A snowcation in Aberdeenshire

When the outside is frightful, we need to be the ones to make our lives delightful - no winter pun intended! What better way to do that than taking a trip into the Cairngorms National Park to enjoy some thrilling snowsports?

We have so many great snowcation spots right under our noses, and many of us might forget that. Skiing and snowboarding are fantastic ways to get outside and be more active this winter, making sure you stay on track to smash those new year's goals.

The Cairngorms National Park is the largest of its kind in the UK and has more mountains than you could ever imagine. Here, you will find five of the UK’s six highest peaks, alongside 55 Munros (mountains over 3,000ft)! Whilst the five highest mountains might not be ideal for beginners, it’s certainly worth checking out one of the smaller and safer ones. 

If you're unsure where to start, look no further than Cairngorm Mountain Resort. Situated about 2 hours from Aberdeen, winter here is an adventure for adrenaline junkies, eager first-timers, and everyone in-between, from December right through to April. Before you embark on your ultimate snowsports adventure, fuel up with some delicious food at Cairngorm Cafe, or pick up a souvenir at Cairngorm Mountain Shop. It features 12 lifts and 32 runs, a mountain garden, and extensive parking. At the centre and nearby, families can choose from a variety of snowsports schools, instructors, equipment hirers and other options for holiday fun. 

The largest ski resort in Britain, spread over four mountains and three valleys, Glenshee Ski Resort, is in the Cairngorms National Park. Skiers and boarders can use the 22 lifts, taking them up to 3,500 feet. For the more experienced snow sports enthusiasts, the black-graded 'Tiger' will be perfect, while 'Sunnyside' is great for intermediates. A full-day pass is the best way to take advantage of everything the resort offers, including its own snowsports school, equipment hire service, and 1-2-1 private lessons. 

There are so many ways snowsports are beneficial to you, but some of the most important ones include - strengthening your body, improving your flexibility and burning fat. Not to mention that it's the perfect mood booster, making sure to keep you away from the winter blues.

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All information is correct at the time of publishing, we recommend that you check opening times and information for individual places before visiting.