Top 10 Wildlife Watching Spots in the Cairngorms

The Cairngorms National Park is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts. It’s a place where you can pause, take a deep breath, and connect with the stunning environment around you. With its diverse ecosystems, ranging from ancient forests to dramatic mountain peaks, the park is home to some of the UK’s most iconic and elusive species. Whether you're an experienced wildlife watcher or a curious beginner, these top 10 spots are sure to delight.

1. Loch Garten Nature Reserve

Nestled in the heart of the Abernethy Forest, Loch Garten is famed as the home of the ospreys. This RSPB reserve is a hub for bird lovers, offering a viewing hide where visitors can watch these magnificent raptors fishing and tending their nests during the breeding season. Beyond ospreys, you might also spot red squirrels scampering through the trees or hear the haunting call of crested tits. The visitor center provides engaging displays and expert advice on the best wildlife-watching techniques.
📍 Nethy Bridge, PH25 3EF
🌐 rspb.org.uk/loch-garten

2. Uath Lochans

Uath Lochans is a serene collection of small lochs surrounded by ancient woodland, providing a haven for a diverse array of wildlife. The site is particularly famous for its dragonflies and damselflies during the summer months, with vibrant species like the golden-ringed dragonfly dancing across the water. The tranquil trails also offer opportunities to spot woodland birds, roe deer, and even elusive pine martens. Pack binoculars and enjoy the well-marked circular walks, which are suitable for all abilities.
📍 Near Kincraig, off the B970
🌐 forestryandland.gov.scot

3. Glen Tanar National Nature Reserve

Situated on the eastern edge of the Cairngorms, Glen Tanar offers a rich mosaic of habitats, from Caledonian pine forests to heather-clad moors and rushing rivers. This diversity makes it a hotspot for wildlife, including red squirrels, otters, and golden eagles. Guided wildlife tours are available, or you can explore at your own pace along the reserve's many trails. Look out for seasonal highlights, such as salmon leaping in the rivers during autumn. The reserve also has a charming visitor center with maps and local information.
📍 Glen Tanar, Aboyne, Aberdeenshire, AB34 5EU
🌐 glentanar.co.uk

4. Glenlivet Estate Trails

For those who love to explore on foot or by bike, the Glenlivet Estate Trails provide a tranquil setting to encounter wildlife. The well-maintained paths wind through woodlands, moorlands, and streams, creating the perfect habitat for red squirrels, pine martens, and roe deer. Pack a picnic and make a day of it. Maps and trail guides are available at the Glenlivet Visitor Centre.
📍 Tomintoul, AB37 9EX
🌐 glenlivetestate.co.uk

5. Insh Marshes

This vast expanse of wetlands, managed by the RSPB, is a birdwatcher’s dream, particularly during the spring and autumn migrations when flocks of lapwings, curlews, and redshanks fill the skies. During winter, keep an eye out for whooper swans and wigeons. The reserve has several walking paths and viewing points, ensuring a peaceful and immersive wildlife experience. The Insh Marshes are also home to a herd of semi-wild Konik ponies - they help maintain the vegetation for the birds that live there. Our self catering cottage, Railway Cottage, has stunning views across the marshes from the living room and kitchen.
📍 Kingussie, PH21 1NY
🌐 rspb.org.uk/insh-marshes

6. Cairngorm Mountain

Cairngorm Mountain isn’t just for skiers - it’s also a fantastic spot for spotting high-altitude wildlife. The rugged terrain is home to ptarmigans, mountain hares, and golden eagles. In winter, the snow-covered slopes add to the drama, while summer brings alpine flowers and a flurry of activity among nesting birds. Choose between a half-day guided walk around the Northern Corries’ wild landscape, or a 90-minute walk from the Top Station to Cairn Gorm summit, with spectacular views from 1,245m above sea level. The funicular railway takes you to the upper levels for breathtaking views over Loch Morlich and the Spey valley.
📍 Cairngorm Ski Road, Aviemore, PH22 1RB
🌐 cairngormmountain.co.uk

7. Rothiemurchus Forest

The Badger Trail, is an exciting new addition to Rothiemurchus Estate is perfect for families and wildlife enthusiasts. A gentle circular route through ancient Caledonian pine forests, offering a chance to spot wildlife such as red squirrels, deer, capercaillies and even the elusive badger. Interpretive signs along the path provide fascinating insights into the local flora and fauna, making it a great educational experience for kids. The estate is also home to Loch An Eilein, an enchanting loch with its historic island castle. Watch for waterfowl like goldeneye ducks and herons, and admire dragonflies flitting across the water. The ancient Caledonian forest is alive with red squirrels, and you might even spot an osprey fishing in the loch. There’s a small visitor center offering maps and refreshments. The estate offers guided wildlife tours, where local experts help you uncover the secrets of the forest. We recommend a pitstop at the Rothiemurchus Barn Café. Check out The Hayloft, which is located in an idyllic corner of the estate.
📍 Rothiemurchus, Aviemore, PH22 1QH
🌐 rothiemurchus.net

8. Glenfeshie

Glenfeshie is a gem within the Cairngorms, known for its dramatic landscapes and thriving wildlife. Part of the area’s rewilding efforts, Glenfeshie is a refuge for capercaillie, red deer, golden eagles, wildcats and pine martens. The glen’s untouched beauty makes it ideal for photography or simply enjoying the tranquility of nature. Plan your visit early or late in the day for the best chance of sightings.
📍 Glenfeshie Lodge, Kingussie, PH21 1NX
🌐 treesforlife.org.uk

9. Craigellachie National Nature Reserve

Tucked away just outside Aviemore, Craigellachie National Nature Reserve is a hidden gem for wildlife enthusiasts and those seeking a peaceful escape into nature. This beautiful reserve offers a mix of birch woodland, rocky crags, and lochans, making it a diverse habitat for an array of wildlife. Craigellachie is particularly known for its population of peregrine falcons, which nest on the towering cliffs and can often be seen swooping gracefully across the sky. Keep an eye out for other birdlife too, such as buzzards and woodland species like redstarts and warblers. The reserve is also home to roe deer, red squirrels, and other shy woodland creatures. The trails at Craigellachie cater to different abilities, from short walks suitable for families to more strenuous hikes that reward you with stunning panoramic views of the Cairngorm mountains. The reserve is especially magical in the early morning or late afternoon, when the light casts an ethereal glow over the landscape.

📍 Craigellachie NNR, Dalfaber Drive, Aviemore, PH22 1QF
🌐 NatureScot – Craigellachie

10. Abernethy Forest

A part of the expansive RSPB Abernethy Reserve, this ancient woodland is one of the best places to experience the Cairngorms’ natural beauty. Home to capercaillies, crested tits, and a variety of other species, it’s a birdwatcher’s dream. The trails are peaceful and well-marked, perfect for a slow-paced exploration. Visit during dawn or dusk for the best chance of spotting shy mammals like pine martens.
📍 Nethy Bridge, PH25 3EF
🌐 rspb.org.uk/abernethy

Plan Your Wild Adventure

The Cairngorms National Park offers unparalleled wildlife experiences, perfect for reconnecting with nature and creating lasting memories. Check out our Discover Cairngorms blog for more inspiration and tips, and book your stay at one of our cosy holiday cottages to make the most of your visit.

*banner photo credit - Jonny Gios @supergios