, distilleries, famous landmarks, scenic viewpoints and walks that you can visit along the way.

Don’t rush the journey, make sure you give yourself plenty of time to appreciate the stunning landscapes and off-road attractions.

This route is perfect for adventurous travellers, especially those who are history buffs or love photography. Also, the Cairngorms is an excellent place to spend for a staycation.

As the Snow Roads is a pretty new and lesser known route, there are so many hidden gems waiting to be explored.

Getting Around

Scotland’s country roads can be difficult to navigate with unexpected turns, tight bends, passing places and single track roads.

Also, you might bump into some highland traffic including the odd highland coo. The best thing to do is to take it slow and soak in all the scenery. 

Remember that phone reception in this part of Scotland is unreliable. So, it is hard to rely on reception for navigation purposes.

I would recommend bringing a map to be on the safe side so you do not miss anything you want to see. 

Also, in the winter it is important to get the weather before you leave. Traffic Scotland is a good source to keep up to date for road closures and any traffic warnings. 

​​Cargill’s Leap and the Knockie

There are lovely outdoor nature walks on the Snow Roads route. There is parking North of Blairgowrie in the Riverside car park.

This area is very well known and loved by the local people. The walk features lovely scenery along the Ericht River including some beautiful waterfalls.

Also, there are calming woodlands and historic mills to explore. Mills used to be very popular back in the day, in 1860 there were 11 mills employing over 1,600 people. 

On the return back to the car park you can walk up the Knockie which displays spectacular views of Blairgowrie and the Sidlaw Hills in the background.

A famous landmark where the famous Covenanter, Donald Cargill escaped the Government troops by jumping across the river. However, Cargill was eventually captured and executed. 

Auchintaple Loch

Another secret stop on the Cateran Trail is the man made loch known as Auchintaple Loch. Back in the Victorian era, the locals created the loch to go Trout fishing.

The lovely loch and surrounding beautiful larch and pine trees are a haven for wildlife. It is truly a peaceful tranquil area and it perfect for relaxation on a sunny day.

Devil’s Elbow Viewpoint

The Devil’s Elbow was Britain’s most challenging road with a double-point hairpin bend. Nowadays, the area offers plenty of walks for hikers and a view of the most stunning landscape. 

Recently in 2016, ‘Connecting Contours’ art installation was placed at Devil’s Elbow and was designed by Daniel Smith and Philip Zoechbauer.

The installation creates a lovely space for you to sit back and relax while enjoying the view of Glenshee hills and the Snow Roads.  

Glenshee Ski Centre 

Near the summit of the Cairnwell Pass. You will come across Glenshee Ski Centre. Glenshee is Scottish Gaelic for ‘Glen of Fairies’ and it defines the magical atmosphere.

Glenshee is one of Scotland’s five ski centres, mainly attracting winter sport enthusiasts from Aberdeen, Dundee and Perth areas. 

There are a range of ski slopes to choose from, and lessons are offered for complete beginners.

During the summer months the Cairnwell chairlift has a new leash of life and offers a seven minute ascent up the Cairnwell. A perfect head start for Munro baggers. 

The car parking fee is £3 and applies all year round. You can book a car parking ticket online and print off your ticket.

Also, you can book camper van spaces, ski equipment hire and chairlift pass from the website too. 

Tea at the Shee is the cafe and restaurant which is available at Glenshee Ski Centre.

Cairnwell 3

Not only does Glenshee offer delicious refreshments and the perfect setting for skiers, also, it is the ideal place if you want to start hillwalking.

The three Munros which are featured in a circuit from Glenshee are Carn Aosda, Carn a’ Gheoidh and The Cairnwell. 

This is arguably one of the easiest Munros to bag as you are already 600 metres above sea levels when you park at Glenshee. Overall, the walk should take four and a half hours.

Alternatively, you can opt in to complete just one of the peaks that are used as the ski slopes which will take approximately one and a half hours to complete. 

Loch Callater

Loch Callater is situated south of Braemar, the route to the loch was historically known as Jock’s Road.

Parking is available at Auchallater Farm, by Callater Burn, with a small parking fee of £2.50. The walking return trip will take approximately three hours.

On route make sure you keep an eye out for an excellent wee bothy which is run by volunteers. Also, this walk is low grading and it is peaceful and by tranquil loch.

Linn of Dee

The Linn of Dee features a 300 metre natural rock gorge and some of the best landscapes in the Highlands. Back in the day, this spot was a favourite lunch picnic spot for Queen Victoria.

Words can not describe how beautiful this area is. In addition, it is a haven for wildlife including squirrels and deer and you might spot salmon jumping in the water.  

Also, there are plenty of trails to choose from which flow through the Caledonian pinewood and into Glen Lui with stunning views out towards the Cairngorms.

One of the trails are is smaller while the Glen Lui trail is longer and takes approximately one hour. Overall, the trails are well marked, relatively flat and easy to follow.

There are facilities such as toilets which are run by the National Trust for Scotland. Parking is £3 for non-members.

On the way to this stop between Braemar and the Linn of Dee there is a Cairngorms Scenic Photo Post.

Keep you eye out for a secluded lay-by with stunning views across the glen. Also, you will get magnificent views of the peaks of the Cairngorms Mountains.

Linn of Quoich 

Linn of Quoich is also known as the Earl of Mar’s Punch Bowl. It is one of the most picturesque stopping points on the Snow Roads.

The ‘punch bowl’ is a natural hole midstream that was used as a punchbowl at the end of deer stalking season in the neighbouring forest.

Also, the woods surrounding the river are a mixture of pine and birch and are a good habitat for wildlife. 

The walk itself takes you through an area of extraordinary beauty. The complete route taking you beyond the ‘punch bowl’ is only suitable for experienced walkers who are up for an ‘assault course’ type experience. 

There is parking on the left side of the public road six kilometres further along the road from Linn of Dee.

Braemar Castle 

Braemar Castle is an iconic landmark in the Highlands of the Cairngorms. The castle features turrets, a star shaped curtain wall and a bottle neck dungeon.

It was built back in 1628 by the Earl of Mar as his Highland Hunting Lodge, and it features a large extensive history from then until now. 

Notably, Braemar was home for the chiefs of Clan Farquharson for over 200 years and now, the castle is lovingly tended by the community of Braemar.

Balmoral Castle 

The Royal family stay at Balmoral Castle during August and September. Guided tours are available in October, November and December at selected times and days.

Interestingly, the royal residence has been a holiday home since 1852 when Prince Albert purchased it for Queen Victoria. The castle is an example of Scottish Baronial architecture. 

Only a small part is available for viewing and the ballroom has been made into a small exhibition. However, the grounds are extensive and beautiful and the stables have a royal collection of cars and carriages.

Also, once you have finished your visit you can shop for souvenirs in the gift shop or relax in the tearoom. 

Prince Albert Pyramid 

Prince Albert’s Pyramid is the most magnificent structure from the eleven Balmoral Cairns near the royal residence of Balmoral Castle.

The Balmoral Cairns were built by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert to commemorate important events in their lives including their marriage and children. 

The pyramid looks out over the majestic landscape of the Cairngorms, it is definitely an unexpected but spectacular find in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park. There is a car park at Crathie where there are also toilet facilities.

You can complete a walking circuit in two to three hours to view all the cairns as well as amazing views of Balmoral Castle.

Alternatively you can walk a shorter route which passes the distillery and Princess Beatrice’s cairn. Please note, while the royal family are in residence this area should be avoided for their privacy. 

Crathie Kirk 

Crathie Kirk is in the centre of Crathie and it is a Church of Scotland place of worship.

It is well known for its regular visits by the Queen and Royal family when they are in residence at Balmoral Castle. Also, the granite church looks over the River Dee and the ruins of the 14th century church. 

The Highlander’s Bakehouse

The Highlander’s Bakehouse is a small cafe located next to Crathie Primary School and is the perfect pit stop once after exploring the Balmoral Estate and Crathie Kirk.

The seating area is small and mostly outside. It is the perfect place to bring to fluffy pets. This cafe serves its own unique blend of coffee and the staff here are super friendly.

I will definitely recommend the Terry’s chocolate orange hot chocolate, we tried this and it was heavenly. They even roasted the marshmallows on top.

Also, there is a selection of teacakes with a variety of toppings and flavours. We decided to try the Biscoff flavour and it was delicious.

Abergeldie Castle 

Abergeldie Castle is a four floor tower in the parish of Crathie and Braemar.

The castle was built in 1614 and has an extensive creepy history including witchcraft. Also, it was home to the Royal Family and the Gordons.

Abergeldie Castle was occupied by Spanish troops in the 17th century and by Bonnie Dundee in the Jacobite Rising in 1715. Depending on the weather the castle sometimes simmers pink or a golden orange.

Therefore, from the road across the river, this castle is the perfect photo opportunity on the Snow Roads.

Gairnshiel Bridge

The Gairnshiel Bridge is a steeply arched bridge built in 1751 as part of the Hanoverian military road network. Crossing over the River Gairn, the bridge provides lovely views and photo opportunities.

Also, the bridge became a popular part of the Deeside Tourist Route, however, it is no longer suitable for vehicle use. Now, a new bridge is being built while restorations are taking place at the beloved Gairnshiel Bridge. 

Corgarff Castle 

Corgarff Castle is full of historical tales including the original use as a noble residence. Also, it was used as an army base for Jacobite hunters and whiskey smugglers.

In addition, the castle has a stunning medieval appearance with painted white turrets and a star shaped fortification. There are a number of exhibitions which demonstrate life back in the day in rural Aberdeenshire.

The west pavilion houses the bakehouse and brewhouse. Unfortunately, the site is closed but the grounds are open to visitors.

Also, there are additional art installations nearby which allows you to uncover the scenic viewpoints from a new perspective and capture telescopic views of the castle.

The two standing stones are located near A939 Lecht Road where you will discover four sculptured seats by John Kennedy that sit 637 meters above sea level. 

Lecht Pass 

Lecht Pass is a nine miles stretch and is a very scenic part of the Snow Roads.

The road stands at 780 metres above sea level and feels like a rollercoaster drive with sharp bends and turns. Also, the road drops into a glen which is home to another Snow Roads ski centre, Lecht 2090.

Lecht Mine 

At the top of Lecht Pass you will come across Lecht Mine. The abandoned site is the last surviving evidence of what was once Scotland’s largest manganese mine.

Iron ore was mined here between 1730 and 1737 and from 1841 manganese was mined. However, the building has been left derelict since 1846 and due to the harsh weather conditions, not much of the site is left.

There is parking available at the Well of the Lecht parking and picnic area. The route to the site is a short, pleasant walk following clear paths and tracks.  

Still Art Installation 

Next on the Snow Roads Art Installation Series is another stunning viewpoint which shows you the Cairngorms from a different perspective.

‘Still’ by Angus Ritchie offers views overlooking Tomintoul, with reflective mirrors magnifying the enchanted view. The installation stands strong and uses leftover spoils from the quarry. 

Glenlivet Distillery

Glenlivet is the first licensed distillery in the parish of Glenlivet. On a tour you can learn about the founder George Smith and his views on whiskey that are continued today.

Glenlivet aims to change traditions with distinctive casks, finishes and liquids which deliver unique cocktails to open up the world of single malt to all. 

Ballindalloch Castle

Ballindalloch Castle was built in 1546 and was originally a fortified tower house. During the Victorian era, the castle underwent a period of renovation and extension.

Ballindalloch is a wonderful beloved Scottish residence, some highlights include a collection of 17th century Spanish paintings, one of the grandest libraries in the country and a stunning dining room with a spectacular fireplace. 

There is a castle shop that is well stocked with a wide selection of quality Scottish crafts and goods. In addition, there are light refreshments and tasty treats available in the Castle tearoom. 

Villages Along Snow Roads

Blairgowrie

The Perthshire town is located at the foot of the Cairngorms and is a 20 minute drive North of Perth. Many tourists travel here to admire the charming town and the beautiful scenery.

The small town can get busy during the winter months as it is the prime destination to stay at for skiers.

Did you know that Blairgowrie is home to the UK’s largest hedge. The Meikleour Beech Hedge is recognised by the Guinness Book of Records as the highest hedge in the world.

The hedge was planted in 1745 and it is 530 metres long and 30 metres high.

Blairgowrie Accommodation: The Pinkish House, Fir Tree Cottage, The Laurels Guest House

Braemar

Braemar is located in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park close to Balmoral Castle in Royal Deeside. The small town is surrounded by bliss mountain scenery, stunning glens and ample wildlife.

Also, Braemar is well known for the community castle, a Highland Games exhibition and the award winning Fife Arms Hotel.

Braemar Accommodation: Braemar Youth Hostel, Braemar Lodge Cabins, Mar House

Ballater

Ballater is a picturesque town which is a perfect place to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

In Ballater you can visit The Old Royal Station which is a unique destination which dates back to 1866. Here, you can sit in the famous carriage which has been transferred to a tearoom.

You can walk up Craigendarroch Hill which is a small hill but it has a big slice of Ballater folk’s hearts.

Ballater Accommodation: The Auld Kirk, Dormie Lodge, Hillview

Tomintoul

Tomintoul is the highest village in the Highlands, nestled at a height of 1, 164 feet on the northern slopes of the Cairngorm Mountains.

The small village is a perfect example of the 18th century planned Scottish Highland village with many Georgian and Victorian buildings.

When you stop at Tomintoul make sure you stop at The Whiskey Castle which has been selling the finest malt whiskies of Scotland for over 100 years.

Tomintoul Accommodation: Argyll Guest House,  Hawthorn House, Richmond Arms Hotel

Grantown-on-Spey

The town of Grantown-on-Spey is situated on the edge of the spectacular Cairngorms National Park which is a perfect place to explore the Strathspey area.

Grantown-on-Spey is a haven for climbing, walking and exploring the countryside. Also, it is located on the 70 mile long famous Speyside Malt Whiskey Trail.

The town hosts other attractions including the Grantown Heritage Museum and a superb 18-hole golf course.

Grantown-on-Spey Accommodation: Bruach Gorm Lodge, Mount Barker, Garden Park Guest House

Final Note

Driving through the Cairngorms is one of the most magnificent routes in Scotland, and it is an excellent place for a staycation.

You can hire a car or camper van to get the full experience.