Rothiemurchus Centre

The rambling Rothiemurchus Estate covers one of the largest remaining areas of ancient Caledonian pine forest, which once enveloped the whole of Scotland. Stretching from the River Spey to the Cairngorm Mountains, it’s a precious pocket of wildlife and sweeping scenery.

It’s been under the stewardship of the Grant family since the 16th century, and they encourage visitors to come and enjoy the landscape. Take a pony trek, fish the loch, try an all-terrain Segway, hire bikes or enjoy an easy stroll to Loch an Eilein, voted the UK’s best picnic spot – keep your eyes peeled for red squirrels, osprey and turkey-like capercaillies as you go.

And if it’s a picnic you’re after, look no further than the fantastic farm shop and Druie Café. It’s stuffed with produce from the estate and surrounding area – Highland beef, heather honey, smoked salmon sandwiches, homemade fudge and artisan cheeses – while the bright café does an excellent line in light lunches, fluffy cakes and locally roasted coffee.