Open all year round, Glenmore provides an authentic camping experience. The landscape here is a little oasis of green, and is one of the finest places in Britain for wildlife spotting, with deer, otters, golden eagles and even red squirrels regularly spotted by fellow campers. For such a large site (there are over 200 pitches), this place never feels overcrowded. The majority of spaces are flat, secluded and come with fabulous forest views. Whilst Glenmore may not be one of those sites that feature underfloor heating or fancy ceramic washbasins, the ablution facilities here (toilets and showers) cover most needs and are clean and well maintained.
Aviemore (a 15 minute drive away) is not only the gateway to the Cairngorms, but also the region's hub for transport, shopping and restaurants. Of course, the main attractions in this part of world are the broad mountain plateaus, serene lochs and deep valleys, but when bad weather puts the hills out of bounds, Aviemore quickly fills with hikers and cyclists (plus skiers and boarders in winter), recounting their latest adventure in the lively cafes and bars.
There cannot be many places to pitch more beautiful than Glemore. Many campers come here for a week and never move a motorised wheel for their whole stay, such is the walking appeal of the nearby surroundings. Being set in a woodland wonderland, you can stumble out of your tent every morning and gasp in awe at the beauty that is The Scottish Highlands. But as with most things, coming here is the only way to truly understand what that feeling evokes.
The wonderful Cairngorm Reindeer Centre (01479 861228) is a short 10 minute walk from Glenmore, where under the supervision of trained staff, you can feed, stroke and walk amongst these friendly animals. Situated in the centre of the Cairngorm National Park, visitors follow the herder up to the mountain enclosure, where beautiful mountain views can also be enjoyed. Visit the Landmark Forest Adventure Park (0800 731 3446) providing adventure for all ages or take a 25 minute drive from Glenmore, to discover a host of great activities in the Highlands of Scotland. Cairngorm Sleddog Centre (07767 270526) is the only daily working sled-dog centre in the UK and one of only 5 in Europe. Meet the dogs, before you take an exhilarating ride on a pooch-pulled buggy where you will enjoy views of the Cairngorms Mountains. For those seeking adventure, Rothiemurchus (01479 810647) is also a top pick. Only 10 minutes from Glenmore, activities at Rothiemurchus include canoeing, archery, kayaking, mountain biking, quad bike trekking and white water rafting. Ace Adventure (0330 555 0313) are a specialist White water rafting and outdoor activities provider, based near Aviemore. Jim and the team cater for a wide range of activities; from high adrenaline thrills to relaxed wilderness and wildlife experiences.
The Happy Haggis (01540 662979), established in 1974, is a family-run takeaway and restaurant in the heart of Aviemore which serves good, honest food throughout the day. Mountain Cafe (01479 812473) offers excellent views of the Cairngorm mountains and, coupled with excellent food created from local produce, this is a great place to enjoy breakfast, lunch or some fresh, home baked goods. Mountain Cafe also caters extensively for special diets including vegetarian, vegan, gluten free, nut allergies and soya free. Award-winning Papa Rock (01479 810394) is a great place for families, with music industry themed decor and excellent food. Roo’s Leap (01479 811161), meanwhile, brings a little Aussie summer to the highlands. Tasty food cooked to order using local, fresh ingredients, Roo’s leap has a distinctive Australian theme serving ‘barbied’ meat, chicken and fish dishes.