New member to Cairngorms National Park Authority

The Minister for Environment Roseanna Cunningham today announced the appointment of new member to Cairngorms National Park Authority (CNPA)

 

Professor Gordon Riddler lives in Ballater and is a Geologist and Chartered Engineer. He is Chairman of the Board of Ballater (RD) Ltd (BRD), a voluntary sector Development Trust. Professor Riddler brings expert knowledge of research and development relating to natural resources and business management with specialised knowledge in corporate strategy and experience in fundraising in the private and public sector to CNPA.

 

This appointments is for four years and will run from 1 November 2010 to 30 September 2014.

Local Produce in and around the Cairngorms National Park

If you ever get a chance to visit the Cairngorms National Park in Scotland, you should definitely try the local produce in and around the park. This can be found at one of the Cairngorms Farmers Markets. One of the major reasons for traveling and exploring new countries and cultures is the local dishes. You will never be disappointed if you try this local savory food produce. Not only will you enjoy the delicious taste of local food in and around Cairngorms, but you will gain experience of the local Scotland tasty food. Don’t worry about what you will be eating or if the food will suit your taste, because the relevant Cairngorms National Park authorities are taking steps to increase the amount of food and drink that are produced locally for the savory delights of the visitors to the Park.

Taste of the Cairngorms

The Cairngorms are steeped in traditional and contemporary culture with the area's rich heritage reflected in the spectacular mountain and moorland landscape.

It is also a natural larder providing some of the finest local produce from venison, beef and lamb to trout, salmon and seasonal game. There is a variety of home-grown fruit and vegetables along with herbs, honey, cereal and dairy products while the coast is virtually on the doorstep providing the best of Scottish seafood. The surrounding area is equally well known as being the home to some of the most famous whisky distilleries while the village of Aviemore even has it's own award-winning brewery.

A vast array of produce is readily available in local shops while an ever increasing number of restaurant, hotels and other dining establishments pride themselves on making the best use of the finest home-grown ingredients to create a real Taste of the Cairngorms.

The truth is most people who are visiting the area for the first time, will be pleased by the beautiful scenery, and they will also want to eat the local foods in and around the Park, especially if they are travelling green. The Cairngorms National Park officials are even calling on the food and drink sectors in the environs of the Park to join in the drive to produce more local produce for consumption by the Park’s visitors. In addition to this the relevant Cairngorms Park authorities are recognizing the great benefits that the Park can contribute to local producers in the area, and so they have called meetings with the producers to try and meet the ever rising demand by the Park’s visitors for locally produced low carbon food. The statistics are now showing that approximately 40 percent of the visitors to the Cairngorms National Park highlands are demanding local food and drink, now if the local producers can take advantage of this demand by providing a constant flow of local produce to meet this demand then there will be strong support for further economic growth.

If all goes well between the Cairngorms National, Park authorities and the local producers in and around the Park, then the tourists to the Park will ultimately benefit as well. The tourists will benefit has they will get the grand opportunity to eat locally produced food grown by the locals. While, on the other hand, the use of the Cairngorms National Park’s delicious local foods will help people to lead healthy lives and increase the standard of living, as many will get an opportunity to be educated, harness and develop their skills, others will get employment opportunities and the local food producers could also help to develop the Cairngorms national Park into a healthy low carbon National Park.

Will Boyd Wallis of the CNPA said: "Research shows that consumers want to see locally sourced, fresh produce on menus and in a place like the Cairngorms National Park where people can travel about and see deer or take part on stalking, it's great then see that wonderful local resource appear on local menus."

Another venison extravaganza is planned for the area later in the year with Scotland's first ever Venison Festival, organised by the Royal Deeside and the Cairngorms Destination Management Organisation, taking place from the 26-31 October. All being supported by the Cairngorms Farmers Market. For more info check www.discoverroyaldeeside.com/Venison-Festival/

To keep up with what's on with food and produce in the Cairngorms Park ,a long with monthly Farmers Markets check out www.Cairngorms-Park.com

Skiing the Cairngorms every month for a year

CairnGorm regular Helen Rennie has achieved her ambition to ski at the resort every month for a year
Fresh snow over the Cairngorms on 20 October proved irresistible to Inverness teacher Helen Rennie, who came to fame over the summer after posting videos of finding and skiing patches of snow at the Scottish ski resort on YouTube.

The snowfall meant Rennie could achieve a lifetime’s ambition of skiing for 12 consecutive months at Cairngorm after hiking up to the Marquis Wells area near the mountain summit and skiing half a kilometer down to the top of the Ptarmigan Tow lift.

“I have skied in all months of the year over the years but this is the first time I have ever skied every month in succession for 12 months” commented Rennie, whose latest achievement marks her 100th day of skiing at Cairngorm since 29 November 2009.

The winter season at Cairngorm begins in earnest in December but the resort has been known to offer snowsports earlier. Look out for more updates on Cairngorm when the Ski Club’s winter snow reports restart in November.

Yuri the Amur Tiger

It was with some sadness that on 11 October 2010, Yuri was put painlessly to sleep. Yuri arrived at the Park, along with his long time mate Sasha, from Edinburgh Zoo on 25 September 2008. The arrival of the tigers was both a clear signal of our expanded species plan to include cold weather adapted animals from around the globe and not just Scottish species, and the real trigger for our greatly increased visitor numbers.

Yuri was born in Duisburg Zoo in Germany on 13 June 1993, and was sent to Edinburgh Zoo in July 1999 as recommended by the European Zoo Association’s Amur tiger breeding programme, which is coordinated from London Zoo. Yuri was introduced to Sasha later that year and mating was soon observed. They had two litters whilst at Edinburgh of three cubs each time. A few months after moving to the Highlands, mating was observed and on 11 May 2009 Yuri and Sasha again produced and reared a litter of three cubs. Although Yuri and Sasha did not always see eye to eye and their “arguments” could be heard across the Park, he was incredibly gentle with all his offspring, especially when they were very small and just starting to stumble out of the cubbing den.

As this last litter of cubs grew and became more boisterous, Yuri was observed to be keeping a lower profile, and more importantly was seen to be drinking more than normal. At 17 years old, Yuri is an old boy and as is usual in big cats of this age, we suspected that he may be developing arthritis and his kidneys were beginning to fail. If this was the case, the only outcome for him would be increasing levels of discomfort and inevitably death, and not a very pleasant one. Through testing his urine, we ascertained that his kidneys were failing and after lengthy discussions with our veterinary colleagues and the keepers who have been caring for him, we concluded that the only option open to us was to put him to sleep before the symptoms started to compromise his welfare. Simon Girling, the Zoological Society’s head of veterinary services says of Yuri’s condition, “Kidney failure is extremely common in ageing cats, both wild and domestic, as are age-related arthritic problems and sadly Yuri is showing all the classic signs. Animal welfare has to be our top priority and so this decision, although a difficult one, is the right one.” In addition, Jane Harley, the Park’s local veterinary consultant has a similar opinion, “In common with many geriatric pet cats, Yuri has kidney failure and painful arthritis. His keepers and I have been monitoring him closely and although this has been a difficult decision for everyone involved with him it has been made with his quality of life as priority”

In life he played his part in both increasing the number of his endangered species and raising the profile of the plight of Amur tigers in the wild. In death, the exhaustive post mortem examination and the distribution of key biological samples to different conservation research institutions will help expand our knowledge of this magnificent animal and may offer further clues that might aid in saving the species in the wild.

in reference to: Highland Wildlife Park, Kincraig, Kingussie, Inverness-shire, Scotland, UK (view on Google Sidewiki)

Highland Chieftain - Inverness to London Train may be saved

A UK government minister has dropped the strongest hint yet that direct train services between Inverness and London will be saved.

Although a decision on future rail provision will not be announced until later this month, rail minister Theresa Villiers has acknowledged the importance of through services to passengers as well as the - and indicated they could continue.

Her comments come amid growing support for The Inverness Courier's campaign to save the Highland Chieftain which provides a daily direct service between the UK and Highland capitals. Fears have been growing that it could be axed following an appraisal of plans to replace Britain's ageing high-speed trains with a new generation fleet fuelled by both electricity and diesel.

The review suggests one way to save money is for passengers from Inverness to swap from diesel trains at Edinburgh to electric locomotives bound for to London. A decision will be announced as part of the government's comprehensive spending review on 20th October.

But Ms Villiers has now acknowledged that if the new bi-mode train programme does not go ahead, a possible solution is to refurbish and extend the life of the existing High Speed Trains. Her comments come in a letter to Sir Robert Smith, the Lib-Dem MP for West Aberdeenshire and Kincardine, who has taken up the issue on behalf of business organisation the Scottish Council for Development and Industry (SCDI).

Visit Scotland Launch another grading - This time activity providers

Small activity businesses now get official rating

VisitScotland, the country’s tourist agency, has launched the world’s first activity provider grading scheme.

It means that dozens of small businesses – ranging from kayak instructors to fishing gurus and walking instructors to white water rafting guides – now have an official rating to help boost their bookings from tourists.

The scheme has been launched as Scotland plays host to the prestigious Adventure Travel World Summit (ATWS) which takes place this week in Aviemore.

Around 600 delegates from more than 50 different countries have descended on the Highlands to take part in the conference.

The event - which has been organised by the Seattle-based Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA) – brings together tour operators, destination management organisations and a host of other industry experts as is the global adventure travel industry’s main annual conference.

Paul Easto, co-director of Edinburgh-based Wilderness Scotland which has just become one of Scotland’s first five-star activity providers, said: “Holding this major international summit in the Highlands is a once in a generation opportunity for Scotland to present itself to the world’s adventure travel trade.

It is the first time the ATWS has been held in the UK and only the second time it has been held in Europe. Guest speakers will include Tourism minister Jim Mather and VisitScotland chairman Mike Cantlay.

Cantlay added: “This fantastic event will help to enhance Scotland’s reputation as the adventure capital of Europe, bringing a healthy return on investment.

“Whether you are into rock climbing, bungee jumping or more easily accessible adventures such as taking a stroll and enjoying the stunning scenery, there are an enormous range of exciting outdoor activities available.”

VisitScotland said the new activity provider grading scheme will benefit the growing number of people who run their businesses without a visitor premises - those who meet their customers, for example, by a loch, on the beach or at the base of a mountain.

Up until now, businesses could be graded only as a visitor centre, meaning those companies without fixed premises could not receive a grading.

FW: Noel Baxter Car Boot Sale Fundraiser

 

 

 

 

Autumn Newsletter 2010

 

You're receiving this newsletter because you've requested a Cairngorms Holiday Newsletter from Cairngorms-Park.com and/or sister sites or signed up for our monthly competition. Having trouble reading this email? View it on your browser. Not interested anymore? Unsubscribe Instantly.   In this issue ·         Another good season ·         Some money matters ·         Green Cairngorms ·         Industry bites back against TripAdvisor Other news What's on in the Park Don't forget every month we list What's On in the Cairngorms National Park, from Newtonmore to Tomintoul, over to Ballater & Angus Glens, we also include Blair Atholl (soon to be in the park). The only "What's On" that covers the whole of the Cairngorms National Park. Read more... Welcome new members We are glad to welcome - Apple Grove Cottage, Aldon Lodge, Broomieknowe Cottage, Avielochan Cottages, Lodges at Badaguish, Holmhill House., Aviemore Luxury Accommodation, Oldstables B&B, Angus Glens Cottages, Dalhenzean, Dalnoid, Aviemore Ski Hire, Cluny Mains, Fern Villa, Little Orchard Cottage, Garden Cottage,  Highlands Holiday Lodge, Feshiebridge, Cairngorms National Park Holiday House, Aviemore Holidays   Facebook and Twitter We have a vibrant presence on both Facebook and Twitter. If you're not signed up yet - here's your excuse to give it a go, come and be our friend! Limited edition posters We are awaiting delivery of our new Cairngorms-Park winter snow sports A3 vintage style posters, we have 20 to give away, if you would like to reserve one for your property, drop us an email and we will ensure one gets dropped off or posted to you. These are limited edition prints and will look great framed on any lounge wall or reception area. Unsubscribe Click to instantly unsubscribe from this mailing list. Send to a friend Send this email to someone you think may be interested. September 2010 Another good season The summer season was slow to kick off, but many of our advertisers report equal or better occupancies rates than last year.  Client feedback reported that many bookings in late summer were last minute and often holiday makers were hunting down deals and discounts. So far in 2010, there were 2250+ enquiries made through Cairngorms-Park.com , which is great.  With another cold winter forecasted let's hope we get another bumper Autumn/Winter season and keep the enquiries rolling in. Many of our users found that advertising on our last minute deals widget helped fill those annoying empty weeks. So don't forget to email us with your monthly saver deals or offers. Back to top Some money matters To advertise on Cairngorms-Park.com for the last few years has been free. To raise funds to continually improve the site, we are going to charge a small administrative fee for enhanced listings in 2011 onwards. You will always have a basic listing for free, for life, but for a small annual fee your accommodation will be promoted to a premium listing. Premium listings will ensure your accommodation details are shown above non fee paying adverts. We are currently a "not for profit" project.  All revenue will be used to develop and improve the site. Charges will start at around thirty pounds per year. We hope you will agree this is value for money. We will contact you in the near future with further information regarding our premium listing packages and payment. Back to top Green Cairngorms The proposed Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI). If you replace your existing fossil fuel heating system (e.g. gas, oil or coal) with a renewable technology (e.g. air-source heat pump) you could get paid a set amount each year as an incentive for you to reduce your CO2 emissions and help prevent climate change. Read more... Back to top Industry bites back against TripAdvisor An internet regulatory group called the Cloud Industry Forum is claiming that around 400 UK and US hotels and restaurants have reported being unhappy with TripAdvisor and are considering a group defamation action. Read more... Back to top   Cairngorms-Park.com - www.cairngorms-park.com

Will it increase fly-tipping in the Cairngorms-Park?

Yesterday Highland Council followed in the footsteps of many other local authorities by voting to end weekly bin collections. Badenoch and Strathspey will be the first to go fortnightly in July next year. Do we want this in the Cairngorms-Park? will it increase fly-tipping in the Cairngorms-Park? Your comments please.....

Scotland's National Parks: Whose Parks are they anyway?

The Cairngorms National Park Authority and Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park Authority are hosting at joint public event, 'Scotland's National Parks: Whose Parks are they anyway?' at Perth Concert Hall on Tuesday 28 September 2010.

In the week before the boundary of the Cairngorms National Park is extended to incorporate Northern Perthshire, the conference provides a fantastic opportunity to explore what being part of a National Park means.

Scotland's two National Parks are home to some of the most special and protected landscapes, habitats and species in Scotland and offer something for everyone regardless of background, interests and ability.

The event will be hosted by David Green, Convener of the Cairngorms National Park Authority, and Grant Moir, Director of Conservation & Visitor Experience at Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park.

David Green said: "Our National Parks deliver a huge amount for Scotland and its people. The beautiful and diverse landscape of the Parks is there to be explored and enjoyed and our businesses and communities support not just the local but the national economy.

"This event will bring together people from all walks of life to celebrate what they have to offer as well as look at some of the challenges facing our National Parks."

On the night, there will be a series of short presentations followed by discussion and the opportunity to ask questions. The panel will consist of:

Andrew Bruce Wootton, General Manager of Atholl Estates, on what National Parks add to tourism, business and the economy.

Linda McMillan, Deputy Vice-Chairman of the International Union for Conservation of Nature and President of Mountain Protection Commission, on Citizen Scientists - a project which engages all stakeholders in the stewardship and management of National Parks to use their skills to protect the places they cherish.

Bill Wright, Vice President of the Association for the Protection of Rural Scotland, on why Scotland needs its National Parks and how the two Parks are protecting the country's most special landscapes.

Paul Corrigan MBE, Chair of the Cairngorms Local Outdoor Access Forum and senior fundraiser for Chest, Heart and Stroke Scotland, on the benefits and enjoyment of National Parks and how they are helping to deliver a healthier and active Scotland.

Pete Wishart, MP for Perth and North Perthshire, on the role of National Parks in Scotland and how they are helping to deliver the Scottish Government's strategic objectives.

Pete Wishart MP said: "Scotland's National Parks are an important part of protecting and preserving important aspects of our natural environment as well as promoting enjoyment of the countryside.

"These parks are for the people and for the future and I am delighted that an area I represent will be a gateway to the Cairngorms National Park.

"Highland Perthshire should never have been left out from the Park boundaries and this enlargement of the Park underscores the present Scottish Government's commitment to this area and to the role and purpose of National Parks."

Paul Corrigan MBE said: " I am delighted to be taking part in this prestigious event on behalf of the CNPA.

"Having lived, worked and played in both of Scotland's National Park areas for the past 30 years, I hope to relate how these special places provide numerous physical, emotional and health benefits and opportunities for people of all ages and interests including recreation, quiet enjoyment, exploration, challenge and discovery and of course great fun.

"It is vitally important that we do not take our National Park landscapes and our world class access freedoms for granted and we should continually benchmark, review and hold wide-ranging discussions with varied groups to undertake every action possible to ensure that we are doing the right things to look after the Parks for future generations whilst deriving the benefits for the current generation."

The event is part of the Global Change and the World's Mountains Conference - an international conference which brings together leading scientists and others working in and concerned with mountain areas around the world.

The event is open to the public and will take place between 7.30pm - 9pm on Tuesday 28 September 2010 at Perth Concert Hall,

Fruity forecast of bumper ski season

SNOWSPORTS enthusiasts will enjoy another bumper season in the Cairngorms this winter, according to a local forecaster with a novel way of predicting the weather.

Forget meteorological forecasts about jet streams and new fronts moving in – Colin Matthew, 50, bases his predictions on the size of the snowberries in his garden.

After a record-breaking ski season in the Highlands last year when 145,000 people visited the Cairn Gorm resort, Mr Matthew, of Inverdruie, near Aviemore, reckons the berries could point to another winter of heavy snow.

He said: “In 2009 the snowberries in my garden appeared early in August and were particularly large.

“They budded and flowered again two or three times during the season, on each occasion coinciding with the massive falls of snow we experienced last season.”

Mr Matthew, CairnGorm Mountain Ltd’s head of ski patrol, added: “The berries are as big as ever this year, so if my theory is right we are in for another winter with a lot of snow.”

Almost 375,000 people used Scotland’s ski resorts last winter, generating £37.5million for the country’s economy – the most successful season since 1995-96.

That appears to have whetted appetites for the coming winter, with CairnGorm Mountain already receiving more than 750 applications for ski season passes

in reference to: Fruity forecast of bumper ski season - Press & Journal (view on Google Sidewiki)

Fort William 3-2 Kingussie

Fort William claimed the 103rd Camanacdh Cup final against Kingussie at a rainy Bught Park in Inverness. Fort's Gary Innes opened the scoring after 15 minutes with a powerful close-range drive then Brian Simpson made it two in the 40th minute.

Ronald Ross pulled one back as half time approached then Thomas Borthwick struck a 76th-minute equaliser.

As the final whistle approached, Innes fired in an angled shot from the right of the D to claim a hard-fought win.

in reference to:

"Fort's Gary Innes opened the scoring after 15 minutes with a powerful close-range drive then Brian Simpson made it two in the 40th minute. Ronald Ross pulled one back as half time approached then Thomas Borthwick struck a 76th-minute equaliser. As the final whistle approached, Innes fired in an angled shot from the right of the D to claim a hard-fought win."
- BBC Sport - Fort William 3-2 Kingussie (view on Google Sidewiki)

Christmas and New Year in Aviemore and the Cairngorms-Park.

Christmas and New Year Breaks 2010. Spend the Scottish festive season in Aviemore and the Cairngorms, which includes a fantastic highland street parties on New Year’s Eve in Newtonmore, Aviemore and Grantown-on-Spey. Scottish Hogmanay, Xmas and New Year holidays. Cairngorms-Park.com lists Hotels, Self-catering and Bed and Breakfast in and around the Cairngorms National Park from Aviemore, Ballater, and Braemar to Glenlivet and Tomintoul etc., to country house Hogmanay New Year breaks in Aviemore or on a shooting estate in Braemar. Check www.Cairngorms-Park.com for all the best deals and festive break savings.

Homanay in Highland Style - Cairngorms National Park

Industry bites back against TripAdvisor

An internet regulatory group called the Cloud Industry Forum is claiming that around 400 UK and US hotels and restaurants have reported being unhappy with TripAdvisor and are considering a group defamation action.

The group says “false” and “unfair” reviews written by anonymous writers without proof is not acceptable and damages innocent suppliers.

Chairman Andy Burton said: “TripAdvisor is undeniably one of the most successful online travel websites and has illustrated how the internet can be used effectively as a strategic business model.

“On the other hand, this is one of the first public battles against a company based online and automatically sends a warning signal to those who may be open to defamatory claims, and particularly where the accusation is that some of the information published on the site by anonymous third parties is untrue and misleading.”
CIF was set up to ensure websites show accountability, take control over content from third parties, abide by industry regulations and show good practice.

MURDER MYSTERY CHRISTMAS PARTY NIGHTS

Are you looking for something a little bit different for your staff Christmas Party? Or do you and a group of friends or colleagues just want an unforgettable fun night out before the years end?

Loch Kinord House Hotel is delighted to anounce Festive Murder Mystery Dinners at Loch Kinord Hotel in the Cairngorms National Park. The format for the evening is very simple starting with a drinks reception when the actors assume their roles.

The 4-course Murder Mystery Dinner follows during which the actors develop the cunning plot and "accidents" do and will happen. The murder(s) are enough to test even the greatest detectives but are you up to it? Plots and themes do change regularly with new ones being shown all the time!

Nights available throughout December for parties up to 70.

Join your party with others to try and solve the murder over a 4 course dinner, followed by music & dancing (or karaoke) to the small hours. Or why not book the whole function room for a private party.  Special accommodation rates available for party goers. Exclusive use of the whole hotel incl. 29 bedrooms sleeping up to 60. Christmas Party Menus available from £17.95pp Call Loch Kinord for more details on 013398 85229 or enquire about your accommodation at Loch Kinord..click here.

Food and Drink Plan for Cairngorms National Park

The food and drink sector in the Cairngorms National Park has received a boost with the launch today (Monday) of the 'Food for Life' Plan for the Park and the Cairngorms Producers Directory by the Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs and the Environment.

 The aim of the Food for Life initiative is to build a sustainable food economy across the Cairngorms. The plan will do this in practice through encouraging an increase in food production and processing across the Park and increased consumption of Cairngorms produced food and drink. It will reduce food miles, boost the tourism and retail sectors and encourage people to consider a healthier diet.
T
he plan and the corresponding initiatives arising are called 'Food for Life' since the plan has adopted the framework for sustainable food which has been developed by Soil Association Scotland's Food for Life programme.

It was written in partnership with Soil Association Scotland and is also the first regional food strategy for Scotland which recognises the importance of food and drink as a medium for economic and social development.

Richard Lochhead MSP was at the Cairngorm Brewery in Aviemore this morning to launch the Food for Life plan and unveil the producers' directory - the very first outcome of the newly launched Plan.
Speaking at the launch, Mr Lochhead said: "In its first-ever worldwide study, the International Culinary Tourism Association recently declared Scotland as one of the most "unique, memorable and interesting places" for food and drink on the planet. The Cairngorm National Park is harnessing that vision.
"The Food for Life Plan and the Cairngorm Producers Directory will enhance the National Park's ability to build its own sustainable food economy, promote a healthier diet and provide tourists with a real taste of the region.

"Scotland's food and drink sector is both a huge success and vital to our economic recovery. In 2008, the supply chain employed over 369,000 people across Scotland and in 2007, generated value added of almost £9 billion for Scotland's economy.

"We are currently celebrating Scotland's Year of Food and Drink, and Scottish Food & Drink Fortnight - a fitting occasion to launch the Food for Life' Plan for the Park and the Cairngorms Producers Directory."
Delivery of the Food for Life project is being co-ordinated by the Cairngorms National Park Authority (CNPA). Crucially, this is underpinned by considerable input from a wide range of partners including Soil Association Scotland. The CNPA board approved - less than two weeks ago - £55,000 towards the implementation of the initiative.

Whats on September 2010 in Aviemore, Glenlivet, Royal Deeside and Highland Perthshire

Aviemore Area

Saturday 4th
Cairngorms Adventure Triathlon Taster Day - Loch Morlich, Glenmore, 10am. Entry £10pp. E: info@cairngormadventuretriathlon.org
Carve Carrbridge Scottish Open Chainsaw Carving Championships - Carrbridge Village Sports Field. Family day out with music, activities, games, stalls, food & drink.10.30am £4/£2. www.carvecarrbridge.com
Fundraising Coffee Morning - Newtonmore Village Hall. Home baking & produce, bric-a-brac, book stall, raffle & refreshments. 10.30am-12noon. Entry £2.50.
Kinrara Art Exhibition & Craft Fair - Kinrara, Woodside Avenue, Grantown on Spey. See the work by members of Creative Cairngorms , artists & craftworkers who live & work in & around the Cairngorms National Park. £2.50 including refreshments. 11.30am-4.30pm.
Live Music with Andy Duncan - Silverfjord Hotel, Kingussie, 10pm.
Sunday 5th
Try Tri Event - Craig Maclean Centre, Grantown on Spey. Triathlon for teams & individuals. 300m swim, 16km cycle, 4.8km run. Entries now closed but spectators welcome. 9.30am T: 01479 872061 www.try-tri.co.uk
Cairngorms Farmers Market - The Square, Grantown on Spey, 10am-4pm.
Motor Mania 2010 - The Square, Grantown on Spey, Noon arrival of vintage & classic vehicles. From 1.30pm Highland dancing, pipes, drums, stalls, displays, Creative Cairngorms, Cairngorms Farmers Market & more. Complimentary vintage bus connects with 11.15am & 1.15pm steam train arrivals at Broomhill Station.
Thursday 9th
Poker Night - The Glen Hotel, Newtonmore 9.30pm.
Friday 10th
Edinburgh String Quartet - Boat of Garten Community Hall presented by The Osprey Music Society. 7.30pm £15/£13/£5/£2 For tickets T: 01479 831213.
Saturday 11th
Peak to Peak Cycle Challenge - 70 mile route from Ben Nevis to CairnGorm Mountain in aid of Disability Snowsport UK. £15 entry plus £100 sponsorship. T: 0161 7492290.
Live Music Far & Away - Ireland & Cape Breton - Badenoch Centre, Kingussie. Part of the Highland wide Blas Festival including artists Gerry O'Connor , Noeleen Ní Cholla & more. 7.30pm £28/£12/£10/£5, T: 01540 661594.
Live Music with Willie Campbell - Silverfjord Hotel, Kingussie, 10pm
Sunday 12th
Highland Nordic Roller Ski Race - Glenmore to Coire Cas Car Park, CairnGorm Mountain. 9am-12noon. Free to spectators.
Water for Kids Corporate Challenge Day - Craggan Outdoors Centre from 10am. To enter a team T: 01479 873283.
Tuesday 14th
Cairngorm Bridge Club, Simultaneous Green Pointed Event - Macdonald Aviemore Resort. Any visiting pair welcome, £2/£3 6.45pm for 7pm. T: 01479 821075.
Charity Golf Day - Spey Valley Golf Course, in aid of The Fire Fighters Charity. £400 per team of 4 including refreshments, 18 holes and 3 course dinner. T: 07825 180961.
Friday 17th
Golf Texas Scramble Fundraiser - Grantown Museum, Grantown on Spey. For details T: 01479 87247.
Saturday 18th
Cairngorms Adventure Triathlon - Canoe, bike & run your way around the Cairngorms National Park. www.cairngormadventuretriathlon.org
Live Music - Silverfjord Hotel, Kingussie, 10pm.
Sunday 19th
Cairngorms Farmers Market - Opposite Myrtlefield Shops, Aviemore, 10am-4pm.
Wednesday 22nd
Badenoch Gardening Club - Newtonmore Lesser Hall, Newtonmore. Speaker: Duncan Macdonald, Countryside Ranger, 'Foraging for Fungi'. Review of Annual Show & produce supper, refreshments & raffle. 7.30pm, members free, non-members £2.50.
Foraging for Fungi Talk - Newtonmore Lesser Hall. Newtonmore. Find out how to safely collect fungi with Duncan MacDonald. 7.30pm, £2.50.
Thursday 23rd
Poker Night - The Glen Hotel, Newtonmore 9.30pm.
Friday 24th
Bats! Bats! Bats! Guided Walk - Grantown on Spey. 7pm-9pm, £3/£2 T: 01479 873914
Saturday 25th
Silent Auction & Car Boot Sale - Boat of Garten Community Hall. Stalls, home baking, refreshments & raffle for Marks & Spencer vouchers. 12noon, FREE entry.
Aviemore Ceilidh Dance - Aviemore Village Hall. Ceilidh Dance to Lindsay Weir Trio , 8pm midnight, £4.
Sunday 26th
Craiglynne Fete for Help for Heroes - Craiglynne Hotel, Grantown on Spey. Family entertainment with bouncy castle, police dog & strong man demos including Scotland s Strongest Man, stalls, refreshments, pipe band & more. 11am-5pm. FREE.

Royal Deeside

1st September 2010: Scottish Night, Hilton Craigendarroch, Ballater 7pm

2nd September 2010: Family Quiz Night, Hilton Craigendarroch, Ballater 8pm

2nd September 2010: Deeside Sessions, Coilacriech, Ballater, 8pm

3rd September 2010: Deeside Sessions, Loch Kinord Hotel, Dinnet, 8pm

3rd September 2010: Gathering Ceilidh, Mar Lodge Estate 8.30pm to 12.30am

3rd September 2010: Live Music with Stealer, Hilton Craigendarroch, Ballater 9 to 12 midnight

4th September 2010: Braemar Gathering, Braemar

5th September 2010: Family Fun Day, Mar Lodge 10 to 4pm

6th September 2010: Banchory Energy Reduction Initiative Presents 3 Short Films, Woodend Barn, Banchory 7.30pm

7th September 2010: Traditional Music Session, Aberdeen Arms, Tarland 8pm

7th September 2010: Mexican Food Night, Hilton Craigendarroch, Ballater 5-9.30pm

8th September 2010: Scottish Night, Hilton Craigendarroch, Ballater 7pm

8th September 2010: Scottish Country Dancing, Castleton Hall, Braemar 8.30pm

9th September 2010: The Old Curiosity Shop, Woodend Barn, Banchory 7.30pm

9th September 2010: Family Quiz Night, Hilton Craigendarroch, Ballater 8pm

9th September 2010: Deeside Sessions, Lodge on the Loch, Aboyne 8pm

10th September 2010: Live Music with Billy Main, Hilton Craigendarroch, Ballater 9 to 12 midnight

10th September 2010: Pete Stollery and Suk-Jun Kim, Woodend Barn, Banchory 8pm

11th September 2010: NEOS Derek Robertson Exhibition, Deeside Activity Park, Dess 9 to 5pm

11th September 2010: Grampian Woodturners Exhibition, Crathes Castle 11th to 19th Sept

11th September 2010: Kirsty McGee and Hashimoto Jones, Woodend Barn, Banchory 8pm

12th September 2010: Fungi Fact & Fiction, Crathes Castle 1030am to 1230pm

14th September 2010: Mexican Food Night, Hilton Craigendarroch, Ballater 5-9.30pm

14th September 2010: Traditional Music Session, Aberdeen Arms, Tarland 8pm

15th September 2010: Scottish Night, Hilton Craigendarroch, Ballater 7pm

15th September 2010: Bat Crafts, Drum Castle, Drumoak All month! September

15th September 2010: Banchory Museum s Big Archaeology Draw (BAD), Throughout September READ FURTHER!!

15th September 2010: Scottish Country Dancing, Castleton Hall, Braemar 8.30pm

16th September 2010: Family Quiz Night, Hilton Craigendarroch, Ballater 8pm

16th September 2010: Deeside Sessions, Coilacriech Inn, Ballater, 8pm

17th September 2010: Live Music with Brand X, Hilton Craigendarroch, Ballater 9 to 12 midnight

17th September 2010: Cairnton Aberdeen Angus Steak Celebration Evening, Deeside Activity Park, Dess 6.30pm

18th September 2010: Dean Friedman, Woodend Barn, Banchory 8pm

18th September 2010: Farmers Market Banchory, Scotts Skinner Square, Banchory 9 to 1pm

19th September 2010: Beating the Retreat, Crathes Castle 230 to 330pm

19th September 2010: Fascinating Fungi , Mar Lodge Estate 2pm to 4.30pm

21st September 2010: Traditional Music Session, Aberdeen Arms, Tarland 8pm

21st September 2010: Mexican Food Night, Hilton Craigendarroch, Ballater 5-9.30pm

22nd September 2010: Deeside Sessions, Moorfield House Hotel, Braemar 8pm

22nd September 2010: Scottish Country Dancing, Castleton Hall, Braemar 8.30pm

23rd September 2010: Family Quiz Night, Hilton Craigendarroch, Ballater 8pm

23rd September 2010: Deeside Sessions, Loch Kinord Hotel, Dinnet, 8pm

24th September 2010: Scottish Night, Hilton Craigendarroch, Ballater 7pm

24th September 2010: Angel Exit Theatre presents Moonfleet, Woodend Barn. Banchory 7pm

24th September 2010: Deeside Sessions, Cromar Folk Club, Tarland, 8pm

24th September 2010: Deeside Sessions, Crathes Hall, Crathes 8pm

24th September 2010: Live Music with Tequila, Hilton Craigendarroch, Ballater 9 to 12 midnight

26th September 2010: TangaLonga Gastro Ramble, Glen Tanar Estate 10am

26th September 2010: Ivan Ilic, piano, Darroch Learg, Ballater 4.30pm

26th September 2010: Vienesse Orchestra Evening, Marquee at Milton of Crathes

27th September 2010: Magnetic North: Walden, MacRobert Hall, Tarland 8pm

28th September 2010: Traditional Music Session, Aberdeen Arms, Tarland 8pm

28th September 2010: Crathes Croquet Club Coaching, Crathes Castle 4 to 7pm

28th September 2010: Mexican Food Night, Hilton Craigendarroch, Ballater 5-9.30pm

29th September 2010: Scottish Country Dancing, Castleton Hall, Braemar 8.30pm

29th September 2010: Scottish Night, Hilton Craigendarroch, Ballater 7pm

30th September 2010: Dogstar presents Jacobite Country, Woodend Barn, Banchory 7.30pm

30th September 2010: Family Quiz Night, Hilton Craigendarroch, Ballater 8pm

30th September 2010: Deeside Sessions, Coilacriech Inn, Ballater, 8pm

30th September 2010: Crathes Croquet Club Match, Crathes Castle 10.45am to 4pm

Glenlivet and Tomintoul

The Strathavon Off Road Land Rover Safari T: 01807 590241 - Every Monday and Wednesday from 5th July 15th September 2010 @ 2.30pm

The Red Deer Rut Off Road Land Rover Safari T: 01807 590241 - Every Monday and Wednesday from 20th September 20th October 2010 @ 2.30pm

First Friday in every month 2010 - Glenlivet Hall - Music Night

8th - 14th September - Tomintoul and Glenlivet Walking Festival details www.tgwf.co.uk

Highland Perthshire

The Blair Atholl Golf Challenge for the Atholl Quaich is due to take place during, September 2010. The event which is open to teams of four male and female golfers will tee off with a shotgun start at 9.30am. Scoring will be based on the best two net stableford scores recorded by each team over 18 holes. To obtain an entry form or to find out more about the arrangements for the event, contact Peter Barr on barr17@btinternet.com or phone/text 07969 155 005.

09 Sep 2010 - BBC Ones ever popular Sunday evening programme Antiques Roadshow will be filming its 33rd series at Blair Castle. The event will take place in the south-facing private gardens to the rear of the castle (not normally open to the public).

Ranger Walks and Talks - Cairngorms National Park

September 5^th 10am-4pm Open To View. Mar Lodge Estate, nr. Braemar An opportunity to view the state rooms of the Mar Lodge, and the magnificent Stag Ballroom with almost 2500 stag heads. U-16 with an adult. Admission

charge to non NTS members £3. U-16 Free. National Trust for Scotland.

September 5^th 2-3.30pm Fabulous Fungi. Glen Tilt Car Park, by Blair Atholl. Fungi for beginners. 1 mile north of Blair Atholl on road to Old Blair. Charge: £2.00. Atholl Estates Ranger Service. T: 01796 481355.

September 8^th 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 01479 861220 for info. Free. Forestry Commission Scotland.

September 9^th 2-4pm Dragons, Damsels & 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!). Free, no need to book. Call 01479 861220. Forestry Commission Scotland. Bring wellies.

September 12^th 2-4pm Paws For Thought. Glen Doll Ranger Base, Kirriemuir. Grid Ref: NO282759 Bring your dog, join the Ranger 7 take the time to become aware of your responsibilities as a dog owner in the Cairngorms National Park. Booking essential 01575 550233.

Free.

September 15^th 10.30am-1pm Big Trees, Little Trees. Meet at Glenmore Visitor Centre Car Park Can t see the wood for the trees? Join the ranger for a closer look at the pinewoods in Glenmore. Free event, No need to book. Phone 01479 861220 for info. Forestry Commission Scotland.

September 19^th 10.30am-1.30pm The Magic of Ryvoan. Meet at Glenmore VC Car Park Walk in Ryvoan s magical mix of pinewoods, mountain and loch. Bag some views and exercise and see what the fairies have done. Free event, no need to book. 01479 861220 for info. Forestry Commission Scotland.

September 19^th 2-3.30pm Fabulous Fungi. Logierait Woods Car Park, 1/2 mile north of Logierait on Dunfallandy road. Fungi for beginners. Charge: £2.00. Atholl Estates Ranger Service.

September 22^nd 1.30-4pm The Laird of Glenfeshie Walk. Meet at Feshiebridge Car Park, nr Kincraig Hear about some of the wildlife, history & folk tales from this area on a walk along the majestic Glen Feshie. No need to book. Phone 01478 861220 for info. Free. Forestry Commission Scotland.

September 24^th 7-9pm Bats! Bats! Bats! Grantown on Spey. Find out about these wonderful creatures of the night sky. Booking essential 01479 873 914. Adults £3, concessions & children £2. Highland Council Countryside Rangers.

September 25^th 10-5pm A Cycle Through Time Join the rangers during Scottish Archaeology Month on a guided bike ride through Glen Muick. Distance 30Kms, Ascent 450m. Free event. Balmoral Ranger Service Booking Essential - 013397 55059.

September 29^th 10.30am-1pm Big Trees, Little Trees. Meet at Glenmore Visitor Centre Car Park. Can t see the wood for the trees? Join the ranger for a closer look at the pinewoods in Glenmore. Free event, No need to book. Phone 01479 861220 for info. Forestry Commission Scotland.

Fire at the Braeriach Hotel August 2010

Last night a fire broke out at the Braeriach Hotel, in Newtonmore, Cairngorms National Park.  Local fire fighters attending the scene and extinguished the fire before it causes severe damage.

It is understood that there were no injuries.  We do hope this popular bar and hotel is back up and running as normal as soon as possible.

Nethy Bridge - Cairngorms National Park

Situated in the heart of beautiful Strathspey in the Highlands of Scotland between Aviemore and Grantown, Nethy Bridge is the perfect centre to enjoy the countryside of the glorious Scottish Highlands and the Cairngorms National Park.

Nethy Bridge boasts a full range of accommodation from hotels to bed and breakfast, self catering establishments or hostels, and has easy access to a vast range of activities throughout the area. www.Cairngorms-Park.com

The village of Nethy Bridge - often affectionately referred to simply as "Nethy" has been a holiday destination since Victorian times, yet it remains unspoilt with the majority of accommodation hidden away in quiet locations next to the ancient Caledonian pine forest.

With the dramatic backdrop of the often snowcapped Cairngorm mountains and hundreds of acres of Abernethy Forest (RSPB owned) Nethy Bridge spans the lower reaches of the River Nethy a mile before it reaches the River Spey, one of Scotland's foremost salmon rivers. The forests around Nethy are full of interesting wildlife from Red Squirrels, Crested Tits, Crossbills and Capercaillie, to Pine Martens and the rarely spotted Wild Cat. There are also rare flowers like the Twinflower and Creeping Ladies Tresses.

Built in 1810, the bridge is a classic Telford design with three arches, and is in the heart of the village. It had to be repaired after the August 1829 Moray (N.E. Scotland) Flood when part of it was washed away. In all, Nethy can boast 4 Telford bridges in the village.

Originally called Abernethy, Nethy Bridge was renamed when the railways came this far north in the 1860's. The Great North of Scotland Railway already had a village called Abernethy on its line further south, so renamed this one Nethy Bridge to differentiate the two. The place name Abernethy is still frequently used around here - Abernethy Highland Games, Abernethy Forest etc. For more info on Nethy Bridge..