The Cairngorms Castle Route is a breathtaking journey through one of Scotland’s most spectacular mountain landscapes, weaving together dramatic peaks, ancient forests, shimmering lochs, and some of the country’s most storied castles. This route offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and rich history, making it an unforgettable experience for any traveler.

The Cairngorms National Park is home to the UK’s largest mountain range, featuring a vast array of Munros and Corbetts. Highlights include the towering Ben Macdui, Britain’s second-highest summit at 1,309 meters, and the iconic Cairn Gorm itself, both offering panoramic views across the wild, snow-capped plateau and the ancient Caledonian pinewoods below. The landscape is ever-changing, with Arctic-like plateaus, deep glens, and tranquil lochs such as Loch Morlich and Loch an Eilein, the latter boasting a 13th-century island castle.

The Cairngorms Castle Route is dotted with castles that echo centuries of Scottish history:

Balmoral Castle: The royal family’s Scottish residence, set in magnificent grounds along the River Dee. Open to the public in spring and early summer, Balmoral is surrounded by lush forests and offers walks to the Prince Albert Cairn, a striking granite pyramid on the estate.

Braemar Castle: A 17th-century fortress at the eastern gateway to the Cairngorms, run by the local community and rich with tales of Jacobite intrigue and clan feuds.

Corgarff Castle: Instantly recognizable for its star-shaped defensive wall, this 16th-century tower house stands in wild, open scenery and is accessible via the scenic Snow Roads.

Drumin Castle: A 15th-century stronghold once home to the infamous Wolf of Badenoch, perched above the River Livet in a landscape of rolling hills and ancient bridges.

Glenbuchat Castle: A haunting 16th-century ruin, tucked away in the remote Strathdon area, offering a glimpse into Scotland’s turbulent past.

Along the way, you’ll also discover charming villages like Tomintoul, the highest village in the Highlands, and historic sites such as the Livet Pack Horse Bridge and the secretive Scalan Seminary, hidden in the hills where priests once trained in secrecy.