Boots N Paddles - Outdoor Adventure

We are an outdoor adventure activity company with bases in Inverness and Aviemore, in the Highlands of Scotland. We provide courses, instruction, holidays and fun days out in outdoor pursuits including archery, sea kayaking, open canoeing, winter mountain skills, mountain biking, hill walking, summer and winter mountaineering, climbing, abseiling, gorge walking and WoW Balls. We also cater for stag and hen parties, can organise mini Scottish Highland Games and wildlife holidays. Join us for an adventure in the breathtaking Highlands of Scotland.

Our goal is to help you to discover the fantastic Scottish outdoors in a fun, safe and active way. No prior experience or training is needed and we will provide all the equipment you need.

Our client base is hugely varied, ranging from school and youth groups, to families or individuals on holiday, to stag and hen parties, to corporate groups.

Our instructional staff all come highly recommended by friends in the outdoors and they all share our passion for Scotland and the Highlands. There are endless possibilities for playing in the great outdoors, whether that be chasing an adrenalin rush or relaxing with some tranquil wildlife exploration.
We can help you find accommodation in the area, or leave that to your discretion. Provided you have appropriate grounds for the activities in question we can even bring Boots N Paddles to your doorstep. Check www.Boots-n-Paddles.co.uk for more info. For other outdoor activities check www.Cairngorms-Park.com

in reference to: Accommodation Providers (view on Google Sidewiki)

Gruelling Corrieyairack event raises cash for charity

MORE than 460 athletes took part in Saturday’s gruelling Corrieyairack Challenge, a 43-mile bike, hike or run from Fort Augustus to Kincraig, near Aviemore, mostly on the remnants of the old military road built by General Wade.

Entrants could opt to make the high-pass crossing on foot for 17 miles before switching to bike at Barva Bridge for the final 26 miles, or tackling the entire route by bike.

The annual event is to raise funds for the Speyside Trust, a Scottish charity, based at Badaguish Outdoor Centre near Aviemore, providing quality respite care activity holidays for adults and children of all abilities.

Charity director Andrew MacKenzie said: “It was a super day although quite stormy at times.

“Fortunately, the cyclists had the wind behind them on the run towards the finish.”
Results:

Men’s Duathlon - 1 Stuart Macleod, 2 Drew Sharkey, 3 Doug Allan.

Women’s Duathon - 1 Keri Weatherhogg, 2 Morgan Windram-Geddes, 3 Lucy Colquhoun.

Men’s Mountain Bike - 1 Philip Kelman, 2 Marcus Shields, 3 Mark Cooper.

Women’s Mountain Bike - Katy Boocock, 2 Julie Nimmo, 3 Justina Stewart.

The winning men’s team was Ochil Hill Runners. (Doug Allan, Sean McFarlane and Eoin Disckson).

Women’s top team was Fife Trotters (Morgan Windram-Geddes, Cathy Sinclair and Sarah Legge).

Mixed mountain bike top team was Square Wheels, Strathpeffer (Peter Ferguson, Vince McGregor and Katy Boocock).

Mixed duathlon team winners - Your Late (Stuart Macleod, Drew Sharkey and Lucy Colquhoun) and men’s mountain bike team was Team VisualSoft ( David Cant, Paul Evans, David Mackay).

in reference to: Hundreds turn out for challenge - Press & Journal (view on Google Sidewiki)

What is a National Park?

In the UK there are 15 members in the National Park family which are protected areas because of their beautiful countryside, wildlife and cultural heritage. People live and work in the National Parks and the farms, villages and towns are protected along with the landscape and wildlife. National Parks welcome visitors and provide opportunities for everyone to experience, enjoy and learn about their special qualities.

 

There are 15 members in the UK National Park family, these are -

10 in England - The Broads, Dartmoor, Exmoor, the Lake District, the New Forest, Northumberland, the North York Moors, the Peak District, the South Downs and the Yorkshire Dales.

2 in Scotland – www.Cairngorms.co.uk  and Loch Lomond and the Trossachs.

3 in Wales – the Brecon Beacons, Pembrokeshire Coast and Snowdonia.

 

A large amount of land within the National Parks is owned by private landowners. Farmers and organisations like the National Trust or Scottish Natural Heritage are some of the landowners, along with the thousands of people who live in the villages and towns. National Park Authorities sometimes own bits of land, but they work with all landowners in all National Parks to protect the landscape. For more info check out www.Cairngorms-Park.com

HIE helps Landmark get timber train rollercoaster ride and Rothiemurchus an aerial rope course

The popularity of the Aviemore area as a tourist destination has been strengthened following the addition of two attractions, both supported by Highlands and Islands Enterprise.

The Landmark Forest Adventure Park at Carrbridge is unveiling a timber train rollercoaster ride to complement the wide range of family activities the centre currently offers.

The £800,000 attraction will comprise 250 yards of track and provide action-packed rides for up to 24 people at a time.

The park attracts about 140,000 visitors every year, chiefly from an area of 90 minutes to two hours’ drive from Carrbridge.

It has been particularly successful in drawing visitors back for repeat visits through its policy of regularly reinvesting in new attractions and this, in turn, is expanding its customer base to include visitors from as far afield as central Scotland.

HIE’s head of business growth with the Inner Moray Firth team Rhona Fraser said: “Tourism is considered one of Scotland’s key industries. Landmark provides a very popular day out for visitors from a wide catchment area, significantly adding to their overall holiday experience. Having such a successful facility contributes to the attraction of the whole area and for this reason HIE’s investment has potential to benefit not only Landmark’s offering, but operators in the wider area.”

The new ride promises to provide a combination of exhilaration and open-air fun which characterises many of Landmark’s attractions.

Landmark manager Danny Fullerton said: “We work to ensure that every year or so there is something new to experience at Landmark providing good motivation for people to return here, and the wider area, again and again.”

HIE has approved a £158,000 grant funding towards the new Landmark facility and has also invested in TreeZone, a new aerial rope course at Rothiemurchus which is proving a popular attraction for adults and children.

The agency has provided £30,000 funding assistance towards the £188,000 project undertaken by a subsidiary of outdoor activity business Boots n Paddles. Vicky Grant, development manager with HIE’s Inner Moray Firth team, said: “This aerial rope course supports the popularity of other businesses in the area and, as one of only three such facilities of its scale in Scotland, is a key attraction in its own right.

“TreeZone offers an opportunity to capitalise on an area’s existing success and provides good value for HIE’s investment.”

Mike Dunthorne of Boots n Paddles said the course was already proving popular with corporate clients, as well as tourists.

“It is not designed to be a ‘soft’ tourist pursuit such as ‘crazy golf’ – it’s a real challenge which is a good match for other pursuits available in the area. Corporate clients like the fact that we can design use of the course to suit their capability and time limits and, because we have different courses for adults and children, it’s also very popular with families on holiday here.”

in reference to: Two new attractions for visitors to the Aviemore area - Press & Journal (view on Google Sidewiki)

Damselfly & Dragonfly Identification and Survey

Thursday 15th July 2010 – International Starters Aviemore

 

Want to know more about the damselflies and dragonflies that can be found in your local area? Then come along to our workshop, which will help you recognise the 13 damselfly and dragonfly species found in the Cairngorms National Park and identify the types of habitats preferred by each animal.

 

Programme

10.00                Coffee & Registration

 

1015-12:30        Indoor session covering: -

 

Introduction to the world of damselflies and dragonflies. Adult Identification and life cycle. Larvae identification. Recording, habitat needs, health & safety and National Atlas  –

 

1215-1300         Lunch (bring own packed lunch, as lunch will be outdoors heading to the field)

 

1300-1630         Survey field session in the Aviemore area

 

The course will be delivered by Stephen Corcoran (an experienced Odonatanist). The afternoon session will involve an outdoor site visit, so please wear appropriate footwear and waterproofs – wellington boots are advised. If you have a large-holed colander please bring that for searching for dragonfly larvae. Places on the workshop are limited and advance booking is required. There will be a small charge of £10 for the event payable in cash or cheque on the day. To book, contact Andy, tel 01479 870535 or AndyRockall@Cairngorms.co.uk   

 

Cairngorms Mountain 09-10 Season ends

Cairngorm Mountain above Aviemore in the Cairngorms National Park has finally decided to call it a day on their 2009-10 ski season after opening in June for the first time in 18 years. The last of the five resorts in the Cairngorms National Park and further Scottish locations to close for the season

Although final figures are yet to be published, it appears winter 2009-10 will have been one of the area’s most successful for 25 years, with the lifts operating on around 150 days during the past eight months.


The only days the ski area was due to extreme weather, including too much snow in mid-winter, which took staff working flat out more than a week to dig out roads, lifts, restaurant and the funicular railways tracks. A local whisky distillery was so impressed by their efforts it rewarded each of them with a specially commissioned whisky.

Around 150,000 people have taken advantage of the great conditions and got out on the slopes. Lets hope 2010-2011 is even better.  Fingers crossed.

Summer is well underway at CairnGorm resort.. Some summer highlights at CairnGorm Mountain for you to consider are: a trip on the UK's highest railway, a leisurely walk on the mountain footpath network, a stroll around the mountain garden, a birds eye view from the Camera Obscura, dance the night away at a traditional ceilidh or come and see our exhibition of photographs taken by staff during this winter's skiing season. Check www.cairngormmountain.co.uk for more summer info.

What's On in Aviemore and the Cairngorms 14th-20th June 2010

 

          

Monday 14th
• Boat of Garten Community Hall – RSPB Illustrated Talk.  ‘Abernethy Forest’ with Jeremy Roberts, 8.30pm. £3.50/£1.50 complimentary tea/coffee.
• Spey Valley Cinema, Aviemore – Street Dance 3D- Certificate PG, 5.30pm.

• Spey Valley Cinema, Aviemore – Letters to Juliet - Certificate PG, 8pm.

• Hilton Coylumbridge Hotel – Live Music with Ann Dickson, 8.30pm.
• Hilton Coylumbridge Hotel – Whisky Tasting, 8.30pm.
 

Tuesday 15th
• Spey Valley Cinema, Aviemore – Street Dance 3D- Certificate PG, 5.30pm.

• Spey Valley Cinema, Aviemore – Letters to Juliet - Certificate PG, 8pm.

• Hilton Coylumbridge Hotel – Live Music with Bonnie, 8.30pm.
 

Wednesday 16th

• Glenmore Visitor Centre Car Park – ‘Big Trees, Little Trees’.  Join the ranger for a closer look at the pinewoods in Glenmore, 10.30am-1pm, FREE.  No need to book. T: 01479 861220 for info.

• Old Bridge Inn, Aviemore – Live Folk Music with ‘Bonfire Band’, 9pm.
 

Thursday 17th
Uath Lochans Car Park, Inshriach Forest, Nr Kincraig – Dragons, Damsels and the Ice Age.  Walk to the amazing view over Uath Lochans, then squelch around the lochans to look for their bio diversity (bugs!).  2-4pm. No need to book.  T: 01479 861220 for info.  Free Event.  Forerstry Commission Scotland.  Bring Wellies.

• Inshriach House, Nr Aviemore – ‘Festival of Firewood’, talks, demonstrations, food, music, 4-8pm www.insider2010.com
• Spey Valley Cinema, Aviemore – Letters to Juliet - Certificate PG, 8pm.

• Hilton Coylumbridge Hotel – Live Music with M D Coxon, 8.30pm.
• Cairngorm Hotel, Aviemore – JT & Accent 3, 9.30pm.
 

Friday 18th
• Location TBC on booking – Highland Council Ranger Event ‘Across the Monadhliath’, 10am-6pm, £10/£6 T: 01540 673907.
• Spey Valley Cinema, Aviemore – Prince of Persia - Certificate 12A, 2.30pm.

• Boat of Garten Community Hall – The Osprey Music Society presents ‘Roxburgh String Quartet’ with music by Mozart, Dvorak & Mendelssohn, 7.30pm.  £11 members, £13 non-members, £5 students, £2 under 16.  Tickets T: 01479 831213.
• Spey Valley Cinema, Aviemore – Letters to Juliet - Certificate PG, 8pm.

• Mackenzies Highland Inn – Live Band ‘J T & Accent 3’, 9pm.
 

Saturday 19th
• River Spey Kincraig to Aviemore – Spey Descent Introductory/Improver Open Canoe Day, 9.15am-4pm, £85pp (discounts available) T: 01540 673826 dave@speydescent.com
• The Imagination Workshop, Aviemore – Craft Class ‘Create a canvas/wall art’, 11am-12.30pm, £10.
• Revack Ponds, Grantown - Highland Council Ranger Event ‘Pond Dip’, 2-4pm, £3/£2.  Booking T: 01479 873914.
• Ardvonie Park, Kingussie – Kingussie Karnival.  Creag Bheag Hill Race, Kids Fun Fair, Pipe Band & more, 2-5pm.
• Spey Valley Cinema, Aviemore – Prince of Persia - Certificate 12A, 2.30pm.

• Boat of Garten Community Hall – Ladies Choir ‘Stella Nova’ & ‘Coire Choristers’ perform, 4pm.  Tickets on door £6/£4.
• Aviemore Village Hall – Ceilidh Dance to ‘Garioch Blend Trio’, 8pm-Midnight.  £4.
• Ben Mhor Hotel, Grantown on Spey – Live Music with Alfie, 9pm.
• Silverfjord Hotel, Kingussie – Live Music with Bugsy, 9.30pm.
• The Glen Hotel, Newtonmore – Live Music with David Holt, 9.30pm.
 

Sunday 20th
• Cairngorm Mountain – ‘Big Spring Clean’ annual post season litter pick.  Gloves, litter pickers, bags provided.  Free tea and cakes for participants, 10am start.
• Ardvonie Park, Kingussie – Scottish Bikeathon in aid of Leukaemia and Lymphoma Research, 10am, £5. To enter T: 01540 661227 www.bikeathonbritain.co.uk

• Cas Bar, Cairngorm Mountain – Hog Roast.  Why not treat Dad on Father's Day and come along to a Hog Roast, 1pm.  £4.75 per person.

Events of Interest

1^st-30^th June

• T Bar, Cairngorm Mountain - The Big Freeze: Exhibition of staff photographs of this winter’s exceptional snow conditions at CairnGorm Mountain, 10am-4pm daily, FREE entry.

12th June-10th July
• Iona Gallery, Kingussie – Photographic Exhibition ‘EDGE: Hebrides’ by Patricia Macdonald.  Mon-Fri 1pm-5pm, Sat 10am-Noon, FREE

18th-20th June
• Inshriach House, Nr Aviemore – ‘The Insider Festival’, Tickets £70 including camping www.insider2010.com

19th-20th June
• Grant Arms Hotel, Grantown on Spey – ‘The Dava Project’ Model Railway Open Days.  Saturday 10am-10pm, Sunday 10am-5pm.  FREE, Disabled Access.

• Cairngorm Mountain – Snowsports if conditions permit – check website www.cairngormmountain.org

Until August
• Craggan Golf Course Clubhouse – Exhibition of Creative Cairngorms Artists Work.  10am-5pm.
• Loch an Eilein Visitor Centre, Rothiemurchus – Creative Cairngorms Paintings and Crafts exhibition, 9.30am-4.30pm.

• Speyside Heather Centre, Dulnain Bridge – Creative Cairngorms Spring Exhibition, 9-5.30pm (Sundays 10am-5pm). 

 

 

Shinty Matches

Wednesday 16th June       
• The Eilan, Newtonmore - Williamson 6's [Primary schools], 5pm.
Saturday 19th June     
• The Eilan, Newtonmore - Newtonmore 1sts v Glenurquhart, 2.30pm.

 

 

 

House of Bruar

House of Bruar, Blair Atholl, the two H’s of the North, Harveys and Harrods!

 

Providing retail excellence in service and quality at the southern gateway to the Cairngorms National Park. Dropping into the House of Bruar is like being teleported to a highland shopping heaven, whether for a peruse or to buy that special food item for the family dinner or last minute present for a family member, it’s must for your Cairngorms holiday itinerary. Situated in a relaxing environment just a few miles drive from Blair Castle, also worth a visit. House of Bruar is one of the most pleasant shopping experiences in the Cairngorms National Park, providing a blend of quality and a traditional Scottish welcome.

 

First opened in the mid nineties, the House of Bruar welcomes more than 1.5+ million visitors through the door every year. Added to that it now runs an extensive worldwide mail order business and online shopping. It’s a wonderful, inspiring story about the single handed vision by an entrepreneurial family company. What began as a small quality highland clothes and food shop has developed into a major, luxury Scottish brand name which can be compared with other eminent retail names such as Harrods and Harvey Nichols. Since opening, visitor numbers have grown and grown and the store has expanded exponentially with numerous extensions attractively built around a tree lined courtyard and gardens, featuring a restaurant, food hall, country clothing, women’s and men’s fashions, kids toys, country living department and art gallery. 

 

The House of Bruar restaurant is a great place, whether for a luxury bacon & egg bun to a 3 course meal, although a little pricy you'll certainly be impressed by the sheer quality and variety of the food on offer. With its homely, "country kitchen" atmosphere, heavy pine furniture and lustrous fired-earth floor, the self-service House of Bruar restaurant has a cosy, intimate feel. With home-made soup, gourmet sandwiches, steak and ale pie, vegetarian quiches, traditional haggis and freshly fried fish, there's a host of hearty country fayre on offer with a special emphasis on locally sourced Scottish and Cairngorms produce. The House of Bruar carvery provides deliciously succulent cuts of roast pork and Perthshire lamb, and on Sundays you can sample rare topside of beef served with Yorkshire puddings and their signature home-made peppercorn sauce. Alternatively, you could sample the delights of the salad bar, where the fruits of Scotland's crystal clear waters await you. The bar features fine cured salmon, oysters, crab (when available) and shellfish, so if you have a hankering for seafood you've certainly come to the right place!

 

The main entrance to the House of Bruar takes you directly into the Food Hall, truly the best and biggest food hall in the Cairngorms National Park. Immediately upon entering, you'll be struck by the rich sights and appetising aromas of the fine food and drink on offer. With a firm focus on Best of British and in particular Scottish produce, House of Bruar has assembled an impressive collection of specialist foodstuffs that caters for every palate.  Throughout the House of Bruar Food Hall you'll find a treasure trove of award-winning preserves, chutneys, sauces and pickles from celebrated producers such as Cottage Delight and Highland Wineries, interspersed with a wide selection of oils, oatcakes, pastas and spices - enough to satisfy the demands of even the most daring recipe!  The House of Bruar selection of smoked salmon and trout surpasses anything you'll find elsewhere in the Cairngorms, and is delivered on a daily basis from locations as far-flung as Achiltibuie and South Uist, as well as from esteemed smokehouses such as Loch Fyne and Inverawe. They also stock smoked venison, beef, lamb, chicken and duck from the Rannoch Smokery, who are true masters of their art. In the Delicatessen you'll find similarly high standards in terms of both service and produce. The House of Bruar food hall is one of the focal points - so popular that it has been double in size and now offer an in-house butcher offering those special touches such as French trimmed rib of beef or rack of lamb crowns, topped with little chef hats. The House of Bruar food hall also has the widest selection of frozen shell fish in the Cairngorms National Park, from west coast langoustines to king scallops still in their shells.  If you are travelling north to stay in a self catering holiday home, you can purchase all your food and drink here in this luxury Cairngorms supermarket.

 

Women will also love this treasure house of clothing and accessories spread across several rooms, featuring both day and evening wear, and upstairs an entire minstrel’s gallery of shoes and gorgeous handbags from Mulberry, Radley and Gabor. All the tweed country clothes are designed in house –for a unique range of jackets, coats, skirts and trousers. You’ll find Liberty blouses, moleskin jeans and (very popular) cotton roll necks as well as elegant tartan silk skirts, velvet trousers and fashion wear by Basler, Betty Barclay and Marcona.  House of Bruar has a separate cashmere and knitwear department, the largest in the UK. Pure Scottish cashmere is renowned as the finest in the world and here you will find garments for men and women in every style, pattern and colour. In addition the softest lambswool and silk/cashmere knitwear, ideal for every day occasions when the weather is cool, on the golf course, a cruise and especially when on a sporting or leisure holiday in Scotland.

 

There is also a number of great walks in the area and kid play park all in easy access from the House of Bruar car park.  The picturesque Bruar Falls walk is recommended and a panoramic view of the lovely Vale of Atholl opens up before you from the top of Struan Point. To access this walk, head to the back of the House of Bruar building and you will find the river, follow the clearly marked path up the hill to numerous viewing points located at many of the spectacular waterfalls. Do take care if you have kids and dogs, as some of the cliffs are very high and fencing is limited in places.

Homecoming in 2014

Scotland is to stage a second year of Homecoming in 2014, it has been confirmed. The event will coincide with the Commonwealth Games and the Ryder Cup, as well as the 700th anniversary of the Battle of Bannockburn..

The 2009 year-long event marked the 250th anniversary of the birth of Robert Burns and attracted 95,000 new visitors to Scotland. Scotland’s first minister, Alex Salmond made the announcement earlier this week: “In 2014 the eyes of the world will be on Scotland as the Commonwealth Games comes to Glasgow and Gleneagles hosts the Ryder Cup and Scots at home and abroad mark the anniversary of Bannockburn. In this year of celebration, repeating the remarkable success and benefits of Homecoming 2009 is an excellent opportunity to attract tourism and investment and showcase the very best of Scotland.

Meet the Gruffalo in the Cairngorms National Park

Ellan Woods - Carrbridge Cairngorms National Park - WED 07 JUL 2.00pm

A mouse took a walk in the deep dark woods....can you be like the mouse and follow the trail to find the Gruffalo? This event is most suitable for families with children under the age of 8. All children must be accompanied by a responsible adult. Path suitable for prams and buggies with big wheels only. 

Spaces are limited so book ASAP to avoid dispointment

Adults £3, Children and Concessions £2, Call Saranne Bish 01479 873 914

New Carrbridge path in the Cairngorms National Park

The latest path to receive the Cairngorms Outdoor Access Trust (COAT) treatment is making a big impact on the people of Carrbridge and - in addition - COAT is introducing a regular health walk in the village.
It might only be 1km in length but the Riverside Walk along the River Dulnain from the Old Bridge in the centre of Carrbridge (see picture) to the Gurkha Bridge upstream is giving residents and visitors to Carrbridge an accessible, enjoyable riverside walk for the first time, linking in with other paths around the village via Station Road and the Main Road.

 The path is proving extremely popular already and caters for most abilities due to its design. It is attracting a wide range of users from families with small children to some of the village's more elderly residents - and plenty of visitors to Carr-Bridge have been enjoying the path too.

Opening the new path today (Friday 4 June) and enjoying Carrbridge's first health walk were two local residents who have overcome recent ill health. Mairi Robertson (Grantown Primary School Head Teacher) is making a remarkable recovery after she collapsed in December last year from an aneurism and Carrbridge Community Council member Robert McInnes, who is recovering from cancer. Mairi and Robert live on opposite sides of the River Dulnain with both their homes overlooking the new path.

Speaking at the opening Mairi said: "I'm delighted to be here at the opening of the new path: it's fantastic for the village and I've been using it already! I'm also very delighted that there is to be a regular health walk in Carrbridge. It's definitely something that I will be taking part in. It will help my recovery a great deal and get me out and about with confidence."

Robert has overseen the construction of the path by local path building firm McGowan Outdoor Access. He added: "There has always been a path of sorts along the riverside but over the years it has become so badly damaged by flooding and there were barriers such as stiles, it virtually made it a no-go-zone. The Carrbridge Community Council was keen to see something done about it. The new path is tremendous and I see so many different people using it - it's really busy and popular with locals and visitors alike."

Among the works carried out on the Riverside Path include raising the height of the path to avoid future flood damage, fences have been replaced, and there are frequent rest stops with seats and benches, ideal for those embarking on a Health Walk. More info www.Cairngorms.co.uk

More kids playing shinty

Shinty is being coached at more schools, according to Highland Council.

The Highland Game of Shinty is an exciting spectacle not to be missed if you have the chance. A game deeply rooted in history, it is still a thriving sport today with some 35 teams affiliated to the Shinty Association and competing regularly. However, it is the 2 villages of Newtonmore & Kingussie in the Cairngorms National Park that are, perhaps, the names most associated with success.

The sport has also been used to encourage more people to learn Gaelic following a successful pilot project run on Skye. A report to the council's Gaelic committee said more schools were delivering shinty as part of the PE curriculum. The sport has also been offered as an after school pursuit and stronger links were being forged with clubs.

Council figures showed 1,462 primary school boys played shinty and 722 girls. In secondary schools, 429 boys and 181 girls had taken up the sport.

Watch a real game of Shinty – unique to the Highlands of Scotland in the Cairngorms National Park- Click here for our latest accommodation offers.

Cairngorms Park newest Gordon Highlander

Prince Charles has come to the rescue of a hotel hunting the missing statue of a Gordon Highlander. The landmark, which stood outside the Loch Kinord Hotel in Dinnet, Royal Deeside in the Cairngorms National Park, vanished about 30 years ago. But the prince never forgot seeing the soldier in full Highlanders' regalia every time he passed as a boy with the royal entourage on the way to Balmoral in Royal Deeside, Cairngorms. Now he has stepped in to help replace the statue after a chance conversation with Cairngorms Park hotel owners Andrew and Jenny Cox. Jenny said: "We met Prince Charles when we were invited to Birkhall for drinks. "He asked about the Gordon Highlander. He wondered where it had disappeared to. "We told him we were looking for it and other people had been asking about it. "It must have vanished in the late 70s or early 80s. Coach parties used to stop at the hotel to have their photos taken beside it." Prince Charles contacted the Gordon Highlanders Museum in Aberdeen, of which he is a patron, after meeting the couple. 

Jenny said: "Things happened quickly. A special statue is being made for us." Lieutenant General Sir Peter Graham, of the museum, has told the hotel owners a replica figure will be installed shortly. It is being made by medals expert David Rennie, a former Gordon Highlander. Andrew said: "So many people have asked about the statue, we felt we should try to reinstate it. "The fact Prince Charles took an interest and acted on it so quickly shows the Gordon Highlanders are very important to him."

A wooden replica has been hand-crafted and painted by David Rennie, a former private in the Gordon Highlanders, who is a medals expert and volunteer researcher at the regimental museum. He said the replacement statue was in the form of a Gordon Highlander in a private's full dress uniform of the 1870s. The new Dinnet landmark will be officially unveiled at the Loch Kinord Hotel on Monday.

Police raid on Moy Estate after birds poisoned

Police have raided the Moy Estate, near Inverness, after birds of prey were found poisoned in the area.

A total of 45 investigators, including wildlife crime officers and staff from the RSPB and Scottish Natural Heritage, have been involved in the operation.

Police have been searching outbuildings and the wider area.

Northern Constabulary said 25 police officers took part in the raids. A number of rare red kites had been killed.

A police spokesman also confirmed that poisoned bait had been found on the estate previously and that their investigation had been ongoing for a number of weeks.

in reference to: BBC News - Police raid on Moy Estate after birds poisoned (view on Google Sidewiki)

Whats on June 2010 - Cairngorms - Aviemore, Glenlivet, Royal Deeside

Click here for E Mag

 Aviemore Area

Tuesday 1st
Badenoch Centre, Kingussie Body Currents Free Running 6-17 years, 5-6pm, £1.
St Johns Church Hall, Rothiemurchus Body Currents Contemporary Dance, 13 years+, 6-7pm, £1/£1.50.
Hilton Coylumbridge Hotel Live Music with Bonnie, 8.30pm.
Thursday 3rd
Hilton Coylumbridge Hotel Live Music with M D Coxon, 8.30pm.
Friday 4th
Strathspey, Location TBC on booking Highland Council Ranger Event Out with the Otters! 7-9am. £3/£2 T: 01479 873914.

Mackenzies Highland Inn Acoustic Set with Gilly, 9pm.
Saturday 5th
St Johns Church Hall, Rothiemurchus Strath Sunshine Club Coffee Morning, 10.30am-12pm. Cake & Candy Stall, Bottle Stall & Raffle.

The Imagination Workshop, Aviemore Craft Class Decorate a name plaque, 11am-12.30pm, £10.
Kincraig Community Hall Alvie School Parent Council Strawberry Fair, 12-3pm. Cream Teas, Home-baking, Childrens Games, Giant Tombola, Craft Stalls, FREE entry.
Strathspey Steam Railway, Aviemore Steam Train Engine and Carriage Maintenance Shed Visits, 2.05pm T: 01479 810725.
Mackenzies Highland Inn Live Music with Gordy Peters, 9pm.
Royal British Legion, Grantown Live Music with H&H, 9.30pm.
Silverfjord Hotel, Kingussie Live Music with Carla Bernardi, 9.30pm.
The Glen Hotel, Newtonmore Live Music with Ailsa, 9.30pm.
Sunday 6th
TREKnTRAIL, Aviemore - Introduction to Mountain Biking 10am-1pm, £30/£25 T: 07703 346967 www.trekntrail.co.uk
Ardverikie House, Kinlochlaggan Garden Open Day, 2-5.30pm, £4.50.
Ord Ban, Rothiemurchus Silver Screen Cinema Café Robin Hood Prince of Thieves, 7.30pm, £10 including popcorn & ice cream at interval.
Monday 7th
Boat of Garten Community Hall RSPB Illustrated Talk. Fermanaghs Highlands and Islands with Ross Watson, 8.30pm. £3.50/£1.50 complimentary tea/coffee.
Hilton Coylumbridge Hotel Live Music with Kevin Fraser, 8.30pm.
Tuesday 8th
Hilton Coylumbridge Hotel Live Music with Ann Dickson, 8.30pm.
Thursday 10th
Kincraig Community Hall Body Currents Just Dance 6-12 years, 5.30-6.30pm, £1.
Hilton Coylumbridge Hotel Toddlers Disco, 7-8pm.
Hilton Coylumbridge Hotel Live Music with Bonnie, 8.30pm.

Old Bridge Inn, Aviemore A Dozen Drams Tour, Thirteen 2nd year RSAMD Scottish Music Students perform, 9pm.
Friday 11th
Mackenzies Highland Inn Live Music with George Gordon and Rhuari, 9pm.
Saturday 12th
Glenmore Lodge bus to Linn of Dee, Braemar Rotary Club of Spey Valley sponsored walk through the Lairig Ghru Pass, £10 T: 01479 810990 www.lairigghru.com to enter.
Boat of Garten Community Hall Cairngorms Cultural Heritage Conference, 10am-4.30pm. FREE, Refreshments & Lunch Provided. To book T: 01479 870535/870537.
Coire Cas Car Park, Cairngorm Mountain Cairngorm Classic 50/100 mile Cycle Event, 9am-3pm.
The Imagination Workshop, Aviemore Craft Class Make a modrock desk tidy, 11am-12.30pm, £10.
Carrbridge Village Hall Imagination Workshop Ladies Evening, Create a Mirror, 7-9pm. BYOB, £10.
Nethy Bridge Village Hall Abernethy Primary School Parent Council Cheese & Wine Evening with fabulous Silent Auction, £4, 7.30pm. Accompanied Children FREE.
Ben Mhor Hotel, Grantown on Spey Live Music with Dave Levon, 9pm.
Craiglynne Hotel, Grantown on Spey Ceilidh Band, 9pm.
Royal British Legion, Grantown Live Music with Alfie, 9.30pm.
Silverfjord Hotel, Kingussie Karaoke (TBC), 9.30pm T: 01540 661292.
The Glen Hotel, Newtonmore Live Music with Capone, 9.30pm.
Sunday 13th
Cairngorm Mountain Ski Road Cairngorm Biathlon & Nordic Ski Club Childrens Roller Ski Race, 9am-2.30pm.
Glenlivet Estate Tomintoul Moorland Open Day, All welcome, Refreshments, 2-5pm, FREE. T: 0131 3350200. info@scaet.org.uk
Ord Ban, Rothiemurchus Silver Screen Cinema Café Blues Brothers, 7.30pm, £10 including popcorn & ice cream at interval.
Monday 14th
Boat of Garten Community Hall RSPB Illustrated Talk. Abernethy Forest with Jeremy Roberts, 8.30pm. £3.50/£1.50 complimentary tea/coffee.
Hilton Coylumbridge Hotel Live Music with Ann Dickson, 8.30pm.
Hilton Coylumbridge Hotel Whisky Tasting, 8.30pm.
Tuesday 15th
Hilton Coylumbridge Hotel Live Music with Bonnie, 8.30pm.
Wednesday 16th
Old Bridge Inn, Aviemore Live Folk Music with Bonfire Band, 9pm.
Thursday 17th
Inshriach House, Nr Aviemore Festival of Firewood, talks, demonstrations, food, music, 4-8pm www.insider2010.com
Hilton Coylumbridge Hotel Live Music with M D Coxon, 8.30pm.
Cairngorm Hotel, Aviemore JT & Accent 3, 9.30pm.
Friday 18th
Location TBC on booking Highland Council Ranger Event Across the Monadhliath, 10am-6pm, £10/£6 T: 01540 673907.
Boat of Garten Community Hall The Osprey Music Society presents Roxburgh String Quartet with music by Mozart, Dvorak & Mendelssohn, 7.30pm. £11 members, £13 non-members, £5 students, £2 under 16. Tickets T: 01479 831213.
Mackenzies Highland Inn Live Band J T & Accent 3, 9pm.
Saturday 19th
River Spey Kincraig to Aviemore Spey Descent Introductory/Improver Open Canoe Day, 9.15am-4pm, £85pp (discounts available) T: 01540 673826 dave@speydescent.com
The Imagination Workshop, Aviemore Craft Class Create a canvas/wall art, 11am-12.30pm, £10.
Revack Ponds, Grantown - Highland Council Ranger Event Pond Dip, 2-4pm, £3/£2. Booking T: 01479 873914.
Ardvonie Park, Kingussie Kingussie Karnival. Creag Bheag Hill Race, Kids Fun Fair, Pipe Band & more, 2-5pm.
Boat of Garten Community Hall Ladies Choir Stella Nova & Coire Choristers perform, 4pm. Tickets on door £6/£4.
Aviemore Village Hall Ceilidh Dance to Garioch Blend Trio, 8pm-Midnight. £4.
Ben Mhor Hotel, Grantown on Spey Live Music with Alfie, 9pm.
Silverfjord Hotel, Kingussie Live Music with Bugsy, 9.30pm.
The Glen Hotel, Newtonmore Live Music with David Holt, 9.30pm.
Sunday 20th
Cairngorm Mountain Big Spring Clean annual post season litter pick. Gloves, litter pickers, bags provided. Free tea and cakes for participants, 10am start.
Ardvonie Park, Kingussie Scottish Bikeathon in aid of Leukaemia and Lymphoma Research, 10am, £5. To enter T: 01540 661227 www.bikeathonbritain.co.uk
Monday 21st
Boat of Garten Community Hall RSPB Illustrated Talk. Ospreys with David Anderson, 8.30pm. £3.50/£1.50 complimentary tea/coffee.
Hilton Coylumbridge Hotel Live Music with Willie Campbell, 8.30pm.
Tuesday 22nd
Hilton Coylumbridge Hotel Live Music with Ann Dickson, 8.30pm.
Thursday 24th
Hilton Coylumbridge Hotel Toddlers Disco, 7-8pm.
Hilton Coylumbridge Hotel Live Music with Bonnie, 8.30pm.
Friday 25th
Badenoch, Location TBC on booking - Highland Council Ranger Event Babes on the Moor, 7-10pm. £15 T: 01540 673907.
Mackenzies Highland Inn, Aviemore - Live Music 9pm (t.b.c.)
Saturday 26th
The Imagination Workshop, Aviemore Craft Class Decorate a clock, 11am-12.30pm, £10.
Ben Mhor Hotel, Grantown on Spey Live Music with Vixen, 9pm.
Craiglynne Hotel, Grantown on Spey Riverside Band, 9pm.
Royal British Legion, Grantown Live Music with Ian Fraser, 9.30pm.
Silverfjord Hotel, Kingussie Live Music with Kevin Fraser, 9.30pm.
The Glen Hotel, Newtonmore Live Music with Alfie, 9.30pm.
Sunday 27th
The Square, Grantown on Spey Cairngorms Farmers Market, 10am-4pm.
Glenmore Visitor Centre Car Park The Magic of Ryvoan Walk, 10.30am-1.30pm, FREE. T: 01479 861220.
Ord Ban, Rothiemurchus Silver Screen Cinema Café Deep Blue, 7.30pm, £10 including popcorn & ice cream at interval.
Monday 28th
Boat of Garten Community Hall RSPB Illustrated Talk. Abernethy Forest with Jeremy Roberts, 8.30pm. £3.50/£1.50 complimentary tea/coffee.
Hilton Coylumbridge Hotel Live Music with Ann Dickson, 8.30pm.
Tuesday 29th
Ptarmigan Restaurant, Cairngorm Mountain Gizzen Briggs Traditional Music Group perform, 2-4pm, FREE to funicular ticket holders.
Highland Folk Museum, Newtonmore Spinning & Traditional Dyeing Demo, 2-4.30pm.
Hilton Coylumbridge Hotel Live Music with Bonnie, 8.30pm.
Wednesday 30th
Highland Folk Museum, Newtonmore Making and Splicing Traditional Rope Demo, 2pm & 3pm.

Royal Deeside Area

1st June 2010: Thai Night, Hilton Craigendarroch, Ballater 5pm to 9.30pm

1st June 2010: Traditional Music Session, Aberdeen Arms Hotel, Tarland

2nd June 2010: Guided Woodland Walk, Balmoral Estate 2pm

2nd June 2010: Scottish Country Ceilidh Dancing, Castleton Hall, Braemar 8.30pm

3rd June 2010: Family Quiz Night, Hilton Craigendarroch, Ballater 8pm

3rd June 2010: Women Behaving Madly, Lonach Hall, Strathdon 7.30pm

3rd June 2010: Highland Wildlife Adventure, Mar Lodge Estate 6-10pm

4th June 2010: Scottish Country Dancing Weekend, Braemar

4th June 2010: Traditional Scottish Evening, Hilton Craigendarroch, Ballater 7pm

4th June 2010: Billy Main, Live Music, Hilton Craigendarroch, Ballater 9pm

4th June 2010: Erics Tales of the Sea, Woodend Barn, Banchory 8pm

5th June 2010: A Drunk Man Looks at the Thistle, Woodend Barn, Banchory 7.30pm

5th June 2010: Banchory Singers Spring Concert 7.30pm

6th June 2010: Kildrummy Castle Gardens, Kildrummy 10-5pm

6th June 2010: Tillypronie Gardens, Near Logie Coldstone 2-5pm

6th June 2010: Kincardine Garden, Kincardine O Neil 2-5pm

8th June 2010: Traditional Music Session, Aberdeen Arms, Tarland 8pm

8th June 2010: Thai Night, Hilton Craigendarroch, Ballater 5pm to 9.30pm

9th June 2010: Guided Woodland Walk, Balmoral Estate 2pm

9th June 2010: Scottish Country Ceilidh Dancing, Castleton Hall, Braemar 8.30pm

9th June 2010: Scottish Night, Hilton Craigendarroch, Ballater 7pm

10th June 2010: Family Quiz Night, Hilton Craigendarroch, Ballater 8pm

11th June 2010: Brand X, Live Music, Hilton Craigendarroch, Ballater 9pm

12th June 2010: Mending Our Ways, Spittal of Glen Muick VC 10am-4pm

12th June 2010: St Ternan's Heritage Fair, Banchory

12th June 2010: Grampian Country Fair, BA Country Fair Store, Lyne of Skene

12th June 2010: Family Fun Day with BBQ & Ceilidh, Mar Lodge 3-9pm

12th June 2010: Emmerdale Extravaganza Charity Kart Racing Grand Prix Event, Deeside Activity Park, Dess 3-11pm

12th June 2010: Mairearad Green and Anna Massie, Woodend Barn, Banchory 8pm

12th June 2010: St Ternans Fair Weekend Walk, Banchory 10am

13th June 2010: BikeBalmoral Mountain Bike Fundraising, Balmoral Estate

13th June 2010: Grampian Country Fair, BA Country Fair Store, Lyne of Skene

13th June 2010: Kildrummy Vintage & Veteran Vehicle Rally, Deeside Activity Park, Dess 11am

13th June 2010: St Ternan's Heritage Fair, Bellfoeld Park, Banchory 10-5pm

13th June 2010: Dunecht House Gardens, Dunecht 1-5pm

15th June 2010: Thai Night, Hilton Craigendarroch, Ballater 5pm to 9.30pm

15th June 2010: Traditional Music Session, Aberdeen Arms, Tarland 8pm

16th June 2010: Scottish Country Ceilidh Dancing, Castleton Hall, Braemar 8.30pm

16th June 2010: Guided Woodland Walk, Balmoral Estate 2pm

16th June 2010: Scottish Night, Hilton Craigendarroch, Ballater 7pm

17th June 2010: Family Quiz Night, Hilton Craigendarroch, Ballater 8pm

17th June 2010: A Walk in the Parks, Mar Lodge 7-8.30pm

17th June 2010: Highland Wildlife Adventure, Mar Lodge Estate 1-5pm

17th June 2010: Strawberry Fayre, Milton of Crathes 2-4pm

18th June 2010: Richard Alexander, Live Music, Hilton Craigendarroch, Ballater 9pm

18th June 2010: Funny Bones Dance Theatre, Woodend Barn, Banchory 6.30pm

19th June 2010: Balmoral Half Marathon, Balmoral Estate 11am

19th June 2010: Dusk til Dawn, Mar Lodge 8.30pm to 5am

19th June 2010: Clachan Yell Ceilidh, Lonach Hall Strathdon 7.30 pm

19th June 2010: Farmers Market, Banchory 9am to 1pm

19th June 2010: Funny Bones Family Workshop, Woodend Barn, Banchory 10.30-11.30am

22nd June 2010: Traditional Music Session, Aberdeen Arms, Tarland 8pm

22nd June 2010: Thai Night, Hilton Craigendarroch, Ballater 5pm to 9.30pm

23rd June 2010: Scottish Night, Hilton Craigendarroch, Ballater 7pm

23rd June 2010: Guided Woodland Walk, Balmoral Estate 2pm

23rd June 2010: Scottish Country Ceilidh Dancing, Castleton Hall, Braemar 8.30pm

24th June 2010: Romeo & Juliet, Drum Castle, Drumoak 7pm

24th June 2010: Wark Farm Open Day, nr Craigievar 10-4.30pm

24th June 2010: Family Quiz Night, Hilton Craigendarroch, Ballater 8pm

24th June 2010: A Walk in the Parks, Mar Lodge 7-8.30pm

24th June 2010: Highland Wildlife Adventure, Mar Lodge Estate 1-5pm

25th June 2010: Wark Farm Open Day, Nr Craigievar 10-4.30pm

25th June 2010: Cromar Folk Club Session, Aberdeen Arms, Tarland 8ish

25th June 2010: Folk Session, Crathes Hall 8pm

25th June 2010: 25th Anniversary Caribbean Midsummer Ball, Craigendarroch Hotel, Ballater 7pm

26th June 2010: Wark Farm Open Day, Nr Craigievar 10-4.30pm

26th June 2010: Cairngorm Walking Weekend

26th June 2010: Moths in the Morning, Muir of Dinnet 10 am

26th June 2010: Wetland Wonders, Tarland 2pm

27th June 2010: Finzean House Gardens, Finzean 2-5pm

27th June 2010: Scotland Garden Scheme Day, Crathes Castle Garden 10am

29th June 2010: Traditional Music Session, Aberdeen Arms, Tarland 8pm

29th June 2010: Thai Night, Hilton Craigendarroch, Ballater 5pm to 9.30pm

30th June 2010: Scottish Night, Hilton Craigendarroch, Ballater 7pm

30th June 2010: Guided Woodland Walk, Balmoral Estate 2pm

30th June 2010: Scottish Country Ceilidh Dancing, Castleton Hall, Braemar 8.30pm

Ranger Walks and Talks - Cairngorms National Park

Every Wednesday 2-4pm Balmoral Woodlands Walk. Meeting point: Balmoral Carriage Exhibition Discover the grounds and woods around Balmoral Castle.  Learn about the estates history and wildlife. Distance 4kms, ascent 130m. Cost: FREE. Once entry fee into grounds has been paid.

June 2^nd 10.30-1.00pm BigTrees, Little Trees. Meet at Glenmore Visitor Centre Car Park Cant see the wood for them trees? Join the ranger for a closer look at the pinewoods in Glenmore. No need to book. Phone 01478 861220 for info. FREE event. Forestry Commission Scotland.

June 6^th 10.30-1.00pm Red Squirrel Event. Meet at Nethy Bridge Community Centre

Join Red Squirrel Conservation Officer to learn about and survey red squirrels. Booking essential

01479 821565 or e-mail ranger@nethybridge.com Explore Abernethy.

June 9th

1.30-4.00pm The Laird Of GlenfeshieWalk. Meet at Feshiebridge Car Park, nr Kincraig Hear about some of the wildlife, history and folk tales from this area on a walk along the majestic Glen Feshie. No need to book. Phone 01478 861220 for info. FREE event. Forestry Commission Scotland.

June 10^th 6-8.30 am Dawn Chorus. Meet at Glenmore Visitor Centre Car Park Be the early bird. Join the ranger at 6, yes 6am on a walk to hear the dawn chorus. No need to book. Phone 01478 861220 for info. FREE event. Forestry Commission Scotland.

June 17^th 2-4pm Dragons, Damsels And The  Ice Age. Uath Lochans Car Park, Inshriach Forest, nr Kincraig Walk to the amazing view over Uath Lochans, then squelch round the lochans to look for their biodiversity (bugs!). No need to book. Phone 01478 861220 for info. FREE event. Forestry Commission Scotland. Bring wellies.

June 12^th 10-4pm Mending Our Ways. Meeting point: Spittal of Glen Muick Visitor Centre. Come and join the rangers as they repair the damage caused by hundreds of thousands of trampling feet on some of Scotlands most popular paths. Take part in a day of practical conservation action in spectacular mountain scenery. All tools and training provided. Balmoral Ranger Service. Cost: FREE.

Booking essential  013397 55059.

I2 June 20^th 11am-2pm Flora Of The Forest. Glen Doll Ranger Base, Kirriemuir. Grid Ref: NO282759 Join the Ranger for a stroll in Glen Doll forest and discover the medicinal plants that grow here.

Booking essential 01575 550233. FREE. Angus Glens Ranger Service. Stout shoes and packed lunch required.

June 13^th 2-4pm Wildflower Event. Meet at Nethy Bridge Community Centre Join Andy Amphlett (RPSB wildflower expert) and the Explore Abernethy Ranger on a walk along the river to look at

and learn about local wildflowers. Free event Booking essential 01479 821565 or e-mail ranger@nethybridge.com

June 23^rd 1.30-4pm The Laird of Glenfeshie Walk. Meet at Feshiebridge Car Park, nr Kincraig Hear about some of the wildlife, history and folk tales from this area on a walk along the majestic Glen Feshie. No need to book. Phone 01478 861220 for info. FREE event. Forestry Commission Scotland.

June 16^th 10.30-1.00pm BigTrees, Little Trees. Meet at Glenmore Visitor Centre Car Park Cant see the wood for the trees? Join the ranger for a closer look at the pinewoods in Glenmore. No need to book. Phone 01478 861220 for info. FREE event. Forestry Commission Scotland.

June 26^th 10am-12noon Moths in the Morning. Burn oVat Visitor Centre, near Dinnet Celebrate National Insect Week by discovering the marvellous moths caught in the live traps overnight. U16 with an adult. Booking essential Catriona Reid (SNH) 01224 642863, Catriona.Reid@snh.gov.uk. FREE. Aberdeenshire Council & Scottish Natural Heritage. Wheelchairaccess.

Blair Atholl, soon to be part of the Cairngorms Park

The first Highland Games of 2010.

The Atholl Highlanders at the annual celebrations of Atholl Gathering weekend at Blair Castle on Saturday 29 and Sunday 30 May 2010.

The Atholl Highlanders are the only remaining private army in Europe having been granted the right to bear arms in 1845 by Her Majesty Queen Victoria.

The Atholl Highlanders
The original Atholl Highlanders were a regular regiment, the 77th, raised in 1777 for service in America. However, the war had been lost before they embarked for America. After Garrison duties in Ireland they were disbanded in 1783. In 1839 Lord Glenlyon, later 6th Duke, participated in a tournament at Eglinton in Ayrshire, taking with him a bodyguard of Athollmen. These men provided Guards of Honour for her Majesty's arrival and departure and guarded the Castle throughout her stay.  In recognition of this service The Queen granted the Atholl Highlanders colours and thus the right to bear arms.   This unique grant established the Atholl Highlanders. The original colours, which still survive in the castle, were presented on September 4th, 1845.

Under the 7th Duke, the Highlanders provided royal visitors with guards of honour, visited the Braemar Games and participated in the opening of the Glasgow water supply by Queen Victoria at Loch Katrine. An annual Gathering, when they paraded and then competed in trials of strength and stamina, was held during the first week of September, at Blair Castle.

After the First World War regimental parades fell into abeyance although the pipers appeared on special occasions such as the visits to Blair Castle of The Crown Prince of Japan in 1921 and King Feisal of Iraq in 1933 and the funeral of the 8th Duke in 1942. In 1966 the 10th Duke decided to revive the Atholl Highlanders and to hold annual parades. From small beginnings it grew to the present strength of about 100. Officers are local lairds, friends or relatives of the Atholl Family. At the parade each new recruit is presented with a sprig of juniper, which is worn behind the cap badge.

Blair Castle
The castle has been the ancient home and fortress of the Earls and Dukes of Atholl for over 725 years, commanding a strategic position on the main route through the central Highlands. It is reputed to be the last castle in Britain to have been besieged. The forces of Bonnie Prince Charlie and those of the government both laid siege at different times during the Jacobite Rising of 1745-46. Today Blair Castle is a five-star, world-class visitor attraction. It is Scotland’s most visited private home, displaying beautiful furniture, fine collection of paintings, arms and armour, china and other unique treasures which present a stirring picture of Scottish life from the 16th century to the present day.

John Murray, 11th Duke of Atholl
The 11th Duke of Atholl was born in South Africa in 1929 and graduated with a B.Sc. in Engineering (Land Survey) from the University of Witwatersrand in 1953 before practising as a land surveyor. Although he still lives in South Africa, the Duke has been able to visit Blair Castle regularly since he succeeded to the title in 1996. He has a daughter (Lady Jennifer) and two sons (Bruce, Marquess of Tullibardine, and Lord Craig) and seven grandchildren.

For more info on Highland Games and Blair Atholl Castle www.blair-castle.co.uk 

Winners and Exhibitors Speyside Benromach Photographic Competition 2010

 

You are invited to view Elizabeth's photo album: Winners and Exhibitors SOSWF Benromach Photographic Competition 2010 Winners and Exhibitors SOSWF Benromach Photographic Competition 2010 Jan 13, 2010 by Elizabeth The Judges had a fascinating morning selecting the winners and exhibitors for the 2010 competition. From the original 144 photos, we studied in detail the 53 finalists and now have the 22 photos which will comprise the travelling exhibition. Hope you enjoy the photos. The Overall Winner for the 2nd Year running is David Langan from Lossiemouth. The winner and runner up of Seasons of Speyside is James Gordon , Boat of Garten. The winner of Spirit of Speyside is Alan Butterfield, Aberlour and ... View Album Play slideshow If you are having problems viewing this email, copy and paste the following into your browser: http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/sredir?uname=ejbluefolds&target=ALBUM&id=5426273231679681697&authkey=Gv1sRgCPu1y7mLg7_YygE&feat=email To share your photos or receive notification when your friends share photos, get your own free Picasa Web Albums account.

 

A trip on the Strathspey Steam Railway..

Fancy a day out in the Highlands, come and enjoy a train journey with a difference in spectacular Strathspey. SCOTLAND'S STEAM RAILWAY IN THE HIGHLANDS www.strathspeyrailway.net

Well last week saw our invitation for a trip on the Strathspey Steam Railway near Aviemore arrive. It was very exciting! We left Highland Holiday Cottages in Newtonmore for the short drive to Aviemore very excited at the prospect of going on the Steam Railway... for FREE!!

 

When we arrived in Aviemore at the platform there were free glasses of wine and orange juice and a lovely atmosphere of everyone enjoying themselves. There was a short speech about where the train currently goes to – Broomhill – and where it will be going when the line is completed.

Then the piper played us on to the carriages – the Crubenbeg contingent all very excited! The engine had been at the end of the platform where we all arrived, so that we could see it close up, but it was needed at the other end to pull us to Broomhill, so it chugged off whilst we were seated in luxury! The coaches are a little dated, but not dirty, in fact they hold a certain style and class which is long forgotten in today’s modern pace of life!

As soon as the train started moving out of the station (at exactly 12.30 – as advertised!) we were served our fist course by the friendly staff from Cairngorms Hotel in Aviemore. Lentil Broth followed by chicken wrapped in bacon. The views were amazing out of the window. Aviemore soon disappeared and soon Boat of Garten could be seen. The moors of heather looking specatular in the beautiful spring sunshine.  After arriving at Broomhill Highland Holiday Cottages alighted and went in to the station. On the way back I bumped into the gentleman who had welcomed us at the start. Not only are they ALL volunteers, but he offered my to see the engine carriage. I was up there like a shot! It was fabulous, VERY hot though!

Our journey back brought us dessert and coffee, the perfect end to a fabulous trip. Aviemore was beautiful at that speed! I will definitely be recommending to the visitors to the Cairngorms National Park that they take the trip. Thanks to the Strathspey Railway team and Cairngorm Hotel.

For other attractions in the national park and info on the Aviemore Steam Railway ..click here

Monarch Of The Glen Ardverikie House - Open Day 6th June 2010

After the very successful BBC TV was filmed in and around the Cairngorms National Park, with locations around Laggan, Newtonmore, Kingussie and Aviemore. Ardverikie House, just south of Laggan achieved fame as Glenbogle House, whilst the steam trains of the Strathspey Steam Railway in Aveimore, regularly haul in to Glenbogle Station - in real life better known as Broomhill near Boat Of Garten.

Glenbogle Castle in Monarch of the Glen is in fact Ardverikie House, on the shores of Loch Laggan in the Cairngorms National Park. The house and grounds are private, except for one day per year, when the grounds are open under Scotland's garden scheme (www.gardensofscotland.org), to take your car along the private estate road to the house.  This year 2010 it is open from 2.00pm on Sunday June 6th.

If you have kids, why not drop them at the beach while you oldies go have a look around the gardens and house.  Laggan beach on a summer's day gives Loch Morlich in Aviemore a run for its money. Loch Laggan is a freshwater loch that boasts the largest freshwater beach in the British Isles.

It's located within the grounds of Ardverikie Estate. To get to it you need to park on the main road (unless on the open day) and walk over the bridge past the Gate Lodge by the main entrance to Ardverikie. There is a barrier but don't be put off; it's only there to prevent hundreds of people driving up to the Ardverikie Castle (aka Glenbogle House), made famous by the BBC's Monarch of the Glen. Walk up the road for about half a mile and you'll find one of the Cairngorms Park's best-kept secrets....more info