There’s a stretch of the River Spey where the day seems to slow down to match the water. Exploring Speyside in the Cairngorm National Park means wide valleys, old pinewoods and open farmland, with the Cairngorm mountains on one side and the Moray coast not far off on the other. Towns here take life at their own pace, and you soon find yourself doing the same.
Just outside Grantown-on-Spey, Culfoichbeg Lodge is a lovely base for it all. Sleeping up to 4 guests across 2 bedrooms, there’s as much to enjoy at home as there is outside the door. Spend the morning on the High Street, the afternoon on the river or in the hills, then come back for a long dinner with the view.
Here are a few of our favourite ways to spend a day here.
Browse Grantown-on-Spey
Grantown-on-Spey is one of the Highlands’ most welcoming towns, and it’s the natural place to start. The wide High Street is lined with traditional granite buildings and independent shops, and it’s easy to lose a morning here without meaning to.
Call in at The Bookmark, a much-loved local bookshop, then see what’s on the walls at the Spey Bank Studio, which shows work by local artists. The Grantown Museum is well worth an hour too. It tells the story of the planned town and the landscape around it, and it gives everything else you see a bit more meaning.
Follow the river to Aberlour
Further down the Spey, Aberlour has a different feel. It’s smaller and quieter, and the river is never far away. Families tend to make a beeline for the Walkers Shortbread shop, as the village is home to the famous bakery.
The Spey Larder is a standout deli, perfect for stocking up on local cheese, bread and treats to take back to the lodge. Come Awa’ In has cards, gifts and handmade pieces, while Flock & Saunter is a real treasure trove of crafts, textiles and thoughtful Scottish finds. Finish with a stroll along the riverside path, or book a tour at the Aberlour Distillery to see how the village’s own single malt is made.
Exploring Speyside in the Cairngorm National Park on foot: the Cromdale Hills
If there’s one hill walk we’d make time for, it’s the Cromdale Hills. They rise gently above the Spey, with broad, grassy slopes that give you real height without steep or technical ground.
From the lower tracks you look straight across the river and its farmland. Keep climbing towards Creag a’Chaise, the highest point of the range, and the view opens right out to the Cairngorms and the moorland beyond Grantown. Pack a flask, take your time, and stop as often as you like.
Get out on bike or board
The landscape around Grantown is made for two wheels. For an easy ride, follow the river or loop through the nearby villages and forests. Basecamp Bikes in Grantown can help with supplies and any last-minute tune-ups.
For a bigger day, the Dava Way runs between Grantown and Forres along an old railway line. Expect long, open stretches, steady climbs and wide views over moorland and farmland, without anything technical underfoot.
If you’d rather be on the water, the Spey has calm stretches that suit beginners and steady paddlers. Cairngorm Activities, based near Grantown, provides boards, safety kit and local advice on the best stretch for your group.
Look out for Speyside’s wildlife
Keep your eyes open wherever you go. You can even spot Highland cattle at the side of the road as you drive around the area. Red squirrels are often seen in the pinewoods, and the forests around Nethy Bridge are home to the tiny crested tit. In spring and summer, the RSPB reserve at Loch Garten is one of the best places in Scotland to watch ospreys, and it’s only a short drive from Grantown. Binoculars are a must.
Discover Speyside’s whisky heritage
You can’t spend time on the Spey without noticing the whisky. Around half of Scotland’s malt distilleries sit along the river and in the surrounding hills, each shaped by the water that runs through them.
The Glenlivet, Cardhu, Aberlour and Cragganmore all offer tours that show how single malt is made and how different casks shape the flavour. Even if whisky isn’t your thing, the stories behind each distillery are a big part of the area’s character.
For something special, we can arrange an exclusive whisky experience for you. Choose a chauffeur-driven distillery day, so everyone can enjoy the tastings, or a private tasting at Culfoichbeg Lodge itself.
Find somewhere good to eat
Speyside’s food scene is relaxed and friendly, which makes it ideal after a day outdoors. In Grantown, The Craig Bar has a reputation for pies and an easy-going atmosphere. The Wee Puffin, meanwhile, serves well-made dishes in a welcoming setting. Po Pia is another local favourite, a Thai restaurant with fresh, bright flavours.
In Aberlour, The Mash Tun is a cosy spot with good food and an excellent whisky list. Similarly, The Copper Dog in Craigellachie serves polished pub dishes in a warm, lively room. Of course, you can make as much or as little of it as you like. For instance, grab a coffee before a walk, lunch by the river, or dinner out before heading home.
Back to Culfoichbeg Lodge
After a day exploring Speyside in the Cairngorm National Park, it’s good to have somewhere comfortable to come back to. Culfoichbeg Lodge is around 19 minutes from Grantown-on-Spey. So you can be out on the hills one minute and back by the fire the next.
At Culfoichbeg Lodge every direction reveals picturesque vistas, setting the stage for an unforgettable adventure. But the best part might be the simplest. Cook something good, pour a Speyside dram, and let the evening take care of itself.
Book your stay at Culfoichbeg Lodge and start planning your Speyside escape today.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes exploring Speyside in the Cairngorm National Park so special?
It combines peaceful scenery with plenty to do. For example, you can walk riverside paths, cycle the Dava Way or paddleboard on the Spey. You can also climb the Cromdale Hills for big views and visit famous distilleries. Best of all, everything is within a short drive.
How far is Culfoichbeg Lodge from Grantown-on-Spey?
Culfoichbeg Lodge is ideally placed for both relaxed days and full‑on adventures. It is 16 minutes from Grantown‑on‑Spey. It’s also close to the Cromdale Hills, the River Spey and several distilleries, so you can head out in any direction and be exploring within minutes.
What can we do when the weather isn’t great?
First, browse the shops and galleries in Grantown or visit the Grantown Museum. Alternatively, take a distillery tour or book a private whisky tasting or one of our other experience’s at the lodge.
What outdoor activities can you enjoy when exploring Speyside in the Cairngorm National Park?
Cycling, paddleboarding, hillwalking and long scenic routes are all excellent options. The Dava Way gives you a full‑day ride with wide views, while the River Spey has calm stretches ideal for paddleboarding. The Cromdale Hills offer accessible height and stunning open views.
Are the Cromdale Hills suitable for adventurous walkers?
They’re perfect for guests who want a rewarding climb without technical terrain. The slopes are broad and open, and once you gain height you’re treated to long views towards the Cairngorms and across Speyside. It’s a great “big view” walk that suits most abilities.
Where can you eat when exploring Speyside in the Cairngorm National Park?
Speyside has plenty of relaxed but high‑quality food options. The Craig Bar, The Wee Puffin and Po Pia in Grantown‑on‑Spey are great after a day outdoors. Aberlour’s Mash Tun and Craigellachie’s Copper Dog offer hearty dishes and excellent whisky lists.
